Stories - March 19, 2025
Refugee finds hope in Australia after fleeing war
After fleeing the war in Syria, Alnajjar arrived in Australia carrying not just a suitcase, but the weight of loss, uncertainty, and hope for a better future.
Alone in a new country speaking only Arabic, Alnajjar faced overwhelming challenges — finding a safe place to live, securing an income, learning English, and adjusting to an unfamiliar way of life. And beneath it all, she bore the trauma of war.
When I fled the war, people were just getting killed all the time. It was a very traumatic journey,” Alnajjar said.
“It’s very painful to think about, even now years later.”
Leaving behind not only her home, but her sense of security, community, and family, Alnajjar struggled to settle into a new country and her new community of Swan Hill.
“The language barrier was difficult and even living as well, to adapt to everything. It was very challenging,” she said.
It wasn’t until she was linked with Intereach’s Settlement Engagement and Transition Support (SETS) program that Alnajjar found the lifeline she desperately needed.
Thanks to the compassionate guidance of SETS multicultural worker Sammi, Alnajjar is no longer surviving but thriving in a place she calls home.
A helping hand in a new land
Sammi, who migrated to Australia from Morocco in 2006, knows firsthand the struggles of settling into a rural community with limited resources and networks.
Drawing from her own experiences, as well as years of training and work in settlement services, she is passionate about helping newly arrived migrants and refugees integrate into Australian society.
The SETS program provides tailored support to help newly arrived migrants and refugees like Alnajjar become independent, make meaningful connections and contribute to the Australian community.
Sammi has helped Alnajjar secure long-term housing, link her with financial support services, and connect her with a refugee nurse and counsellor to support her health and wellbeing.
She also arranged English classes and a road safety course, helping Alnajjar obtain her Learner’s Permit and work towards her driver’s licence.
Beyond practical assistance, Sammi ensures Alnajjar is engaged in the community. Through partnerships with various agencies, she has organised swimming lessons, social outings, and activities that have helped Alnajjar feel included and supported.
“No matter the challenges, it gets easier,” Sammi said.
“Australia is a great country with many services available to support new migrants and refugees. It’s all about accessing the right networks.”
Sammi - SETS multicultural worker
Alnajjar’s journey to independence
After fleeing Syria in 2011, Alnajjar and her husband eventually found refuge in a camp in Turkey.
When Alnajjar was granted a protection visa, she arrived in Australia in 2023, settling in Swan Hill alone while her husband remains in Turkey, still waiting for his visa.
It was a daunting transition, but Sammi and the SETS program gave Alnajjar the strength to rebuild.
Leaving everything behind was incredibly tough, but Sammi showed so much compassion and understanding,” Alnajjar shared.
“She helped me navigate my new life and overcome personal challenges.”
For Alnajjar, learning English was one of the biggest hurdles.
“When I arrived, I could barely speak English, just a few greetings. Now I feel happy and confident to speak English,” she said.
Despite the trauma of her past, Alnajjar is looking to the future, and embracing the opportunities that life in Australia has to offer.
“I am so grateful for Intereach and the SETS program,” Alnajjar said.
The first time I walked into Intereach, they gave me a big, warm welcome. They made me feel like I belonged.”
A life-changing impact
For Sammi, her work is more than just a job — it’s deeply personal.
“The most important part of my role is seeing families become independent, secure employment, pursue education, and actively participate in the community,” she said.
Through the SETS program, Sammi and her team provide assistance in key areas, including housing, employment, education, health, and navigating government agencies.
Whether it’s delivering informative workshops on safety and Australian workplace culture or creating social groups to combat isolation, the program is committed to ensuring migrants and refugees not only survive but thrive.
“Sammi always tells me, ‘things will get better’ and she’s right. She has changed my life with her kindness and support,” Alnajjar said.
“I am very inspired by her attitude, knowledge and skills and all the energy she puts towards helping people like us.”
As Alnajjar continues to build her life in Australia, she has a message for others facing similar challenges.
“Know that there are people who care and want to help. I am so happy to be here, and I want to contribute and be part of this wonderful community,” she said.
With the support of SETS, Alnajjar is no longer just a survivor — she is a woman reclaiming her future, one step at a time.
For more information about SETS, visit the website: Settlement, Engagement and Transition Support (SETS) – Intereach
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