MYAN supports regional settlement for migrants and refugees, recognising its potential social and economic benefits. Despite these potential benefits, significant limitations exist, with only 14% of migrants residing outside capital cities, compared to 34% of the overall Australian population, and a quarter of migrants leaving regional areas within five years.
To improve regional settlement outcomes, MYAN has consistently highlighted the importance of careful planning and understanding local capacity to address young people’s needs including in areas like employment, education,
housing, social connection and health.
We note that the discussion paper does not specifically mention young refugees. It is important to take into consideration that the settlement needs of young people will differ from those of adults and children, and young people will need targeted, specialised supports to assist in their navigation of their settlement journey.
In regional consultations undertaken by MYAN across Australia in 2023, young people and settlement sector advocates identified the following significant challenges with regional settlement:
- Major gaps in health services and education including chronic shortages in doctors, dentists, mental
health professionals, and teachers leading to missed opportunities for early intervention and poor
outcomes. - Critical gaps in English language training and support.
- Limited infrastructure, including in particular, with respect to housing and transport, making it
difficult to find accommodation and make social connections. - Subsequent disengagement of young people and desire to move to urban areas, driven largely by
limited options and support with respect to employment, education and social connection.
