An impressive line-up of leading international and Australian refugee advocates will headline this year’s second Refugee Communities Association of Australia (RCAA) National Conference. Iranian Kurdish journalist, human rights defender and writer Behrouz Boochani and former UNHCR Assistant Commissioner and former President of the Australian Human Rights Commission Dr Gilian Triggs are among the keynote speakers at the conference held at the Adelaide Festival Centre on March 25 and 26. Mr Boochani was held in the Manus Island detention centre in Papua New Guinea between 2013 and its closure in 2017. He now lives in New Zealand where he is a research fellow at the University of Canterbury. Also speaking at the conference will be the Co-Executive Director of the Rohingya Maìyafuìnor Collaborative Network Noor Azizah, Co-Secretary General Asia Pacific Refugee Rights Network Hafsar Tameesuddin, Chief Executive Officer, Scanlon Foundation Research Institute Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Centre for Multicultural Youth Carmel Guerra OAM and Executive Director of the Australian Multicultural Foundation Hass Dellal AO. The conference will focus on facilitating conversations, sharing knowledge, and increasing awareness of the lived experiences of new and emerging communities, migrants, and multicultural communities as well as highlighting their contributions to Australia. Under the theme “Empowering Refugees and Multicultural Communities Together”, the conference will explore how refugee communities move beyond initial settlement to multicultural leadership, ensuring their voices actively influence policies, services, and decision-making at all levels. The long-term goal of RCAA is to establish a framework fostering a self-reliant, progressive, and culturally inclusive approach, strengthening refugee leadership through policy, advocacy, support, capacity building, and working with all stakeholders. The conference is expected to bring together more than 250 delegates, representing more than 50 organisations. Attendees will include new and emerging communities, multicultural communities, refugee organisations, service providers, policymakers, academics, businesses, and representatives from all levels of government. The conference will serve as a platform for meaningful engagement, collaboration, and innovation in multicultural leadership and integration. The conference will provide an opportunity to: Advance multicultural leadership and amplify their voices within Australian society Promote awareness of the contributions of refugee communities to the social and economic wellbeing, and rich cultural fabric of Australia Foster dialogue that encourages the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and solutions between new and emerging communities, service providers, and policymakers Strengthen the advocacy capacity of ‘lived experience’ led organisations and build a stronger, more cohesive network  Develop a foundation of lived experience and evidence-based insights to shape policy and service delivery RCAA Chair Parsu Sharma Luital said the conference would also feature case studies of successful multicultural sector led initiatives and examine how their approaches can be adapted and implemented by other agencies to enhance their leadership and support systems. “It will also celebrate the role of lived experience in shaping service provision, employment pathways, and community programs and explore opportunities for partnerships between new and emerging communities, service providers, businesses, and government agencies,” Mr Sharma Luital said. A conference dinner will honour the rich cultural diversity of South Australia and celebrate the contributions of multicultural communities from across Australia. Bringing together delegates, community leaders, and stakeholders, the dinner will be a night of connection, recognition, and cultural appreciation, reflecting the strength and resilience of our diverse communities.Conference website and registration link: https://rcaaconference2026.com.au/registration/ About RCAAThe RCAA is Australia’s first membership-based, refugee-led organisation (RLO), distinguished by its strong grassroots foundation and extensive reach with refugee communities and key stakeholders. RCAA unites over 70 member organisations nationwide and thousands of individuals, each embodying the resilience, strength, and rich diversity of refugee communities. Together, RCAA forms a collective force that amplifies diverse voices, advocates for systemic change, and strengthens the already rich fabric of Australia’s multiculturalism. With leadership drawn directly from those with lived experience, RCAA ensures that policies and programs impacting these communities are shaped by those with lived experience. For images, interviews and more information please contact Laurie Nowell at [email protected] or 9938 4031 or 0498 196 500.

The Refugee Communities Association of Australia (RCAA) expresses its deepest condolences following the tragic terrorism attack at Bondi Beach. We stand in solidarity with all those affected, and we mourn alongside the families and communities who have lost loved ones. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Jewish community, who have been directly impacted by this senseless act of violence. To those who are grieving, we share in your sorrow. To those who are injured and recovering in hospital, we wish you strength, healing, and comfort in the days ahead. This attack is a painful reminder of the importance of unity and resilience in the face of hatred. Refugee communities across Australia know too well the devastation caused by violence and division. We reaffirm our commitment to building bridges of understanding and compassion across all communities. “Social cohesion is the foundation of a safe and inclusive Australia. In moments of tragedy, we must come together, not as separate groups, but as one people united in dignity, justice, and peace. At this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with our Jewish community members.” said RCAA Chair, Mr Parsu Sharma Luital. The Refugee Communities Association of Australia calls on all Australians to reject division and reaffirm our shared values of compassion, belonging, and solidarity. Together, we can ensure that acts of terror do not fracture our communities but instead strengthen our resolve to stand as one. For further information, contact RCAA spokesperson at 0412 265 317 or [email protected].

The Refugee Communities Association of Australia (RCAA) congratulates the Australian Government on reaching a historic milestone last week the granting of the 1 millionth refugee and humanitarian visa since Australia commenced its humanitarian intake in 1947. This historic milestone represents far more than a number. It reflects one million stories of courage, renewal and contribution. Refugees have arrived from different regions at different times, rebuilding their lives and enriching Australia through industry, innovation and community leadership. They have embraced Australian values with pride, a deep sense of belonging and love for this nation, strengthening Australia’s standing as one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world. RCAA Chairperson, Parsu Sharma Luital JP, said: “The granting of the one-millionth refugee visa is a moment to cherish and celebrate not only for refugees, but by all Australians with pride. While we celebrate this milestone, RCAA encourages everyone to share the positive contributions made by refugees to Australia. There are thousands of untold histories and contributions that remain largely unheard, and they deserve to be acknowledged.” Australia’s world-class settlement services, supported by government funded settlement service providers and strong grassroots community leadership, have helped humanitarian entrants feel at home upon arrival, rebuild their lives and contribute to Australia’s social and economic wellbeing. This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on the resilience of those who fled danger, honour their achievements and recognise Australia’s long humanitarian tradition. In reality, except for a very small minority, majority of Australians are kind, compassionate and welcoming towards refugees. Mr Sharma Luital added: “RCAA will honour and celebrate this milestone at the 2nd RCAA National Conference in Adelaide in March 2026 and through activities across our chapters and partnerships throughout the year.” RCAA is an independent, membership-based, refugee-led peak body that works alongside people with lived experience to strengthen grassroots voices, advocate for refugee needs, build capacity and support successful settlement by identifying service gaps and helping communities access the support they need. Guided by the principle For Refugees, With Refugees, By Refugees, RCAA represents refugee communities through state and territory chapters, ensuring local priorities are reflected and addressed across its work. We at RCAA are dedicated to advancing refugee leadership through advocacy, policy influence, capacity building and strong collaboration. For more information, contact RCAA spokesperson Parsu Sharma Luital JP on 0412 265 317 or by email: [email protected]