Through the experiences of refugees from Bosnia, Iraq and Sudan, this research sought to explore the role multicultural community organisations play in creating important informal networks and learning spaces that connect people from refugee backgrounds to the wider Australian community. In particular, the research sought to identify how such organisations assist refugees in their learning of English language and work skills.
There are differences between, and among, people in ethnic communities. This study seeks to provide a more nuanced snapshot of vocational education and training (VET) participation and completion rates among Arabic, Bosnian, Cantonese, Spanish, Turkish, and Vietnamese communities. It investigates the effectiveness of English as a second language programs as a pathway to training. Overall, the participants of this study favour programs which provide clear pathways to employment, offer language support, acknowledge existing vocational skills, and include work experience in their training. The critical role of teachers was also emphasised by participants, particularly teachers sensitive to cultural issues such as language and values, and who constructively use cultural diversity in training programs.