Barriers to formal and informal supports for refugee families in Australia

Refugee families often experience a range of challenges prior to and during their resettlement in Australia. These challenges may be underpinned by the experience of traumatic, violent or life-threatening situations prior to or during their resettlement journey. Upon resettlement, families find themselves in a new culture with unfamiliar social systems and changing family roles and dynamics, which may lead to parenting difficulties and family conflict (Saunders & McArthur, 2012). Alongside trauma and mental health issues, concerns may include language barriers, access to employment, meeting medical and health needs, and accessing education and housing.