Starting a new life in Australia is a big step. There’s a lot to navigate: forms, services, language, work, schools, and simply finding your place in a new community.
At Fair Foundations, we’ve been supporting migrants and refugees in Fairfield for over 50 years. Whether you’ve just arrived or you’ve been here a little while and still need a hand, we’re here to help.
We’ve been here for over 50 years
Fair Foundations was founded in 1973 by local residents who saw that people building new lives in the Fairfield area needed practical, community-based support. That hasn’t changed.
Today, more than 75% of the people we support come from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Our team speaks over 20 languages, including Vietnamese, Arabic, and Assyrian – and if we don’t speak yours, we’ll organise an interpreter so you can access the support you need.
“I felt so isolated when I first came to Australia. It was me and my 3 children… I didn’t have any support or know how things worked. Fair Foundations helped me find a job, talk with the schools, manage money… I met other people like me that I could talk to and got parenting support. They helped me be more confident and find my place here.” – Recently arrived mother
How we can help you
Finding Your Feet, Help Accessing Services
It can be hard to know where to go or what you’re entitled to when you’re new. Our team can help you understand the services available to you, connect you with the right support, and walk you through complex systems, whether that’s Centrelink, Medicare, housing, health, or something else.
Learn more about Community Hub Support →
Help with Forms and Paperwork
Filling out government forms can be confusing, especially in a new language. We offer form-filling support by appointment for both paper and online forms. If there’s a form we can’t help with, we’ll connect you with someone who can.
Learn more about Form Filling →
Emergency Financial Help
If you’re struggling to cover food, bills, or other essential needs, we’re here to help. Our emergency relief service provides practical support including food vouchers, help with urgent bills, and access to essential everyday items, all handled with care and confidentiality.
Learn more about Emergency Relief →
Legal Support
Legal issues can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unfamiliar with Australia’s systems. Our team can connect you with trusted legal services that are right for your situation, and support you through that process in a safe, confidential way.
We also offer a Justice of the Peace (JP) service to witness documents, certify copies, and assist with statutory declarations.
Learn more about Financial and Legal Help →
Finding Work
Looking for employment is one of the most important steps in settling into a new community. We can help you prepare your CV, build your job search skills, get ready for interviews, and connect with local job providers. Our case management team can also support you with career advice, mentoring, and help enrolling in courses.
Learn more about Employment Support →
Digital Skills: in Your Language
In today’s world, so much of daily life happens online — booking appointments, accessing government services, applying for jobs, and staying connected with family. But not everyone has had the same opportunities to build these skills.
Our digital inclusion programs are designed with multicultural communities in mind. Many are delivered in your language, including Vietnamese, Arabic, and Assyrian, or with interpreter support.
Programs include:
- Be Connected: for Seniors aged 50 and over, building confidence with devices, apps, and online services
- Scam Awareness and Cyber Security: a series of workshops delivered in community languages, helping you stay safe online and protect your personal information
- Digital Literacy Peer Support Group: weekly Thursday sessions open to everyone, covering online services, apps, and digital independence
Learn more about Digital Inclusion →
English Conversation and Skills Programs
We run regular community workshops to help people build practical skills and make social connections. This includes English conversation classes, as well as programs like our sewing group. These sessions are a great way to meet people, build confidence, and feel more connected to your local community.
Playgroups for Young Children (0–5 Years)
If you have young children, our free multicultural supported playgroups are a wonderful way to connect with other parents and carers while your child plays, learns, and grows. Sessions are run by a qualified team member and are welcoming to families from all backgrounds – especially those who are new to the area.
We have playgroups running across Fairfield, Smithfield, and Canley Vale, with different sessions for different age groups.
Learn more about Multicultural Playgroups →
We speak your language
Our team reflects the rich diversity of the community we’re part of. We speak over 20 languages, and we work hard to make sure language is never a barrier to getting the support you need. If there isn’t someone on our team who speaks your language, we’ll organise an interpreter for you.
Fairfield: a community built by people from everywhere
Fairfield is one of Australia’s most culturally diverse communities, with people from over 100 countries calling it home. It’s a place shaped by people who arrived with not much and built something remarkable – and Fair Foundations has been part of that story since 1973.
If you’re building your life here, you’re not on your own.
Not sure where to start?
You’re welcome to come in and talk to us. Our Community Hub is open Monday to Friday, and our team will take the time to understand your situation and point you in the right direction.
Fair Foundations Community Hub, 25 Barbara Street, Fairfield NSW 2165
Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm