Sanctuary asylum seeker housing

Sanctuary is an affordable housing facility for male asylum seekers that demonstrates the viability of care in the community for asylum seekers as an alternative to detention.

This project is the first of its kind in Australia, and provides essential supported housing to some of the most marginalised and destitute people in the Australian community.

The facility accommodates up to 29 residents, and priority is given to asylum seekers on bridging visas who have no right to work, Medicare or income support.

Many asylum seekers do not have the right to earn an income. They are forced into severe poverty, lack housing security, have no access to health care and are totally reliant on ‘charitable’ support. They cannot access any government funded welfare agency, such as Centrelink, or a Migrant Resource Centre. They must rely on the goodwill of churches and the community for their housing, food and medical costs.

Homelessness, health, nutrition, isolation and depression are all major concerns for asylum seekers in Australia.

Located in Brunswick, Sanctuary allows Baptcare to care for a wider cross section of the community and strengthens Baptcare’s standing as a supporter of social justice for all people regardless of their religious, cultural, monetary and lifestyle backgrounds.

The facility is managed by Baptcare in collaboration with other agencies, and with the support of the local Brunswick Baptist Church. Sanctuary offers residents:

  • a large community with in-house support and great facilities;
  • a model that gives people a chance to share, contribute and give to each other as well as be occupied;
  • case management so that every resident can work through their personal situation;
  • material aid such as food, clothing and other basics;
  • access to English language programs;
  • pastoral care.

Sanctuary offers a viable alternative to detention and gives asylum seekers the opportunity to be involved in their community in a new way.

The official opening of Sanctuary was in May 2008, with residents moving in shortly after.

If you would like more information on the facility, or are interested in offering support please contact Martyn Shaddick on 03 9385 6534.

The Sanctuary building

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