Australia to welcome its millionth refugee since WWII
Australia is on track to welcome its one-millionth refugee since World War II.
Behind the Numbers: Real Lives, Real Stories
Take the story of Sidiqa Faqihi, a Hazara refugee from Afghanistan. In 2013, she fled her home to escape persecution. She spent nearly ten years in Indonesia, where she was not allowed to work, study, or even access basic healthcare.
“It felt like we were invisible,” she recalls.
In 2022, Sidiqa finally resettled in Australia. Life changed completely.
“Here, I have the right to live, work, and even be an ambassador for other refugees,” she says, pride in her voice.
A History of Welcoming
Australia has a long tradition of helping those in need. Since the 1930s, the country has welcomed people fleeing war and violence, from Jewish refugees during World War II to Southeast Asians after the Vietnam War.
Today, refugees from Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, and other countries continue to find safety in Australia. Some Ukrainians are also now moving from temporary humanitarian visas to permanent residency.
The Numbers Tell a Powerful Story
By June 30, 2023, Australia had granted more than 958,000 humanitarian visas. Most of these were issued through offshore resettlement and onshore protection. According to the Refugee Council, the one-millionth refugee could arrive between September and November 2025.
Remembering the People Behind the Statistics
As we reach this milestone, it is important to remember the human stories behind the numbers. Sidiqa’s journey is just one example. She hopes more people will get the chance to start over in a safe country.
“Australia can play a vital role in increasing intake and creating more resettlement pathways,” she says.
The need is urgent. Globally, over 7.5 million refugees are still waiting for a place to call home.
Seeking Safety Is Not a Choice, It’s a Necessity
Fleeing your country is never easy, and often not planned.
“When you have no choice other than to leave your country, it’s a matter of saving your life—there’s no plan,” Sidiqa explains.
A Time to Reflect and Celebrate
As Australia approaches this remarkable achievement, it’s a moment to reflect, not just on the past, but also on the contributions refugees make to our communities.
Many Australians today can trace their roots back to people who once arrived seeking safety. Refugees bring new ideas, culture, and life into our shared story.
What About You?
What stories of resilience and courage have you encountered that inspire you on your journey? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Thinking about moving to Australia? Have questions or need help?
Join our free and supportive community here at Oz Visa Forum.
Post in our forums to get advice and support from people who’ve already made the move Down Under.
Not sure where to start? Click here to get started
That’s very cool, I can only imagine the transition for families moving from war torn states to enjoying a flat white/coffee in a local coffee shop in Melbourne!