More than a dozen employers across the Murray and Riverina districts of NSW have been recognised for their work in helping migrants and refugees move from Western Sydney to regional towns.

The 17 employers were honoured at tonight’s Champion Employers Awards event, acknowledging the NSW Growing Regions of Welcome (GROW) program funded by the NSW Government.

Over the past 18 months, 29 newcomers have found their new homes in the regions, filling critical job shortages in industries including aged care, law, engineering, IT and hospitality.
NSW GROW was launched in the regions in June 2022, designed as a lifestyle and jobs program supporting cross-sector efforts to create internal migration links between Western Sydney and regional NSW.

NSW GROW aims to find local jobs and homes for participants, reducing demands on services in metropolitan areas.
The program is overseen by NSW Coordinator General for Settlement Professor Peter Shergold, who brings together partners, including the Australian Red Cross and Regional Development Australia Riverina.

For more information visit the Multicultural NSW website: https://multicultural.nsw.gov.au/grow/

NSW Coordinator General for Settlement Professor Peter Shergold said:

“We’ve known for a long time that migrants and refugees are determined to embrace all the opportunities afforded them in our beautiful state.”

“This pilot is demonstrating that regional NSW is capable of providing everyone with homes, jobs and communities where everyone can belong.”

“By trialling new programs and working with communities we help cement our reputation as one of the most successful multicultural states in the world.”

Multicultural NSW Chief Executive Officer Joseph La Posta said:

“I thank the many employers who believed in the idea that migrants and refugees would help bolster their workforce and make valuable contributions to their communities.”

“By working together, we have shown that anyone who has the desire to succeed in this, their new home, can achieve their dreams and thrive in welcoming communities right across NSW.”