That is 132 more humanitarian migrants than settled in the same five-year period in the Town of Vincent, which is a member of the Refugee Council of Australia Refugee Welcome Zone initiative.
The statistics have prompted Victoria Park councillor Brian Oliver to take action and at tonight’s meeting, will present a notice of motion that the Town be declared a Refugee Welcome Zone.
Cr Oliver’s motion to his fellow councillors will read:
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READ NOW– That Council declares the district of Victoria Park as a refugee welcome zone;
– That Council sign the Pledge of Welcome to Refugees; and
– That the Mayor be invited to participate in the Welcome to Australia Event on October 25.
‘A Refugee Welcome Zone means a local government area is committed to welcoming refugees into the community, upholding their human rights, demonstrating compassion, and enhancing cultural and religious diversity in the community,’ Cr Oliver said.
He said there were currently only three WA councils that were declared refugee welcome zones, including Fremantle and Subiaco, which had 26 and five refugees settle within their boundaries between 2009-1013 respectively.
Cr Oliver said the WA branch of Welcome to Australia would host the October 25 event in the Town of Victoria Park, probably at John McMillan Park.
WA State director James Jegasgothy said the event would focus on creating an environment for refugees to experience a welcoming atmosphere.
The Town’s meeting is open to the public tonight at 6.30pm.