The escalation of violence in Israel and Gaza is being felt by communities in New South Wales, and it may be affecting the people you work with. Multicultural NSW has collated some resources to support you and communities:
NSW Health:
- Directory of mental health Services and programs (nsw.gov.au)
- Transcultural Mental Health Line (TMHL) 1800 648 911 – Transcultural Mental Health Centre (nsw.gov.au)
Department of Health and Ageing (Australian Government):
- National mental health services (this directory is also being translated into key languages)
Department of Education:
- Support in times of crisis (nsw.gov.au)
- Strengthening harmony and building resilience in school communities (nsw.gov.au)
- Information about Anti-Racism Contact Officers (ARCOs) and resources to support their role: ARCOs (nsw.gov.au)
NSW Police Force:
- If you or your follow community members ever feel unsafe or threatened, call 000 if it is an emergency, call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444, or contact your local Police Area Command (PAC).
- How to Report Hate crimes – NSW Police Public Site
Anti-Discrimination NSW:
- Online incident reporting: Let us know of an incident (nsw.gov.au)
Alternate avenues for assistance:
- Australian Red Cross information for supporting communities, families and friends after distressing events: After a distressing event has happened | Australian Red Cross
- Contact your local doctor/GP.
- The NSW Transcultural Mental Health Line 1800 648 911 can provide mental health support services in your language.
- Community members from refugee backgrounds who need mental health support can be referred to the NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Services (NSW STARTTS) at (02) 9646 6800.
Please contact Multicultural NSW should you wish to share information about other resources that can support communities at this time.