A million person milestone

Refugee Week 2026 is celebrating the milestone of one million refugees who have been accepted by Australia since the end of World War II. While Australia’s refugee story didn’t begin after World War II, it certainly accelerated after the war. With Europe left in ruins, Australia opened its doors to families who had little in the way of possessions.

Since 1947, Australia has issued one million permanent humanitarian visas. 

A Million Stories represent a journey of ‘courage, resilience, and hope, shaping communities and influencing future generations’. As the Refugee Week website states, ‘One person’s journey influences the lives of many others: children, grandchildren, and future generations who leave their unique mark on our shared story’.

Australia has benefited greatly from refugees, who have enriched the nation through their skills, resilience, and cultural diversity in a range of areas. Their experiences and determination have helped shape Australia into a more dynamic, prosperous, and multicultural society.

Refugee Week began in the United Kingdom in 1998 – established in response to growing hostility and negative stereotypes toward refugees and asylum seekers. The aim was to turn the negative sentiments around, celebrating refugees’ contributions and promoting greater understanding between communities.

Refugee Week has since developed into an international movement and is now held in more than 20 countries. Coordinated nationally by the Refugee Council of Australia, the event runs until Saturday. Further details at: https://www.refugeeweek.org.au/#

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