Provider perspectives on services for people seeking asylum in Australia: best practices and challenges

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: People seeking asylum are often marginalised in countries to which they have turned in search of safety from persecution. As global statistics are at historical high numbers, the aim of the present study is to gain an understanding of the needs and experiences of people seeking asylum in Australia through interviews with members of organisations working within the sector. Method: A convergent parallel mixed methods study design was used with 54 service providers completing an anonymous online survey and 16 additionally completing a semi-structured phone interview. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, respectively. Results: Findings identified complex, widespread challenges faced by people seeking asylum, including extensive barriers to accessing resources and supports addressing basic needs. Best practice service delivery was described as collaborative, flexible, and integrated. Strengths and the resources of people seeking asylum included contributions made to the broader society, high motivation to positively contribute, and the skills and personal qualities they brought to the community. Conclusions: Data described the immense challenges faced by people seeking asylum in the Australian context. Recommendations are provided on effective service delivery through community-led and person-centred services supporting individual strengths, capacity, and dignity in the process of seeking asylum. Key Points What is already known about this topic: Global rates of forced migration are at historically high numbers in recent years. The impacts of experiences when seeking asylum can have profound and long-term effects on individuals exercising this internationally recognised human right. There are significant barriers to accessing services for people seeking asylum in Australia. What this research adds: There are complex and extensive needs experienced in the lengthy and uncertain period of time in which people’s applications for asylum are being determined, with feelings of uncertainty about the future nearly always a stress for most people seeking asylum. The Australian service sector for people seeking asylum proposed best practice models of service delivery that are community-led and person-centred services, which support individual strengths, capacity, and dignity in the process of seeking asylum. Information about the challenges faced by people seeking asylum and service providers’ account of the models that work within this sector provide useful information for stakeholders.