The Work and Welcome program at All Hallows’ School is a social justice initiative that reflects our school’s Mercy ethos and commitment to supporting refugees and asylum seekers.
Through voluntary staff donations, short-term paid employment is offered to refugees and migrants, helping them gain local experience, build skills, and develop confidence as they settle into life in Australia.
What is Work & Welcome?
Work & Welcome was originally founded as Job Pledge in 1993 by Padua College teacher and Deloitte alumni Mark Taylor. In 2000, the program shifted its focus to supporting refugees and migrants. Since then, more than 350 refugees and migrants have taken part in the program.
In 2011, Mark Taylor approached Multicultural Australia, who have overseen and developed the Work & Welcome program since then, which is now registered as a trademark under their name.
The program is active in schools predominately across Brisbane, as well as Toowoomba and Yeppoon. For one school term, participants are usually placed in a full-time role that aligns with their skills, including positions such as teacher aides, office assistants, IT support workers, and maintenance staff.
The Impact of Work & Welcome
Many refugees and migrants arrive in Australia with valuable skills, qualifications, and experience, yet struggle to find employment due to language and cultural barriers.
Work & Welcome helps bridge that gap by providing short term employment where participants gain:
- New skills and experience
- Confidence and self-esteem
- Insight into Australian workplaces and culture
- Friendships and professional networks
- A pathway to ongoing employment
The program not only provides employment but also community, connection, and a welcoming environment for refugees and migrants in Australia.