Metro Assist has been recognised by three Members of Parliament in the Parliament of NSW for our continued commitment to supporting refugees, migrants and multicultural communities.
Jason Yat-sen Li MP, Member for Strathfield, acknowledged the organisation for its work during Refugee Week and throughout the year. He stated:
“I recognise the exceptional work of Metro Assist. Its tireless efforts during Refugee Week, and throughout the year, continue to transform lives across our community. Metro Assist empowers newly arrived migrants and refugees to rebuild their lives with dignity. It provides vital casework, settlement support and employment training.
These services create real pathways from uncertainty to belonging and offer a lifeline to those most in need. At their recent charity gala dinner, we heard powerful testimonies from refugees – stories of extraordinary strength, courage and resilience. These individuals reflect the diversity and vitality of our community, each contributing a unique journey that enriches us all. I thank CEO Nina Shahi and the entire Metro Assist team. They do more than deliver services; they build bridges of hope and help to create a stronger, more inclusive community.”
Metro Assist was also recognised by Mark Coure MP, Member for Oatley and Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, Jobs, Industry, Innovation, Science and Technology, and South-Western Sydney. Speaking in Parliament, he said:
“I rise to congratulate the team from Metro Assist, who recently held their Gala Dinner as part of the Refugee Week 2025 celebrations. I would like to commend everyone involved in making this event such a success.
The gala brought together community leaders, service providers and individuals from all walks of life to honour the experiences and contributions of refugees and asylum seekers in New South Wales. For decades, Metro Assist has supported newly arrived individuals and families through essential settlement services, education, employment pathways and advocacy. Their work is an example of the role community organisations play in helping people rebuild their lives to start afresh in New South Wales.
I commend Metro Assist for hosting this special event and for continuing to support those who seek safety and opportunity in our state. Specifically, I would like to recognise CEO of Metro Assist, Nina Shahi, as well as Board Chair, Richard Wonders. Their efforts remind us of the importance of compassion and community; values that are at the heart of New South Wales.”
Jihad Dib MP, Member for Bankstown and Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Minister for Emergency Services and Minister for Youth Justice, also paid tribute to Metro Assist. In his letter of recognition, he wrote:
“On 20 June, I had the honour of attending Metro Assist’s Refugee Gala Dinner. An inspiring event that brought our community together to celebrate the resilience, strength, and invaluable contributions of refugees to Australian society.
I firmly believe that we are at our best as a country when we open our hearts and recognise the potential in everyone. Last week’s Refugee Gala Dinner was a powerful reminder of this, filled with stories of courage and determination shared by newly arrived refugees living in Canterbury Bankstown and the Inner West. Their journeys and dreams inspired all of us. The evening was filled with meaningful discussions about refugee and settlement challenges, beautiful cultural performances, and a delicious dinner — all creating a warm, welcoming space for connection.
Thank you to Metro Assist and everyone working tirelessly to support refugees. Your dedication allows people to thrive and enriches our whole community.”
Metro Assist is honoured by these recognitions, which highlight our organisation’s enduring role in creating inclusive communities and strengthening the foundations for migrants and refugees to thrive. Find out more about our Settlement Services.