The Settlement Council of Australia (SCOA) is recognised as a well trusted peak body in the migration sector. Working with over 100 organisations across Australia, SCOA is well placed to support migrants and refugees through the work of members in their network. In 2021, SCOA, alongside several other peak bodies, received funding from the Department of Health to develop a range of health information activities, which included community consultations, forums and campaigns.
SCOA’s role has been primarily coordination focused, relying on the reputation and connections of member organisations to deliver activities. Being a trusted peak body with a large network of members, government funding is able to reach communities through SCOA’s projects.
The health project (known throughout this document as ‘the Project’) evolved from vaccine and COVID-19 specific forums to now encompass broader health information forums. Community perceptions around COVID-19 have evolved over time as the needs of community and the political climate have changed. SCOA’s strength is adaptability and working closely with members to ensure the needs of community are being met by the work.