Supporting newly arrived young people.
Starting life in a new place - young people can get the support they need to build their lives in our communities, especially those who have just arrived.
Youth services
Making settling in easier.
Being young doesn’t make a big change any easier.
If you or someone you care for is newly arrived and under 18, we have a range of programs to help you connect with others and access the services you need in your new community.
Newly Arrived Youth Specialist Service (NAYSS)
Newly Arrived Youth Specialist Service (NAYSS) assists young people to stay connected with family, work, education, training and their local community.
Through NAYSS, you can access:
- counselling
- group work
- capacity building workshops
- mediation
- practical support to the whole family.
Am I eligible?
You may be eligible for NAYSS if you are aged between 12 and 21, and have been in Australia for 5 years or less.
You must also be categorised as one of the following:
- Refugees - visa subclass 200, 201, 203 and 204
- Global Special Humanitarian Program entrants - visa subclass 202
- Dependent Child - visa subclass 445
- Child (onshore) - visa subclass 802
- Remaining Relative (Onshore) - visa subclass 835
- Carer (Onshore) - subclass 836
- Orphan Relative (Onshore) - subclass 837
- Aged Dependent Relative (Onshore) - subclass 838
For more information, please call (03) 5831 6157.
Komak Youth
Support for Afghan young people in south-east Melbourne
What's on offer for young people:
- Komak SportZ — Play cricket, soccer, volleyball and more in a welcoming team environment. You'll get a uniform, regular training and coaching from mentors who understand the community. All skill levels welcome.
- Keeping Afghan Girls Active — Part of the Australian Government's Play Our Way program, this partnership with local sporting clubs gives Afghan girls aged 12 to 25 a safe, culturally appropriate space to try cricket, swimming, volleyball and soccer, while learning about health, teamwork and leadership.
- Komak Local Youth Reference Group — A youth-led advisory group for young people aged 12 to 25 who want to shape programs, events and policy. Members work with community leaders, service providers and government partners on the issues that matter — education, employment, mental health and social connection.
- School support — Komak partners with schools across south-east Melbourne to support Afghan students and families, bridge communication with teachers and wellbeing teams, and deliver programs with partners including Victoria Police, Road Safety Education and ThinkUKnow.
- One-on-one and family support — Practical help with settlement, education, healthcare and referrals, plus support for the whole family.
Get involved
Upcoming events
Get in touch
We’re here for you.
Feel supported for the season ahead. If you or someone you know is newly arrived, we’re here to help.
