Diocesan News
Refugee Week will be celebrated in Australia from Sunday, June 14 – Saturday, June 20, 2026
As Europe recovered from the devastation of World War II, Australia responded to an international call to offer a future to people with nowhere to call home. Since that initial agreement in 1947 to receive 4000 refugees from Central Europe, Australia has issued one million permanent humanitarian visas – welcoming people from all parts of the globe, people who have helped to build modern Australia. Refugee Week 2026 is a moment to reflect on that milestone and to celebrate the million stories behind it.
As part of celebrating the 40th Refugee Week, a celebration born in Australia and now observed around the world, let’s keep sharing stories, challenging stereotypes, and building a more inclusive society. Let’s build on this legacy.
Prayer for Refugee Week
Lord, no one is a stranger to you
and no one is ever far from your loving care.
In your kindness watch over refugees and asylum seekers,
those separated from their loved ones, those who are lost,
and those who have been exiled from their homes.
Bring them safely to the place where they long to be,
and help us always to show your kindness to strangers and those in need.