OUR PURPOSE

Empowering and supporting refugees and migrants find jobs or start their own small business.

PURPOSE BASED ON BELIEF

Too often, refugees face systemic barriers that prevent them from fully participating in the economy, despite their willingness and capacity to work. Many arrive with valuable skills, entrepreneurial drive, and a deep motivation to succeed, yet they are held back by language barriers, lack of local experience, and limited access to opportunity.

At the same time, data from around the world shows that when refugees are given the chance to work or start businesses, they contribute significantly to economic growth, social cohesion, and community development.

We know that economic participation is the key to integration. Having a job or owning a business is more than just income—it brings purpose, independence, and connection. It enables people to support their families, contribute to their communities, and build a life of dignity and security.

BELIEF GROUNDED IN RESEARCH

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) - studies suggest that refugees in Australia are around 1.5 to 2 times more likely to start their own business than Australian-born citizens.

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In Germany, refugees have been instrumental in the growth of the small business sector. A 2020 study by KfW Bank estimated that 6.3% of refugees in Germany have started their own businesses, contributing to the economic integration of migrants.

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In Canada, a 2018 study by the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI) found that refugees were responsible for creating an average of 1.6 new jobs for every refugee that arrived.

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A 2020 study by the British Refugee Council found that refugees often outperform their colleagues in terms of reliability, punctuality, and motivation in entry-level or low-wage roles, which has led to higher-than-average retention rates for employers who hire refugees.

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In countries like Germany, Canada, and Australia, refugees have been found to work longer hours and take on multiple part-time jobs. For instance, a 2018 report by the European Commission found that refugees in Germany were twice as likely to work overtime or take on temporary jobs compared to native Germans.

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SPOTLIGHT ON SUCCESS

Maryam launched her pickled food business with the support of Thrive, including financing to purchase food processing equipment.

Thrive supported Ben to start his own cabinetry and joinery business.

Thrive supported Elham to purchase a Coffee Van business in 2019 and have since provided further funding for a second van.

SUPPORT INTO SMALL BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT

Whether it’s helping with small business support, job placements, or skill-building programs, we’re here to break down barriers and open up real opportunities — a vital step toward long-term integration and a successful future in a new country.

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BUSINESS SUPPORT & LOAN

  • Access to loan capital at below-market interest rates

  • Business planning and development support

  • Training in small business fundamentals

  • Ongoing mentorship from our experienced support teams

If you are a refugee interested in business support, please fill in your details here.

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EMPLOYMENT

  • Access to jobs through our network of employer partnerships

  • Support in the job search and recruitment process

  • Assessment and development on being job ready in Australia

  • Skills and career development

If you are a refugee seeking support in looking for work, please fill in your details here.

If you are an employer looking for motivated, resilient, and hardworking individuals to join your team, we invite you to connect with us. Please email employment@tre.org.au