Wimmera Settlement Services has released a comprehensive Guide and Directory outlining dozens of services, supports and sporting, work, training and social opportunities for new settlers to the region.
Available in hard copy and online it aims to help new migrants feel welcome, supported and ready to start of new life in the Wimmera.
“We understand that moving to a new town, or even country, can be isolating so there are many supports and services listed for families and children. We’ve created these important documents to help new arrivals understand the community, learn about services and support and feel at home in the region,” Settlement Services Manager Sara Barron said
“It includes details of English language classes, playgroups, youth groups, driver assistance program and interpreter services.
“There is information about what to do in emergencies and essential services such as police, hospitals and nurse on call.
“It provides details about Australian life, weather, customs and citizenship, as well as tips for renting, connecting utilities and buying your phone.”
“The guide also includes plenty of information about sporting, community and event opportunities across region.”
“Another great addition is a ‘Settlement Supports’ brochure highlighting the 10 things people must do when they first arrive,” she said.
“These include banking, tax, Centrelink, Medicare, MyGov, school enrolments and driving tasks.”
Ms Barron said while these are pitched at migrants, there is plenty of information in the guides for people moving from other towns or states as well.
“The ‘Welcome to the Wimmera’ Guide and Directory provide useful information to help find services, but please reach out if you need more support.”
Nhill Learning Centre multi-lingual liaison officer Thablay Khinshwe, who came to Nhill as a teenager, said the document’s information would help new residents settle well.
“My lived experience has shaped a deep commitment to support new arrivals, celebrate cultural diversity, and help build understanding and connection through education and community engagement,” she said.
Wimmera Settlement Services will be distributing copies to local services and partner organisations over the coming weeks.
“These are important tools to help services support their clients too, so the Settlement program will be reaching out to local councils, libraries, information centres, neighbourhood houses, health and community health services to deliver hard copies and introduce services to the content,” Ms Barron said.
The Guide, Directory and Support Service brochure are available to read online and download to print at:
- https://wsm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/WSM-Guide-2026.pdf
- https://wsm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/WSM-Directory-2026.pdf
- https://wsm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/WSM-Settlement-Supports-2026.pdf
This article appeared in the Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times, 6 May 2026.
