By Gary Lee
Refugee Week 2026 marks an important milestone, commemorating the granting of one million permanent humanitarian visas since 1947. Each of those visas represents a life, journey, and story that has contributed to Australian communities.
This year’s theme, ‘A Million Stories’ celebrates these narratives and the support systems that have not only transformed the lives of refugees but have also enriched the cultural landscape of multicultural Australia, underscoring the importance of compassion and inclusivity.
The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) Telethon, hosted on 20 June, successfully raised over $1,593,789.41 to support refugees and asylum seekers.
This significant amount reflects our community’s commitment to empowering those in need; and our backing of the ASRC in delivering essential services including emergency relief, housing advocacy, health care, and legal.
The World Refugee Day Telethon, broadcast live from the ASRC in Footscray, showcased heartfelt stories, live performances, and inspiring conversations; emphasising the strength of refugees and the significance of solidarity in tackling the challenges associated with resettlement.
The day featured a lively community BBQ, appearances from celebrities including Kishwar Chowdhury (MasterChef Australia), Clare Bowditch (musician, author), Lizzy Ho (comedian), Ben Brown (former AFL premiership player), Lehmo (comedian and actor), Leah Vandenberg (host, Play School), Alicia Gardiner (actor) and many others, plus live performances from Cassidy La Crème, Amadou Suso and Sebastian Lugo.
The final hours of the telethon were electric towards the end of the night. One could feel the nerves ripple through the room as everyone waited to see if the fundraising goal would be met. Conversations faded into a tense silence, hearts racing with every update. And then, just after 11pm, everything changed. In an instant, the total surged over $1,500,000.00 – and the room erupted in a state of ecstasy.
Kon Karapanagiotidis OAM, founder and CEO of the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) extended a special appreciation to the community:
“Thank you for doing more than just help the ASRC reach our $1.5 million World Refugee Day Target. Thank you for showing that love is more powerful than hate. That together we are stronger and that our diversity is our strength.”
The World Refugee Day Telethon is a national movement of solidarity and action, but we can all make a difference every single day. To donate, visit donate.asrc.org.au/telethon
