Our stories Archives - Jesuit Social Services

New report highlights just how deep Australia’s wealth divide goes
- 27 September 2023
The latest report from ACOSS and the UNSW's Poverty and Inequality Partnership - of which Jesuit Social Services is a member – finds that the gap between those with the most and those with the least in Australia has blown out over the past two decades, highlighting the role of income support payments, housing, taxation and superannuation policy in the growing divide.
New job puts Behnaz’s analytical mind to good use
- 18 September 2023
Behnaz* is a qualified engineer but hadn’t secured a role in the industry since her previous role as an academic back in 2015. Originally from Iran, Behnaz came to Australia seeking asylum and has struggled to feel accepted in society. ...
JVES makes a "dream come true" for Biruk
- 16 September 2023
After over 30 unsuccessful job applications and no luck with a Job Active service, Biruk* was losing hope and thought of giving up his dreams of working as an electrician. Eventually, friends recommended that he connect with Jesuit Social Services’ Jobs Victoria Employment Service program, which assisted him with his resume, job search training, and supported him to find work at an electrical company in 2022 - his “dream come true".
Police pathway program to help Aboriginal officers serve community
- 15 September 2023
Raza Rind knew from childhood he wanted to be a police officer – inspired by a police officer uncle who would share stories and tips with the then 10-year-old Yamatji boy on camping trips in Western Australia’s rural mid-west. ...
Trainer Tessa empowers participants to overcome self-doubt and find employment
- 14 September 2023
As a Jesuit Community College trainer, Tessa has had the privilege of seeing her former students find employment in many areas including nursing, teaching, administration and the arts. The employment course supports participants to build the practical skills, mindset and confidence needed to find meaningful work.
Accompanying people on their path to employment
- 13 September 2023
Hear how our Education, Training and Employment team have navigated funding cuts to the Jobs Victoria Employment Services (JVES) program, exploring new ways to find pathways to employment for people who face significant barriers to social and economic inclusion.
How music connects hearts in grief and helps in healing
- 9 June 2023
When musician and anthropologist Glenn McDonald’s mum passed away from suicide in 2011, music played an important part in his recovery. ...
Empowering young people on the path to recovery through connection to nature
- 8 June 2023
The Outdoor Experience utilises a Bush Adventure Therapy to supports young people struggling with substance abuse and mental health. Learn how the program empowers participants to move forward on their journey to recovery.
Open Pantry helping provide food security and connection
- 7 June 2023
Hear how Open Pantry delivers healthy meals and community for the Western Sydney residents.
Music workshops encourage self-expression in Alice Springs school
- 7 June 2023
Hear how students at Yipirinya School have workshopped songs and laid down beats with ARIA Award-winning musician Adrian Eagle, as part of a new relationship between the school and Jesuit Social Services that will provide opportunities for performance, self-expression, and new narratives for First Nations young people in Mparntwe/Alice Springs.

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