FECCA

About the organisation 

The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia, known as FECCA, is the national peak body representing Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. For almost 50 years, FECCA has worked with government, community organisations and service providers to promote equity in policy, service delivery and community wellbeing. FECCA’s work is informed by its federated membership of more than 1,500 community organisations across Australia, as well as initiatives including the Australian Multicultural Women’s Alliance and the Australian Multicultural Health Collaborative.

Wellbeing Conversation Circles: Strengthening Mental Wellbeing for PALM Workers

The project 

With support from nib foundation, FECCA will train community-based Wellbeing Champions to lead culturally safe conversations about mental wellbeing and help connect Pacific Australia Mobility Scheme workers with available support services.  

By focusing on prevention and early engagement, the project will help reduce stigma, strengthen social connections and build confidence in seeking support, while growing local knowledge and capability to support mental health literacy over time. 

The pilot will be delivered in Queensland and Tasmania and informed by the voices, experiences and needs of local Pacific communities.

Why it matters 

People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds can face additional barriers to accessing healthcare and mental health support, including language barriers, cultural stigma and difficulties navigating unfamiliar systems. These challenges can make it harder to seek help and access care when needed.  

These barriers are compounded for many Pacific communities living and working in Australia, including PALM scheme workers. PALM workers make an important contribution to regional communities and industries across Australia, while often living away from family and established support networks.

Research has identified mental health challenges, social isolation, family separation and difficulties accessing support as key factors affecting the wellbeing of PALM workers. Concerns about job security or visa impacts can further discourage many workers from seeking help.

By creating trusted opportunities to talk about mental wellbeing and learn about available support, this project aims to reduce barriers to help-seeking, improve connections to care and strengthen wellbeing outcomes for Pacific communities.