Journey Beyond Fear

Refugees are among the most disadvantaged on the planet. They are a growing diaspora with over 80 million people worldwide forced to leave their homes as a result of conflict and human rights violations. Critical to combatting the rise of racism is humanising refugees by knowing more about their experience. This film raises awareness of the difficulties of awaiting re-settlement for refugees by seeking to answer the question: ‘why can’t refugees stay in the country to which they first flee?’ It highlights the importance of raising the refugee intake within Australia, considering that only 1% of refugees are ever re-settled and that we offer only 13,750 annual resettlement places. The film: advances refugee and human rights; contributes to social cohesion; promotes the empowerment of women; enhances awareness of the need to improve the educational, employment and health prospects of refugees in transit countries like Malaysia and gives youth a voice in articulating these issues.

‘a journey well worth taking’ … ‘4 out of 5 stars’ – David Stratton
This finished film, has been highly popular to date, changing the hearts and minds and better informing human rights advocates. To reach wider audiences we need to: market the film more effectively; pay for travel expenses for more screenings and Q&A’s, develop online access and get the film into schools and tertiary institutions. Please consider a 100% Tax Deductible donation to help us get the film out there.

Improving public understanding of, and compassion for refugees, including those who join the so called ‘queue’, an option which is much tougher than most assume.
Increasing the refugee intake into Australia.
Advancing understanding of the importance of granting refugees access to government recognised schools and better resourced community and NGO supported schools while in regionally close transit countries, such as Malaysia.
Raising awareness of the exploitation of refugees in the workplace in countries where they are awaiting re-settlement, with the hope of improving these conditions.
Improving the health and living conditions of refugees in transit countries.
Improving public perceptions of female refugees and youth. Combatting the racism that so often accompanies hostility towards refugees.

The filmmakers have longstanding connections with Afghan and refugee communities, in particular, the family at the heart of this film.
We also have the strong support of most peak refugee, multicultural and human rights organisations.
As such, we have been able to explore the issues at hand with sensitivity and accuracy. These partners are assisting with in-kind marketing, the co-hosting of special screening events, the provision of spokespeople for our Q&A’s and exhibition venues. Most are unable to contribute financially so we are seeking fiscal support from other philanthropic organisations and individuals.

Enabling viewers to connect with those campaigning for: an increased intake of refugees by countries like Australia; against racism; improved opportunities for refugees, including better refugee access to education, working rights, health and alternative resettlement paths, such as a fairer community sponsorship program for refugees. As well, to act more respectfully towards refugee women and girls.