​Every week, during school time, the St Brendan's Community Hub in Brisbane comes alive with laughter, conversation, and the warm smell of shared meals. It has become more than just a meeting place — it is a sanctuary where refugees and migrants can build friendships, practice English, and find a sense of belonging in their new home.

​Around ten adults regularly attend the hub's conversational English classes, where they explore vocabulary, text and topics that help them navigate daily life in Australia — from housing and health and wellness to education, shopping, employment, and essential services. 

“It's about more than language," one participant shared. “It's about feeling confident and knowing we can ask for help when we need it."

Alongside English lessons, the hub also offers Australian citizenship education. Several participants have already successfully passed their mandatory test, a milestone that fills the entire group with pride and hope for the future.

The hub is a truly multicultural space, welcoming people from all walks of life and backgrounds. For many, it's the first place in Australia where they feel safe, valued, and understood. Over cups of tea and plates of home-cooked food, participants share stories of hardship, resilience, assistance and dreams for the future.

Some parents bring their children too, taking comfort in knowing the hub is family friendly. With a small library of toys and books and a dedicated play area, children can learn and play while their parents take part in the sessions.

Without this hub, many adult refugees and migrants say they would feel isolated in a new and unfamiliar country. Instead, they've found something more than a community — they've found a place to belong. 

As one regular community member put it simply: “This is our family here. This is our home. We can ask for help."​

To learn more about the St Brendan's Community Hub or attend a class, please visit our website.​