MINISTER for Multicultural Affairs Joy Burch says World Refugee Day is a day for all Canberrans to become champions for refugees and asylum seekers.

Ms Burch today hosted a breakfast for refugees, representatives of refugee support agencies, community leaders and politicians to observe the United Nations World Refugee Day.

Breakfast was provided by White Nile Catering, a social enterprise managed by women from Canberra’s Sudanese community who came to Australia as refugees.

“June 20 is a special day each year that serves to honour the courage, strength and determination of women, men and children whose lives have been torn apart by threats of persecution, conflict and violence, forcing them to flee their homelands,” Joy said.

“It is an important day of recognition for all Canberrans, all Australians and all countries across the world, as it provides an opportunity for all people to reflect on the realities faced by refugees and asylum seekers.

“Refugees live with the hope that they will be given a chance to start a new life and begin a path of healing from past trauma.

“The ACT Government works closely with community organisations and support agencies that advocate, assist, support and most importantly, offer protection and resettlement to refugees.

“But we must always remember that the job is never finished.

“On World Refugee Day, we must all become champions for refugees. Tell a friend, whether it’s at work or at the footy, that today is World Refugee Day. Let us all work together to restore their hopes for a brighter future.”