Listening to lived experience. Co-designing practical solutions. Building stronger multicultural communities.
Smart Living: "What No One Told Us" was Aurora Multicultural Advisory Hub's inaugural pilot program. It was designed as a community-led proof of concept that brought together migrants, refugees, service providers and community representatives to identify barriers, share lived experiences and co-design practical solutions to everyday challenges.
This pilot program provided a safe and open space for shared lived experience, gathering and collaboration to inform future programs, policy advocacy and service improvements.
Community members struggle to navigate and access the services designed to support them.
Communication gaps between participants and service providers remain a persistent challenge.
Skills and qualifications are often underused or overlooked in the local employment market.
Many communities do not feel culturally safe or understood within mainstream systems.
Lack of connection and belonging continues to affect wellbeing and participation.
Create a safe space where participants feel heard and valued.
Capture real stories and barriers directly from community members.
Work alongside participants to shape practical, workable responses.
Connect skilled community members to future opportunities.
What Communities Said
Barriers Identified
This program aligns with key strategic priorities.
The full pilot program report includes detailed insights, community voices, recommendations and next steps.
Download Full ReportBuilding on the success of Session 1, Aurora is developing Session 2 — a multi-sectoral response for migrants and refugees that connects lived experience with practical support systems. We will build local and regional partnerships with councils, service agencies and cultural bodies to expand impact and roll out program elements across multiple communities.
Learn More About Session 2Whether you're a community member, service provider, government agency or funding partner — your voice and support can help us build on this pilot to a mainstream, ongoing initiative.
