Integrated Humanitarian Settlement Strategy (IHSS)

Support for humanitarian entrants

The Integrated Humanitarian Settlement Strategy (IHSS) provides intensive initial settlement support to newly arrived refugees and Special Humanitarian Program (SHP) entrants. Through a case management approach, the IHSS aims to promote the competence of humanitarian entrants and help them to achieve self-sufficiency as soon as possible by providing specialised services based on an assessment of needs.

Services provided

Services provided under the IHSS include:

• on-arrival reception and initial orientation
• information about and referral to other service providers and mainstream agencies
• assistance with accommodation and basic household goods
• short term torture and trauma counselling

Services are generally provided for around six months but may be extended for particularly vulnerable clients.

IHSS services are delivered by service providers contracted to DIAC. Volunteer groups work with service providers to support entrants and assist them to settle into the local community. Service providers also work to raise community awareness about the needs of humanitarian entrants.

After IHSS

When humanitarian entrants exit IHSS, they are referred to general settlement services provided through Migrant Resource Centres, Migrant Settlement Agencies and organisations funded under the Community Settlement Services Scheme.

Further information

See: Fact Sheet 66 - Integrated Humanitarian Settlement Strategy