For multicultural, migrant and refugee families
Help with emotional challenges and getting the right support as a multicultural, migrant or refugee family.
On this page
Being a family from a multicultural, migrant or refugee background
Being part of a family from a multicultural, migrant or refugee background can bring lots of joy, but it also comes with some challenges. Having a baby in Australia might be different from what you’re used to.
It can sometimes be confusing:
- learning about a new healthcare system and culture
- speaking in a different language
- feeling far away from your culture or family.
You might have questions about how to find a family doctor or what having a baby in Australia will be like. You might find some differences in parenting advice and the type of parenting you experienced in your childhood.
You might be used to getting help from your family or community back home. In Australia, it’s more common for health services to give that help. You'll need to let the services know if you need support. It can be difficult to ask if you’re not used to getting help in this way.
You don’t need to do it alone. With the right care and support you and your baby can grow and develop together.
Your support options
There are lots of services set up to support you. Talk to your family doctor, midwife or local child health clinic. They can help you find the best support for you. It could include things like support groups and cultural and spiritual communities.
You can also:
- call the Queensland Multicultural Connect Line to help you find support and manage any stress you’re feeling
- find a playgroup in your language in your area on the Queensland Play Matters website
- find community groups in the Queensland Multicultural Resource Directory
- get helpful information about parenting in Australia from the Raising Children Network
- learn about using the Queensland health system
- use free Queensland Health translator and interpreter services or the national translation and interpreter service to help with appointments.
Services Australia has help and advice for people who have recently arrived in Australia that can also help.
Your emotional wellbeing
It’s important to look after your wellbeing. Use the PANDA checklist to help understand how you’re feeling. They have lots of helpful advice and support in your own language.
Read about signs you might need more support and ways to care for your wellbeing.
In a crisis or emergency
If you're having thoughts about harming yourself or your child, or you feel unable to cope, call:
- Triple Zero (000)
- 13YARN (13 92 76)
- Lifeline (13 11 14)
- Suicide Call Back (1300 659 467)
- 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255).
For help with domestic, family and sexual violence call 1800 737 732. You can also talk to someone online, by text message or video call on the 1800RESPECT website.
Services that can support you
Search our directory to connect with perinatal mental health supports and services.
You can also get help from people who speak your language and understand your culture on the Dear Mind website.