PH Embassy in Canberra, Homeward Assisted Returns Program Australia Explore Potential Collaboration to Assist Distressed Filipinos

Philippine Consul General to Canberra Aian Caringal (second from right) briefs the representatives of Homeward Assisted Returns Program on the migration policy and assistance to nationals’ program of the Philippines in a meeting on 11 October 2022. (Canberra PE photo)

CANBERRA 11 October 2022 – Philippine Consul General to Canberra Aian Caringal met with representatives of Homeward Assisted Returns Program Australia, Ms. Anna Darroch and Ms. Evelyn Haddad, to explore possible areas of cooperation on extending assistance to Filipinos in distress in Australia.

Consul General Caringal discussed Philippine policy on migration and development and the advanced model of overseas employment practiced in the country. Homeward Assisted Returns introduced their programs and experience on providing support to foreign nationals in Australia.

With the support of the Australian Department of Home Affairs, Homeward Assisted Returns Program provides non-citizens of Australia with an option to voluntarily depart the country. These include foreigners on bridging, temporary, expired and without valid visas, among others who cannot afford the airfare to return to their countries. 

The organization which started in 2019 has assisted about 1,500 individuals from 66 countries, including 16 Filipinos.  Their website www.assistedreturns.com.au and contact details are 1300 09 HOME (1300 094 663) and email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. END

From left: Philippine Overseas Labor Office-Canberra OIC Oscar Anthony David, Assistance to Nationals Officer Remedios Alcazar, Consul General Aian Caringal, Homeward Caseworkers Anna Darroch and Evelyn Haddad. (Canberra PE photo)

For more information, visit https://www.philembassy.org.au or https://www.facebook.com/PHinAustralia/.