Refugees from countries including Afghanistan and Syria are combining study with packing online supermarket orders as they pursue their Australian qualifications.
A total of 42 refugees have joined the team at a Brisbane Woolworths fulfilment centre, where the majority pick and pack online orders.
Ranging in age from their early twenties to 50 plus, employees come from countries including Afghanistan, the Congo, Burundi, Syria and Ukraine.
Some are seeking permanent employment with Woolies as they put down roots in Brisbane, while others like 25-year-old Afghan doctor Sahil need an income as they pursue local qualifications.
"When I arrived (to Australia) a Woolworths supermarket was one of the first places I went to," he said.
Sahil applied for work for more than five months before he was hired.
His medical accreditation process is likely another two years away.
He now assists new members of the Woolworths Refugee Program through their induction.
Bassam, a 59-year-old Syrian man, hopes to eventually continue his career in finance where he once worked as an accountant.
"For me, it has been really important to find stable employment because I want to contribute to the community that gave my family peace and safety," he said.
The Woolworths refugee program is a light in the dark path of finding work, 28-year-old Hazara Afghan woman Asia said.
She completed a Masters in Banking and Finance in Pakistan and wants to be a certified accountant.
Immigration Minister Andrew Giles said refugees who come to Australia deserve ongoing support as well as safety.
"I'm determined that when someone comes here, that's not the end of the process," he said.
Refugees should have the chance to make a life, and make a contribution on their terms, the minister said.
Engaging with refugee communities is both the right thing to do and an important source of untapped potential in the current job market, Woolworths General Manager for Inclusion Catherine Hunter said.
"We're grateful to have the support of these new team members who are helping to boost our online capacity in Brisbane," Ms Hunter said.
