Western Sydney Pillars of Resilience

COVID-19 Survival and Recovery

Western Sydney Community Forum and Western Sydney Migrant Resource Centre have collaboratively captured substantial and crucial information from diverse communities across greater Western Sydney. This data provides information relating to the lived experiences of people during COVID-19 lockdowns and vaccination efforts in July and August 2021 and insights relating to what needs to happen now to address survival and into the future to secure recovery.

Billie Sankovic
CEO, Western Sydney Community Forum

In times of disaster or crisis, the people and communities that are hardest hit are those already experiencing some level of vulnerability, or socio-economic barriers, or service gaps. This has been brought to the fore throughout the pandemic. However, the equity gap continues to increase. This must be addressed to survive and recover from this pandemic and safeguard our future. This paper provides clear directions on where to start.

Kamalle Dabboussy
CEO, Western Sydney Migrant Resource Centre

In times of crisis, history has shown that the most disadvantaged are the most affected – vulnerable due to isolation, postcode or income levels. And we need to ensure all benefit from services and interventions equitably. That not only is the immediate need addressed, but that all share in the recovery equally. This paper puts forward understanding and insights that will help guide future steps and build on the communities’ strengths.

What we know

Pillar 01

Community Leaders / Local Organisations / Social Cohesion / Cultural Development

Family & Community

Families are interdependent. Local trusted place based community leaders, groups and organisations are key. Equitable access is imperative. Social cohesion is fragile.

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Pillar 02

Vaccination / Information / Service Access / Cultural Safety

Health & Safety

Entrenched inequities result in disproportionate impacts. Tailored and accessible health communications is most effective. People must be culturally, mentally and physically safe.

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Pillar 03

Income / Employment / Business / Essential Workers

Livelihood & Income

The safety net must be accessible. The impacts of a slow economy in a rapidly evolving crisis are far reaching. Disparities in the labour force results in inequitable outcomes.

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