The Community Support Program (CSP) is part of Australia’s Refugee and Humanitarian Program.
It enables Australian individuals, businesses, and community organisations to support people in humanitarian need to start a new life in Australia.
This program operates under the Global Special Humanitarian visa (subclass 202).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Community Support Program (CSP)?
Through the CSP, Australian supporters can:
- Propose eligible applicants for resettlement in Australia
- Assist with employment opportunities, skills training, and financial support
- Help with settlement services to ensure successful integration
There is a high demand for the CSP, and only a limited number of visas are granted each year.
Who can apply for the CSP?
To be eligible for the CSP, applicants must:
- Be outside their home country and outside Australia
- Be subject to substantial discrimination or human rights violations in their home country
- Be aged between 18 and 50
- Have adequate English and demonstrate this at a visa interview
- Have a valid job offer or personal attributes that enable financial self-sufficiency within 12 months of arrival
- Have Australian supporters willing to provide financial and settlement support
- Meet all Class XB (subclass 202) visa criteria
Who can become an Australian supporter?
Australian supporters can be:
- Businesses with an ABN and a genuine job opportunity
- Community organisations, families, or individuals willing to provide financial and settlement support
Supporters must work through an Approved Proposing Organisation (APO), which manages the application process and settlement arrangements.
Role of Approved Proposing Organisations (APOs)
APOs are authorised by the Department of Home Affairs to:
- Screen applicants for eligibility
- Link applicants with employment opportunities
- Lodge visa applications and manage the process
- Provide settlement support for at least 12 months after arrival
Examples of APOs include:
- AMES Australia
- Settlement Services International (SSI)
- International Organization for Migration (IOM)
- Multicultural Australia
- Spectrum Migrant Resource Centre
Costs and financial responsibilities
The CSP is a costly pathway compared to other humanitarian options. Costs include:
- Department of Home Affairs visa charges
- APO service fees for application preparation and settlement support
- Settlement costs, including accommodation and essential goods
How to apply?
- Contact an APO: You cannot apply directly; you must work with an Approved Proposing Organisation
- Eligibility Screening: The APO will assess your eligibility and match you with employment opportunities
- Prepare and Lodge Application: The APO will assist with lodging the visa application and supporting documents
- Settlement Support: After visa grant, the APO will provide settlement services for at least 12 months
If you want to support someone through the CSP or check your eligibility, book a free 10-minute consultation with our immigration lawyers today.