What is the Program of Assistance for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (PASTT)?
PASTT provides support services to people who are experiencing psychological or psychosocial difficulties associated with surviving torture and trauma prior to coming to Australia.The Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA) administers PASTT.
Since 4 April 2011, PASTT services have been combined with the former Short-term Torture and Trauma Counselling (STTC) service administered by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). All services previously available under both programs are now available through PASTT and the program is administered by DoHA. The program offers one seamless service for those requiring support.
Why is PASTT important?
The Australian Government recognises that people arriving in Australia under the Humanitarian Program require support to rebuild their lives and settle successfully.Access to appropriate mental health support services assists humanitarian entrants to participate socially and economically in Australian society.
What does PASTT deliver?
This program delivers direct support services to individuals, families and groups, including children and adolescents, who are survivors of torture and trauma. In addition, the program supports community development and education for mainstream service providers.PASTT services include:
- direct counselling and related support services, including advocacy and referrals to mainstream health and related services;
- education and training to mainstream health and related service providers;
- community development and capacity building activities;
- rural, regional and remote outreach services to enable survivors of torture and trauma to access comparable services outside metropolitan areas; and
- resources to support and enhance the capacity of specialist counselling and related support services to deliver effective services to survivors of torture and trauma and to respond to emerging client needs.
Counselling and related support services are tailored to best meet the needs of clients. Focused and specialised interventions have been developed through PASTT to support children and young people.
How does it work?
PASTT services are delivered by member agencies of the Forum of Australian Services for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (FASSTT), a network of specialist rehabilitation agencies that work with survivors of torture and trauma. There is one PASTT agency in each capital city of Australia which coordinates services where they are needed across the state or territory.People can be referred to PASTT through a wide range of sources including Humanitarian Settlement Services administered by DIAC, other settlement services, general practitioners and other health services, education providers, legal services, community services, family/friends/community members and through self referral.
Further information
Contact details for PASTT agencies in each State and Territory are at www.fasstt.org.au.Page currency, Latest update: 20 June, 2011