What is the Program of Assistance for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (PASTT)?
PASTT aims to promote the physical health and psycho-social recovery of people who have experienced torture and trauma prior to their arrival in Australia, which makes them vulnerable to developing mental health problems.
Why is this important?
Access to appropriate mental health care support services reduces the incidence and impact of mental and other health and social problems associated with torture and trauma. Services funded under the program support humanitarian entrants to better integrate and participate economically and socially in Australian society.
Who benefits?
People who have entered Australia under the Humanitarian Program administered by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, who have experienced human rights abuses.
What does the Program of Assistance for Survivors of Torture and Trauma deliver?
The program delivers direct support services and counselling, in addition to community development activities and education and training for mainstream service providers. This program provides survivors of torture and trauma, including children and adolescents, with early access to psychological counselling and support, as well as early intervention activities in partnership with schools and local communities. Approximately 4,300 people are supported under this program each year.
How does it work?
One specialised non-government agency in each state and territory is funded to deliver the services on behalf of the Australian Department of Health and Ageing.
What funding is attached to this program?
Funding of $4.8 million is provided to this program annually.
When did the Program of Assistance for Survivors of Torture and Trauma start?
The Program of Assistance for Survivors of Torture and Trauma commenced in 1994.
Further information
The Victorian non-government agency is responsible for coordinating the national Forum of Agencies Assisting Survivors of Torture and Trauma. The following link goes to service information on the agency site:
Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture and Trauma at:
http://www.foundationhouse.org.au/home.php
Page currency, Latest update: 23 June, 2008