International conflict

Families living in Australia from refugee backgrounds can experience ongoing trauma when instability and conflict arises or escalates in their country of origin. This tip sheet developed by Foundation House (The Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture) provides useful information on what schools and services can do.   

The Young People’s Exposure to War and Conflict in Media: A Guide for Schools and Community Members, by QPASTT, is primarily designed for teacher and community members who are caring for, or working with, children and young people who are survivors of refugee trauma, including intergenerational trauma. It looks at the impact of media coverage, trauma responses in children and young people, as well as tips for talking to them about war and conflict. 

This Guide has been developed by Foundation House (The Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture) and provides information on sensitively responding to students’ trauma reactions supports their recovery from traumatic refugee experiences.

In particular, Hints for Healing: Supporting Students Impacted by Violence in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories offers valuable insights into trauma-informed approaches for educators, with resources and strategies to address the unique mental health challenges faced by students impacted by the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

The FASSTT network has released an information sheet for communities, educators and health professionals to understand the impact of international conflict on people who have experienced refugee-related trauma and how to respond. The resource outlines common signs of trauma in adults, children and young people, how people can access urgent support if they are concerned about someone’s wellbeing, as well as details about the support FASSTT agencies can provide to communities across Australia and how to refer people to our services. Released 8 November 2023. 

This Guide has been developed by Foundation House (The Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture) and provides information for those working with survivors of traumatic refugee experiences.