Despite a career and permanent residency, this engineer ended up living on Sydney’s streets while battling mental illness

Preet Anmol Singh Grewal migrated from Punjab to Australia in 2006 in search of better opportunities. But nearly a decade later, the engineering professional found himself living on Sydney’s streets despite holding permanent residency. Now receiving treatment for mental illness, his story has sparked community calls for greater awareness and better support for vulnerable migrants.

Preet Anmol Singh Grewal with his mother and community worker Jasbir Singh.

Key Points

• Deteriorating mental health forced Punjabi migrant to live on the streets of Blacktown in Sydney
• Community worker Jasbir Singh appeals to youth living alone to identify and prioritise their mental health.

A native of Ludhiana, Punjab, Preet Anmol Singh Grewal came to Australia as an international student. He earned a degree in engineering, secured a well-paying job, and permanent residency.

Despite this success, he ended up living on the streets of Blacktown, Sydney, as his mental health declined.

He is now receiving treatment with support from the local Punjabi community, while his mother, Harmeet Kaur, has travelled from India to be by his side.

Speaking with SBS Punjabi, Kaur said, "While living in Australia, Preet Anmol developed depression and began seeking financial help from his family in India".

Community worker Jasbir Singh is calling on the Punjabi community living abroad to recognise 'the silent battles' of mental health.

"There were times when Grewal's condition would deteriorate so much that he would become violent, and the police had to take appropriate action," Singh told SBS Punjabi.

🎧 Click on the audio icon to listen to the full report and interview in Punjabi.

Disclaimer: Readers seeking crisis support can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 and Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 (for young people aged up to 25). More information and support with mental health is available at Beyond Blue.org.au and on 1300 22 4636.

Embrace Multicultural Mental Health supports people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

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