In Parramatta today, there was a dance to welcome Australia's newest arrivals.
Among them was 12 year old Ginthujan Ravendran, a Tamil from Sri Lanka.
Ginthujan's father arrived in Australia by boat in 2008 bringing with him stories of torture and trauma.
The rest of the family flew into Sydney last year.
Settlement Services International looks after refugees, like Ginthujan's family, when they first arrive.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Many refugees need to learn the basics - like how to use a mobile phone or an ATM.
They face the challenge of learning English, accessing services and finding housing.
An independent report last year found that some refugees were being housed in sub-standard accommodation.
The Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Kate Lundy, says while housing remains a challenge, things are better than they were.
"There was a comprehensive inquiry into the at cirucmatstance in Newcastle with one particular provider. Those problems occurred under the previous contractor," Minister Lundy says.
Ginthujan doesn't have to worry about housing, but he's already faced more adversity than most.
During the tsunami in 2004, he was separated from his family for five days.
Now, he must adjust to a new world.
"I miss my cousins and my friends, my teachers and my village," he says.
Ginthujan says he plans to be a computer engineer.
