A new study of refugee settlement experiences has found the overwhelming majority of new refugees feel welcome in Australia.
Building a New Life in Australia surveyed 2,400 immigrants in all states and territories and more than 80 per cent felt settling into Australia had been a positive experience.
Senior Research Fellow, Diana Smart says the survey findings present a positive picture of life in Australia for humanitarian migrants.
"The majority are working hard to increase their skills and make the most of their new start in Australia. They feel welcomed and are developing a sense of belonging," she said.
"Overall their experience of life in Australia has been good and I think that's very encouraging."
Researcher Diana Smart speaking with SBS reporter Greg Dyett.
Those surveyed by the Australian Institute of Family Studies had all experienced some form of trauma such a war, persecution, imprisonment or a natural disaster which meant mental health problems affected 35 per cent of the men and 46 per cent of the women.
"Many are struggling with mental health issues and we hope to see this improve over the next five years, as we follow them from their early months in Australia to their time for eligibility for citizenship,” Ms Smart said.
Three quarters of the new humanitarian arrivals are either working or studying to gain English language skills.
The study is the first longitudinal study in more than a decade. The research is being presented to the 13th Australian Institute of Family Studies' conference this week.
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