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Other immigration programs include the Australian Cultural Orientation Program
(AUSCO), which provides a forum for discussion on the rights of women and children
in Australia, sexual harassment and domestic violence. The program provides
practical advice and the opportunity to ask questions about travel to and life in
Australia It is delivered overseas before refugees begin their journey.
The Adult Migrant English Program (AM EP) provides women with basic skills
necessary to deal with everyday social situations and some work situations, including
Engl ish classes to eligible adult migrants who do not have functional English. Over
60% of AM EP clients are women. AM EP also invites speakers from various agencies to
provide information on issues such as relationships, law and order, and social security
benefits. To ensure that suitable childcare is no barrier to learning English, the AM EP
also provides free childcare to under school age children while their parents are
studying i n the AM EP.
Australia also funds a number of settlement services through the Settlement Grants
Program, which aims to help refugees and migrants become self—reliant, contribute to
the national economy, and acquire crucial skilIs and knowledge about life in Australia
Some of these settlement services include provision of culturally sensitive information
sessions/workshops on women's health issues to enhance understanding of the Australian health