CULTURALLY
COORDINATED
ASSISTANCE
Supporting families arriving in Australia from Gaza
The Gaza Australian Program (GAP) engages directly with newly arrived Gazans, addressing their immediate needs and concerns in a culturally sensitive and supportive manner.
Assist in coordinating the appropriate service engagement with partnering organisations, and provide continuing assistance on a need basis.
What We Do
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Communication is key to navigating a new life in Australia.
Our translation services are designed to bridge language barriers for Gazan refugees, ensuring you have access to vital services and information in your preferred language.
From translating legal documents to everyday conversations, we provide professional assistance to make your transition smoother.
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GAP connects refugees with a network of support services tailored to meet their specific needs.
From health services and education to employment assistance and community programs, we ensure that each family has access to the resources necessary for a successful transition to life in Australia.
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Navigating the complexities of immigration law can be overwhelming.
GAP provides immigration and legal advice to help refugees understand their rights and responsibilities in Australia.
Our team of legal experts offers guidance on visa applications, family reunification, and other essential legal matters.
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At GAP, we advocate on behalf of refugees by maintaining strong relationships with local government MPs and other officials.
Our liaison services ensure that the voices of Gazan refugees are heard, and we work diligently to represent their concerns and secure government support for key initiatives.
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Our work is supported by the generous contributions of individuals and businesses.
Through donations of goods and services, GAP helps families in need by providing clothing, furniture, and other essentials.
We also welcome professional services such as legal aid and medical care, ensuring a holistic approach to refugee support.
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At GAP, we provide trauma-informed care tailored to the unique experiences of individuals fleeing conflict in Gaza.
In understanding the impact of deep psychological trauma, and we ensure that every service we offer is culturally sensitive and supportive of emotional well-being.
Whether you're struggling with past events or adjusting to life in Australia, we're here to help you build a strong foundation for healing. -
Finding a safe and secure place to live is one of the first steps toward building a new life.
GAP offers housing support and setup coordination to help newly arrived families secure affordable housing, manage utilities, and furnish their homes with essential items.
We work closely with community partners to ensure that no family is left without the support they need.
How you
can help
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Help Gazan refugees create a comfortable home by donating good quality household items such as furniture, bedding, kitchenware, and appliances.
Your contributions provide essential items that help families start fresh in their new surroundings.
Every new or pre-loved donation in good condition makes a difference, ensuring families have the basics to build a safe and welcoming home.
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Whether you're a lawyer, doctor, translator, or any professional, you can donate your services to make a significant impact. GAP relies on the generosity of professionals to provide critical services such as legal aid, healthcare, and translation assistance. Your expertise can make a real difference in the lives of refugees as they navigate their new lives in Australia.
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Support our work with a financial donation. Your contributions go directly towards programs that assist Gazan refugees, including housing support, trauma counseling, and legal advice.
Every dollar you donate helps us continue providing critical services to families in need, offering them a brighter future.
You can donate HERE -
Become a vital part of the Gaza Australian Program by volunteering your time to support newly arrived Gazan refugees.
Whether you can assist with organizing community events, providing mentorship, or offering administrative support, your time and dedication make a meaningful difference.
Volunteering with GAP helps refugees settle into their new lives, offering them guidance, companionship, and practical assistance in navigating their new environment.
Join us in building a welcoming community and making a lasting impact on the lives of those in need.
Why we do what we do
By empowering Gazans with integrity during this challenging transitional period, GAP not only supports individual families but also enriches the wider community. This initiative promotes a deeper understanding and appreciation of multiculturalism, fostering inclusivity and strengthening our social fabric, aiming to contribute to a more harmonious and diverse Australia, where all cultures are valued and integrated into the broader cultural landscape.
Who is GAP
Founded by Gazan and Australian professionals who have established a productive relationship with a broad range of networks and stakeholders, GAP is adept at delivering programs and events that enhance the capacity of diverse and marginalised communities.
Recognising the critical importance of support for new arrivals in Australia, GAP collaborates with charitable and government organisations to ensure streamlined service provision, offering comprehensive support to Gazan families as they transition to their new lives.
Mahmoud Kaskeen – Director and Founder
Mahmoud Kaskeen, born and raised in Gaza, holds a PhD in engineering and built a successful career across the Middle East. Seven years ago, he moved to Australia and began working as an engineer. He lives in Sydney with his wife, Zubia, a nutritionist, and their two daughters, Cyrine and Cyinna. Following the Gaza conflict in 2023, Mahmoud has worked tirelessly to support the early settlement of over 400 newly arrived Gazans. He founded the Gaza Australian Program (GAP), playing a key role in advocating to government departments, fundraising, and providing vital housing and support services. In the absence of substantial government funding, Mahmoud collaborated with SSI and other non-profits to ensure traumatized families had shelter, food, and access to pro-bono services.
The Board
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Fiona Sullivan
Director
Fiona Sullivan grew up in the Mediterranean after moving from Australia as a child, which gave her a deep appreciation for different cultures.
With a career spanning the travel and film industries, magazine editing, and philanthropic fundraising, Fiona played a key role in launching Yalari, a scholarship program for Indigenous children.
Her passion for equality and human rights drives her support for the Palestinian cause and her ongoing commitment to social justice.
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Joanna Goodwin
Secretary
Joanna Goodwin brings extensive leadership experience in the not-for-profit arts and cultural sector.
As co-founder of Toby’s Estate Coffee and former Director of North Sydney Community Centre, she has a strong track record in governance, financial sustainability, and community programming.
Joanna has fostered lasting partnerships with refugee support organizations and held senior roles at events like Sculpture by the Sea and the Alliance Francaise French Film Festival.
Fluent in French, she values cultural diversity through music, food, and community.
Joanna holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Master of Arts Management.
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Khaled Ghannam
Director
Khaled Ghannam is a Palestinian writer and activist.
He earned a master's degree in Engineering Management from the University of Technology, Sydney. Ghannam has authored numerous studies and articles focusing on revolutionary thought, Palestinian heritage, and history.
He holds active memberships in several organisations, including the Australian Socialist Alliance Party, the Intilaqa Centre for Studies in Ramallah, the General Union of Palestinian Historians and Archaeologists, and the International Organisation for the Rights of Palestinian Refugees in the Diaspora. -
Yahya Alburai
Director
Yahya Alburaiis a Palestinian writer, media producer, and community advocate.
His creative work spans documentary, short-form, and cultural productions, one of which has received more than 20 international awards for its direction and impact.
Yahya has been deeply involved in preserving and promoting Palestinian heritage through storytelling, visual media, and community initiatives.
Since moving to Australia, he continues to be a committed voice for justice, heritage, and representation. His work bridges continents, connecting stories from Palestine to audiences around the world.