Arab, Iraqi in Australia

Introduction / History

The Arab Iraqis form the largest Iraqi people group in Iraq, and they have come to live in Australia. The places where there are a notable number of Iraqis are Sydney and Melbourne.
Many Iraqis came to Australia in the 1980s because of the Iran-Iraq war. After the Gulf War of 1991, some refugees lived in processing camps, sometimes for five years before being allowed to live in Australia. Ever since the Gulf War of 1991, many Iraqis have come to live in Australia under the humanitarian program. The coming against the Shia in Iraq also led to many Iraqi Arabs coming to Australia after 1991. Immigration of Iraqis to Australia increased from 1992 to 1995. Lately most of the Iraqis have come here under the Family and Skilled Migration categories. Some of them looked for refugee status after they came to Australia, and they have remained while their cases were investigated.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many are under 35 years of age. Men and women usually work as laborers and in the manufacturing industry. Nearly a quarter of the Iraqis do professional work. The Iraqi people are given support by organizations like the Iraqi Forum. Their religious and cultural associations help them.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The religion of the Arab Iraqis is Islam and there are both Shia and Sunni Muslims living in Australia. In the state of Victoria, most Iraqi-born individuals was majority Christian.

What Are Their Needs?

Some Iraqis, especially those who recently arrived, need trauma counseling. They might also need job and language training. Christ followers can help them with these practical needs.

Prayer Points

Pray for Iraqi Arabs in Australia to have the spiritual discernment and courage to turn to Christ no matter what the cost.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to thrust out loving workers.
Pray that the Iraqi Christians in Australia will share the gospel message with these Iraqis and that they would give their lives to Jesus Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project