Area South Metro Centrelink organised a Consultative meeting with the Arabic Speaking Community on Wednesday February 8.
 
The meeting was attended by 19 Arabic Speaking community and religious leaders and Arabic media personnel from Muslim Community Radio,2MFM represented by Faten El Dana.
The aim of this forum is to strengthen Centrelink's  relationship with the Arabic Speaking community Leaders and Workers across Sydney.
Also to better inform the Arabic Speaking Community and keep them updated by networking and building partnership to benefit our Arabic Speaking community.
 
Centrelink is also intending to establish an ongoing regular forum to tackle issues and develop strategies in order to reduce risks and overcome barriers.
 
Area South Metro has the highest number nationally. The Lebanese Community is the highest and we are currently receiving many refugees from Iraq and Sudan.
The demand on Arabic Interpreting services is increasing regularly.
 
A number of Multicultural service officers ( MSOs ) address the issues and needs of our diverse cultural and linguistic background customers. They are the link between Centrelink and the community.