From exile to empowerment: insights into the lives of Turkish refugees in Australia

The significant emigration wave following the failed coup attempt in Turkey in July 2016 motivated this research. This exploratory study examined the lived experiences of Turkish refugees and asylum-seekers resettling in Australia using a qualitative inductive phenomenological approach. Sixteen participants (nine males and seven females) between 20 and 56 years of age were interviewed about their lived experiences and life stories across three stages of resettlement: (1) motivation for leaving Turkey, (2) challenges/access to support services, and (3) post-resettlement and cultural adaptation and integration. Four major themes emerged from the data, including (1) forced migration and reasons for exile, (2) community support and belonging, (3) systemic and integration challenges, and (4) reconstruction of identity and citizenship in Australia. The study's results highlight the importance of comprehensive support systems, safety, a democratic society, and inclusive community engagement in facilitating the integration and well-being of Turkish refugees, who increasingly see Australia as their new home.