Supporting learning and transition to school for Ezidi refugee children in a rural Australian city

Background: A recent study conducted in Australia has identified challenges to the rural resettlement of refugee families. These include securing employment, discrimination, and social isolation. These challenges can affect resettlement outcomes including health and wellbeing, though relatively little research has examined these links. Armidale, a small rural inland city in NSW, is home to a large Ezidi population. Before pre-settlement the children lacked appropriate play environments as they had to play underground quietly to survive ISIS persecution. Therefore, support and investment in early intervention strategies for Ezidi children to improve their wellbeing is necessary.