Local Resources for New Latin Australians

With a growing Latin community in Brisbane, a large number of locations have been developed to assist residents settling into the country and finding their community.

Here is a go-to list of resources for new residents, those looking for a sense of community, and those wanting to find a safe space.

Latin American Community of Australia (LACA)

The Latin American Community of Australia, Located in West End, aims to, “develop representation and participation of Latin Americans within the wider Australian society in Queensland” and “support the Latin American community in QLD in dealings with the federal, state and local governments.”

With language accessible blog, website and Facebook Page, LACA lists upcoming Latin events for every age group, hosts community projects, and has memberships and volunteer positions for those willing to contribute to society. LACA can be found on both Instagram and YouTube and have a consistent presence in the community through their work.

Photo: mycommunitydirectory.com.au/

Latin House

Latin House provides spaces for Latin people, where the Brisbane community can witness and enjoy all that Latin culture brings to the country.

With workshops, markets and performance spaces, the community of Latin House is all-inclusive, “no matter who you are or where you’re from”.

They aim to help the Latin community, find work, overcome the language barrier, understand their legal rights, find migration pathways, overcome cultural barriers, and assist in mental health support.

You can register for a performance space if you are a performer, or even reserve a market space for events throughout the year.

Latin House offers volunteering and hosts events throughout the year, which are free and accessible.

photo: latinhouse.org/

Australian Latin American Young Professionals Network

This not-for-profit organisation was created to “foster networking, career, business and professional development between Latin American and Australian professionals and entrepreneurs.”

They have regular events, and a podcast to keep up to date and assist in finding work in Australia.

Photo: alayp.com

The Spanish Centre Acacia Ridge

The Spanish Centre hosts music, dance and community with spaces available for weddings, baby showers and events. The website is in Spanish. Their events play host to a large number of contacts in the community.

University & School clubs

Located in schools and universities across Brisbane, Latin language and culture clubs are present to make the transition into Australian life easier, whilst forming long-lasting connections and remaining present in Latin life.

The University of Queensland’s Latin American Students Association lists its mission as, “supporting and representing Latin American students; helping current and incoming students to adapt to the Australian environment; providing a medium for connecting students and opportunities; organising great Latin themed social and cultural events, and sharing and spreading Latin culture amongst the UQ community and beyond.”

If the school or University you attend doesn’t have a support network for international students, almost all schools and universities in Queensland have society creation registrations, where students can form associations if one is not already present.

Latin Dance/ Language/ and arts schools

With weekly meetings occurring in Latin dance, language, and art schools, these Latin-owned and run businesses are a great way to find friends, connections and culture in the community. With no lock-in commitment to coming along each week, these locations provide flexibility and fun.

Churches and country associations

Brisbane is home to Latino religious communities and Churches, as well as societies related to specific Latin American Countries. These spaces are a great place to regularly meet like-minded people, debrief, and relax, whilst enjoying friendship and a sense of community.

To find the specific churches and country associations near you, both Google and the LACA have a list of events and resources from many Latin societies across the Brisbane region.