The experience of migration amongst the Sudanese diaspora : the variable experience of Sudanese Australians and of family in Sudan

Australia’s Sudanese Diaspora counts for 19,369 of Australia’s population, and although this number makes up very little of Australia’s population, the Sudanese Australian community has become over represented as the threatening other amongst Australian society. Negative discourses and attitudes surrounding immigration have hindered the experience of Sudanese migrants regarding their resettlement in Australia. This thesis aims to bring to light the untold stories of the Sudanese Australian community and to share their experience of migration to Australia. In addition, the thesis explores the topic of separation between immigrants and their family members who have not resettled. This study explores the experience of migration among the Sudanese Diaspora and the variable experience of Sudanese Australians and of their families in Sudan. Using qualitative interviews, semi structured interviews were conducted with 4 Sudanese Australians and 4 Sudanese family members of mine living in Sudan. In addition, the methodology of autoethnography was utilized to reflect on my own experience with migration whilst engaging with my participant’s experiences. My analysis shows that there is a lack of sufficient support from the Australian government and social acceptance from the Australian public for Sudanese migrants. Sudanese Australians contribute greatly to Australian society. However, their accomplishments are undermined by the negative discourse and racial undertones present in media and political rhetoric. Results indicate that the Sudanese Australian community is affected by the existing racism embedded in Australian institutional structures such as hiring practices, government services, and the social justice system. Their positive stories should be at the forefront and overtake the existing negative dialogue about Sudanese Australian migrants