Settling into a new country is not easy. Immigrants have to adapt to an unfamiliar environment and lifestyle, while maintaining aspects of their previous culture and way of life.
Many newcomers to Victoria spent their new lives in limbo, spending months in temporary migrant accommodation, committed to two year labour contracts. For others, settlement has been far easier because they spoke English, or because of government provided assistance.
Generations of immigrants have had to adapt to a new climate, new landscape, new language, new currency, and new lifestyle, especially those who settled in rural areas.
Each immigrant has their own unique story to tell. While for many the transition is difficult, the vast majority eventually find their feet. These immigrant stories explore why people came to Victoria, where they settled and how they started a new life.
Museums Victoria acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and Boon Wurrung Bunurong peoples of the eastern Kulin Nations where we work, and First Peoples across Victoria and Australia.
First Peoples are advised that this site may contain voices, images, and names of people now passed and content of cultural significance.