Kiwi Down-and-outs In Sydney Love Their Tess (Press, 17 February 1983)

On 17 February 1983, a report highlighted the struggles faced by many New Zealanders living in Sydney. The investigation, conducted by Ken Coates, unveiled alarming conditions in which some Kiwis have resorted to crime, prostitution, and drug use, while others endure homelessness, sleeping on beaches and in shop doorways. While earlier accounts may have exaggerated the situation, Coates discovered that significant issues do exist among New Zealand expatriates. At the heart of the response to these troubles is Therese K. Lim, known as Tess, a unique social worker who operates out of Sydney’s Kings Cross, a notorious area for vice and drugs. Tess uses unconventional methods, often working in bars and nightclubs, and she dresses in eye-catching attire that reflects her vibrant personality. Lacking formal qualifications in social work, Tess relies on her life experiences to understand and aid those in need. Her history includes a varied past involving running nightclubs and working as a drover’s cook, before dedicating her life to helping others, particularly immigrants and the downtrodden. Around four years prior to the article, Tess, alongside Father J.K. O'Reilly, established the Metta Foundation, focusing on helping refugees and New Zealanders facing hardship. Metta began receiving an increasing number of requests for assistance from Kiwis, who were more often than not grappling with unemployment and various social issues. Every case in their files revealed the severity of the problems New Zealanders face, including joblessness and lack of access to healthcare. Although the foundation does not have ample financial support, the small government grant it receives is barely sufficient for operational costs. Tess and her team provide crucial services such as accompanying offenders to court and assisting them in finding jobs and housing. Some Kiwis are temporarily welcomed into her home to avoid more dire living conditions. Despite efforts to help, Tess has encountered individuals who betray her trust, underscoring the difficulties inherent in her work. The article notes that Tess believes the New Zealand government has a role to play in providing support for its citizens abroad, especially considering the unique challenges they face, such as the six-month wait to access unemployment benefits in Australia. The report drew attention to concerns from organisations like the Wayside Chapel, where many New Zealanders in distress seek assistance. Its director, Bill Crews, confirmed that a considerable number of individuals arriving in Sydney find themselves without resources or safe places to stay. Overall, the findings from Tess and Ken Coates imply that while some representations of the plight of New Zealanders in Sydney may lack accuracy, the fundamental issues of poverty, social dislocation, and drug-related crime among this community are genuine and require urgent attention from both local and New Zealand authorities.

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