For much of its post-colonial history, Myanmar (Burma) has been ruled by the Tatmadaw, its armed forces, which has exacerbated domestic political instability, especially in regions inhabited by ethnic minorities, such as the Karen, Shan, Rakhine, Mon, Chin and others.
Unresolved political issues and grievances by ethnic armed organizations have fomented significant tensions and conflict with the military government.
[3] Prior to Burmese arrival in Australia, this group of refugees were living in camps on the border between Burma and Thailand.
[4] A study that was conducted indicated that a high number of participants reported various mental health distress this includes: PTSD (9%), anxiety (20%), depression (36%), and somatisation (37%).
[4] Burmese migrants were greatly concerned about the difficulties of communication in Australia, and this hindering their ability to obtain job security and/or access to the right health services.
[5] It is also reported that the oral health of Burmese Australians is prone to further impacts if there is a rapid consumption of snacks and sugar in Australia.
[7] Many Burmese people had experienced much trauma due to the military dictatorship in Burma and the experiences of detention, ethnic discrimination, and persecution.
[7] It is found that a vast number of the Burmese community in Australia experience much mental health issues due to the struggles and difficulties of both pre and post migration experiences, however due to the culture Burmese people are not familiar with seeking help or counselling from stranger or professional help.
In New South Wales, most Burmese Australians were reported to reside in the Western Sydney council areas of Cumberland 0.36% and Canterbury Bankstown 0.29%.
[14] The Burmese association of Western Australia holds a monthly food fete that raises charity through the community and volunteer cooks.
[13] This food fete enables people to try different types of the traditional cuisine by bringing the community together and celebrating multiculturalism.
[5] The common foods of Burmese Australians are rice, curry, soups, stir fries and salads.
[5] The military takeover in Myanmar and the detention of Aung San Suu Kyi has shocked and dismayed the Burmese Australian community.
[17] Many have also expressed their concerns and fears of their homeland going backwards, whilst others felt helpless for those in Myanmar and pray for the peace of their people and country.