The Brigidine Asylum Seekers Project (BASP) was established in 2001. It is a Melbourne-based initiative of the Brigidine Sisters whose motto is Strength and Kindness. The Brigidine Sisters have been engaged in education and social justice in Victoria since 1886.
The co-founders of the project are Sr Brigid Arthur and Sr Catherine Kelly. Catherine passed away after a short illness in March 2015.
In 2018, BASP was incorporated into Kildare Ministries as one of its ‘Community Works’.
Brigid Arthur, Founder/Resource Person
Brigid Arthur CSB is the Founder and Resource Person of BASP, and a Brigidine Sister. A respected educator and fearless voice for justice, she has been described as “a human rights advocate, protester and leader” a reflection of both her enduring energy and unwavering commitment to creating a more just and compassionate world.
With a rich background in education, Brigid has served as Principal across three schools, shaping generations of students through her vision, integrity, and deep belief in the transformative power of learning. Her expertise extended beyond the classroom into educational consultancy, where she supported schools and communities in strengthening their mission, leadership, and practice.
Brigid’s influence also reached into the broader Catholic education system. She spent four years working within the diocese and was among the first Trustees of Kildare Ministries, playing a significant role in guiding the transition of Brigidine and Presentation schools and community works into this new governance structure. Her leadership during this period helped ensure continuity of charism, identity, and purpose.
A passionate advocate for social justice, Brigid has long stood alongside those on the margins, bringing both compassion and courage to her work. In 2001, she co-founded BASP with Sister Catherine Kelly and from 2015 she worked with Libby Saunders to continue to guide BASP.
Grounded in the values of the Congregation of St Brigid, Brigid Arthur brings wisdom, experience, and an unshakeable sense of purpose to all she does. Her lifelong contribution continues to inspire educators, advocates, and communities alike.
Heart and Hope
A free and inspirational book that provides a history of the Brigidine Asylum Seekers Project (BASP) since its beginning in 2001.
It traces BASP’s response to Australia’s increasingly cruel and chaotic policy regime for asylum seekers. It demonstrates how ‘listening with a heart’ to asylum seeker needs and ‘working to maintain hope’ can make a big difference.
