For over four years, an Afghan family has been waiting in limbo for a decision on their humanitarian visa to Australia.

They fled Afghanistan in 2021 after the Taliban took control.
Today, they are stranded in Pakistan — living in constant fear of arrest, harassment, and forced deportation back to a country where their lives would be at serious risk.

This is not just a delay. This is a crisis.

The family includes:

• A father who worked in infrastructure rebuilding projects targeted by the Taliban
• A mother and daughters who were involved in education and women’s advocacy
• Young adults who have lost years of study, work, and opportunity
• A sister who spent her life supporting others through community work

Because of their background - education, advocacy, and association with international programs - they face a real risk of persecution if returned to Afghanistan.

Their reality today is one of ongoing uncertainty:

• Police raids and harassment in Pakistan
• The constant threat of sudden deportation
• No right to work or continue their education
• Severe financial hardship
• A decline in mental health after years of waiting without clarity

One family member, currently overseas, has already experienced a serious mental health breakdown under the weight of this situation — watching her family live in fear, unable to help.

Their application has been lodged and assigned a file number, yet after more than four years, no decision has been made.

They are not asking for special treatment, they are simply asking for a decision — before it is too late.

Australia has a long history of protecting those in need. This family has done everything asked of them. They have followed the process and waited patiently. Now, they are asking not to be forgotten.

Call to Action

We respectfully bring this case to the attention of the Australian Government and the Department of Home Affairs, and ask that:

• Consideration be given to progressing this family’s humanitarian visa application, which has been awaiting an outcome since 2021
• The length of time this family has spent in uncertainty be taken into account, and the impact this ongoing limbo has had on their safety and wellbeing
• The risks they currently face, including the possibility of deportation from Pakistan to Afghanistan, be carefully considered
• Where possible, a decision be made in a timely manner so this family may have clarity about their future
  If this matters to you, please consider signing and sharing this petition to help bring attention to this case.