For nearly two decades, Magda and Erwin Sikorski have called Sydney home. They came here as a young couple looking for adventure but after a short while they knew, that Australia was where they wanted to build their future. 
I have had the privilege of becoming part of their family, being the godmother to their wonderful son, Marcel, who was born here and holds Australian citizenship. Australia is the only home their son knows, and the Sikorskis , apart from the parents, no longer have ties to Poland, as their lives and connections are deeply rooted here. 

Magda and Erwin have been facing a daunting struggle to attain Australian citizenship despite their long-standing residency and strong community involvement. The family has exhausted numerous strategies to secure their future here, but unfortunately due to unforeseen circumstances, none have been successful yet. Changes in employment, citizenship requirements criteria and Erwin’s car accident were the main obstacles in securing a successful application. Erwin started his own successful business but unfortunately, due to the immigration requirement to have a working visa, he had to put that dream on hold.  
Their case is now being reviewed by the Honourable Minister.

Imagine the turmoil of being forced to uproot all that you know, causing irreversible disruption to Marcel’s life and education. It would not only be a painful separation from friends and family but also a loss for the community that they so actively enrich. The whole family has been affected by the stress, depression and fear of the unknown future. 

Their return to Poland would be far from seamless. Marcel hardly speaks Polish – this alone would make a transition incredibly difficult!   The Sikorski family's absence from Poland for 19 years has erased any practical ties they once had there. The thought of losing them is a matter of immense concern for those who see them as an integral part of our community. The possibility of separation from Marcel (in the worst case scenario) would be absolutely unbearable for Magda and Erwin. 

Both Magda and Erwin are incredibly hard-working people, financing their life, their son's education and health care throughout the years without any help from the Australian Government. Erwin is a skilled electrician,  a volunteer firefighter and a blood donor. They would love to settle in rural NSW Cooma – 6 hours away from Sydney, where they recently bought a farm. They are planning on  settling there one day and although now, sleeping  in a tent when they visit, but the dream is to build a family home there and settle for good. They already have amazing friends there who also became a part of the family – it is easy to connect to the lovely Sikorskis! 

This is why I urge the Department of Home Affairs to consider not just legal formalities but the human and emotional bonds at stake. Let us all join hands to demonstrate that Magda and Erwin belong here, where they have built their life and friendships. Their contributions to our community are irreplaceable, and their desire to remain in Australia should be respected and fulfilled. Australia needs people like Sikorskis: hardworking, committed, kind, dedicated and courageous. People with strong values who never give up. 

Your signature on this petition can make a profound difference. Let's help keep the Sikorski family in Australia.  Please sign and support this petition for justice and compassion.

Thank you all SO much for your support!