Please take a moment to read and sign this petition—your support could change our lives.

Why are we still not recognized as Australians?

My name is Rahma Aldeiri, and for 14 years, my family and I have built our lives in Australia. We have worked hard, contributed to society, and become part of the fabric of this country. Yet, despite everything, we are still living in uncertainty, awaiting ministerial intervention.

I constantly ask myself:

• Why can’t my family be judged by our contributions to society?
• Isn’t 14 years long enough to prove we belong?
• Why can’t we have a fair go at the life we’ve worked so hard for?

Almost 10 years ago, I started this petition, hoping for a future where my family would be secure. Today, I ask for your support once again—so that our story can reach the Hon. Tony Burke, and we can finally be considered for who we truly are: Australians.

 
Our Story
In 2011, my family arrived in Australia legally, seeking safety and a better future. At the time, I was 8 years old, and my twin sisters, Mesk and Hareer, were only 5. We have grown up here, built friendships, and embraced Australia as our home.

I am now 22 years old, a university scholarship recipient, and in my final semester of registered nursing. My dream is to become a critical care travel nurse, flying across Australia to serve disadvantaged communities. I am set to graduate in July 2025 and aim to join a graduate program at a major tertiary hospital—but my uncertain visa status threatens everything I’ve worked for.

My twin sisters have also achieved great success. Mesk dreams of becoming an engineer, and Hareer is passionate about teaching. However, as international students, their university fees are unaffordable, and their futures remain on hold.

My parents are hardworking taxpayers who have never relied on government support. They have dedicated themselves to making Australia a better place:

My father, Sultan, works as a flooring and carpet-laying contractor.

My mother, Reem, a special needs teacher, works tirelessly as a special needs education assistant for children with disabilities in multiple schools and as a support worker for vulnerable community members.

Our grandmother, an Australian citizen, suffers from severe chronic nerve pain and has undergone three back surgeries and a foot surgery. She depends on us as her primary carers—without us, she has no one.

 
Why We Need Your Help
We love this country. We belong here. We have proven our dedication through education, work, and community service. We are not asking for a handout—only a fair go.

We have support from Liberal and Labor MPs and many members of the Australian community. Now, we need the Hon. Tony Burke to hear our case and grant us the chance to stay in the only home we have ever known.

Your signature can make a difference. Please stand with us and help us secure our future in the country we love.

Thank you for your support.

 
A Message From 2016…
"I am only a step away from graduating high school and sitting my ATAR exams. It all sounds so close, yet feels so far. I want to live like every other Australian. I want to finish school, work, and grow old with the community I have here."
— 2016

Now, in 2025, I ask the same question: Why are we still not allowed to call Australia home?