I am writing to you with a heart full of hope and desperation, seeking your support in our plea to remain in Australia. My name is Lily Lumintang, and I am fighting for my family, particularly my beloved son, Jonathan, who is diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Jonathan, who was born in Australia, now 13 years old, faces daily challenges due to his condition. Despite these difficulties, we have always strived to provide him with the best care and support possible. For years, Jonathan has lived with family members in Indonesia due to unforeseen situations and his visa complications. Now, we believe we are financially stable enough to bring him back to Australia, where we can care for him as a family, together with his younger brother, Raphael (3), who was also born in Australia.

Since arriving in Australia in 2009, I have worked tirelessly to build a stable life for my family. I completed my studies, and I have secured full-time employment with a reputable construction company. My husband, Martin, and I have established strong community ties, actively participating in our local church and contributing to our community.

Moreover, my husband and I have been committed blood donors with Life Blood Australia, contributing more than 25 times since 2017. This act of donation is a testament to our dedication to helping others and reflects our deep-rooted commitment to the well-being of the Australian community.

In addition to our own efforts, Jonathan’s grandparents, who are Australian citizens, provide unwavering support and are a vital part of our family. Their presence and assistance are invaluable, and they are significant factors in our ability to care for Jonathan effectively. They have been actively involved in our lives, offering emotional and practical support that only loving grandparents can provide.

However, the recent decision to deny our application for an employer-sponsored permanent visa has shattered our dreams. The primary reason cited was the estimated societal cost of caring for Jonathan. It is deeply painful to think that my son’s disability is seen as a burden rather than the reality of his condition and the love and dedication we have to support him. We are asking for the opportunity to stay in the country we have called home for 15 years, to work hard, and to continue contributing to society. 

We need your support to make our voices heard by the Minister of Immigration and Home Affairs. We implore the Minister to consider our case with compassion and understanding, to see beyond the numbers and recognize the human story behind them. My husband and I are hardworking individuals who pay taxes and abide by the laws. We have never been involved in any criminal activities. We only wish to provide a stable and loving home for our children. Jonathan deserves the chance to grow up in a country that offers better opportunities and support for people with disabilities.

The thought of being forced to leave Australia is taking a heavy toll on our mental health and well-being. We are living in constant fear and uncertainty, not knowing what the future holds for our family. We humbly ask for your support in urging the Minister to reconsider our case and allow us to remain in Australia.

Please, help us stay in the country we have grown to love and consider our home. Help us continue to be productive members of society while providing Jonathan with the care and support he needs.

Thank you for your time, compassion, and support.

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