I have lived in Australia for over 9 years and my partner Lewis over 5.

Our current temporary visas end in August 2025 and we are awaiting a permanent residency offer. Without this, we run the risk of being deported.

Our whole lives are here, and we are proud and grateful to call Queensland our home. We have a baby on the way in May, two dogs, a beautiful and secure rental property, full time jobs/careers, pay taxes, have adequate healthcare, have a solid support network and all of our pregnancy, midwifery and post-partum care arrangements are here in Queensland Australia too. We have always dreamed of raising our family here and we are so close to this dream coming true, though running out of time.

I worked on the front line as an 'essential worker' during the covid pandemic, supporting children and young people experiencing homelessness. I currently work in a Queensland Government funded role in child protection with some of Queensland's most at risk children and families. I am so dedicated to working with the people of Australia to make things safer and happier.

We have expressed interest in a 491 Skilled Regional Visa via Skill Select, and only have until August 2025 to receive an offer, otherwise our little family runs the risk of facing deportation after almost 10 years of building a life here and contributing significantly to the economy. We meet ALL the visa requirements and have more than enough points to receive an offer from Queensland migration. 

Over the years, between us we will have spent over $40,000 on visas to remain lawful in Australia. I have studied here and upskilled myself over the years to ensure we would be able to remain here and continue to live the life we adore.

Unfortunately, my employer won't sponsor me, and Lewis is not currently eligible, and so receiving an offer for this 491 permanent residency visa before August is our only and last option. 

We are desperate to remain in our secure, safe home and in this incredible country and we please ask that you sign this petition. Please share this with family and friends too -  Your support can help urge the Minister to grant us permanent residency in Australia, as it's the only place we call home.

It breaks our hearts to think of having to leave the life we have worked so hard to create for ourselves and our family here in Australia. If we have to go back to the UK, we have nothing and would be starting all over again with a newborn baby.

Our Request to Mr Tony Burke, Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs of Australia

We respectfully ask Mr Tony Burke, Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, to review our visa situation. We are not looking for sympathy but a fair chance to secure the 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa, allowing our little family to continue contributing to Australian society and the economy as permanent residents.

Thank you so so much for taking the time to read our story. We remain hopeful for a positive resolution so that we can continue contributing to this beautiful country and raise our family here like we’ve dreamed.