Department of Foreign Affairs - Republic of the Philippines 

We, the undersigned, bring forth this petition to urgently address the pressing need for improved consular services, particularly passport application and renewal processes, for Filipino citizens residing in Queensland, Australia. Over the years, we have communicated our concerns, and we present this petition as a consolidated effort to seek prompt action.

For an extended period, the process of obtaining and renewing passports for Filipino residents in Queensland has been fraught with difficulties and inconveniences. We respectfully highlight the following issues that require immediate attention:

1. PASSPORT Application and Renewal:

Filipinos in Queensland are faced with the arduous task of traveling to Canberra or Sydney by air to avail passport services. Despite the provision of annual passport mobile missions (with exceptions during the COVID-19 pandemic), these missions have been plagued with operational shortcomings. Notably, the missions are limited to serving a maximum of 650 individuals on a first-come, first-served basis. The experiences shared through Google reviews attest to the challenges and frustrations encountered by those seeking these essential services.

2. DUAL CITIZENSHIP:

The process and requirements for dual citizenship application are unduly cumbersome, particularly for individuals who have not retained their old documents. The resulting complexity creates financial burdens and confusion for those aspiring to acquire dual citizenship. Regrettably, dual citizenship services are currently unavailable in Queensland, exacerbating the difficulties faced by the Filipino community.

3. Payment in AUD Only:

The insistence on "CASH AUD" payments poses a significant barrier, given the prevalent use of debit and credit cards among individuals. The stipulation that "ALL SERVICES ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY," as stated on the website "https://www.qldphilippineconsulate.com/" underscores the need for flexibility in payment options.

The 2021 census data reveals the extensive Filipino ancestry present in various Australian states: New South Wales (152,804), Victoria (95,186), Queensland (73,805), Western Australia (46,785), and South Australia (21,257). This demographic has grown exponentially due to ongoing immigration and the birth of Filipino babies on Australian soil. We acknowledge that there are further concerns that individuals wish to articulate through personal writings, and we endorse their right to do so.

The invaluable contributions of Filipino citizens, including those who have transitioned to Australian citizenship, through remittances and other support, underline their unwavering commitment to the Philippine economy and culture.

In light of these circumstances, we humbly implore your empathetic consideration and swift action. We urgently petition for the establishment of a dedicated Philippine Consulate in Brisbane, fully equipped to provide comprehensive and efficient consular services to the Queensland Filipino community.

We, the undersigned, earnestly request your understanding and support in addressing this urgent matter.

Sincerely,

Jun Licera

Filipino In Queensland Australia Admin and creator

Including the Filipino citizen’s residing in QLD with support from families whose now Australian Citizens and dual citizens.

QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA