WA mum and son face deportation

A Western Australian mother and her 12-year-old son have been informed that their permanent visa application has been denied, leaving them facing potential deportation. The decision came after months of legal proceedings and administrative reviews, according to local authorities. The couple, who reside in Perth, had submitted their application under the subclass 887 visa, which allows eligible individuals to apply for permanent residency based on skilled migration. Their case was initially approved in early 2025, but subsequent changes in immigration policy led to a reassessment of their eligibility. Immigration officials cited discrepancies in documentation and a change in the family’s circumstances as reasons for the denial. The mother, identified in official records as A.S., and her son, whose name has not been disclosed publicly, arrived in Australia in 2021 through a temporary visa program. They were granted permission to remain in the country while they pursued permanent residency. However, recent policy updates have tightened the criteria for certain visa categories, particularly affecting families with complex histories or those who have lived in Australia for extended periods without holding permanent status. Immigration officers stated that the family’s application was reviewed under new guidelines introduced in late 2025, which require applicants to demonstrate stronger ties to the community and provide more detailed evidence of financial stability and employment history. The family failed to meet these updated requirements, leading to the rejection of their application. Legal representatives for the family have expressed concern over the outcome, noting that the decision appears to contradict earlier approvals and raises questions about the consistency of immigration processing. A spokesperson for the firm representing the family said, “This is a deeply troubling situation. The family has lived in Australia for nearly five years and has made significant contributions to the community.” The Department of Home Affairs confirmed that the decision was made in accordance with current regulations and that all applications are subject to review based on the latest policy frameworks. Officials emphasized that the process is designed to ensure that only those who meet the highest standards of suitability are granted permanent residency. Community advocates have called for greater transparency in the immigration system, arguing that families in similar situations should receive clearer guidance during the application process. Some local groups have begun collecting signatures for a petition urging the government to reconsider the case, though no formal action has yet been taken. The family’s fate will depend on whether they can appeal the decision within the specified timeframe. If the appeal is unsuccessful, they may be required to leave Australia, despite having built lives here. As of now, there is no indication that the government will intervene or offer alternative solutions. The case continues to draw attention from both local media and advocacy organizations, highlighting ongoing challenges faced by migrant families navigating Australia’s immigration policies.