A Welsh woman living in Australia has issued a heartfelt appeal to immigration officials as she and her Scottish partner face possible deportation just days before the birth of their first child. Sarah Maxwell, 32, and Lewis Christie, 30, who reside in Queensland, say they have invested more than AUD $40,000 in visa applications over the past nine years. With their temporary visas due to expire in August 2025 and no permanent residency secured, the couple fear they may soon be forced to return to the UK.
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Sarah, who has worked on the frontline of public services during the pandemic and is currently employed in a child protection role funded by the Queensland Government, explained that their entire lives are now firmly rooted in Australia. “We have a baby due in May, two dogs, a secure home, full-time jobs, and an established support network. Our pregnancy and postnatal care are all arranged here. This is home,” she said.
The couple have applied for a 491 Skilled Regional Visa via the SkillSelect programme and are awaiting an offer before August. Sarah explained that despite meeting all eligibility criteria and holding sufficient points, time is slipping away. She noted that her employer is unable to sponsor her and her partner does not currently qualify, making this visa their only remaining option. “We have done everything right to remain lawful here and have contributed to the Australian economy,” she said.
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Their petition, directed to Immigration Minister Tony Burke, seeks not sympathy, but a fair opportunity to stay. “We don’t want to start over in the UK with a newborn and no support. We simply want to continue our lives here, in the place we love and contribute to,” Sarah added. The family’s plea highlights the emotional and financial toll of Australia’s complex visa system for long-term residents seeking stability.
