A British duo, anxious about the possibility of being expelled from Australia after one partner was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), have expressed their “pride” in being awarded permanent residency.
Jessica Mathers, hailing from Cheshire, had earlier received a notice that the significant expenses associated with her treatment were the cause of their initial application’s rejection alongside her boyfriend, Rob O’Leary.
In 2023, the pair lodged an appeal against the denial and initiated an online petition earlier this year, urging the Australian home affairs minister to reconsider their situation.
Recently, they announced that they had received their visa after “a nearly four-year-long, emotional journey.”
In their latest update, they declared: “We are thrilled to share that we are now Permanent Residents of Australia!”
They expressed their elation when their local MP, Allegra Spender, informed them that Tony Burke, the immigration minister, “personally reached out to her to confirm the decision.”
Ms. Mathers and Mr. O’Leary, both from London, met while traveling in Australia in 2017 and have made it their home ever since.
In 2020, she was diagnosed with the relapsing-remitting form of MS, a neurological disorder characterized by symptoms such as muscle stiffness and challenges in walking and speaking.
Ms. Mathers has been receiving treatment in Australia under a reciprocal health agreement with the UK and mentioned that her condition has been “effectively managed” to this point.
However, their application for permanent residency faced rejection in 2023 due to the associated healthcare costs.
Immigrants entering Australia are required to fulfill specific health criteria, including not imposing “undue costs” on the nation’s public healthcare system, Medicare.
Mr. O’Leary noted that they had offered to cover the medical expenses themselves or obtain private insurance, stating, “the law is clear-cut, and the refusal is based on that – it’s incredibly challenging for us.”
Their petition garnered over 25,000 signatures, urging the home affairs minister to reconsider their situation and address immigration policies that “unjustly affect individuals with well-managed health conditions.”
Mr. O’Leary, employed in construction, along with his partner, a project manager and DJ, clarified that they were “not seeking special favors” but rather the opportunity to continue “working diligently to contribute meaningfully to this nation.”
In their most recent update, they expressed gratitude to their supporters, noting that “so many plans have been put on hold – just in case we had to leave.”
“However, with this new opportunity before us, we feel more determined and excited than ever to create our future in the country we cherish.
“Our families are thrilled and already considering a trip to celebrate with us.”
