Australian Minister Grants British Couple Permanent Residency Avoiding Deportation

Rob O’Leary and Jessica Mathers, a British couple living in Sydney since 2017, were facing deportation from Australia due to Jessica's multiple sclerosis diagnosis, which under an outdated immigration law classified her condition as a potential economic burden because of anticipated healthcare costs. Despite their contributions to the community and Jessica's stable health condition, their permanent residency applications were initially rejected, and their appeal was unsuccessful. After public support including a petition with over 27,000 signatures and intervention by their local MP Allegra Spender, Immigration Minister Tony Burke personally granted them permanent residency, allowing them to remain in Australia. The couple expressed relief and excitement to build their future in the country they love, emphasizing that many life plans had been on hold due to uncertainty about their status. The Department of Home Affairs had previously calculated a significant cost threshold related to Jessica's care, but the minister's decision overruled this. This case highlights tensions between immigration policies based on health-related economic assessments and the contributions and stability of immigrants with managed medical conditions.