A British couple who have built a life in Australia for the past eight years are now facing deportation due to a strict government health rule. Robert O’Leary and Jessica Mathers, who moved from the UK to Sydney, saw their dream of permanent residency crushed after Jessica was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Australian immigration officials rejected their application, claiming Jessica’s condition would create a “significant cost” for the local healthcare system. The couple, however, argues that this policy is outdated and unfair. Jessica says her condition is stable and well-managed.
Furthermore, Robert and Jessica stress that they are valuable members of society. They have paid taxes since arriving in 2016. Robert runs his own construction company, providing in-demand skills, while Jessica works full-time and serves as a DJ on weekends.
Refusing to give up, the couple has launched a petition. They are asking the Immigration Minister to step in and review their case. They believe their hard work and contributions to the community should outweigh the potential costs of Jessica’s diagnosis. For now, they continue to fight to keep the life they have worked so hard to build.