Move FM Regional news

MELBOURNE, Victoria, Australia – A family from Ireland who moved to Australia ten years ago, and were under threat of deportation, is to receive permanent residency.

Anthony and Christine Hyde moved from Ireland to the Victorian regional town of Seymour in Australia in 2009. Their son Darragh, now aged 3, was born in Australia. When the family applied for permanent residency they were rejected, and in time would have been deported. The reason being that Darragh has cystic fibrosis, and requires the drug Kalydeco to keep him alive. The drug costs $300,000 a year but the family is subsidised under Australia’s pharmaceutical benefits scheme.

When the residency application was made it was rejected as Darragh could not meet the requirements under the medical section and was considered a “burden” on the Australian community, notwithstanding he is an Australian by birth.

The Hyde family dilemma was catapulted to the front pages and drew in widescale support from people across Australia who wanted the government to reverse its decision.

Christine Hyde attended university after she arrived in Australia and obtained a Masters in Special Education. She worked full-time as a school teacher and is now as an acting assistant principal. Husband Anthony works part-time as a bus driver and also volunteers for the State Emergency Services. The family has been been living in Australia for almost 10 years and say they have a strong support network with friends and family and are well settled in regional Victoria.

Change.org circulated a petition which drew support from across the nation resulting in more than 120,000 signatures.

Victoria’s Premier Daniel Andrews had called on the Federal government to show the family mercy.

“This is a great family,” Andrews said in June when the family’s visa was approaching expiry. “The young boy was born here, some compassion and some common sense is needed,” he said.

On Friday the Immigration Minister David Coleman intervened in the case and ordered the permanent residence be granted.

“Thank you to everyone who supported us. Late yesterday evening we received the good news that we were granted residency. We are so excited, a huge weight has been lifted and we can continue our lives. We are completely grateful to everyone!!” the Hyde family posted in an update on Change.org.

Supporters were quick to voice their approval. “So glad to see that common sense prevailed and so very happy for you. May you all have a wonderful life in Australia,” one reply to the post said.

“So happy for you all,” said another.

“This is such great news. The power of prayer and people is very powerful. This land is for everyone of all nations. Welcome forever to enjoy your new forever home. God bless and of prayers are with you. From Sandra,” said yet another.

(Photo credit: Change.org).