A British couple are fighting deportation from Australia following the diagnosis of one partner’s multiple sclerosis (MS). Jessica Mathers, 30, and her boyfriend Rob O’Leary are facing the prospect of being forced to leave the country they’ve called home since 2017.
The situation began in 2023 when Ms. Mathers’ visa application for permanent residency was rejected due to concerns about the potential cost of treating her condition under Australia’s healthcare system, Medicare. The couple met while backpacking in Australia in 2017 and Mr. O’Leary has since established a carpentry and construction business.
Ms. Mathers, who has the relapsing-remitting variant of MS, has been receiving treatment in Australia under the country’s reciprocal health agreement with the UK. She states her condition has been well managed, but the visa refusal hinged on the potential costs associated with her care. Non-citizens entering Australia must meet certain health requirements, specifically avoiding “unduly increasing costs” to the publicly-funded healthcare service.
The couple lodged an appeal with the Administrative Appeals Tribunal two years ago and have been awaiting a decision since. Mr. O’Leary, 31, from East London, expressed frustration, stating, “The law is black and white, and the refusal is based on that, it’s really hard for us.” They’ve offered to cover medical costs themselves or secure private insurance.
The couple has launched an online petition calling for Australia’s Minister for Home Affairs to review their case and examine immigration policies that unfairly target individuals with well-managed health conditions. They emphasize that they’ve consistently paid taxes and contributed to the community, with Ms. Mathers engaging in extensive charity work.
“We’ve got so much opportunity in Australia, and to walk away from it would be so sad,” said Mr. O’Leary. “We know that we could get a refusal from the tribunal and then get given 28 days to leave the country, at any minute.”
The couple remain “stuck not knowing what to do,” as the outcome of their appeal has limited their employment options to temporary roles. They are appealing for a compassionate review of their situation.