Five members of the Iranian women's football team have been granted humanitarian visas in Australia, the home affairs minister Tony Burke has confirmed. The visas were granted early on Tuesday morning, following discussions between the players and Australian officials. The team had been in Australia for the women's Asian Cup football tournament.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government had been working on the situation for some time and offered assistance to other players. “We’re willing to provide assistance to other women in the team, noting that this is a very delicate situation, and it is up to them. But we say to them, if you want our help, help is here,” he said.
The players have been granted temporary humanitarian visas, which provide a pathway to permanent residency. Burke confirmed the players were taken to a secure location by the Australian Federal Police and cleared by security agency Asio. “They are welcome to stay in Australia. They are safe here, and they should feel at home here,” he said.
The development followed social media posts by US President Donald Trump, who first criticised Australia but later praised the government after speaking to Albanese. Trump claimed to have spoken to the Australian prime minister and said “five have already been taken care of, and the rest are on their way”. Albanese confirmed the call but declined to provide further details.
