A group of Indigenous Australians who spent nearly three years without basic rights after a High Court ruling that they could not be deported as aliens have been granted special purpose visas. The visas allow them to work, access Medicare, and travel internationally.
The group, including Torres Strait Islander Daniel Gibuma, 58, had been living stateless since the February 2020 ruling. Gibuma spent over two years in immigration detention before his release. He lost his brother, mother, and six-year-old son during that time and could not attend their funerals.
Akee Charlie, 52, also from the Torres Strait, spent five years in detention. He lost a brother and a son while incarcerated. Both men expressed relief at receiving the visas, which enable them to work and travel, though their citizenship status remains unresolved.
The Department of Home Affairs described the visas as a temporary solution and said the government is committed to finding longer-term options following the High Court decision. Fewer than 15 such visas were issued on 22 December.
Citizenship law expert Professor Kim Rubenstein highlighted the gap between legal status and rights in Australia, noting that the situation reflects broader issues with Australian citizenship law.
