Gold Coast couple face deportation over Home Affairs paperwork error

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 10 Oct, 01:24 · Archive

Rory and Michelle Hewitt, who arrived from South Africa in 2015, face deportation by 22 October due to a Home Affairs administrative error.

Rory and Michelle Hewitt arrived in Australia from South Africa in 2015 and have spent the past twelve years living, working and contributing to the country. An administrative bungle at the Home Affairs office has left their right to live and work in jeopardy, with Michelle technically unlawful in the country for nine days in 2023.

Their two sons, Matthew and Caleb, have grown up in Australia and are permanent residents. Despite the rest of their family being able to stay, the Hewitts are set to be deported before the end of October unless a solution is found. The couple face a deadline of 22 October.

Since learning of the mix-up, the 52-year-olds have been forced to give up their jobs and live off their savings and local community generosity. The family has received significant support from their Gold Coast church community, with a petition and GoFundMe page set up in their favour. Politicians have also reached out to offer backing.

How it is being reported

• ‘Praying for a miracle’: Time running out for Gold Coast couple facing deportation over mix-upA Gold Coast couple facing deportation due to a bizarre paperwork mix-up are “praying for a miracle” as an ominous deadline looms.Perth Now · 10 Oct, 00:56
• ‘Praying for a miracle’: Time running out for Gold Coast couple facing deportation over mix-upA Gold Coast couple facing deportation due to a bizarre paperwork mix-up are “praying for a miracle” as an ominous deadline looms.The West Australian · 10 Oct, 00:56

In this story: Rory Hewitt · Michelle Hewitt · Gold Coast · South Africa · Australia · Home Affairs

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