My family and I are being forced to leave Australia in the next 28 days. Currently, I’m on my 13th day while writing this plea to stay in Australia. We have been residing in Australia for 7 years.  I am a school captain at Brauer College in Year 12 and have only 3 more months till finishing my VCE, and my brother is 8 years old. My brother was only one and a half years old when we came to Australia. To him, this is his home. This is our home.

Our plea to stay comes from the disapproval of immigration because of my father's health condition. However, my family and I have so much more to offer as we are genuine contributors to our community in country Victoria, Warrnambool. My father is so much more than his health condition however no considerations have been taken as to my father doing his best to improve his condition and even to the extent opting out medical treatments to avoid burdening the healthcare system. He shouldn't have to do that just to keep his family in Australia. 

We have built a life here and we give back to the community. I have been a proud Victorian representing Victoria on national grounds in leadership competitions. My mother contributing significantly to the community through her role as an early years coordinator with the local council. My dad who goes beyond his duty of care to make the senior citizens final moments a meaningful ones a lifestyle coordinator. My brother who only knows the Australian way of life, his friends and school all here in Australia. 

This is a very stressful time for my family, and it is utterly disappointing that our contribution and participation in the wider community has not been considered. It is hurtful that of 18 and 8 years of age my brother and I lead clueless futures when really at this age we shouldn’t be made to feel this way. It is upsetting that my father, who is the reason behind my success, is being penalised for carrying a condition when really, no one should be made to feel this way.

My family and I although not yet citizens see ourselves calling this place our home regardless of our status.

By signing this petition you will be fighting to help my family and I to stay in Australia and most importantly complete my VCE. Currently, we are pursuing a ministerial intervention and it would be great for the immigration minister to know that we deserve to stay through your support. Everyone is my kith and kin and I have much faith in this last fight. We all have the power to change this. I have hope in humanity. Please help me by signing and sharing this petition.

Lots of Love,

Vanisre Rajasegaran

(on behalf of my family)