A Townsville nurse has won her fight to stay in Australia with her autistic 10-year-old son.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Tyrone Sevilla and his mother Maria have been formally notified of their success in gaining permanent visas, following a lengthy battle against deportation.
The pair, who entered Australia legally in 2007, were to have been forcibly returned to the Phillipines after the Immigration Department and Migration Review Tribunal rejected Ms Sevilla's application for a skilled working visa, citing the cost of Tyrone's autism spectrum disorder to the Australian community.
Immigration minister Peter Dutton overturned the decision in late May after a public campaign in support of the Sevillas, including a Change.org petition with more than 125,000 signatures.
"I am so thankful to everyone who has helped Tyrone including politicians from all parties, the media, Hall Payne lawyers who provided free representation and the Queensland Nurses' Union who would not let the matter rest," Ms Sevilla said.
"I would like to thank my nursing colleagues, union members, Dr Praveen and other doctors, Father Lancini, my church members and the Minister for Immigration for allowing us to continue our lives in the country we love."
Tyrone was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in 2008, not long after Ms Sevilla brought him with her to study nursing.
She is now an RN who works with amputees, stroke, brain and spinal injury patients at the Townsville Hospital.
Tyrone is non-verbal, but does not take medication and attends a special school.
Townsville GP Dr Praveen Kumar has established a trust fund for Tyrone and promised to provide free care until he turns 18.
His case was highlighted when his 11-year-old friend Ethan Egart asked a video question on ABC program Q&A.
"He can't speak but he can use sign language to communicate with us," Ethan said. "If he can get along with us and we can get along with him, why does he have to leave?"
QNU secretary Beth Mohle said formal notification of the visas was great news.
"We are so very happy to today celebrate official receipt of Maria and Tyrone's status as permanent visa holders and potential Australian citizens," Ms Mohle said.
"This campaign has taken a toll on Maria and it's time for her and Tyrone to relax and enjoy the future in a community that clearly loves them.
"This is also a win for autistic people everywhere who are clearly much loved and valued."
