Featured Image Credit: change.org
James Moorhouse
A British couple who are expecting their first baby in a matter of days are facing deportation from their home in Australia.
Sarah Maxwell, 32, from Wales, and Lewis Christie, 30, from Scotland, are now praying that a federal government decision goes in their favour, as they face the prospect of leaving their adopted home after a combined 14 years of living down under.
They, like many others desperate to escape the terrible weather and rising costs here in Britain, moved over to the Southern Hemisphere in search of a new life.
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While they have to put up with some everyday things that might put a lot of people off the idea of moving, it seems as if they've made a life together there, with full time jobs, a rented property in Queensland and two dogs.
However, despite having spent over $40,000 on various visas over the years, the two are currently on temporary versions which are set to expire in August, and now they are running out of time to ensure that they can extend their stay in Australia, as they prepare to expand their family further with the addition of a new baby which is due in around 10 days' time.
The pair have launched a change.org petition, begging for help, and it's already received over 13,000 signatures.
Ms Maxwell said: "We have a baby on the way in May, two dogs, a beautiful and secure rental property, full time jobs, careers, pay taxes, have adequate healthcare, (and) have a solid support network.
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"All of our pregnancy, midwifery and post-partum care arrangements are here in Australia too.
"We have always dreamed of raising our family here and we are so close to this dream coming true, though (we are) running out of time.
"We’ve not bought anything for the past three months for the baby, and tried to buy things we should be able to take with us, in case we have to leave.
"We didn’t bother setting up a nursery just in case (either)!
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While the couple have tried to speak with Tony Burke, the immigration minister in Australia, they say they last heard from him on May 9, after waiting several months for a response.
They said: "It took over 12 weeks for us to get this response, and if it takes the same again, then it will already be too late for us.
"We are desperate to remain in our secure, safe home and in this incredible country."
They aren't the only Brits facing deportation from down under either, as another couple look set to be on their way home due to an outdated law regarding medical conditions.