Family Violence Protections in Immigration Law

Many migrants on temporary visas experience family violence perpetrated by their sponsoring partner or family member in Australia. In these situations, the victim survivor’s ability to remain in the country lawfully can be dependent on the abusive partner their visa is tied to.

Threats and coercive control related to someone’s visa status is another form of family violence recognised under the law.

If someone has experienced family violence, and is no longer in a relationship with their visa sponsor, they may be able to be considered for a permanent visa under the family violence provisions in the immigration law.

But the application process is technical, difficult to navigate and many people – including some lawyers and support services – aren’t even aware of the option.

Any of your clients affected by family violence on a sponsored temporary visa, whether they are remaining in the relationship or not, should seek legal advice to understand their options and how these laws may be able to protect their immigration status moving forward.