Australia’s friendly immigration policies and straightforward visa process have made the country a home for all.
People from all over the world come here. Some are here to study, work, or be with their family members while others are here for tourism.
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Australia twice, and each time, I was amazed by the country’s diversity and welcoming atmosphere.
Read also: How to check Canada visa status with passport number
During my last visit, there was an issue on the local news about a man who was reported to the authorities for working more than the allowed hours on his visa.
He met the full force of the law.
These things often happen; and if you find yourself in this situation – if you see someone violating any immigration laws.
You have to report to the authorities; and when you do, below is what will happen – when you report someone to immigration Australia.
What happens when you report someone to immigration in Australia?
When you report someone to immigration in Australia, the authorities will open an investigation into the matter.
They do a thorough investigation and at the end of it, if the reported person is found to violate any immigration laws, the person will be arrested and charged to court where a judge will decide the appropriate punishment for their action.
The appropriate punishment can be visa cancellations, deportation, or other legal consequences like fines.
Read also: Should you keep your passport on you when travelling?
The exact outcome depends on the nature and severity of the reported issues.
Steps immigration authorities take when you report someone
Upon receiving your report about someone, the authorities will:
- Initiate an investigation: Australian immigration authorities take reports from well-meaning residents seriously. After you report someone, they’ll open an investigation into the matter. Their first action is to check the credibility of your report and its severity. Reports that have potential threats to national security or public safety get prioritized.
- Gather more evidence: If the report is credible, authorities will conduct a thorough investigation. From the incident I read, they interviewed some folks, did surveillance, and worked with other law enforcement agencies to nap the guy involved. The man involved was not even aware of all that was going on.
- Make a decision: If the investigation reveals that the reported person violated immigration laws, the authorities will take appropriate action. In the man’s case, his visa was cancelled and he was asked to leave Australia.
- Detain or Deport: If deportation is the punishment according to the law, the person involved will be detained while the authorities make arrangements for deportation. The person involved will only be detained if the authorities suspect that they’ll not comply with the deportation process.
Apart from deportation, the person can be fined or even banned from re-entering Australia.
Read also: How do I sponsor a visitor to the UK?
The consequences depend on the severity of what the person did.
In the case of the man I read about when in the country, he was deported because the law was clear on his crime.
Option to appeal
Surprisingly, there are cases where if you report someone and they get detained, they still have the option to appeal any judgment passed.
The person can appeal the decision or ask for a review from the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).
AAT is an independent group that will look at the case.
Read also: How many times can I visit Canada in one year?
They have the power to agree with, change, or cancel the original decision.
Reasons to report someone to immigration in Australia
As a resident of Australia, there are many reasons to report someone to the Australian immigration authorities.
- You can report someone for visa violations: If you suspect that someone is violating their visa conditions like working more than the allowed hours or working without authorization, it’s a valid reason to report the person to immigration authorities.
- Suspicious activities: If you notice any unusual or suspicious behaviour from someone that raises concerns about national security or public safety, you can report the person to immigration authorities.
- Did you notice any fraudulent activities? Yes, you can also report someone who engages in any fraudulent activities. Your report helps to maintain the integrity of the immigration system.
- If someone commits a criminal offence: If you find someone involved in any criminal activities, you can report the person to the immigration authorities.
- You can report for public health and safety: If you find instances where someone poses a threat to public health or safety like if someone has a contagious disease or engages in harmful behaviours, you can report the person to the immigration authorities.
- Employment violations: You can also report someone or businesses that exploit or mistreat immigrants or that engage in unethical employment practices.
There are many more reasons to report someone to immigration authorities.
Read also: How to track Canada visa application
However, before reporting someone, ensure you observe a genuine threat or breakdown of the law.
If you have enough evidence and submit it with your report, it strengthens your case.
What you should know before reporting someone to immigration in Australia
While it’s important to report any violations, it’s equally important to ensure that your report is based on credible evidence.
False accusation is not allowed and can lead to serious consequences, not just for the accused but for you as well.
If you don’t have solid evidence, you can submit your case as a tip-off, and the authorities will investigate further.
In addition, confidentiality is key.
Read also: How many times can I visit Canada in one year?
When you report someone, you can choose to remain anonymous.
You don’t have to reveal yourself. I’ve never reported anyone but if I have a reason to report someone tomorrow, I’ll stay anonymous.
The Department of Home Affairs, which handles immigration matters, values confidentiality and will keep your identity private unless you wish to be involved or are required to appear in court as a witness.
Even in court, you can still decide to remain anonymous.
Where can you submit your report to immigration authorities?
You can submit your report online or offline, the Department of Home Affairs has different channels through which you submit your report.
1. Online reporting
If you’re reporting online -which I think is the best option – because it keeps you anonymous, you can find the form by clicking here.
With the department’s online reporting platform, you can submit your report without sharing your details.
2. Phone reporting
If you prefer to report via phone (offline), you can call 1800 009 623 (within Australia).
Read also: Is there a time limit to enter the UK after getting a visa?
If you don’t speak English, the department can arrange for an interpreter to assist you.
Even while reporting via phone, you still don’t have to share your details.
Just give them a clear picture of what the person did and who is involved.
3. In-person reporting
Aside from reporting online or through phone, you can report in person by visiting immigration offices.
When submitting your report (through any of the channels), provide enough proof if you have them.
This makes it easier for them to do their job well.
Do not forget, that your details are not necessary, you don’t have to share them.
The investigating officers don’t need your details.
Reporting someone to immigration authorities is the right thing to do if you find someone violating any rule or if you have concerns that a person is a threat to others or the country’s safety.
However, before you report someone to immigration in Australia, make sure they have done what you are accusing them of and you have evidence of their action, false accusation isn’t allowed.
Read also: After visa approval when should I travel?
And remember, it’s okay to stay anonymous if that makes you feel more comfortable.
The authorities take your report seriously.
When you send a credible one, rest assured that the person will be investigated and made to face the law if found violating any rule.
Leave a comment