Our
Success Stories
At IAMRIGHT CONSULTING PTY LTD, we measure our success through the lives we’ve helped change. From complex visa refusals to urgent medical-based appeals, our team has guided clients through some of the most challenging migration journeys — and delivered outstanding results.
Here are just a few examples of how we've made a difference.
Trans Client – Partner Visa Refusal and Gender Identity Challenges
Client profile
“Alex” (they/them) is a transgender person in a genuine same-sex de facto relationship with an Australian citizen. Alex had lodged a Subclass 820 Partner visa onshore. The relationship was genuine and ongoing, but the application encountered unusual scrutiny.
The problem
During processing, the Department questioned inconsistencies between Alex’s passport gender marker, prior visa records and current identity documents. There were also intrusive questions regarding “relationship history”, social recognition and family awareness.
The couple received a procedural fairness letter querying:
• Whether the relationship was genuine and continuing under Schedule 2 criteria;
• Whether identity discrepancies affected Public Interest Criteria (including character and integrity provisions);
• Whether documentary evidence sufficiently established mutual commitment and shared life.
Alex felt retraumatised by the tone of the Department’s inquiries.
Our approach
We reframed the matter legally and strategically:
1. Identity and documentation strategy – We provided a clear evidentiary explanation addressing name change, gender transition documentation and overseas civil registry processes.
2. Relationship framework under reg 1.09A (de facto partner definition) – We structured submissions around the four pillars: financial, household, social and commitment aspects.
3. Social recognition in trans contexts – We explained that lack of family disclosure does not undermine genuineness, particularly in culturally unsafe environments.
4. Human rights-informed submissions – While grounded strictly in statutory criteria, we contextualised the evidence within contemporary recognition of gender diversity.
Outcome
The Department accepted that the relationship met the legislative criteria under Schedule 2 (Subclass 820) and granted the visa.
Key lesson
Trans clients often face evidentiary burdens not expressly required by law. Properly structured submissions that align evidence to statutory criteria—rather than emotion—can neutralise bias and avoid refusal.
HIV-Positive Skilled Visa Applicant – Health Criteria Strategy
Client profile
“Michael” is a skilled worker nominated under a Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa. He disclosed being HIV-positive and on stable antiretroviral treatment.
The problem
Michael received a Health Undertaking assessment indicating a potential failure of Public Interest Criterion 4007 (significant cost threshold). The Medical Officer of the Commonwealth initially assessed projected lifetime treatment costs above the threshold.
The sponsoring employer was concerned that refusal would disrupt operations.
Our approach
1. Medical evidence rebuttal – We obtained specialist infectious diseases reports confirming:
• Undetectable viral load;
• Excellent prognosis;
• Minimal projected public health cost;
• Full work capacity.
2. Cost projection analysis – We challenged outdated cost assumptions by providing updated PBS pricing data and actuarial modelling.
3. Regulatory pathway review – We analysed potential waiver provisions under PIC 4007 (where available for employer-sponsored streams), demonstrating:
• Employer undertaking;
• Labour market shortage;
• Net economic contribution exceeding projected health costs.
4. Non-discrimination framing – Without arguing emotion, we reinforced that stable, treated HIV is not a public health risk.
Outcome
The Department accepted revised medical evidence. The health criterion was satisfied, and the Subclass 482 visa was granted.
Key lesson
HIV is no longer automatically disqualifying. Skilled applicants can succeed with strong specialist evidence, economic modelling and correct use of waiver pathways under Schedule 4.
Partner Visa Client – Domestic and Family Violence Provisions
Client profile
“Sarah” lodged a Subclass 820 Partner visa sponsored by her spouse. During processing, she experienced escalating domestic violence, including financial control and threats of sponsorship withdrawal.
The problem
The sponsor withdrew support and attempted to leverage migration status as coercion. Sarah feared visa refusal because the relationship had broken down before permanent stage assessment.
Legal framework
Under the Migration Regulations, family violence provisions permit grant of a permanent Partner visa even where the relationship has ceased, provided family violence is established in accordance with reg 1.23 and evidentiary provisions in reg 1.24.
Our approach
1. Immediate safety referral – We prioritised safety planning and domestic violence services.
2. Evidentiary assessment – We gathered:
• Police event reports;
• Protection order documentation;
• Medical and psychologist reports;
• Statutory declarations from witnesses.
3. Structured legal submissions – We demonstrated:
• The relationship was genuine at commencement;
• Family violence occurred during the relationship;
• Evidence met either judicially determined or non-judicially determined criteria under the Regulations.
4. Preventing sponsor interference – We advised on confidentiality and ensured communications were directed appropriately.
Outcome
The Department accepted that family violence occurred within the meaning of the Regulations. Sarah was granted the permanent Partner visa notwithstanding relationship breakdown.
Key lesson
Migration law does not require victims to remain in abusive relationships. Properly prepared family violence evidence can secure permanent residence independently of the sponsor.
