A Singaporean woman has been expelled/deported from Australia for staying for period delaying her resident visa, the Australian Border Force (ABF) said on Friday (Mar 19).
“(She) had been found guilty on state charges of engaging in prostitution, knowingly participating in the provision of prostitution by another,” said the authorities in a statement.
Charges Against The Lady
Authorities say she was on a student visa and became an “illegal immigrant” (unlawful non-citizen) at the end of the term of her visa.
Coming into effect since July 1, 2016, a student subclass 500 visa lets you stay in Australia for the duration of your study program, which is mostly up to five years and in line with your enrolment date.
For a smooth stay, you need to ensure that your visa remains valid and you abide by the conditions as mentioned on your student visa. You can read up in detail about this kind of visa on the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website.
She was arrested on February 25 and deported from Australia on March 11.
Serious Offense
ABF Commission Assistant Commissioner Tim Fitzgerald said said “the removal of the woman indicated how seriously the ABF was taking the alleged facilitation of illegal sex work”
“We work very closely with our partners, including the Australian Federal Police and Queensland Police, to combat the myriad of issues associated with this sort of crime type,” said Assistant Commissioner Fitzgerald.
“When illegal prostitution is facilitated, other serious issues are often present. In addition, all non-citizens in Australia are required to hold a valid visa for their stay,” he added.
