An Italian family facing imminent deportation from Australia has been granted a last-minute reprieve, following intense public pressure and media attention. The breakthrough was revealed live on air by radio host Ben Fordham during his program on 2GB.
Luca, a pastry chef who migrated from Italy nearly 15 years ago, has built a life in Adelaide with his wife Simona and their three daughters: Sophia, 16, Gaya, 12, and 17-month-old Emanuela. The family runs a successful pastry shop and is well integrated into the local community.
Despite their long-standing ties to Australia, the family had been ordered to leave the country by 21 April due to a technical issue with Luca’s visa. At the time of lodging an appeal, he was on a sponsored visa. However, after leaving that job to open his own business, he no longer met the sponsorship requirement—triggering the deportation order.
The case quickly gained national attention, highlighting what many saw as an overly rigid application of immigration rules. Luca has reportedly spent more than $200,000 on visa applications, legal fees and English language training over the years.
Support for the family surged, with an online petition attracting nearly 22,000 signatures. Members of the public visited the family’s shop to offer encouragement, while social media campaigns amplified their story. Australian comedy group Sushi Mango also shared the case, helping it reach a wider audience.
In an emotional radio interview, the couple’s daughter Sophia spoke about the stress the situation had placed on the family, while expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support from her school and the broader community.
Moments later, Fordham delivered the news live on air: the family would be allowed to stay. While official confirmation from the federal government—led in this matter by Immigration Minister Tony Burke—is expected shortly, the announcement was met with relief and tears.
“It’s the best thing that could happen in our life,” Luca said. “I love this country. It has given us so much.”
The case has reignited debate around Australia’s migration system, particularly the balance between strict compliance and recognising the contributions of hardworking migrant families.
