New Temporary Arrangements for Australian Visas
Media Release - DPS 93/2002
Alternative processing arrangements for visas for people wishing to travel to Australia from the Philippines, have been implemented following the temporary closure of the Australian Embassy in Manila on 28 November.
For the time being, apart from tourist visas, no new visa applications can be lodged. Processing of migration and student applications has also been temporarily suspended.
A courier service has been arranged to pick-up and deliver tourist visa applications during the closure. Applicants seeking a Visitor Visa should contact the call centre on 1909 362 2779 for more information.
People who lodged applications for tourist visas after 20 November 2002 can expect a two or three week delay in processing. In addition people over 70 years of age or those who need to provide additional documentation should also be prepared for delays in tourist visa processing.
Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs staff regret it will not be possible to answer any inquires about the progress of applications at this time. However, those with visas that were ready to collect from the Embassy should contact the call centre for further details about collection arrangements.
In an emergency, for example a death in the family, where a visa is required urgently, people can contact the call centre on the number above for further information. Please note that this number is not available from a mobile phone.
4 December 2002
Media inquiries: Public Affairs (02) 6264 2244