Australian visa

Three years ago, my wife and I had a satisfactory trip to Australia, visiting, among other places, Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Melbourne. We both agree that the trip was really worth the money -- and the time we spent on obtaining our visas.

As my wife is attracted by the charming beauty of Queensland and its surrounding areas, she suggested that mid this year we visit Perth.

Although feeling uncertain about whether we could get our visas, I decided to apply for a visa at the Australian embassy. When I got there, a rather unsympathetic official was in attendance. Then, while I was waiting for my turn, I felt uncomfortable when I heard someone scream: "Give my money back." All this added to my suspicion that I would fail to get a visa this time. However, as I knew that besides our old Australian visas, our passports contained U.S. visas, among records of our trips to many countries, I proceeded with my request. I handed over Rp 760,000 and our documents, just as I had before.

Unfortunately, my application was turned down and for the following reason: "You must demonstrate your current circumstances. You do not have review rights". Believing that I would have another opportunity after making better preparations, I faxed the immigration department of the Australian embassy three times for clarification. Unfortunately, they simply did not respond.

As we have to pay a certain amount of money to apply for a visa, the immigration department of the Australian embassy is obliged to provide its best service to all applicants, particularly those whose applications are rejected.

LEO MINTARYA Jakarta