Arabic version: مساعد في هجوم بوندي يناشد للبقاء في أستراليا
According to ABC News, international law student Abdullah Ashraf is seeking the federal government’s help to remain in Australia after his student visa lapsed while he was on compassionate leave from his studies. Ashraf, who is from Pakistan, assisted victims of the December 14 Bondi Beach terror attack, in which 15 people were killed when two gunmen opened fire at a Jewish community event marking the start of Hanukkah.
Ashraf was driving a rideshare car when he heard gunshots near the beach. He said he helped an injured police officer and brought the children of a young mother to safety behind a car before applying pressure to her wounds and speaking to her. After paramedics took over, he tried to help 27-year-old French man Dan Elkayam and held his hand as he died.
In the months after the attack, Ashraf said trauma affected his ability to continue his course. The University of New South Wales granted him compassionate leave on his doctor’s recommendation, but his visa lapsed during that period. He has applied for a new student visa and said uncertainty over the outcome was causing anxiety. A Department of Home Affairs spokesperson said the government recognised the courage and selflessness of people who help others in emergencies, but declined to comment on Ashraf’s individual case. The spokesperson said visa matters and potential ministerial intervention were considered case by case under Australia’s migration law.
The federal government has previously granted permanent residency to temporary visa holders for extraordinary acts of bravery, including security guard Muhammad Taha and French national Damien Guerot after the 2024 Bondi Westfield stabbing attack. Israeli national Geffen Bitton and Indian man Rahemath Pasha were also granted permanent residency for actions during the Bondi Beach terrorist attack. Ashraf said staying in Australia long term would be life-changing and that he hoped to continue volunteering with the Aboriginal Legal Service.
