Why I practise differently
When I started MyVisa in 1999 — above a chicken shop in Paddington — I made a decision that has defined my practice ever since: every client speaks directly with me. Not a junior. Not a paralegal. Me.
That might seem like a small thing, but in immigration law it matters. The difference between a visa being granted and refused often comes down to how well the lawyer understands the facts, the law, and the way the Department thinks. I have spent 27 years building that understanding. I have appeared at the Administrative Review Tribunal hundreds of times. I have run matters in the Federal Circuit Court, the Federal Court, and the Full Federal Court. I have prepared ministerial intervention submissions that have succeeded when every other avenue had been exhausted.
My goal is straightforward: to help you achieve the best possible immigration outcome in your circumstances. Sometimes that means overturning a refusal. Sometimes it means finding an alternative pathway that nobody else has identified. And sometimes it means giving you honest advice that the news is not what you hoped for — because I would rather tell you the truth than take your money for a case that cannot succeed.
I arrived in Australia with my family in 1976. I know what it feels like to be a newcomer. I know the weight of waiting for a decision that will change your life. That personal history, combined with 33 years of legal experience, is what I bring to every case.
33 years of legal experience
Immigration services I provide in Sydney
I handle the full spectrum of immigration matters — from straightforward visa applications to the most complex refusals, cancellations, and court appeals. Every matter receives my personal attention.
Cases that have shaped my practice
Over 27 years, I have handled thousands of immigration matters. Some have been reported in the media and in the courts. These cases illustrate the range and complexity of the work I do — but every client's matter, reported or not, receives the same level of care and preparation.
Note: Past outcomes are not a guarantee of future results. Every immigration matter depends on its individual facts and circumstances.
What happens when you engage me
The first step is a consultation. I offer three options: a 10-minute introductory call ($97), a standard 25-minute consultation ($570), or a 90-minute complex matter consultation ($1,497) for cases that require detailed analysis. Most clients start with the 10-minute call to determine whether I can assist and what the next steps would be.
During the consultation, I listen carefully to your circumstances, review any documents you have, and give you a direct, honest assessment. I will tell you what your options are, what the risks are, and what I would recommend. If I believe your matter has merit, I will explain exactly how I would approach it and what it would cost. If I do not believe I can help, I will tell you that too — and I will explain why.
If you choose to engage me, I handle everything: forms, submissions, evidence gathering, correspondence with the Department of Home Affairs, tribunal preparation, and court filings where required. You deal directly with me throughout. I do not hand your file to a junior and disappear.
I provide a written fee proposal before any work begins, with clear milestones and no hidden costs. My fees comply with the Legal Profession Uniform Law, and I provide itemised invoices at each stage.
8 offices across Australia
My principal office is in Sydney's Haymarket CBD, with additional offices across Greater Sydney in Milsons Point, Liverpool, and Parramatta. I also maintain offices in Newcastle, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. All consultations are available by video, phone, or in person.
Common questions about immigration law in Sydney
What should I do if my visa has been refused?
If your visa has been refused, the most important thing is to act quickly. Most refusal decisions come with strict time limits for lodging an appeal — often 21 or 28 days, and in some cases as few as 7 days. I review the refusal decision, identify the legal errors or evidentiary gaps, and advise on the strongest path forward — whether that is an appeal to the Administrative Review Tribunal, a judicial review in the Federal Court, or a fresh application with stronger evidence. The earlier you seek advice, the more options are available.
How much does an immigration lawyer cost in Sydney?
My consultation fees start at $97 for a 10-minute introductory call, which is enough time to assess your situation and advise on next steps. A standard 25-minute consultation is $570, and a complex matter consultation (90 minutes) is $1,497. If you choose to engage me for ongoing representation, I provide a written fee proposal with clear milestones before any work begins. My fees comply with the Legal Profession Uniform Law and are fully transparent — no hidden costs.
What is the difference between an immigration lawyer and a migration agent?
An immigration lawyer is a qualified legal practitioner admitted to practise law, regulated by the relevant state law society and the courts. A migration agent is registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) but is not necessarily a lawyer. The practical difference is that a lawyer can represent you in court proceedings — at the Federal Circuit Court, the Federal Court, and the High Court — while a migration agent generally cannot. For straightforward applications, either may be suitable. For complex matters, refusals, cancellations, or appeals, a lawyer with court experience is essential.
Can you help with urgent visa matters?
Yes. I handle urgent matters regularly — visa cancellations with 28-day appeal deadlines, bridging visa applications to prevent unlawful status, and injunctions to prevent removal from Australia. Same-day consultations are usually available. If your matter is urgent, call 1300 558 472 or book online and select the earliest available time.
Do I need to come to your Sydney office in person?
No. While I have offices across Sydney and nationally, all consultations are available by video (Zoom) or phone. Many of my clients are interstate or overseas. The quality of advice and representation is the same regardless of how we meet. That said, if you prefer to meet in person, my principal office is at 420 Pitt Street, Haymarket — a short walk from Central Station.
What types of court appeals do you handle?
I handle judicial review applications in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, the Federal Court of Australia, and appeals to the Full Federal Court. These proceedings challenge legal errors made by the Department of Home Affairs or the Administrative Review Tribunal. I have appeared in matters involving protection visas, visa cancellations under s.501, partner visa refusals, and ministerial intervention decisions. Court appeals require precise legal argument — this is technical work that draws on decades of experience.
Ready to discuss your matter?
Book a consultation from $97. Same-day appointments are usually available. You will speak directly with me.
Important: The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law in Australia is complex, fact-specific, and subject to frequent change under the Migration Act 1958 (Cth), the Migration Regulations 1994, and departmental policy. You must seek independent, qualified legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making any immigration decision or taking any action. Viewing this page does not create a solicitor-client relationship. Past outcomes described on this page are not a guarantee of future results.