Iranian footballer visas welcome, but protection must extend beyond the spotlight

Sydney, 10 March 2026 — In response to news that the Australian government has granted humanitarian visas to five Iranian football players, Asylum Seekers Centre CEO Elijah Buol OAM said: 

“The Asylum Seekers Centre welcomes the decision by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke to grant humanitarian visas to five Iranian football players and to offer the same opportunity to the rest of the team.

“This is a compassionate and practical step that recognises the serious risks many Iranian people face if they are forced to return to Iran.

“But this moment should be the start, not the end. It must shine a light on the many Iranian people seeking asylum already living in our community who remain in limbo, waiting for certainty and protection.

“Protection should not rely on having a platform. Safety must not be contingent on the presence of TV cameras.  

“If we can recognise the danger faced by the Iranian women’s football team, we must also recognise the danger faced by others who have come to Australia seeking safety.

“We call on the Australian government to ensure Iranian people seeking asylum in our community have access to safety, fair processes, and a clear pathway to permanent protection.”

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Media contact:

Maddison Bates-Willis on 0401 244 296 or maddison@asylumseekerscentre.org.au