same sex partner, as a dependent family member to student visa holder

I got an email asking me about same sex partner, who want to bring a partner to Australia. Since 1 July 2009, for the immigration purposes, there is no different between same sex partner or opposite sex partner. As some countries still not allowed the same sex marriage (Australia as well), if that partner have been living together for more than 1 year, then that couple is considered to be a "de facto" partner.

Partner can apply to get a visa to Australia as a "family member". There are 2 ways to doing this:

• apply at the same time, in one application with student visa
• apply separately, while student is in Australia

Personally, I recommend to lodge the application at the same time, that is to save cost and less paperwork to deal with.

Don't worry if the partner is different surname... or whatever. As long as you have enough evidence to show that you are in "de facto" relationship. The evidences can be a photo, join bank account or bill that come to the same address...etc...

And of course, the partner can work while s/he stay here as well... :)