Kiwis have launched a petition against Australia's government days before new citizenship changes.
It calls for the government to refund thousands of Kiwis caught in the crossfire of the changes that come into effect from July 1.
Erina Morunga, a migration expert, lodged the petition online and said New Zealanders were "elated" when their permanent visas were approved earlier this year, but there are some feeling "blindsided and treated unfairly".
Many had paid thousands of dollars and waited two years for their permanent visas to be approved, which they did, just months before Australia's government announced the visas wouldn't be needed.
A pause on processing applications was put in place on December 10, but Kiwis with a visa already being processed were urged to pay and continue with the process. Then in April, Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed a direct pathway for citizenship for New Zealanders, which means a $4000 visa will no longer be required.
"Many have heart wrenching stories of sacrifice and struggles and after being refused a refund felt like this was yet another kick in the teeth."
The petition asks for the government to "sincerely and humbly seek this issue be addressed and remedied in a way that is fair and in line with the spirit of these appreciated changes."
