Bridging Visa F – Subclass 060 Australia

Suspected Victims of Human Trafficking or Slavery

The primary category. A person who is in Australia and who is assessed as being a suspected victim of human trafficking, slavery, or slavery-like practices may be eligible for the Bridging Visa F. Human trafficking involves the movement, recruitment, or harbouring of people through coercion, deception, or abuse of power for the purpose of exploitation. Slavery and slavery-like practices include forced labour, debt bondage, forced marriage, and other forms of severe exploitation.

A person does not need to have formally made a complaint to police, nor do they need to have agreed to assist in an investigation, to be considered for the Bridging Visa F. The assessment is based on whether the person appears to be a victim of the relevant conduct.

Witnesses and People With Relevant Information

A person who is not themselves a victim but who is a witness to human trafficking, slavery, or slavery-like practices — or who possesses information that is relevant to an investigation or prosecution of these crimes — may also be eligible for the Bridging Visa F. This category recognises that investigations into serious organised crime involving human trafficking often depend on witnesses and informants who may themselves have uncertain immigration status in Australia.

People Referred Through the Australian Federal Police

In practice, the pathway to the Bridging Visa F almost always begins with identification and referral by the Australian Federal Police or another authorised referral agency. People who believe they may be victims or who have relevant information should seek to make contact with support services or law enforcement — or engage a migration agent or legal representative who can assist them in doing so.

The Referral Process

The Bridging Visa F is not obtained through ImmiAccount or a standard visa application. The process begins with identification — by the Australian Federal Police, by a support organisation, by a migration agent, or through the person's own engagement with authorities or support services. Once identified, they are referred to the AFP who make an assessment. The Department of Home Affairs then considers the grant based on that assessment.

The Reflection Period

The initial grant of the Bridging Visa F is typically for a reflection period. The length varies depending on individual circumstances but is intended to give the person time to stabilise and consider their options. During the reflection period, the holder is not required to make any decisions about assisting law enforcement.

Cooperation With Law Enforcement — Not a Requirement

A critically important feature of the Bridging Visa F is that it does not require the holder to cooperate with or assist law enforcement investigations as a condition of being granted or maintaining the visa. This is a deliberate policy position — requiring victims to cooperate as a precondition of receiving protection would deter people from coming forward and would prioritise investigations over victim welfare.

Health and Character Requirements

Like all Australian visas, the Bridging Visa F is subject to health and character requirements. In practice, these are assessed with sensitivity to the individual's circumstances — particularly given that victims may have health issues or trauma histories arising directly from their exploitation.

No Travel Rights

The Bridging Visa F does not carry travel rights outside Australia. Holders cannot depart Australia on the Bridging Visa F — doing so would cause the visa to cease. If travel becomes necessary, appropriate advice should be sought from a migration agent before any departure.

Sensitive and Confidential Initial Consultation

Cases involving the Bridging Visa F require a level of sensitivity, care, and confidentiality that goes beyond standard migration practice. When someone comes to us in circumstances that may be relevant to the Bridging Visa F, our first priority is to create a safe and confidential environment where they can share their situation without fear. We listen carefully and assess the circumstances with the discretion these situations demand.

Assessment and Referral Coordination

We assess whether the Bridging Visa F is the appropriate pathway and assist with the referral process — engaging with the Australian Federal Police and relevant support organisations where appropriate. We understand how this process works and how to navigate it in a way that protects the client's interests and wellbeing throughout.

Support Program Navigation

The Support for Trafficked People Program provides important practical assistance, but navigating any government program — particularly in a vulnerable and stressful situation — can be challenging. We help clients understand what the program provides, how to access it, and how to engage with it effectively.

Longer-Term Immigration Planning

Once the immediate situation is stabilised, we work with clients to understand their longer-term immigration options. What pathway exists after the Bridging Visa F depends entirely on the individual's circumstances — and identifying the right pathway requires a careful, thorough assessment of all relevant factors. We provide that assessment and guide clients through whatever comes next.