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| Prominent Indonesian lawyer Herry F.F. Battileo, S.H., M.H., accompanied by Indonesian advocate Lisa Hiariej and Australian lawyer Justin Pondevida, assisted the victims during a press conference in Kupang City on Thursday (July 2). Photo: Berto Da Costa/Maria Patricia. |
Star News Indonesia, Friday, (June 26, 2026), JAKARTA - A total of 55 Indonesian citizens (WNI) who became victims of an illegal job recruitment scheme to Australia are still fighting for their right to compensation.
The legal team hopes that the Australian Government will give greater attention to the victims, who were recruited through promises of employment but instead faced legal proceedings upon their arrival in Australia.
Speaking to the media on Thursday (July 2), Indonesian advocate Lisa Hiariej and Australian lawyer Justin Pondevida stated that they are currently representing approximately 55 Indonesian clients who were victims of illegal labor recruitment.
According to Lisa Hiariej, around 20 victims have already received compensation from the Australian Government, while approximately 30 others have yet to receive compensation after their initial applications were rejected.
“Some of them have filed appeals with the Group Proceedings Administrator and are currently awaiting a decision,” Lisa said.
The case began when dozens of Indonesians were recruited by individuals who offered them employment opportunities in Australia.
Encouraged by promises of stable jobs and decent incomes, they traveled to Australia. However, upon arrival, they were arrested by Australian authorities for alleged involvement in activities that violated the law.
As the case developed, some of them were recognized as victims of illegal labor recruitment, leading the Australian Government to provide compensation for the detention they experienced.
One of the victims, Weni, stated that she was treated well by Australian authorities throughout her detention process.
She also confirmed that she had received compensation from the Australian Government as part of the resolution of her case.
Meanwhile, advocate Herry Battileo, who is also assisting the victims, called on the Australian Government to extend the same level of attention to all victims who are still awaiting certainty regarding their compensation claims.
According to him, the victims traveled to Australia in good faith, believing they were accepting legitimate employment opportunities.
Therefore, the resolution of all cases should prioritize fairness and justice, particularly for those whose appeals are still under review.
The case has also attracted the attention of the Indonesian Government, which has provided assistance to the victims from the outset through coordination with the legal team.
It is hoped that the ongoing appeal process will provide legal certainty and ensure that all victims receive fair treatment in accordance with Australia's legal mechanisms.
Writer: Berto Da Costa
Editor: Maria Patricia
