Baby Ferouz is one of the 31 babies whose asylum seeker families will be processed in Australia as part of deal between the federal government and Motoring Enthusiasts Party Senator Ricky Muir.
Ferouz, born in Brisbane to his Rohingya parents in November 2013, was initially due to be sent to Nauru as part of a decision by the Federal Court.
He and his Rohingya parents will now settle in Melbourne after being released from detention centre in Darwin on Tuesday.
Maurice Blackburn lawyers acting for Ferouz’s family described their release as significant.
The firm’s Senior Associate Murray Watt said while the government’s deal for the 31 babies and their families was a win, their release was only the first step.
“Whilst they have been granted bridging visas for now, they must also apply for temporary protection visas to remain in Australia,” he said.
Mr Watt said the legal fight with the government had been lengthy, but it would not deter the firm from continuing to argue for better treatment within the centres.
“While the release of these children is a good thing, around 555 children remain in detention, including 135 in the inhumane conditions of Nauru,” he said.
“As a country we can do better than keeping children in detention.”
‘I still have concerns’
Further discussions surrounding asylum seekers are expected to take place between Senator Muir and the new Immigration Minister Peter Dutton.
Speaking in the wake of the December 18 announcement, Senator Muir said that the announcement should bring relief to some of the affected families.
"I still have concerns for the children and families that are currently on Nauru and Manus Island,” he said.
"I intend on discussing these concerns... in early 2015."
The arrangement will not extend to expecting asylum seekers or those with babies born after December 4, 2014.
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