Homayon Hatami has packed more into his four years in Australia than many do in a lifetime.
After more than a year in immigration detention, he’s accepted bravery awards at Government House and won a national karate title.
The one-time Iranian champion fled his homeland four years ago in fear of his life – hoping to re-establish his life and career in Australia.
“I hope one day to get my visa, passport and citizenship and competing for Australia and get a good medal for Australia and myself as well - that's my dream going to world championship - that's my dream,” he says.
Earlier this year Mr Hatami was invited to Government House to accept a bravery award from the Governor General.
“I hope one day to get my visa, passport and citizenship, and compete for Australia."
He was recognised for his courage for plunging into icy water in Geelong to save the life of a woman who was attempting suicide.
Saving someone from an apparent suicide attempt was a positive step for Mr Hatami, who had first-hand experience of self-harm during his 14 months in immigration detention.
“So happy - really happy because I think now I'm positive for this community and saving someone life and that's really important for me. I'm really glad she's now alive,” he says.
But Mr Hatami says he’s frustrated with his unresolved visa status.
His partner Melody arrived from Iran around the same time and is already a permanent resident awaiting citizenship. The couple says the wait for news is excruciating and they fear that if he’s unsuccessful, they may be separated.
“Homayon hasn't got even his permanent yet and I just wonder in shock what's the problem? Why should be like that?” Ms Moharminia told SBS.
While he waits for news, Mr Hatami spends much of his time coaching junior athletes and maintaining his own intense training regime in the hope of one day winning Karate titles for Australia.
He says there's one prize he wants more than any other.
“I don't ask too much - I just want a normal life in Australia and, yes, that's it. I love Australia.”
