My girlfriend's high school friend is visiting, and trying to figure out how hard it is to get a visa to visit her boyfriend in Australia. We printed out the lengthy application yesterday. Basically she is unemployed, has less than mediocre English, no money, no possesions, etc. The boyfriend says he will pay for visa, airfare, etc. I know for the US or UK she would have VERY little chance making a tourist visa...is Australia any different? Should she not even waste (her boyfriend's) money on a passport and application fee?

My girlfriend's high school friend is visiting, and trying to figure out how hard it is to get a visa to visit her boyfriend in Australia. We printed out the lengthy application yesterday. Basically she is unemployed, has less than mediocre English, no money, no possesions, etc. The boyfriend says he will pay for visa, airfare, etc. I know for the US or UK she would have VERY little chance making a tourist visa...is Australia any different? Should she not even waste (her boyfriend's) money on a passport and application fee?

It sounds like she has zero "reason to return" to Thailand. Therefore the BF should save his money until she has solid reasons to return.

If boyfriend is willing to provide financial surity, (I think it's A$10,000) she may have a chance.

I dont think sponsorship is an option in your case, the only hope is if she was a relative (you must provide proof)

I would suggest you contact DIMA direct in your capital city (in Oz).