A group of women have banded together to seek the deportation of Jay Hart, a man they believe has overstayed his welcome in Australia due to his alleged abusive behaviour. Sarah Fardy, one of the women, expressed regret for ever having met him, while Cara Greedy revealed that she, like several other victims, sought help from police after experiencing threats and harassment from Hart.
Both women, who reside in Melbourne, reported similar harrowing experiences involving stalking and intimidation. Fardy has taken significant steps to protect herself and her family, even relocating multiple times. Greedy’s situation escalated to the point where she contacted police on Christmas Day 2020 after Hart threatened her life.
Hart, originally from the UK and a talented soccer player, had been residing in Australia for at least five years. His troubling behaviour prompted Fardy to launch a petition for his deportation, stating, “I won’t stop until he is deported…he’s a monster.” Following her initiative, Fardy made contact with over eight other women who also reported abusive relationships with him, many of whom sought protection through intervention orders.
Recently, Immigration Minister Tony Burke took decisive action by signing the deportation papers for Hart. He acknowledged the seriousness of the complaints against Hart, stating, “I’ve weighed it up. I’ve decided he doesn’t pass the character test. It’s time for him to leave Australia.” During this process, Burke even reached out to Fardy personally to inform her of the decision, highlighting her dedication to protecting other women in Australia.
Burke noted that swift action was taken once the case reached him, reflecting on the risks posed by Hart’s continued presence. This situation has spurred discussions about potential changes to laws aimed at enhancing protections for victims of domestic violence.
Currently, Hart has been detained by Border Force as he awaits deportation. Fardy concluded with a sentiment many can relate to: “I wish I’d never met him, but I’m pretty sure he definitely wishes he’d never met me.”
For anyone facing similar issues, support is available through the Department of Home Affairs’ Domestic and Family Violence Support team, and the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service, 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).