About Us
About AFFMA
FreeMigrationAgents.org.au is the website of AFFMA (Association of Fee Free Migration Agents).
AFFMA is a Registered CHARITY, founded in 2013 by Joël Gédéon. AFFMA is registered with the ACNC.
Founder’s Story — Joël Gédéon
Joël Gédéon’s motivation isn’t recognition or reward but a deep sadness about the state of the world—wars, persecution, displacement—and a relentless desire to help people find safety and dignity. What makes Joël extraordinary is his quiet resilience and unwavering belief that one person can make a difference.
He listens compassionately, fights purposefully, and offers hope to those with almost none. Every refugee or asylum seeker who comes through his door is treated with the same dignity and care, regardless of background, language, or story.
Despite the emotional weight of his work and the systemic barriers he faces, Joël remains humble, gentle, and kind. He doesn’t post about his work online or seek applause. Instead, he lets his actions speak. In a world that often looks away from suffering, he leans in with his time, his skill, and his heart. Joël’s work reminds us that humanity still exists, even in one case, one life at a time.
Joël’s Qualifications and Experience
Joël Gédéon qualified as a Migration Agent in 2011 (Diploma of Migration Law) and has since become a qualified lawyer.
A Brief Timeline of His Qualifications
Between 2012 and 2016, he gained these qualifications and experiences:
- Master of International Law, UTS
- Master of Human Rights Law, UNSW
- Juris Doctor
- Admitted to the Bar (Diploma of Legal Practice, The College of Law)
- Attendance at numerous Immigration Conferences
- Ongoing Professional Development
AFFMA’s History
In 2013, AFFMA opened an office in Newtown in Sydney’s inner west. It was staffed by a volunteer admin team, volunteer migration agents, and volunteer lawyers, overseen by Mr Gédéon. Later, the BOARD decided to move from a brick-and-mortar office to online.
AFFMA plans to reopen a brick-and-mortar office, subject to funding and donations.
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