After much research into this area myself, I would chance the friend...but I would also get an indemnity document in place too(which i hadnt done by the way) and tell them they can keep the bond after the two years (which i had done). If you want any info on that then PM me.
I have a close family friend who was going to be our eldests butturer, however not needed now as he isnt coming with us, but it has brought the friend even closer into the fold (thankfully). so i have a good experience of family friends.
As soon as the butturer signs on the dotted line then regardless of who falls out with them they still have that obligation. I confirmed that with either dima-centrelink I cant remember which one it was to be honest as it was call after call at the time (december just gone)
If that was to fall at the last hurdle I would then jump onboard one of the companies who will direct you to someone who will do it for you. They are expensive and as george has stated, I havent heard of anyone who has been successful with it. I sent out direct emails to these people with no reply to many of them and i dont mean the companies.. i mean the people who were actually meant to be the potential butturers. So from the five companies I had only one took my feedback seriously.
I wasnt willing to take a chance on time... the difference between a permanent visa and a temp one for us is no option. Hope you get it sorted and it comes off for you. I know I went through a mbuttive stressful time when I was looking for a second butturer when there wasnt anybody in the frame. Not sure if GW has experience of this, if so may be good to share?? But good luck with it and let us know how you go on as i said been there done that...know how it feels.
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