The Minh Story

So often in life, we witness injustice and feel powerless to intervene. We tell ourselves that we can’t make a difference as individuals, so we turn away and move on. But sometimes, one person’s courage to act can create ripples of change. Adrian De Luca is such a person—someone who saw an opportunity to help and changed a young man’s life forever.

Minh Duong, now an Australian citizen and Certified Practising Accountant (CPA), stands as a testament to Adrian’s compassion and determination. Minh’s story is the inspiration behind the creation of the We Are Australia Foundation, an organization committed to supporting international students and advocating for a more inclusive Australia.

Minh’s journey began as an international student pursuing a Bachelor of Accounting degree in Melbourne. One night, his life took a devastating turn when he became the victim of a brutal, unprovoked racial attack by three members of a Neo-Nazi group. Minh was savagely beaten, stabbed, and left to die in the gutter. When he was found, critically injured and lying in a pool of blood, he was rushed to the hospital.

Adrian, a musician and music teacher, heard about the attack on the news and felt compelled to help. Believing in the healing power of music, he reached out to Minh and offered free music lessons as a way to bring hope and positivity into his life. Though wary and struggling to trust others, Minh accepted Adrian’s offer. Through music and consistent support, Minh slowly began to rebuild his trust in humanity.

Adrian’s support didn’t stop there. He helped cover some of Minh’s medical bills, and as Minh regained his confidence, they applied for their motorcycle licenses together. Adrian even bought Minh a motorized scooter, ensuring he wouldn’t need to rely on public transport. When Minh’s confidence wavered, and he considered abandoning his studies to return to the safety of his family in Vietnam, Adrian encouraged him to stay the course. To lift his spirits, Adrian organized a trip home for Minh to reunite with his mother after five long years.

However, at the airport, Minh’s journey took another unexpected turn. Immigration officials claimed his student visa had expired and told him he couldn’t return to Australia. Distraught, Minh faced the possibility of never completing his studies. Adrian promised Minh that he would find a way to bring him back. True to his word, Adrian launched a petition to support Minh’s return, garnering an astounding 89,740 signatures. He presented the petition to the Minister for Immigration, Scott Morrison, who personally intervened. Minh was granted a new visa and returned to Australia to complete his degree.

This effort drew significant media attention, amplifying Minh’s story and the broader issue of racism. Prominent figures like human rights advocate Julian Burnside and Australia’s leading immigration lawyer David Bongiorno lent their voices to support Minh’s case. Their involvement, alongside Adrian’s relentless advocacy, highlighted the need for systemic change and demonstrated the power of community action.

Determined to raise awareness about racism and inspire hope, Adrian created a musical production titled “The Minh Story.” The production, which combined music, storytelling, and dance, explored both the painful and uplifting aspects of Minh’s journey. Performed by a voluntary cast of professional artists, the show played to sold-out audiences and sparked meaningful conversations about racism, resilience, and community spirit.

Adrian’s unwavering support restored Minh’s shattered confidence and gave him a new sense of belonging. Today, Minh’s success as an Australian citizen and CPA reflects the power of empathy and action. Through his efforts, Adrian not only transformed one young man’s life but also highlighted the best aspects of Australian society: compassion, community, and hope.

Minh describes Adrian as his “angel,” someone who brought light into his darkest days. Adrian’s belief that one person can make a difference inspired the creation of the We Are Australia Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering inclusion and supporting international students. Together, we carry forward Adrian’s vision for a better, more united Australia.

Together, We Are Australia.