SYDNEY - AUSTRALIA'S immigration minister has granted permanent residency to a German family whose application was twice denied because their 13-year-old son has Down syndrome.

Immigration Minister Chris Evans overturned the decisions of his department Wednesday, saying Bernhard Moeller and his family were making a valuable contribution to their community.

Mr Moeller moved to rural Australia along with his family more than two years ago to help fill a doctor shortage there.

'Their continued presence in Australia will be beneficial to our society,' Mr Evans said in a Senate speech. 'I'm pleased they have chosen to call Australia home.'

Mr Moeller's initial application was rejected by the department on the grounds that his son's Down syndrome would be a significant cost to Australia. His application to a review tribunal was also rejected, and he appealed to Mr Evans on Tuesday. -- AP