'We cried a lot': Hong Kong family torn apart as protester seeks asylum in Australia

One resident of the city who took part in pro-democracy demonstrations feels he can never return home but hopes one day to be reunited with his family

Leaving a place that I love was very difficult. We're all Hong Kong people who come out to protest because we love Hong Kong. But now we are forced to leave."

Jay* is a former Hong Kong resident who attended many of last year's protests including on the frontlines. He was arrested and charged with riot offences, but fled the city when he was being released on bail several months ago. He is now among dozens of Hong Kong residents seeking political asylum in Australia. .