Bahrain Mirror (Exclusive): Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne held a joint press conference in which they welcomed the release of footballer and refugee Hakeem Al-Araibi.

Morrison addressed Al-Araibi saying I "look forward to seeing you back home, Hakeem. What we'd like to do tonight, is to thank and show our appreciation to the Thai government for the decision they've taken today."

"We greatly respect the process they have had to work through and greatly appreciate them listening to the issues by our government and many others who have raised this case," he added.

Payne said "It was a complex process ... but we now have an outcome for Hakeem. For him and his many supporters, that's the most important thing."

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Bill Shorten tweeted it was "the right decision".

"Looking forward to seeing you back with your family and joining Pascoe Vale FC on the field," he said.

"Thank you to the Thai authorities for understanding our concerns and the Thai court for respecting Hakeem's right to return to Australia."

Former Race Discrimination Commissioner Tim Soutphommasane called it "amazing news". He praised all who worked to save Hakeem, in particular, the indefatigable Craig Foster, expressing his delight to Hakeem and his family.

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