Convicted drug smuggler Scott Rush has successfully appealed his death sentence in Indonesia but now faces life in prison.

It’s a bittersweet victory and his family say they’ll continue to campaign for his freedom.

Sophie Barrington reports

TRANSCRIPT

The Indonesian Supreme Court has overturned death by firing squad two votes to one.

Twenty-five year old Scott Rush has been behind bars since 2005.

The court says his remorse and young age were reasons for their decision.

Father Tim Harris, Rush Family Priest: “He knows he’s off the death penalty which is what we’ve been hoping and praying for, but he also knows that he’s got a very long time in a Bali prison cell.”

Rush’s family is also relieved by the news but they promise the fight isn’t over.

Lee Rush, Scott’s Father: “We must continue to attempt to get Scott and the other Australians back home.”

Still on death row Bali Nine ringleaders Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran are awaiting the results of their appeals.

If their campaign fails they will apply for clemency from the Indonesian President.

Sophie Barrington, QUT News.