Partner Visa in process and PR visa got expired

Hi

I am planning to return back to Australia after 4 years. I was granted PR back in June 2015. During the time outside I applied for my Spouse's partner Visa in March 2019. As of now my PR visa has been expired  this June. My wife got an email correspondence from the case offices stating that

"I note that currently your sponsor's status does not fall into any of the categories required by 309.211. Therefore you may not satisfy this criteria as you are not the spouse or de factopartner of an
Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or an eligible New Zealandcitizen.
This is an opportunity for you to comment on the above information."

Please suggest the way forward. As i intend to return with family.

Looking for expert opinions

Regards

IA