Had 1st part of spouse visa but left uk before 2 years

Hi, I am AMerican married to a UK citizen (married in London) - we were granted a spousal visa in June 2006 (Limited leave to remain for 2 years)/ Then we left the UK in Dec 2008 to travel and live in Australia on a year working holiday visa. We are currently in Australia.

Now we want to return to the UK for a short time (we are actually now applying for my spouse's US immigration but must be in the UK - London - to apply and wait for the US visa).

Does anyone know what I have to reapply for in order to be able to go back to the UK and work? Or did I lose my chance when I left the UK?

Thanks for any help!

Hello

Your dates do not add up. June 2006 - December 2008 is more than two years.

Did you apply for indefinate leave to remain and get this before you left the UK?

If you didn't apply for ILR, then did you overstay for more than 28 days before leaving the UK?