South Australia -a brilliant blend

If you want to live in a place that's going ahead in leaps and bounds but still offers a relaxed, friendly lifestyle, South Australia is the place for you. South Australia's capital city, Adelaide, is a coastal city of 1.2 million people that offers all the attractions and services of a big city, yet retains an envied lifestyle, relaxed attitude and ease of getting around. Adelaide is consistently ranked among the world's top 10 most liveable cities, as rated by the Economist Intelligence Unit, and Australia's most affordable city in which to live, according to Mercer Consulting Group's most recent (2010) survey. Adelaide and South Australia's many and varied regions provide stunning natural, urban and regional environments in which growing numbers of people from around the work are choosing to live, work, study and play.

Get your career moving....

here's never been a better time to move to South Australia. Australia as a whole coped better than many nations during and after the global financial crisis, and South Australia's performance has been judged by independent commentators as on a par with " and on some indicators better than " that of the nation and other Australian states. With its in-demand mining and energy resources as a base, South Australia's economy continues to build at a strong pace, creating fantastic job opportunities for a wide range of professions and skill sets.

Unemployment is low in South Australia and there are many and varied opportunities for people who have the qualifications and experience to meet the demands of a wide range of industries for skilled workers. There are also exciting opportunities for people wanting to establish their own businesses in Adelaide and across the State. Mining is a major element of South Australia's economy and with the increasing global demand for natural resources its importance is growing each year. A proposal to expand the Olympic Dam mine in the State's north is just one of the projects predicted to create thousands of jobs throughout the economy.

Defence is another strong industry

South Australia is considered Australia's "defence state" history, the A$8 billion contract to build three Air Warfare Destroyers, among other work. The Air Warfare Destroyer project " and others such as assembly of the Royal Australian Navy's next-generation submarines " are creating challenging careers for people who meet the industry's knowledge, skills and security-related criteria. Other growth industries include know-ledge-intensive services such as engineering, education and ICT; healthcare and medical research; high-value manufacturing; clean technologies, including renewable energies; food and wine; and tourism and hospitality.

Unbeatable lifestyle.

South Australia is a culturally diverse and welcoming community committed to increasing its population and overseas migration intake. The Mediterranean climate promises clear sunny days most of the year, but a short and mild winter brings a chill in June and July that contrasts with September's spring warmth. Adelaide is a very liveable city - a place where you can have a career and a family life. It's a perfectly sized city with everything in easy reach of the city centre, so you can leave for work later and arrive home earlier. Most journeys within the metropolitan area fall within a convenient 30-minute time frame. You'll also be impressed by the vibrant, cosmopolitan lifestyle and abundance of eating, drinking and entertainment venues. Much of the food and wine served in Adelaide's world-class restaurants, cafes and pubs is produced in South Australia, and is of a quality that's sought-after around the world. There's plenty to see and do in South Australia. Food and wine festivals are regularly staged in our world-renowned wine regions, most of which are a short day trip from the city. Adelaide is also an easy gateway to the Outback, the dramatic Flinders Ranges, the natural beauty of Kangaroo Island, or a houseboat trip on the River Murray. When you arrive in South Australia you'll encounter people ready to welcome you to their State, and willing to help you settle in. The South Australian Government's Immigration SA team is also available to help.

For information about moving to South Australia, visit www.migration.sa.gov.a

More than 400 festivals a year.

South Australians have always enthu- siastically embraced the arts. The Adelaide Bank Festival of Arts, WOM- Adelaide and the Adelaide Fringe are among more than 400 festivals and events staged in Australia's "Festival State" each year. South Australians also love to play and watch sport. Adelaide is host to major sporting events such as the Clipsal 500 V8 car race, cycling's Tour Down Un- der, Davis Cup tennis and international cricket, rugby and football.

Live on a big block.Not in one.

You'll find in South Australia that you can enjoy living in your own home - ona big block, if you choose. Adelaide offers a variety of housing, from older homes on suburban quarter-acre blocks to ultra-modern apartments in and near Adelaide's city centre, while the regional centres offer low-density, detached houses on spacious allot- ments. Adelaide home-owners find their properties are excellent investments, with high capital growth, yet median prices remain much lower than those of similar homes in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane.

The city's median house price consistently is the lowest of the mainland Australian capitals,* and homes in regional centres are also highly affordable. The low traffic congestion in Adelaide and regional towns means it's easy to get around. Short commuting times allow you to spend more time with family and friends.

Invest in your future as well
as your children's

South Australia offers students a bright future. World-class education is a State Government priority for everyone - from children entering pre-school to adults studying for post-graduate degrees. The State has a wide range of public schools to choose from, with some specialising in languages, sci- ences, technology, music and art, and particular sports. Adelaide has a large number of private (independent) schools, with many educating their students from pre-school age, at their early learning centres, through to their final years of secondary education. Tertiary education opportunities are provided by three long-standing local universities, as well as local campuses of leading international universities and other higher-education providers. The combination of world-class educa- tion, a safe environment and a fulfill- ing lifestyle is a major drawcard for families with school-aged children and young people wanting to gain internationally recognised qualifications.

Regional South Australia

Regional South Australia provides ex- ceptional opportunities in industries such as mining and mining-related sectors, construction, aquaculture and fishing, horticulture, wine production, health and education. Major regional centres such as Mount Gambier in the State's south; Whyalla, Port Pirie, Port Augusta and Port Lincoln in the north and west; and Murray Bridge to Adelaide's east enable new- comers to further their careers in relax- laxed, family-focused communities that offer the same community services and recreational options found in Adelaide. For further information on migrating to South Australia contact: Immigration SA, GPO Box 1264, Adelaide, SA 5001 Australia www.migration.sa.gov.

There were two areas of their life in South Africa that David Wilkinson, his wife and two daughters wanted to improve upon, crime and poor economy. Settling down one evening they took a look at the globe and assessed where they might move to achieve an improvement in these areas of their life and Australia came out top of the list. After applying for their visas, they attended a presentation by the SA Immigration Dep- artment in South Africa where they were given a host of information about South Australia, including housing, employment, legal and financial information. The family became sold on Adelaide and were particularly attracted by the size and attractiveness of the city. Waiting three years for their visa was the only unfortunate event in the migration process and after three years of living in Adelaide they are adamant they wouldn't return to South Africa. On arriving in Adelaide the family bought a house in Northgate which they love, des- cribing it as relaxing and tranquil. David's two daughters joined school and university not long after arriving, settling quickly into Australian life. In South Africa David ran his own business and planned to do the same in SA but took the decision to do so after being employed for a year. After a year of being employed David was ready to start his own business and cannot praise the SA government enough for the help they offer to small businesses.

He explains that the networks they have set up and the help he has been given have far exceeded his expectations. He now has his own business as an electronics engineer and enjoys the way business is conducted in Australia. We have been very impressed with the natural beauty of Adelaide. It is the city of roses, there are so many heritage buildings, restaurants and it is so neatly laid out and attractive. There is no shortage of events or functions to attend and South Australia certainly lives up to its name of the Festival State. Australia has offered us a significant impro- vement on both of the areas on which we wanted to improve, crime and poor econ- omy, but it has also improved our standard of living and moving to a city has elevated our social life to a new level. There were a number of reasons why Jackie Bray and her family were attracted to South Australia but above all it was a sense that this was a state going places. "We did a lot of research and liked the fact that Adelaide had different seasons and a laid back lifestyle but we also wanted to be somewhere that was up and coming rather than already established," said Jackie, who emigrated from West Yorkshire with her husband Daniel and daughter Lauren.

"We definitely feel like we have come at a great time in the state's growth and are a part of a new period of prosperity." Jackie has also been surprised by the greenness of the city, the cosmopolitan atmosphere and other similarities to home which have made settling in so much easier. She laughs about the fact that her daughter thought she'd never eat Cadbury chocolate again and she is quick to tell friends back home that you can get "absolutely everything" here. Husband, Daniel is delighted to be able to watch English football on TV. But there are differences like the beautiful beaches and less traffic congestion which are equally pleasing. Jackie also found places like restaurants, hotels and recreatio- nal venues to be much more family friendly compared to England where children were often not allowed, let alone welcome. The Brays came out to Australia after Daniel was offered a position with an engineering firm. Jackie was due to return to England with Lauren and spend six months preparing to move but applied for a job with the Department of Families and Community Services while in Adelaide and before she knew it she had a job. The senior project manager returned to West Yorkshire but only for four weeks long enough to sell the house, pack up the furniture for shipping to Australia and say goodbye to family and friends. "It just goes to show you can do it if you have to," she said.

Fortunately the family had relatives to stay with during their first few months in the foothills suburb of Blackwood and they quickly enrolled Lauren at the local school. She settled in well and so decided to rent in the same area. Jackie said the education system seemed to cater for all students' needs, not just those who were academic, and even primary school students were encouraged to learn things for themselves, rather than be "‚Âœtaught at". One of the best aspects of their new life in Adelaide has been what Jackie says is hard to describe but is basically a feeling of being safer: "‚ÂœI'm not always looking over my shoulder like I used to and I don't worry about Lauren going to the local shopping centre with friends." "We have been invited to lots of parties and to neighbours' homes, in fact one of my closest friends is someone I met on the train on my way to work. "‚ÂœI feel like part of a new community but with sunshine," she said.

Myoung-Hee Han had heard about South Australia's reputation for wine, festivals and quality education while still living in South Korea. So when she had an opportunity to study in the capital city, Adelaide, she always had in the back of her mind the thought of migrating permanently. After four years of studying and working in Adelaide she was able to easily change from a student visa to a Skilled Independent Regional Visa. By then she had become familiar with the South Australian culture and environment and had experienced some of the state's great natural attractions. This included seeing wildlife at the seaside coastal town of Victor Harbor and on Kangaroo Island where there is an abundance of native flora and fauna. She has bought an apartment in the city and is looking forward to having her family come over and stay with her. "‚ÂœI will invite my family to come over here and experience SA and if they like it, I will recommend and support them to move over here," she said. "‚ÂœSeoul, where I lived, was largely populated and the traffic was very bad whereas South Australia is more relaxing and easy." One of the highlights of her time in South Australia was a trip to Coffin Bay, a picturesque fishing village on the Eyre Peninsula. She has also enjoyed attending a German beer festival, the world famous Adelaide Fringe Festival and other cultural activities.

They've got two acres in the country, with a lovely big garden, a four-bedroom house and a six-car garage. "‚ÂœNot that I've got six cars, but I can fit them in if ever I get them!" Mark, says with a laugh. The kids have got lots of pets, they walk down to the local stables and go horse riding and I've built a motorbike track in one of the paddocks out the back so they can ride around on their quad bike. And there's always something for the family to do. We live near a river so we can take the ski boat out; and close by is a large reserve where there's often a sports or community event on. It's very relaxed and safe; we don't have to watch the children all the time, wondering where they are. The laidback country lifestyle, just 45 minutes drive from Adelaide and not too far from a surf beach, suits them and their three children ' Tom, Joshua and Kassie - well. However, the family didn't take the migration decision lightly, and visited Australia a few times before making the move. I have an older son who lives in Australia also and I came out to visit him a couple of times before we decided to take the plunge and move out ourselves. Mark, a mechanic, arranged a job with his Murray Bridge employer while the family was still living in the UK, near Liverpool. He flew out a fourth time to meet his potential employer and to see whether the Murray Bridge lifestyle would suit his family. He liked what he saw and the rest is history.

I came out on a skilled worker visa and made a commitment to work with my employer for two years. Three years down the track I'm still there! He's been absolutely brilliant all along and was so helpful when we first arrived. Gaynor has also secured work helping out disabled people with social and employment activities. She also works part time as a swimming instructor. "‚ÂœThe whole family is into swimming. The kids have all competed and I'm the vice president of the local swimming club," Mark said. The Davies are well and truly entrenched in their new Aussie life. "‚ÂœIt was one of the biggest decisions we have had to make, but it was worth it. We have a great laidback lifestyle and I love the fact that we're not on edge, worrying about the kids all the time. It feels so safe and secure here," says Gaynor. "We really love living here. There's no way we're going back."

Western Australia, with its diverse and internationally competitive economy, is one of the nation's leaders in economic growth, productivity, investments and exports. A world class infrastructure and a strong economic outlook have created a dynamic business environment, which is attracting high levels of investment and generating positive employment growth making the State a better place for work and business. From a prosperous mineral, petroleum and agriculture base, it has developed thriving industries in business services, technology and specialist manufacturing providing a wide range of business and investment opportunities. The sustained growth in a variety of industries has led to employment growth and a low unemployment rate which has created skills shortages in a wide range of jobs in both metropolitan and regional locations.

The sustained growth in a variety of industries has led to employment growth and a low unemployment rate which has created skills shortages in a wide range of jobs in both metropolitan and regional locations. As a place to work and do business, Western Australia is vibrant and full of exciting possibilities and in close proximity to the growing market potential of the Asia ' Pacific region. Perth is situated four hours flying time from the eastern seaboard of Australia and five hours from Singapore and is Australia's face on the Indian Ocean.

Comprehensive air, land and sea transport facilities and services mean people and freight move efficiently within the State, around Australia and overseas. Perth also shares the same time zone as many major Asian cities. Now is the time to make your move to a better place for work and business. Come and settle in Western Australia to take advantage of the many employment, business and investment opportunities available across the whole State.

A great place to live

A temperate, Mediterranean climate and one of the best and healthiest lifestyles in the world, make Western Australia a great place to live and work. Boasting thousands of kilometres of white sandy beaches and a modern yet relaxed lifestyle, the State is considered one of Australia's most popular destinations for migrants. Western Australia has affordable housing and rental properties, outstanding education and recreational facilities as well as excellent health and transport services. It is the unique blend of a friendly, secure, uncomplicated way of life and a clean spacious unspoilt environment, combined with relatively low living costs which makes Western Australia a highly attractive location.

In many international comparative surveys, Western Australia consistently ranks as one of the best locations in the world for both quality of life and affordability. Furthermore, with around 30 per cent of the State's population born overseas, this multicultural mix is reflected by its diversity, heritage and social harmony. Taken together, all these qualities make Western Australia a very desirable place to live and work.

Living in the city

What best describes Western Australia's capital city, Perth? Blue sky days, a Mediterranean- like climate, fresh air and warm breezes, throw in a handful of mild winter months and that's Perth. The city, with its magnificent Swan River and nestled beneath Kings Park, a 400 hectare (988 acres) botanical showcase, provides facilities on its doorstep for its population to swim, sail, water ski, fish, cycle, walk and run. Perth itself is a bustling multicultural city with roughly 30% of its population born overseas, resulting in a harmonious society, where newcomers and visitors feel welcome. The city's many and varied restaurants reflect this rich cultural heritage and the quality and diversity of Western Australian produce.

With a population of around 1.4 million people, Perth is large enough to offer all the services, infrastructure, shopping and entertainment expected of a major city, yet it is small enough to retain a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Visit the Skilled Migration Western Australia website to see if you qualify for a State sponsored skilled visa. Skilled Migration Western Australia assists qualifying migrants with State Sponsorship and provide information and guidance on living and working in Western Australia. Skilled Migration Western Australia Hyatt Centre, Level 2, 123 Adelaide Terrace East Perth, Western Australia, 6004 Tel: +61 8 9218 2100 Fax: +61 8 9218 2160 Email: migration@dtwd.wa.gov.au Web: www.migration.wa.gov.au

Australia's South Eastern State Victoria is a treasure trove of employment and lifestyle opportunities. More than a quarter of Australia's skilled and business migrants choose to settle in Melbourne and regional Victoria. Victoria welcomes professionals, tradespeople and business people to its cosmopolitan capital, Melbourne, and to its bustling regional cities.

Are you an ICT professional considering in Victoria, Australia? Victoria is at the centre of Australia's ICT industry and has a global reputation for delivering world-class ICT products and services.

Download Working in Victoria:ICT opportunities, your free guide to finding ICT work in Victoria at LivelnVictoria.vic.gov.au/ict

Originally from Cape Town, South Africa,Ian Seini and his family relocated to the United Kingdom before migrating to Victoria, Australia.

Ian enjoyed a good IT career and comfortable life with his family in the United Kingdom after migrating form South Africa, but he always felt something was missing. "I spent five hours a day commuting to work in the UK," Ian said "I wouldn't say we were unhappy but we missed South Africa's lifestyle" Ian and his wife, Lisa, were keen for their three young children to enjoy a similar childhood. They did their research and found Australia offered good career opportunities with a lifestyle to match South Africa's. Ian was keen to own horses and enjoy an outdoors lifestyle, so the family purchased a horse on 18 acres of land in Cottles Bridge on Melbourne's northern outskirts. The small hamlet offers all the benefits of rural lifestyle with Melbourne's city centre just a short journey away.

A nearby village provides all the essential services and is connected to Melbourne's metropolitan rail system, taking just an hour to reach the city. The children have settled well into a local school and are enjoying the active outdoor lifestyle that Ian and Lisa wanted for them. "I have a busy family life now instead of a busy commuting life," Ian said "My son plays footbal and we spend a lot of our free time with the horses. We are involved in the local pony club and show jumping." Victoria has a temperate climate with distinct seasons, which means the family enjoy horse rides into the countryside all year round and it's never too cold for football. The family feels welcome in the small community and it was easy to make friends. Ian has been in constant employment since arriving in Victoria. He has worked with some of Australia's biggest companies on major projects and recently started a new contract with IBM. Occasionally required to travel to Sydney, this is made easy with Melbourne's major airport just 30 minutes away. "I'm working for one biggest IT companies in the world on a project for one of Australia's biggest banks," he said. "The work is challenging and rewarding but the workplace is a little more relaxed than in the UK." The Seini family has never looked back. "I knew soon after we arrived that we had found the right place."

Make the move to Queensland

Imagine waking up in the morning to experience golden sandy beaches, tropical rainforests or the wide open spaces of the Australian outback. This could be reality if you worked and lived in Queensland. A place of great natural beauty, Queensland has also established itself as the place for business growth and investment. That's why Queenslanders share a quality of life that rates among the best in the world. With its unique combination of remarkable landscapes, progressive career and business opportunities, and fantastic outdoor lifestyle ' it is really no wonder more Australians are mov- ing to Queensland than any other Australian state. you will also find that a large number of Queenslanders are born overseas, bringing diversity to the State's multi- cultural community. Australians have created a lifestyle that is a fusion of the best of all its influences from around the globe.

Regional appeal

Queensland has several distinct regions, each with its own character, offering diverse lifestyle opportuni- ties. Many regions have large regional centres as well as smaller communities. you can live in a vibrant city or in a re- laxed town, where you are an important member of the community. more than half of the state's population of just over 4 million people live in regional areas well outside the capital city, Brisbane.

As Australia's most decentralised state, there are excellent infrastructure, health care and education facilities available across Queensland. Wherever you choose to live you will also enjoy a high degree of personal safety.

Diverse and innovative industry base

Queensland's economy is supported by competitive advantages from its high quality natural resources. The mining, agriculture and tourism industries all capitalise on these resources. Queensland's industry base continues to diversify, with key industries including mining, manufacturing, construction, transport, storage and warehousing, financial and insurance services and retail trade. The state's growth industries include professional, scientific and technical services, information, media and telecommunications, transport, storage and warehousing and arts and recreation services. Queensland leads the nation for business innovation, particularly in the areas of goods and services, operational and managerial processes and marketing. As one of the most sought-after locations to conduct business in the Asia Pacific region, Queensland has experienced a large population increase. This surge in Queensland's population growth and the demand for its resources is further encouraging investment in the state's diverse economy.

To provide the necessary infrastructure to support Queensland's growing population, the State Government is investing in one of the largest capital works programs in the country. The Queensland Government places great emphasis on providing and main- taining efficient transport, telecommunications and export infrastructure. In addition, Queensland has the largest rail network in Australia, three international airports and more deep water ports than any other state.

Business opportunities

On the doorstep to the Asia Pacific region, Queensland is ideally located for business and investment. business opportunities exist in Queens- land's industries such as information and communication technology and biotechnology, as well as the fibre composites, higher value light metals, food, wine, marine and aerospace industries. Opportunities are also readily available in Queensland's traditional mining and minerals processing industries, and in the state's increasingly diversified agri-business and manufacturing industries. A strong education and research base provides a highly educated workforce for Queensland businesses. The State Government offers a variety of programs and services designed to support the establishment and operation of businesses in Queensland.

Employment opportunities

Queensland's diverse economy has created opportunities for people with skills in demand. This environment, coupled with excellent working conditions, makes Queensland a great place to work. There are employment opportunities for skilled people in key areas of demand, such as health and engineering.

Educated choice

Queensland has a world-class education system. The Government-funded public and private schools challenge students to think creatively in positive learning environments - they also provide access to all the latest tools and technologies. Queensland's tertiary institutions are renowned for leading research and high quality graduates. The state is home to 13 technical and further edu- cation institutes (TAFE), as well as nine major universities which offer under- graduate and postgraduate courses in a range of disciplines.

Migration to Queensland

The Queensland Government can provide state sponsorship under certain visa classes for eligible migrants: Business migrants who are experienced business owners and investors Skilled migrants who have work experience and a skill in demand Retiree migrants who are financially self-sufficient, have significant as sets, and are willing to invest. The Government website www.workliveplay.qld.gov.au provides information to migrants on living and working in the state, as well as Queensland Government sponsorship requirements and visa options. The following services are available to migrants through the Skilled and Business Migration unit in the Queensland Government: Pre-application assistance Assessment of sponsorship applications Aftercare services. If you are interested in migrating to Queensland contact: Skilled and business migration Queensland Government Tel: +61 7 3405 6512 Fax: +61 7 3404 3692 email: workliveplay@qld.gov.au www.workliveplay.qld.gov.au

A great place for a fresh start

Canberra offers a fresh start in more ways than one. Ours is a beautiful city of wide open spaces, fresh air, community living and a more relaxed way of life, yet you'll still enjoy the best in cosmopolitan living. Canberra offers all the city services and lifestyle amenities of a world-class capital: an excellent transport network, great shopping, an exciting nightlife and a stylish cafe'/restaurant culture. Canberra is Australia's capital, and Parliament House dominates the skyline. However, for most of us in Canberra 'the house on the Hill' is simply a backdrop for the city in which we live, work and play. Canberra is so much more than a city of politics ' it has hundreds of wonderful restaurants and cafes, an action-packed, year-round program of community and sporting events and magnificent parklands and open spaces. Canberra is located in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), Australia's smallest territory comprising of 2,359km2 of Australian bushland and one major city ' Canberra.

A new job, a new way of living

Imagine living in a city where you can get to work even during "rush hour" ' in an average of 20 minutes. A city with no toll roads, virtually no pollution and no stressful traffic snarls. Where you spend less time in traffic and more time doing the things you love.

That's what it's like working in Canberra, and right now there are a great range of jobs available for suitably qualified workers in selected industries. The city is at the centre of the dynamic capital region, and is home to a booming and increasingly diverse economy. There are more than 24,000 businesses in Canberra, from multinationals down to micro businesses. Canberra's unemployment rate is currently around 3.3%, and is always significantly below the national average. That means there are opportunities for people with the right skills and qualifications. Workers in Canberra enjoy the highest average income in Australia, with an average full-time weekly income of over $1,468 per week ' that's over 15% higher than the Australian average.

A lifestyle that suits you

You'll love living in Canberra, and you can choose a lifestyle that suits you, from a cosmopolitan city apartment to a large home on a big block of land. And with an average commute time of 20 minutes, you'll have the opportunity to spend more time there. Canberra is planned around a series of town centres - Woden, Tuggeranong, Belconnen and Gungahlin. Each has its own group of satellite suburbs and comes complete with a major shopping centre, schools and community facilities. There are also smaller suburban shopping centres and local schools.

If the suburbs aren't your style, how about a waterfront apartment at Kingston foreshore? Canberra's cafe' districts Kingston and Manuka, as well as the city itself, offer the best in cosmopolitan inner city apartment living. Or, if you're looking for a few acres, you can have a country lifestyle within half an hour of the city.

Live it up, or play it down

If outdoor pursuits are your thing, look no further than the picturesque bushland that surrounds the city. Mountain biking is huge here, with challenging rides available for the adventurous. Bushwalking, sailing on Lake Burley Griffin, or exploring over 400km of city bike paths might be more to your taste. The ski slopes are within easy reach and the South Coast beaches of New South Wales are less than a two-hour drive. If you're into sport, this is the place for you. As well as being home to many of Australia's sporting heroes (and their training ground, the Australian Institute of Sport), Canberra fields top teams in rugby league and rugby union, basketball, netball and hockey. We also enjoy regular matches in Australian Football League, or 'Aussie Rules'. But it's not just spectator sport. Canberrans have the highest participation rate in sports of any State or Territory. There are 10 golf courses and great facilities for other sports, from tennis to touch football, from cricket to croquet. And there are hundreds of junior sporting teams as well.

Canberra is a cultural treasure house

The National Gallery of Australia and other national monuments have ever-changing exhibitions and there is a thriving theatre and music scene. Not just the classics, either. As you'd expect in a city with the youngest population in Australia, top bands and performers visit regularly. Australia's best schools and universities Canberra's school system is recognised as the best in Australia. It has the highest retention rate of students completing secondary schooling, and the percentage of Canberra students gaining entrance to university is also the highest in the country. ACT Government schools and independent schools offer high quality learning in modern, well-equipped and supportive environments. Students enjoy a balanced education with opportunities for intellectual, sporting and cultural development. Schools also cater for the diverse needs of a multicultural student population, including intensive English language tuition. Canberra schools are designed to complement the surroundings and are located on extensive grounds, incorporating playing fields and recreational facilities. Canberra is also home to many tertiary institutions, including the Australian National University and the University of Canberra. The ANU is consistently ranked as one of the best universities in the world and the University of Canberra ranks in the top ten among Australian universities for excellence in learning and teaching.

The Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) is the largest provider of vocational education and training in Canberra. CIT offers over 450 programs across five faculties, with qualifications ranging from certificate to degree level.

First-rate health system

Our city is well supplied with high quality health care facilities, including two large public hospitals, private hospitals and a wide range of community-based health services. ACT residents can also call HealthDirect 24 hours a day, seven days a week for health advice. Canberra also provides a range of children's services including family day care, occasional care, long day care, playschools, preschools and school-aged care.

Location, location, location!

No other city in Australia can boast such a remarkable location. In just a couple of hours, Canberrans can be on the beautiful south coast beaches of New South Wales or Snowy Mountains ski resorts. Although Australia is a big country, our population is mainly concentrated along the east coast of the continent Canberra's location puts it at the heart of the prosperous south-east. It's close to major agricultural and commercial centres and strategically located between Australia's two biggest cities - Sydney and Melbourne.

For more information on settlement, employment, housing and lifestyle visit www.liveincanberra.com.au and www.business.act.gov.au

Canberra's location

Although Australia is a big country, our population is mainly concentrated along the east coast of the continent. Canberra's location puts it at the heart of the prosperous south-east. It's close to major agricultural and commercial centres and strategically located between Australia's two biggest cities - Sydney and Melbourne. Canberra's airport is located within ten minutes drive of the city. Regular direct flights are available to all Australian capital cities, along with a wide range of regional flights. There are also regular daily bus and train services between Canberra and Sydney with connections to other capital cities. Canberra's location puts you close to the beautiful beaches of the New South Wales south coast and just a short drive from Australia's winter snowfields.

A thriving capital

Much of what is best about Australia can be found in its capital. Canberra offers all the facilities of a modern city,yet the bush is on our doorstep and the snowfields and south coast beaches are within easy reach. It's a relaxed, safe, multi-cultural city of almost 360,000 residents.

Canberra thrives on a knowledge based economy with the major drivers being the government, defence, ICT and education sectors. In fact, Canberra has the most educated workforce in Australia. The building and construction industry also contributes significantly with several key infrastructure projects and residential developments under way, and more planned for the future. As the home of the Australian Government there are employment opportunities across both federal and ACT government departments, with both tiers of government being significant employers. But Canberra is much more than a government town. There is also thriving private sector with more than 25,000 enterprises servicing government, other businesses and local people. Well over half of Canberra's workforce is employed in the private sector.

New South Wales welcomes skilled and business migrants to Sydney and NSW. NSW has many casual, temporary and full time employment opportunities for working holiday makers, other temporary visa holders and skilled migrants. NSW is Australia's economic powerhouse and among the most competitive business locations in the Asia Pacific. Sydney is the third largest financial centre in the region, offering great career opportunities in a range of fields. NSW has 40% of Australia's ICT employment. Specialist ICT businesses employ amost 100,000 people. NSW is home to 80% of the multinational pharmaceutical companies in the country. NSW offers great career opportunities for professionals in these industries. People living in NSW enjoy a very high quality of life. Sydney has rated in tenth place out of 420 cities in the 2010 Worldwide Quality of Living index compiled by Mercer Human Resource Consulting. The NSW Government is seeking highly skilled professionals and business people in the fields of finance, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and information and communications technology and sustainable environmental technologies to settle in Sydney and in health care, engineering and trades to settle in regional NSW. Over the past 12 months, NSW has supported almost 300 business migrants to Sydney and NSW, 1,200 skilled migrants to regional NSW and 120 skilled migrants to settle in Sydney.

Sydney

The Government of the State of New South Wales will nominate applicants with high level skills and experience required in Sydney under the Skilled Sponsored 176/886 visa program. This visa requires nomination by a State or Territory Government to the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). Under the Skilled Sponsored visa you commit to live and work or study in NSW for the first two years of your time in Australia.

Regional NSW

NSW regions offer many similar employment opportunities to the major cities, plus comparable benefits and services in a more relaxed environment. The NSW Government welcomes people with skills that are in demand in regional areas of the State. Career Opportunities in regional NSW include: healthcare (doctors, nurses, dentists, specialists) engineering trades. Some employment vacancies are listed at www.evocities.com.au www.ccchange.org.au

Life Style

Regional NSW offers good housing and a welcoming and safe community, less time commuting and more time for you and your family.

Affordability

Regional NSW can help ease the affordability pressures felt by many capital city dwellers. You will have more disposable income, as well as strong career and business opportunities.

Overseas Candidates

Overseas candidates may qualify to be sponsored by NSW to migrate under the Skilled Regional Sponsored visa program. Sponsorship does not guarantee a job. However, employment prospects in sponsored occupations should be good as these skills are in short supply.

Contact NSW Trade and Investment

For more information on living and working in Sydney and regional NSW contact Skilled Migration Project Officers in NSW: Murray +61 2 6058 0600 administration@rdamurray.org.au Riverina +61 2 6931 0588 migration@rdariverina.org.au Orana +61 2 6885 1488 admin@rdaorana.org.au Northern Inland +61 2 6771 2790 rdani@rdani.org.au Sydney +61 2 9338 6692 bizmigration@business.nsw.gov.au www.business.nsw.gov.au/live-and- work-in-nsw/visa-and-migration

Set your sights on living and working in the Northern Territory. It's a place where everybody who wants a job, has one; it's a place where with a bit of hard work, you can make your dreams come true. Jobs are plentiful in the Territory. The Northern Territory has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Australia, the highest workforce participation rate and a very confident business environment. During 2010, unemployment hovered around 3%. In January 2011 the unemployment rate dropped to an all-time low of just 2.3%.

Government Support

The Northern Territory Government maintains an occupation shortage list and provides assistance to businesses that want to sponsor skilled workers to migrate and fill vacancies. Skills that are currently in high demand include teachers, doctors, nurses, engineers and trades. The Northern Territory Government will even sponsor skilled workers on the list to come to live and work in the Northern Territory. Living in The Territory's capital, Darwin, does take some adjustment when you have moved from a cool or temperate climate. Firstly, gentlemen, there is no need to pack your suit and tie. These items of clothing are only required for court appearances. And ladies, imagine a world without pantyhose. Winter becomes a distant

memory, and on days when the mercury only just tips 25C, you will be using the word 'cold'. The Territory's regional centres - Alice Springs, Tennant Creek, Katherine and Nhulunbuy -are busy hubs supporting industries that include mining, tourism, Defence and pastoral. Each town has a unique character that has attracted people from all over the world to make a new home. The Northern Territory's economy is strong, and with several major projects on the horizon, the demand for workers and associated business opportunities are only set to increase. Fore more information about migrating to The Northern Territory, visit www.australiasnorthernterritory.com.au

Tasmania is where you'll find friendly people enjoying a low-stress lifestyle, uncrowded cities and towns with affordable and quality housing, a temperate maritime climate, a world-class education and health system and 's best food and wine? If you are considering a new life in Australia, take a close look at Tasmania. Although Tasmania is not immune some of Australia from the global economic slowdown, our economy is well placed to adapt to new conditions. Tasmania needs skilled people in the fields of health, engineering, mechanics and accountancy. The Department of Economic Development and Tourism and the Arts (DEDTA) sponsors migrants under the Skilled Sponsored (SS) and Skilled Regional Sponsored (SRS) visa schemes. DEDTA also welcomes business people who would like to invest in the state.

Why Tasmania?

Tasmanian's summer brings warm sun, sea breezes, squeaking sand and long twilights providing a fantastic climate for boating, bushwalking, beaches and fishing. While temperatures above 30°c are not uncommon, the average summer temperature is a comfortable 22°c. Winters are sunny and clear and have an average temperature of 12°c.

Real estate is affordable.

According to the Real Estate Institute of Australia Hobart is currently Australia's cheapest capital city with an average house price of AU$322 000 (December 2008).

Tasmania is less than one hour's flying time from Melbourne and under two hours from Sydney. This allows Tasmanians great access the rest of Australia and beyond. Tasmania's population is about 500,000 people but it is comparable in size with Ireland and Sri Lanka. Each population centre is equipped with modern infrastructure, yet close to the beautiful beaches and mountains. Tasmanians cherish an outdoor lifestyle, with many people able to take a stroll through a park or along a beach after work. A safe, welcoming community with low levels of property and violent crime. Hobart is considered Australia's safest capital city (Australian Bureau of Statistics). People also enjoy a strong sense of community in Tasmania. A high-quality education system with Australias lowest student/ teacher ratios. Tasmanias mountains, forests and lakes offer a sharp contrast to the dry flat plains covering much of mainland Australia. Lonely Planet's Blue List has rated Tasmania as the number one travel destination in the world for 2009. Free one-on-one orientation sessions and post arrival support for migrants with high-demand occupations (including employment matching and assistance finding short term accommodation). Tasmanian State Government GPO Box 646, Hobart, Tasmania 7001 Phone +61 3 6233 5888 Fax +61 3 6233 5800 Email skilledmigration@ development.tas.gov.au www.migratetasmania.com.au

Australia: How we are Governed

In 2001 Australia celebrated its first 100 years of Federation. Australia enjoys a democratic system of government with regular election by the three tiers of government, the Commonwealth or federal government, the state governments and the local governments. The Commonwealth or federal government is positioned in Canberra in the Australian Capital Territory with elected members of the various political parties representing the six states and two territories. The Commonwealth Government concerns itself with issues of national importance such as foreign affairs, terrorism, defense, trade, banking, taxation, national highways, postal services, telecommunication, immigration, health, social services and national security. The leader of the federal Government is called the Prime Minister.

The Federal Government is made up of three main parties:

The Liberal National Parties (on the right) these two parties are often referred to as the Coalition and tend to govern as a partnership. The Labour Party (on the left), Minor Parties such as Australian Democrats, the Greens and Independents. Each Australian state has State Government. This is headed by a Premier elected from within a party membership structure similar to that of the Federal Government party system; State Parliaments are situated in their home capital city act independently of the Federal Government.

State Government responsibilities cover education in schools and universities, police, courts and prisons, public hospitals, the building of the state highways and ensure supply of public services such as transport, power and water. Each state is in turn divided into Local Government areas; this governing body being known by a variety of names differing between states-Local Councils, Shires or municipalities and is headed by and elected mayor. Each local government body is established to represent and support the local community. Funds are raised through rates on land and buildings and certain local levies (e.g. dog registration, emergence levies) and are paid annually. These funds are budgeted to cover such services as parks and gardens, traffic control, sports facilities, community centers, aged care, environmental concerns, recycling and rubbish collection, local roads and footpaths and local development. Applications for new buildings are undertaken through local government offices. The provision of these services may differ from state to state. Voting at local Government elections is compulsory in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and the Northern Territory and voluntary in South Australia, Tasmania and Western Australia. Enrolling for the Federal, state, (and where applicable)and local Government level, is compulsory for all Australian citizens over the age of 18. Enrolment forms are available from Australia Post or State Electoral Offices. Enrolments at: www.aec.gov.au For more information: Dept of Prime Minister & Cabinet at www.fed.gov.au

The program seeks to provide a supply of suitably skilled workers to meet immediate and long term needs of the Australian labour market.

Priority Processing

Priority processing arrangements apply to the following visas:

Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas listed below.

Processing priorities (with highest priority listed first) are:

1. Applications from people who are employer sponsored under the ENS and the RSMS.
2. Applications from people who are nominated by a state or territory government agency with a nominated occupation that is specified on that state or territory's state migration plan.
3. Applications from people who have nominated an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) - Schedule 3 in effect from 1 July 2010. See: http://wwwimmi.gov.au/skilled/ general-skilled-migration/pdf/ new-list-of-occupations.pdf
4. All other applications are to be processed in the order in which they are received.

Skilled Visa Options in Australia

GSM visas affected:

Skilled -Independent subclass 175
Skilled -Independent subclass 176
Skilled -Regional Sponsored subclass 475
Skilled -Regional Sponsored subclass 487
Skilled -Independent Regional subclass 495
Skilled -Designated Area-sponsored (Provisional) subclass 496
Graduate -Skilled subclass 497
Skilled -Onshore Independent New Zealand Citizen subclass 861
Skilled -Onshore Australian-sponsored New Zealand Citizen subclass 862
Skilled -Onshore Designated Area-sponsored New Zealand Citizen subclass 863
Skilled -Independent Overseas Student subclass 880
Skilled -Australian-sponsored subclass 881
Skilled -Designated Area-sponsored Overseas Student subclass 882
Skilled -Independent subclass 885
Skilled -Sponsored subclass 886.

GSM visas exempt from Priority processing

Skilled -Recognised Graduate subclass 476
Skilled -Graduate subclass 485
Skilled -Designated Area -Sponsored (Residence) subclass 883
Skilled -Regional subclass 887.

Processing Times

These times can vary as of 1 May 2011 approximate times are:
Priority 1 3-6 months
Priority 2 1 year after visa application
Priority 3 18 -24 Months after
lodgment
Priority 4 3 Years plus
Processing times are therefore very much reduced if Employer or State sponsorship is gained.

New Points Test

It is proposed that a new points test for skilled migration visa applications will be introduced on 1 July 2011.
The new points test balances the different factors that are considered when determining whether someone will be granted a skilled migration visa. There is more emphasis on qualifications, better English language levels and extensive skilled work experience.

The new points test applies to the following skilled visas:

Subclass 885 Skilled Independent
Subclass 175 Skilled Independent
Subclass 176 Skilled Sponsored
Subclass 886 Skilled Sponsored
Subclass 487 Skilled Regional Sponsored
Subclass 475 Skilled - Regional Sponsored
It is expected that the pass mark will be set at 65 points.

Regional opportunities

Many regions in Australia are keen to attract skilled migrants. Consider what they have to offer.
Australia is a vast and diverse country with a wide range of options beyond the major metropolitan cities. Smaller capital cities and regional centres embrace skilled migrants to address skills shortages and meet business opportunities which can employ people with the right skills.
In partnership with state and territory governments and regional authorities, the Australian Government operates a range of state-specific and regional migration initiatives to attract skilled migrants to different parts of Australia. These initiatives offer many advantages to prospective migrants. People who have not decided where to settle, or who may not meet the points test for the skilled - Independent or skilled - Australian sponsored categories, may consider the following options:

Skilled - Regional Sponsored (Provisional) visa

The Skilled-Regional Sponsored visa was introduced into Australia's General Skilled Migration (GSM) Program in September 2007 to replace the Skilled-Independent Regional and Skilled-Designated Area Sponsored visas.
Skilled-Regional Sponsored visas are three-year provisional visas for skilled workers who do not meet the criteria

for Skilled - Independent visas. They allow applicants to live and work or study in a specified regional area as a pathway to permanent residence.
Applicants must be either nominated by a participating state or territory government or be sponsored by an eligible relative living in a specified regional area.

Relatives eligible to sponsor applicants are:

a non-dependent child - including an adoptive or step-child
a parent - including adoptive or step-parent
a brother or sister - including adoptive or step-siblings
a niece or nephew - including adoptive or step-niece or nephew
an aunt or uncle - including adoptive or step-aunt or uncle
a first cousin
a grandchild.
Eligible-relative sponsorship points are only available to Skilled - Regional Sponsored applicants.
Applicants for the Skilled - Regional Sponsored visa sign undertakings that they and members of their family will not live, work, or study outside a specified regional area of Australia.
A requirement to honour this undertaking is attached to the visa.
Specified regional areas cover all of Australia except Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, the NSW Central Coast, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth and the Australian Capital Territory.

To be eligible, applicants must:

be aged less than 49 at time of their application
meet the English-language requirement for competent English, vocational English for trade occupations only or concessional competent English
meet the two-year study requirement or have worked on an eligible visa in Australia for 12 of the previous 24 months
receive a suitable skills assessment in their nominated occupation from the relevant assessing authority
have evidence of state or territory nomination or eligible relative sponsorship in support of an application.
After living in a specified regional area for at least two years and being employed or self-employed for at least 12 months, Skilled - Regional Sponsored visa holders are eligible to apply for permanent residence through one of the following visas:
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS)
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
State/Territory Sponsored Business Owner
Skilled - Regional.
Pathways to permanent residence for Skilled - Regional Sponsored visa holders are outlined below. In some cases, criteria for permanent residence have been modified or waived.

Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme for skilled people who are nominated by an Australian employer.

The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) allows employers in regional or low population growth areas of Australia to permanently sponsor skilled workers from overseas or temporary residents in Australia to fill vacancies. Employers can participate in the scheme if their businesses and the nominated positions are in an area covered under the RSMS.
All of Australia is covered except Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, Melbourne and Perth.

The RSMS process has three stages:

certification of an employer nomination (form 1054) by a regional certifying body
assessment of the certified employer nomination by a DIAC business centre
assessment of the nominee's visa application (form 47ES).
A nomination must be certified by the RCB that covers the area where the employer's business is located before a nomination is assessed by DIAC. Certification by the RCB usually depends on the employer being able to show:
there is a need for a paid employee in a lawful business operating in regional Australia
the position is a genuine full-time vacancy
the work requires the appointment of a person with an Australian equivalent trade, diploma or higher qualification
the position is available for at least two consecutive years
the position will be covered by an employment contract or letter of employment.

The visa applicant must:

be nominated by an Australian employer for a position meeting nomination requirements
hold an Australian-equivalent trade, diploma or higher qualification relevant to the nominated occupation
have functional English
be aged less than 49 when applying
meet other requirements such as health and character checks.
The age, English language or skill requirements may be waived if an applicant can demonstrate that exceptional circumstances apply to their case.

Skilled - Regional (Residence) Visa

To be eligible to apply for a Skilled - Regional visa, applicants must hold one of the following visas:
Skilled - Independent Regional (Provisional)
Skilled - Designated Area Sponsored (Provisional)
Skilled - Regional Sponsored (Provisional) (subclasses 487 or 475).
Applicants must have lived in a specified regional area for at least two years. They must have worked fulltime in that area for at least a year and have complied with visa conditions.
Applicants for a Skilled - Regional visa are not required to seek second-stage sponsorship, undergo further skills assessments, or meet English-language requirements.

Employer Nomination Scheme for skilled people who are nominated by an Australian employer

The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) enables Australian employers to permanently sponsor skilled workers from overseas or temporary residents in Australia to fill vacancies.
Positions must correspond to an occupation on the ENS occupation list and be full-time employment for at least three consecutive years at at least the minimum legislated salary level for the occupation.
The ENS process has two stages - assessment of an employer nomination (form 785) by a DIAC Business Centre and assessment of the nominee's visa application (form 47ES).

The visa applicant must:

be nominated by an Australian employer for a position meeting nomination requirements
satisfy the skill requirement through:
I. working full-time in the nominated occupation with an eligible temporary visa for the preceding two years with the preceding year for the ENS sponsor; or
II. the nominated occupation providing a salary of at least $165 000 a year; or
III. providing a skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority and have at least three years post-qualification experience in the nominated occupation
have vocational English
be aged less than 49 at the time of visa application
meet any other requirements such as health and character checks.

The age, English language or skill requirements may be waived if an applicant can demonstrate that exceptional circumstances apply to their case.

Labour agreement for recruitment of skilled people who are nominated by an Australian employer.

A labour agreement is a formal arrangement between a company and the Commonwealth (represented by the Department and the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations) to recruit skilled overseas workers for either temporary or permanent migration. An employer may seek access to a labour agreement where the skills required are not available in Australia and where they seek concessions to the standard migration arrangements. The agreement may include additional obligations to mitigate any risks associated with these concessions. Labour Agreements are the only pathway for the on-hire and meat processing industries to access temporary overseas workers. The Government is committed to improving the transparency and accountability of the skilled migration program, to ensure overseas workers are not exploited or used to undermine local wages and conditions.

Skill matching

linking skilled migrants to areas experiencing skill shortages.
Skill matching links skilled migration applicants with specific skilled vacancies nominated by employers or with states or territories where the applicant's skills are in shortage.

Australia has a skill matching database which records the educational, employment and contact details of skilled people eligible to be nominated.
The database is available to state and territory governments and regional development authorities.
Employers can nominate people from the database to fill vacancies that cannot be filled from the local labour market. State and territory governments can nominate people from the database on the basis of identified skills shortages.
The skill matching database lists people who apply under the Skilled -Independent or the Skilled -Sponsored visa categories. Participation is optional.

For more information, go to the DIAC website at www.immi.gov.au/skills

Overseas students applying for General Skilled Migration (GSM)

Australia has a well-deserved reputation for high-quality education and training. We continue to welcome overseas students, and appreciate the contribution they make to both academic life and the communities in which they live.
People who wish to study in Australia may be granted a Student visa that entitles them to come to Australia on a temporary basis for a specified period to undertake study at an Australian educational institution. The General Skilled Migration (GSM) Program provides the opportunity for graduating overseas students who meet threshold requirements to apply for permanent residence without having to leave Australia.

Allowing those former students with skills and qualifications in demand by employers, to convert to permanent residence is an important element in addressing skill shortages in the economy.
It is important to note that student visas are aimed at achieving an educational outcome while GSM on the other hand is predominantly driven by the labour market needs of Australia.
Thus, while many overseas students make a decision to apply for permanent residence upon completing their studies, this is an entirely separate process and there is no guarantee that, on the basis of having held a student visa, a person will meet the requirements to be granted permanent residence.
The criteria for grant of GSM visas can change in response to the changing economic circumstances of Australia.
All applicants seeking to be granted a permanent GSM visa must meet the relevant criteria set out in the Migration legislation, regardless of whether or not they have previously been in Australia. Students should not make educational choices solely on the basis of a hoping to achieve a particular migration outcome, as the GSM Program will continue to change and adapt to Australia's economic needs.

General Skilled Migration visa categories

The GSM Program has four classes and nine subclasses of visas with options. Applications may be made in Australia, or offshore.

Offshore General Skilled Migration targets applicants who are overseas, or in Australia but not eligible for an onshore GSM visa. Applicants must usually be outside Australia when the visa is granted.
Onshore General Skilled Migration targets overseas students studying in Australia who can be granted visas in Australia. Applications must be lodged in Australia within six months of gaining an Australian qualification involving at least two years of full-time study in Australia.
GSM visa categories are:

Skilled - Independent
Skilled - Sponsored
Skilled - Regional Sponsored (Provisional)
Skilled - Graduate (Temporary)
Skilled - Recognised Graduate (Temporary).

Note that the Skilled -Graduate visa is only available to applicants who have studied in Australia but do not meet the pass mark for an Independent GSM visa. The Skilled -Recognised Graduate visa is only available to applicants who have completed a degree in a specified discipline at a recognised overseas institution specified by Australia's Minister for Immigration and Citizenship.
Applications for onshore and offshore GSM visas are processed at the Adelaide and Brisbane skilled processing centres.

Information on lodging applications is available on line at http://www.immi. gov.au/contacts/australia/processingcentres/ index.htm

Basic requirements

Requirements for skill, work experience, age and English language ability must be satisfied for all GSM visas.

Skills

Applicants must have an occupation listed on Australia's Skilled Occupations List (SOL) and provide an assessment from the relevant Australian assessing authority confirming that they have the necessary skills to work in their nominated occupation in Australia.
The list of eligible skilled occupations, and the relevant Australian assessing body for each, is on the DIAC website at www.immi.gov.au/allforms/ pdf/1121i.pdf. This form also lists the points the occupation is awarded in the GSM points test.
The SOL includes most occupations which in Australia require a degree, diploma, or trade qualification except those:

which are clearly in significant oversupply throughout Australia
where new migrants would not be immediately employable
more appropriately covered by other visa categories, such as business skills or distinguished talent.
Applicants who lodge an offshore GSM visa application must usually show that they have obtained at least 12 months work experience in the previous two years in a skilled occupation on the SOL.

This work experience requirement is waived for applicants who have in the six months before they lodge their migration application completed at least two years' full-time study in Australia leading to a degree, diploma or trade qualification.

Age

All applicants must be younger than 49 when lodging a GSM application.

English language ability

The English language proficiency levels required for applicants with skills in the professional, technical and managerial sectors have been brought into line with requirements for entry into an Australian university.
The minimum level of English language proficiency for GSM visa applicants nominating occupations in the professional, technical and managerial sectors is an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.0 (competent English) on each of the four IELTS components.
GSM applicants who are able to demonstrate a high level of English language proficiency (IELTS 7.0 or Occupational English Test B [proficient English] or above) in each of the four components, earn extra points in the GSM points test.
Applicants for Skilled Regional Sponsored (Subclass 475 or 487) visas may apply with concessional competent English.

Further details are available at: http:// www.immi.gov.au/skilled/generalskilled- migration/index.htm

Applicants from the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, the United States of America and the Republic of Ireland are not required to show that they meet the English language threshold.
These applicants may take an IELTS test to show "proficient" English if they require more points in the GSM test.

Do you want to establish a business in Australia?

Australia encourages successful business people to settle permanently in Australia and develop new or existing businesses.
Most business settlers first come to Australia on four-year provisional temporary visas and then apply for perma-nent residence with evidence of a specified level of business or investment activity.
Australia's state and territory governments sponsor business entrants to help economic development in selected areas. State and territory governments have their own sponsorship criteria. Australia encourages business people to set up in regional, rural or low-growth areas. Sponsored business people can take advantage of concessions relating to these areas for both provisional and permanent residence visas.
Business people may be eligible to obtain direct permanent residence if they have high-level business skills and state or territory government sponsorship. Holders of a business (long stay) independent executive visa can apply for permanent residence through the established business in Australia and regional established business in Australia subclasses, as well as the state/territory sponsored business owner (residence) subclass.

The business skills program has four categories:

Business owner category for owners or part-owners of businesses
Senior executive category for senior executive employees of major businesses
Investor category for investors and business people willing to invest in Australia
Business talent category for highcalibre business people who have sponsorship from a state or territory government.

Go to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website at www. immi.gov.au for information about Australia's business skills program. See Booklet 7, Business Skills Entry: http://www.immi.gov.au/allforms/ booklets/1132.pdf

Entry under the business owner category

Owners or part-owners of successful businesses may be eligible for a business owner (provisional) visa initially granted for four years if they:
have a successful business career
have at least 10 per cent ownership of a business
have significant net assets in business
have significant business and personal assets

have sufficient net assets to settle in Australia
have had a significant annual turnover in a business
have a direct and continuous man agement role in an overseas business
have a commitment to maintain an ownership interest in a business in Australia and direct and continu ous involvement in management of that business
have no history of unacceptable business activities
are less than 49 years old have vocational English.
Applicants sponsored by a state or territory government can take advantage of these visa concessions:
flexible age requirements - applicants may be aged up to 55 years, or be older if the proposed business activities are endorsed by the sponsoring state or territory government as being of exceptional economic benefit
no need to demonstrate minimum E nglish language skills - although a second visa charge continues to apply to business people and family members who have less than functional English
more flexible criteria in relation to levels of net assets and business turnover
entry for business people who do not own a business but have highlevel skills as a senior manager.

Applicants who have successfully operated a business in Australia for at least two years and continue to hold a valid business skills (provisional) visa may be eligible for permanent residence under the business owner (residence) visa.
Applicants must also show that they have been in Australia for a minimum period as the holder of a business owner (provisional) visa.

Entry under the Senior Executive Category

Senior executives in major businesses who wish to establish a business in Australia may be eligible for a senior executive (provisional) visa initially granted for four years.

To be eligible for a senior executive (provisional) visa, applicants must:

have a successful business career
be employed in the top three levels of management of a major business
have significant business and per sonal assets
have sufficient net assets to settle in Australia
be committed to maintaining an ownership interest in a business in Australia and have direct and continuous involvement in management of that business

have no history of unacceptable business activities
be less than 49 years old
have vocational English.
Applicants sponsored by a state or territory government can take advantage of these visa concessions including:

more flexible age requirements - applicants may be up to 55 year of age, or older if the proposed business activities are endorsed by the sponsoring state or territory govern ment as an exceptional economic benefit
no need to demonstrate minimum E nglish language skills, although a second visa charge continues to apply for business people and their family members who have less than functional English
more flexible criteria on levels of net assets and the turnover of the major business which employs the applicant.
Applicants who have successfully operated a business in Australia for at least two years and continue to hold a valid senior executive (provisional) visa may be eligible to apply for permanent residence under the business owner (residence) visa.
Applicants must also show they have been in Australia for a minimum period as the holder of a senior executive (provisional) visa.

Entry under the investor Category

Business people or investors who wish to establish a business in Australia or undertake investment activities may be eligible for an investor (provisional) visa, initially granted for four years.

To be eligible for an investor (provisional) visa, applicants must:

have a successful record of business or investment management
be willing to make a significant investment in a government approved designated investment for four years
have significant business and personal assets
have sufficient net assets to settle in Australia
have no history of unacceptable business activities
be less than 49 years old have vocational English.
Applicants sponsored by a state or territory government can take advantage of these visa concessions:
more flexible age requirements - applicants may be up to 55 years of age, or older if the proposed business activities are endorsed by the sponsoring state or territory government as being of exceptional economic benefit
not having to demonstrate minimum E nglish language requirements - although a second visa charge will continue to apply for business family members who have less than functional English
more flexible criteria on levels of net assets and investment in a designated investment.
Applicants may be eligible for permanent residence under the investor (residence) visa if they have maintained a designated investment for four years and continue to hold a valid investor (Provisional) visa.
Alternatively, if a holder of an investor (Provisional) visa has established a business in Australia, the visa holder may also be eligible for permanent residence under the business owner (Residence) visa.

Applicants must also show they have been in Australia for a minimum period as the holder of an investor (Provisional) visa to apply for permanent residence.

Entry under the Business Talent Visa

High-calibre business people with significant assets and business turnover may be eligible for direct permanent residence under the business talent (migrant) visa.
To be granted a business talent (migrant) visa, applicants must:

be sponsored by a state or territory government
have an overall successful business career
have significant net assets in business
have significant business and personal assets
have achieved a significant annual turnover in business
be committed to maintaining an ownership interest in a business in Australia and have direct and continuous involvement in management of that business
have no history of unacceptable business activities
be less than 55 years old, unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Business talent (migrant) visa holders are monitored after arrival to ensure they engage in business, within three years.

Do you need to make a quick business visit?

Business people wanting to visit to explore opportunities in Australia, attend a conference or conduct business with an Australian organization are able to apply for a short stay business visa.

Short stay business visas include:

Business entrant Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) which is available to passport holders from 34 ountries and regions.
eVisitor, available to citizen passport holders from the European Union and a number of other European countries
Business - short stay, for applicants not eligible for an ETA or eVisitor
Sponsored business visitor, for applicants sponsored by an approved Australian sponsor
APEC Business Travel Card, for business people from participating economies in the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) region.

Information about these visas and the application requirements can be found at www.immi.gov.au./skilled/business/

Do you need to stay longer?

Skilled people sponsored by an employer who want to stay and work in Australia for longer periods can apply for a temporary business (long stay) (subclass 457) visa.
Key features of this visa are:

employer sponsorship
temporary stay for up to four years
minimum skill and salary levels
concessional skill and salary levels for positions in regional Australia
streamlined online applications
fast processing, especially for occupations in demand.

Go to www.immi.gov.au/skilled/skilledworkers/ sbs/index.htm for information on this visa.

Apply online at www.immi.gov.au/ skilled/skilled-workers/sbs/apply-online. htm

Do you need assistance with your visa application or sponsorship?

Migration agents may assist with visa applications and charge fees for their services. Applicants are not obliged to be represented by an agent.
The Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (Office of the MARA) ensures agents who give immigration assistance in Australia are registered, have a good knowledge of immigration requirements and abide by a code of conduct.
The office's website at www.mara. com.au has a list of registered migration agents and a facility to check if migration agents working in other countries are registered.
For further information, contact: Office of the Migration Agents
Registration Authority
PO Box Q1551
QVB NSW 1230 Australia

For further contact information in relation to the Office of the MARA,
please visit www.mara.com.au

Booklets - how to get more information

DIAC booklets to help people to apply to migrate to Australia are available
from www.immi.gov.gov.au

Some of our success stories...

Deciding to move to Australia was not a difficult decision to make. We had lived in the Adelaide area in the early 1980's when my husband was stationed at RAAF Edinburgh as an Exchange Officer and we absolutely loved it.
Despite living in a military environment we met people from "outside" and found them friendly and welcoming. The warm dry climate suited us well, enabling us to spend time outdoors.
South Australian winters are nowhere near as cold as English ones!
Our daughter and her family had already emigrated, so we decided to move as soon as they were able to sponsor us, i.e. as soon as they became Australian citizens themselves. We all started counting the days.
Since my husband and I were still working, we chose to use a Migration Agent to facilitate the move. Because of his knowledge and expertise, we were advised exactly what documents he needed from us, when to produce our police checks, when and where to go to get our comprehensive medicals completed and a myriad of other things we had not considered. This certainly relieved the pressure on us.
The day we were notified that our visas had been granted was just so exciting and busy. It was really happening. This dream was coming true.

The Removal company was contacted and dates confirmed; air tickets were booked; cats moved into quarantine prior to their flight, ahead of us, and the tenants for our house given a moving in date. Our daughter and her husband started house hunting on our behalf and between us, them and the Internet we found a beautiful 100 year old, three bed roomed cottage in a small community in the Adelaide Hills; a perfect location for us, surrounded by paddocks and dams (they are not fields and lakes!!)
It is an easy 35 minute drive to the centre of Adelaide. If we travel for 35 mins in the opposite direction we are in the Barossa Valley, internationally renowned for it's quality wine.
Just a little further on and you can be on a houseboat on the famous River Murray watching the world drift slowly by.

Driving in Australia is much the same as in the UK except that there is not so much traffic and the roads are good, with easy access to other States. Even driving into the City is easy because of the excellent signage. Public transport, whether bus, tram or train is accessible in most areas It is not so different from living in the UK. We speak English; we drive on the same side of the road. The Banks and Government Offices work in the same way. There is a comfortable familiarity with everything. So why move? For us it was simply this, we have three grandsons here and the sun shines more than anywhere else I have lived. All this happened three years ago and can say that we have never regretted the choice we made and have decided that Australia is the place we will grow old in with our family around us.

We had been thinking about moving abroad for many years, but never quite managed to pluck up the courage to do anything about it.

Ray and I always wanted a better life for our family and felt there had to be more to life than working to live, we were so fed up with the cold wet winters and working long hours with huge crƒÂ‚¨che fee's for our two children this was a big drain on our family making it very hard to get a head. We finally decided to stop talking about moving to Australia and start doing something about it

Ray always had a dream to move to Australia and nearly did some years ago. When we first met, Ray was all set to head off to Australia the following month but our romance put a stop to his plans. We spoke many times about moving and there was always something holding us back, the thought of leaving all our family members behind made the decision a very hard one for us as we are a close family, but then we decided there would never be a right time, and as we and our children were getting older it was now or never.

My cousin Aileen and her family were already in the process of applying for their Visas so we contacted her and got the details of her agent, Richard Coates, and emailed him at Celtic Migration to get advice on applying for a Visa for ourselves.

We started the process of applying for our visa through Celtic Migration in February 2009 and originally hoped to have our Visa granted by the end of 2009. The application process was relatively easy but rather time consuming, we never realised the paper work that would be involved it seemed endless. What we thought would be a straight forward process turned out to be a long drawn out process due to new legislation requirements introduced by the Department of Immigration in September 2009 and all we could do was sit and wait.

In February 2011 disaster struck when Richard contacted us to tell us there had been a error made in the processing of our Visa, nothing to do with Celtic Migration Services. After waiting so long we felt somebody had snatched our dream of a new life right from under our noses. After many sleepless nights and lots of emails back and forth between the Department of Immigration, Richard and ourselves, things were finally corrected. We can safely say that if we hadn't gone through Celtic Migration Services and had Richard's help, we really don't think the mistake would ever have been corrected so many thanks to him for all his hard work on this.
After that things moved really quickly and we were requested to go for our medicals, and on the 5th of April we were granted our Permanent Residency Visa.

We are very excited about the move and hope to head to Adelaide by the end of September just in time for the start of the good weather. We have so much to organise before we head off and lots of going away parties to arrange and many a tear to shed. The most stressful thing about migrating to Australia is leaving behind all our family and friends, it's the most difficult thing we have ever had to do, but we have to look forward to the future of our children and we believe we are giving them a better future, and as a family we hope to enjoy more time together and an active lifestyle which we hope will be helped by Australia's amazing sunshine!!!

But then Richard pointed out to us it's only a 24 hour flight and a great opportunity for friends and family to see Australia so now we know we need to rent a house with a spare bedroom for the many visitors we will receive.

Celtic Migration Services are based in Adelaide, South Australia. Our company can assist you with all your migration needs no matter what part of the world you are from and no matter where in Australia you wish to migrate to - we can help you.
Richard Coates , the Director of Celtic Migration Services and his migration Team of registered migration agents are well known for their honest appraisals (we will tell you if you do not meet the criteria for migrating), professional and friendly services.
Deciding to leave your country, home, family and friends and move to a new country is one of the biggest and most challenging decisions a person can make. It can also be very costly, stressful and complicated!!
Choosing Australia as your preferred country for migration is a start in the right direction but many people are not aware of AustraliaƒÂ‚­s complex and frequently changing migration laws and the large variety of visa options. Choosing the correct visa option and providing all the necessary documentation at time of application can save you an enormous amount of time, money and frustration.

In Australia any person providing migration advice or assistance is required by law to be registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority and all migration agents are bound by a Code of Conduct. Details of registered migration agents can be found at: www.mara.com.au.

Unfortunately the same laws do not cover people overseas who offer this advice and assistance. It is not necessary to use a registered migration agent but just as many people use an accountant to assist with their income tax matters, also many people find it invaluable to choose a registered migration agent to assist with their visa application process. A well prepared application will reduce delays in the processing times and make this process much less stressful, enabling you to concentrate on other matters that need to be dealt with when migrating to another country. We strongly recommend you use a registered migration agent bearing in mind there are a number of benefits in doing so:

the migration agent will be aware of all changes in migration law and policy and can ensure you choose the correct visa option

you will receive assistance with the preparation and lodgment of the application forms and all the supporting documentation required and follow up until a final decision is made;
The services of Celtic Migration Services can also assist with referrals and links to removal companies, settlement support, on arrival meet and greet, banking needs, employment networks, real estate agents, Another part of Celtic Migration Services is finding you employment, Our Sister company Global Trade search Pty Ltd owned and Run By Sandy Coates has numerous employers who update her business of their needs regularly and the knock on benefit for our clients is possible job placement before they arrive.

Email us at Richard@celticmigration.
com.au or Sandy@global tradesearch. com.au

Employment in United States and Europe due to the economic prolems has left a lot of people looking for options; loss of job and income security and inability of people to pay mortgages and bills has forced people, most out of despair to consider immigration. Although countries like Ireland have a history of immigration due to the recent Global economic crisis immigration has increased enormously in 2011.
Despite the Global crisis, Australia has created in excess of 500 thousand jobs over the past 3 years. With a population of 20 million our unemployment is 5.1 % where as compared to 9.1 percent in the US and 10.1 percent in Europe it can be clearly seen we are in a healthy position economically.
Our economy continues to grow strongly, with GDP increasing by 3.3 per cent through the year to the June quarter, the lowest gross government debt of any reported OECD country
We now have several types of possible agreements available to workers and employers which can be utilised to suit different employment agreements.
These are Collective Agreements, Individual and Transitional employment agreements Union Collective agreement, Employee Collective Agreement, Union Greenfields Agreement and Employer Greenfields Agreement detailed information can be obtained by visiting a website:
http://www.fairwork.gov.au/about-us/ pages/default.aspx.

All must pass the Non-Disadvantage Test to be allowed to be engaged as a workable agreement in the work place.
Employment ends when the employee resigns, is dismissed or the contract expires. The working environment falls in to three main categories:

Full time employment this consists of 37.5 hours per week, usually 9am to 5pm, which incorporates four weeks annual leave plus public holidays.
Sick leave is allowed up to Ten days sick leave allocated annually.
In a full time position for every holiday applied for an employee is entitled to 17.5% leave loading in addition to each holiday payment.

Casual employment

Casual employment it consists of an agreed number of hours per days which is usually negotiated between employer and employee. There is no annual leave or sick leave. This is the employee's responsibility. Hourly rates are normally higher than compared to full time positions.

Part time Employment

Part time Employment this consists of (a) casual part time (b) permanent part time Work place agreement.
All employers and employees are respectfully required to operate within the frame work of the Fair Work Act 2009 (FW Act) This ACT has been

devised by the federal government to establish a simple and fair work place relations framework suited to Australia's long term economic and social goals. Within the ACT standards have been set to secure a basic wage level that employers must not pay an employee's below i.e. minimum wage level. This wage level is set to allow every Australian citizen a fair wage and raise living standards above the poverty level.
As every new government is elected this ACT may be up for review or change depending on the economic climate of the day. The Act will cover minimum rights and responsibilities of employees and employers in the work place. Superannuation fund it is a system for providing income for your retirement.

Employee

If you are an employee, your employer is generally required to pay amounts, called contributions for your benefit into a superannuation fund. These contributions are in addition to the payment of your salary and wages. You do not have to pay or do anything unless you want to make your own personal superannuation contribtions.
The superannuation fund invests your money, and makes it plus any proits available to you when you retire. Superannuation is different from any other types of savings because it receives special taxation treatment and in most cases it cannot be cashed before you retire.

If you are going to start a business in Australia you will need to be aware of your superannuation requirements.

Visit:http://www.workplace.gov.au/ workplace/Publications/Legislation/

Job Prospects

Job prospects in Australia are excellent at present, as mining demand increases for skilled worker and overseas demand for Australia mining mineral resources continue to grow its become apparent to employers finding highly skilled people locally is extremely hard.
Parallel to this aspect and due to the economic crisis abroad there has been a sharp increase people trying to get into Australia on working holiday visa and skilled migration visa Pathways. Although Working Holiday visa visitors can initially fill job vacancies most employers require long term employees.

Working Holiday visa holders

Working Holiday visa holder require a harvest working period to be able to apply for the second year stay in Australia which is a disadvantage to retaining constant employment. The most attractive candidate to employers is the family man age between 25 and 39 years of age with children, a family man, and this person on a skilled visa pathway which is most attractive for long term employment and at a mature age retaining a knowledge base in their skilled area employers need.

Employer Visa Pathways

There are several employer visa Pathways which need to be considered and an employer preference which need to be considered the best advice is to seek a professional to explain to the employer each visa and its pros and cons so the employer can make a decision on the type of visa suits his business .
A registered migration agent is best placed to assist in explaining the government requirements that an employer must meet to be able to sponsor or nominate an overseas employee as there is a several specific documents need to be supplied on the employer side in the way the government requires these to be presented.
Notwithstanding this process the employee has also a document pathway requirement which must be met also and possible licensing requirements depending on the skill or profession being submitted on an application.

Skills Assessment or Trade Recognition for Pre- Migration to Australia

Trade Recognition Australia (TRA) is an organisation which within the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. The information on Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) has been moved to the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relation's (DEEWR) website.
www.deewr.gov.au/tra

The function of Trade Recognition Australia is to manage skills assessments for people with trade skills who want to apply to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship for permanent and temporary skilled migration to Australia. TRA also does skills assessment for people seeking an Australian Recognised Trade Certificate. TRA also monitors trade skills assessments carried out by the VETASSESS Consortium. Vetassess has been allocated the duties of assessing specific countries only which are India, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, South Africa or the Philippines.
You need to contact the VETASSESS Consortium if you want a skills assessment for the following trades: general electrician, general plumber, refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanic, motor mechanic, carpenter and joiner, carpenter, joiner, electrical powerline tradesperson, cable jointer,or bricklayer;

and supervisory occupations relating to these trades. More information can be found at the VETASSESS Consortium website.

Processing Time

Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) introduce additional quality assurance arrangements to improve the integrity of its assessments. As a result processing times change. It is expected that most applications will be assessed within 30 working days.
TRA introduced new electronic application forms which provide additional information about what TRA needs to assess applications. The form also has the added benefit of speeding up processing and improving data collection.

Payments:

Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) has launched a new Credit Card Application Payment Service to assist applicants and their agents when applying for a migration skills assessment. TRA applicants or agents can now pay their application fee by credit card (VISA and MasterCard only)

Supporting Documents:

The evidence you provide is essential in establishing that your skills and experience are equivalent to Australian standards. You must support all claims by submitting certified copies(do not send original

documents)of the following documents with your application:

Verifiable independent evidence of your identity and date of birth; such as a birth certificate or passport. Two recent passport photos of yourself no more than six months old are required. If the required identity and passport information is not provided your application may not be accepted by TRA.

Verifiable independent evidence of completing trade, trade related or other courses (for the occupation to be assessed) such as final certificates, diplomas etc; details of the duration; date of completion and subjects covered and evidence of the nature and content of the training.

The evidence should describe the content of each subject studied and the machines, tools and equipment on which you trained, as applicable. Verifiable statements from your Past employers which will support all your employment as a tradesperson will be needed.
Where possible statements should be on company letterhead, signed by your employer or a person authorised by your employer and must include the classification in which you were employed; details of the exact periods of employment; and a full and detailed description of the nature and content of your work along with the machines, tools and equipment used, as applicable.

Where past training providers and/ or employers no longer exist and you need this information for your application, you may submit a personal statement on a properly signed and witnessed Statutory Declaration. The Statutory Declaration is to detail as a minimum: the reason/s why you are submitting a Statutory Declaration and all the necessary detail about your training and/or work experience.
If you are reluctant to approach your current employer for a statement of service that you need for your application, you may submit a personal statement on a properly signed and witnessed Statutory Declaration.
The Statutory Declaration is to detail as a minimum: the reason/s why you are submitting a Statutory Declaration, and all the necessary detail about any training and/or work experience.

Important:

If you provide a Statutory Declaration with your application, you must also provide some form of corroborative information from a third party for the claims made in the Statutory Declaration. It is important that you provide all requested information with your application. Only the information provided with your application will be considered during the assessment.
When assessing your application, TRA compares your training and experience against an equivalent occupation in Australia. This requires you to provide very detailed and precise information on your training and experience.

General statements provided by you, employers or training institutions will not be sufficient evidence of training or work experience. If you do not answer all the questions on the application form in full or do not provide sufficiently detailed documentation to support your application, your application may not be successful.
Any foreign language documents must be accompanied by certified English language translations.
All applicants are required to submit a "decision ready" application. A "decision ready" application is one which is submitted on the correct TRA application form with all relevant sections filled in, is signed by the applicant or the nominated agent and is accompanied by the correct application fee. In addition, all "decision ready" applications must be "complete".
A "complete" application must be "decision ready" and contain all necessary documents which are taken as being the applicant"s best case for recognition. TRA will not contact applicants nor their representatives in order to obtain documents identified in, but not provided with, an application.

Visit webpage: http://www.deewr.gov. au/Skills/Programs/SkillsAssess/TRA/ Pages/default.aspx

Visit webpage: http://www.deewr.gov. Make sure when downloading application form for skills assessment for overseas applicants you down load the latest version which is application form V 1.9.

Browse that skilled program section for different country requirements and assessment requirements and read carefully each section to understand the several different assessment program services Trade recognition Australia provides.

To help people plan for their retirement, Australia has a system of compulsory superannuation that is designed to facilitate the accumulation of private savings that people can access when they reach retirement.
As a result of these superannuation arrangements most workers in Australia will receive a higher income in retirement then the publicly provide age pension alone could provide.

Will I need to join a superannuation fund?

In Australia nearly every employed person must join a superannuation fund that meets government standards and there are few exceptions. Under current legislation the superannuation fund you belong to is your choice, there are a range of super funds available to you and you should investigate the fund that will achieve what you want to gain from your super for your retirement.
Most employers will recommend a super fund Organization but it is your choice who you decide to go with You can also establish your own managed super fund.
If you are self-employed, you can decide if you want to contribute to a fund. The government offers tax concessions if you do.

How superannuation works

Through superannuation, you save and invest money during your working life to get a pension or lump sum when you retire.

Your superannuation savings will grow because:

Your employer or you make regular contributions; your superannuation fund invests your money, your fund gets tax concession that boosts your earnings.
By law, you generally get your superannuation payout only when you:

Permanently retire
When you reach the minimum age set by the law (See below)
Your minimum age for getting your superannuation benefits

Date of birth     Age

After June 1964             60
July 1963 - June 1964      59
July 1962 - June 1963      58
July 1961 - June 1962      57
July 1960 - June 1961      56
Before July 1960             55

Superannuation Guarantee arrangement

Your employer must contribute 9% of your earnings as defined by law, by your terms of employment or by your superannuation fund trust deed.
Most people's 9 % is based on ordinary time earnings', which under the law means earnings for your ordinary hours of works and may include overtime. Employees who are under the age of 18 and are working less than 30 hours

per week are excluded from these arrangements.
Except for death, permanent incapacity or special situations, you cannot access your superannuation funds early.
However, from the 1st of July 2002, new legislation came Into effect that allows eligible temporary residents to access their superannuation (subject to withholding tax) when they permanently leave Australia.

Super tips to make the most of your savings

Occasionally employers pay to little or none of their employer contributions. Check with your fund that you are registered as a member and that the right contributions are getting through.
If you are a casual or part-time employee, this is especially important.
Employers must pay contributions annually by 28th of July, and from the 1st of July 2003 they will pay quarterly.
Ask your employer the name of the fund and when they send contributions. Talk to your employer at once if payments seem too small or are not getting through.

If you experience any difficulties, call the Australian Taxation Office Superannuation info line on: 13 10 20

Checking your residency status

There are some different tax requirements for residents and non-residents of Australia. If you are not a resident of Australia and you are here temporarily, it's likely you will be taxed as a non-resident, depending on your circumstances. If you move to Australia from overseas and intend to stay for the foreseeable future, you may be a resident of Australia for tax purposes. To find out if you are an Australian resident for tax purposes, use the online residency tool at the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website: www. ato.gov.au/determinationofresidency

Apply for a tax file number

Getting a tax file number (TFN) from the ATO is essential prior to starting work in Australia. A TFN is your personal reference number in the tax system. If you begin work before you have a TFN, you have 28 days to get one and give it to your employer. If you don't, your employer may have to deduct a higher rate of tax from the money you earn.
You can get a TFN application form by: ordering one from our website at www.ato.gov.au
visiting an ATO shopfront, or asking Centrelink.
Permanent migrants or temporary visitors to Australia can apply for a TFN anytime after entering Australia by visiting:
www.iar.ato.gov.au

Protecting your tax file number

Your tax file number is an important number that must only be used by you. It's like a password or personal identification number. You must not:

use another person's tax file number
use your own tax file number incorrectly
allow someone else to use your tax file number.
You should not provide your tax file number over the phone or internet or give it to anyone who should not ask for it. Only certain people can ask for your tax file number, including:

the ATO
Centrelink
your superannuation fund
your bank or financial institution
your employer, but only after you have started work with them

Paying Tax

If you start working in Australia, your employer will deduct tax from your pay and send it to the ATO. The amount of tax you must pay depends on:

how much you earn
whether you have a TFN and have given it to your employer
whether you are an Australian resident for tax purposes
whether you have to pay the Medicare levy.

Superannuation Contributions

If you are paid $450 or more in a calendar month, your employer will generally contribute an amount equal to 9% of your earnings from your ordinary hours of work into a superannuation fund for you. These payments are known as superannuation contributions. This is a way of saving money for your retirement. If you entered Australia as a temporary resident, in most cases you can access these contributions when you leave Australia, although they will be taxed.

When to lodge your Tax Return

After the end of the financial year (In Australia a financial year starts on July 1 and ends on June 30), your employer will issue you with a document called a payment summary'. Your payment summary shows how much you earned and how much tax was deducted from your wages. If you leave a job during the year, you can ask for your payment summary at the time you leave and your employer is required to give it to you within 14 days of you asking for it.
You have to declare your income and can claim tax deductions every year using a form called a tax return' that you complete and lodge with the ATO. You use your records and payment summary details to complete and lodge a tax return.
If you paid too much tax, you can get a refund when you lodge your tax return. You must also complete and lodge a tax return if

you are leaving Australia permanently or for more than one financial year.
You have from 1 July to 31 October to lodge your tax return. If you use a registered tax agent to prepare and lodge your tax return, you may be able to lodge later than 31 October.

More Information

For more information about how tax applies to income you earn in Australia:

visit the website at www.ato.gov. au/individuals
visit an ATO shopfront (enquiry counter) between 8.30am and 4.45pm, Monday to Friday.

To find the location of the nearest shopfront visit the website www.ato.gov.au and search for shopfront'.
visit www.ato.gov.au/otherlanguages and view the video Tax in Australia – What you need to know'. Tax in Australia' provides essential information about tax and superannuation in 10 languages including English, Arabic, Mandarin, Karen, Farsi, Korean, Dari, Dinka, Thai and Vietnamese.

Australian'shave one of the highest quality health care systems in the world. The system is complex, with many types and providers of service and a range of funding and regulatory mechanisms. Funding for health care provision is primarily provided by the Australian (federal) Governments.
At the federal level the department of health and ageing oversees the health care of the nation. The health and ageing department's vision is better health and healthier ageing for all Australian's through a world class system which:

meets peoples needs through out their life
is responsive, affordable and sustainable
provides accessible, high quality service including preventative, curative, rehabilitave maintenance and palliative care; and
seeks to prevent disease and promote health. Australian government funding includes two major national Subsidy Schemes, Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
These schemes cover all Australians and subsidies their payments for medical services and for a high proportion of prescription medications. Medicare for 20 years, has been a central part of our world class health system that has guaranteed quality and affordable health care for all Australians. Medicare now delivers even more for Australian residents. The mainstays of Medicare remain. Australians continue to receive:

Free treatment as public patients in a public hospital

the Medicare rebate, which pays 85% of the schedule fee for a visit to a doctor outside hospital

Affordable medicines through the pharmaceutical benefits scheme (PBS)

To many new improvements made to strengthen Medicare include:

a new safety net to protect Australians against medical costs for various treatments

extra money to GP's who bulk bill

an increase of doctors in medical workforce and nurses in doctors surgeries

more convenient ways of claiming your Medicare rebate

visitors from counties with health care agreements are entitled to limited access to Medicare.

The agreements are with the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, New Zealand, The Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Italy and Malta. All visitors, students from countries covered by the health care agreements are encouraged to seek information on their Medicare eligibility at the Australian Embassy or Visa Issue Agency.

For more information, call 0800 011 163 or visit the web site www.health. gov.au

Australia's Pharmaceutical benefits scheme (PBS) helps improve the health of all Australian residents by ensuring they have access to necessary and lifesaving medicines at an affordable price. Approximately 75% of medicines available on prescription are subsidised under the PBS. For all the information on pharmaceutical benefits and safety net arrangements for those requiring a lot of PBS medicines, contact the PBD information line on free call 1800 020 613

Immunisation

The Immunise Australian Program is a joint Federal and State Program which aims to increase national childhood immunization rates so as to reduce the incidence of morbidity and mortality from, vaccine preventable diseases in the Australian Community. The program builds on initiatives under the national immunization program. It includes the provision of free vaccines to all providers, the establishment of the Australian childhood immunization register, provider and community education programs and a national adverse events reporting scheme.
All essential childhood vaccines routinely used in the Government's National Immunization Program are available free of charge.

In addition, the Government currently provides free measels immunizations to all people aged between 18 and 30 through the young adult's measles program and free influenza immunisation for all Australians aged over 65 and over. For more information contact the Immunization information line on free call 0800671 811
Quality Health Information Online Developed by the department of health and ageing, Health Insight is an internet gateway linking users to reliable high quality information online. This web site aims to meet the needs of a growing number of Austalians seeking easy access about health and well being so that they can make more informed health care decisions, containing more than 70 approved information partner, information websites, Health Insight provides access to up-to-date information on important health topics such as fitness, nutrition, heart disease, diabetes, mental health, asthma, cancer and children's health, just to name a few.
www.healthinsite.gov.au

Centrelink is an Australian Goverment agency delivering a range of Commonwealth payments and services to the Australian community. Centrelink's customers include: retired people, families, sole parents, people looking for work, people with disabilities, carers, students and young people.
In Australia, social security payments are only available to people who reside in Australia and are either Australian citizens or, holders of permanent visas.
If you've recently arrived to settle in Australia you normally have to wait 2 years before you can receive most social security payments.
Newly arrived migrants will be able to claim Family Payments and you'll also be able to look for work through Centrelink and Job Services Australia. If you have come to Australia as an immigrant, it is very important you contact Centrelink as soon as possible, as any payments you may get will be calculated from the date you arrive in Australia, so if you contact Centrelink a week after you arrive you will have your payments back dated from the first day you arrived into Australia.
Australia has social security agreements with 23 countries. If you have lived in one of these countries you may be able to count periods of residence in that country towards qualifying residence requirements for certain Centrelink payments.

Australia currently has agreements with: Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea (Republic of), Malta, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland and the USA.
Agreements usually help people to claim Age Pension, Disability Support Pension or some payments if your partner has died or you are caring for your partner. Agreements overcome rules relating to temporary residence or periods of residence by using contributions or residence in the Agreement country to count towards Australian qualification periods.
When an interview has been arranged, you'll need to bring your passport and any travel documents, bank account details, accommodation details and any rent receipts or lease agreement if you are paying private rent. Centrelink will tell you all about the payments and services you are entitled to, your rights and obligations, and will also advise of other agencies which may be able to help you.
You'll also have access to Centrelink's services: the main ones being Social Workers, Multicultural Services, Financial Information Service Officers, Jobs, Education and Training Programmes and Job Services Australia. Job Services Australia is a group of organisations set up to help people find work.

Centrelink offers a range of payments and services for students and youths who are newly arrived migrants.
After fulfilling a two-year residencequalifying period, full-time students aged 16 to 24 years of age, and job seekers aged under 21 may qualify for financial assistance (Youth Allowance) from the Australian Government.
Rates of payments may depend on the amount of income a young person receives as well as the amount of income their parents receive. Young people who meet independence guidelines may qualify for financial assistance that does not take into account their parent's income.
Full-time students aged over 25 years of age may qualify for assistance (Austudy) after fulfilling the two-year residence qualifying period that applies to new migrants.
Applications for Centrelink payments and assistance can be made at Centrelink Customer Service Centres located in every state.
For more information in languages other than English, call Centrelink on 13 12 02 or visit the website www.centrelink.gov.au

Child Care in Australia

Supporting funding for child care is an essential element in the Australian Government's goal to promote the well-being of families with young children

and recognises that access to quality child care is essential for many Australian families. Child care strengthens families by allowing parents to participate more fully, both economically and socially, within their communities. It also provides support for parents in that they do not face the arduous task of raising children in isolation.
Child care can benefit children by providing them with quality educational experiences and opportunities for learning in a social environment. Parents, who are working, seeking work, studying or training, are given priority access to child care Assistance with child care is also available to people participating in the Adult Migrant English Program.

What is Child Care Benefit?

Child Care Benefit is a payment from the Australian Government to help with the cost of child care. It is designed to help parents balance their work and family responsibilities. You may be eligible for Child Care Benefit if you use approved child care providers or registered child care providers. Approved child care is care provided by a service, which has been approved to receive Australian Government child care payments on your behalf. Your service provider can tell you if they are approved to receive Australian Government payments.

Types of approved child care services are:

Long Day Care
Family Day Care
In-home Care
Outside School Hours & Care and Vacation Care
Occasional Care

Registered child care is work related care provided by nannies, grandparents, relatives or friends who are registered with the Family Assistance Office. It can also include work related care provided by registered private pre-schools, kindergartens, some occasional care centres and some outside school hours care services. Your carer can contact the Family Assistance Office to find out how to become registered.

What are the eligibility requirements for Child Care Benefit?

To receive Child Care Benefit you need to meet the following requirements:

Residency

In most cases, Child Care Benefit will only be paid if you, or your partner, are an Australian resident or a Government sponsored student. However, it may still be paid in certain other circumstances. Please contact the Family Assistance Office for more information.

Immunisation

The Australian Government wants all Australian children to be protected from serious childhood illnesses.
To receive Child Care Benefit for any child who is under 7 years old, you are required to prove that you meet the immunisation requirements. You must show the Family Assistance Office that your child's immunisation is up to date or you must have an approved exemption for your child. Many child care services also require that your child be fully immunised as a condition of enrolment.

Who should you contact for more information?

You should contact the Family Assistance Office for more information. The Family Assistance Office provides financial assistance and information to families on a range of Australian Government payments. There are over 550 offices across Australia where you can go and get information about your entitlements.

To find out more about Child Care Benefit or to make a claim:

Visit your local Family Assistance Office located in Centrelink Customers Service Centres and Medicare offices.

Call the Family Assistance Office on 13 61 50* between 8am and 8pm (local time), Monday to Friday, or for information in languages other than English call 13 1202*

Visit the Family Assistance Office Internet site at www.familyassist. gov.au

Call teletypwriter (TTY) 1800 810
586* (Only for people who are deaf or who have a hearing or speech impairment. A TTY phone is required to use this service.)

Calls from your home phone to Centrelink “13” numbers from anywhere in Australia are charged at a fixed rate. That rate may vary from the price of a local call and may also vary between telephone service providers.

Calls to 1800 numbers are free of charge.

Calls from public pay phones or mobile phones will be charged at a higher rate.

Childcare Access Hotline and the Adult Migrant English Program do not belong to us.

Overview of school education

Australia has a well developed education system, with completion rates among the highest in the world.
Australian governments continually review education and training and the issues that arise from school and economic changes. Australia is involved progressively with the development of new educational programs with some overseas countries.
Australia has a single national and comprehensive system of twelve qualifications, which are basis of the Australian Qualifications Frameworks (AQF).
Australian Federal and State Governments endorse AQF qualifications, so an AQF qualification is recognized throughout Australia and by other countries.
In the vocational education and training sector the qualifications achievable are advanced Diploma and Certificates 1-1V.
The higher education or University sector provides Doctoral, Master and Bachelors Degree, Certificates and Graduate Diplomas.

For more information on the Australian Qualifications Framework
visit: www.aqf.edu.au/internet.htm

School Year

The school year runs from late January or early February until early December. Apart from Tasmania which has a three term year, all States and Territories operate on a four terms per year system.

Primary and Secondary

School educational has a similar structure across Australia with only slight variations amongst the States and Territories. School Education is thirteen years with some variations in Queensland and Western Australia.
It is divided into a preparatory year, primary schooling. The preparatory years are not compulsory but almost universally undertaken.
Children usually start in the preparatory year at around five years of age although in some States the starting age is closer to four years. Primary schooling is six or seven years of schooling room 1-6 or 1-7, and secondary schooling is five years or six years. Years 7-12 or 8-12. Schooling education is compulsory until the age of 15 except in Tasmania where it is compulsory until the age of 16 years old.

Tertiary Education

Further or higher education programs can be divided into two main types: Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector. Institutes and industry offer programs within VET. VET is compulsory- based and offers a wide variety of programs under the national training Frameworks (NTF).

Higher Education

Higher Education Programs are mainly offered by universities and other higher education institutes.

Higher education offers programs leading to bachelor degrees and a range of postgraduate awards. Universities also offer one shorter undergraduate programs.

Tafe

Vocational Education and training (VET) is a term used the world over to describe education and training that prepares people for work, or which improves the knowledge and skills of people already working in Australia.
VET is competency- based and includes a wide range programs and courses, from ‘craft' based training (such as traditional apprenticeships) through to less traditional training (for example childcare or office skills training).
VET programs run the full range from basic, entry-level and skill specific courses to advance and broader courses to awarding qualifications such as advanced diplomas, graduate certificate and bachelor degrees.
Within Australia, TAFE (technical and further Education) institutes are the state-based public providers.
Pathway from High school to university is based on a points system and each course is has its own set of points for students to achieve and each university will have different points allocation so you need to check this out as well.
Australia is also well set up with school based apprenticeship for students that choose a trade career may have the opportunity of doing a school based

apprenticeship from year 11 and 12 this means that student will have less subject to achieve in school because they will attend time for 1 day a week with an employer so by the time a student finished high school they will have achieved year 12 leaving standard and also close to 18 months of an apprenticeship which leave them to continue the final 18-24 months in full time employment with their employer. This gives students a head start in their chosen trade/career when fully entering the work force.

A home can be a very important part of settling into a new country and whether you decide to rent or buy, you need to consider all the options that are available to you. In either case, you will need to understand a range of Australian laws and practices, which may vary significantly from those in other countries. Importantly, the laws governing real estate also vary between each state and territory.
Information on state or territory specific legislation for renters and buyers is available from the Real Estate Institute in each state or territory. Relevant contact details for state and territory Real Estate Institutes can be found on the left hand side of this page.
Information is also available from state and territory consumer affairs authorities. See http://www.accc.gov.au/ content/index.phtml/itemId/8627 for contact details.

In making your decision about your new home, you will need to consider:

What you can afford

If you are buying: calculate the deposit and repayments you can afford. Deposit requirements will vary, but as a rule of thumb, at least ten per cent of the selling price will be required.

In general, lenders usually base the amount they will lend you on the rule that monthly repayments do not exceed a quarter of gross (pre-tax) income. You will also need to take into consideration additional costs related to buying, such as property taxes, legal costs and insurance.
Information on state and territory property taxes can be found at the Treasury or Revenue Office in each state or territory. You may also need advice on tax obligations – information is available from the Australian Taxation Office (www.RO.GOV.a)

If you are renting

You may be required to pay a deposit to secure the property. In some circumstances, if you change your mind, you may forfeit this deposit. You may also be required to pay rent in advance and a security deposit of between four to six weeks' rent, this is known as rental bond. Prior to moving into the property, ensure that you discuss with your agent all the costs you are required to pay and when they must be paid by.

Where you want to live

Identify the areas or communities that suit your lifestyle. Assess your need for transport, schools, hospitals, sports facilities and shops. Take the time to get to know the area in which you

plan to live. Remember, you can also ask your local real estate agent to assist you in selecting an area that would be suitable for you.

The type of house that will suit your needs

Decide if you are looking for a flat, apartment, townhouse or house.
Factors to consider include how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need, if you need formal and informal living areas, the size of the kitchen, if you require a low maintenance garden, the size of the garage and if you need a home that is pet friendly.

Finding a place

The most common way of sourcing suitable properties, either for rental or purchase is through newspapers, real estate websites and real estate agency shopfront advertising.

Inspecting a property

Inspections should be made at the advertised time or by appointment with the real estate agent. If you are purchasing, you may consider having the property inspected by a builder or architect to assess whether there are any defects that might affect your decision to buy.

Buying a property

When buying a property it is vital that you organise your finances before making an offer on a property or bidding at an auction. Make arrangements to cover the deposit should your offer or bid be successful, and arrange to have the appropriate mortgage funds available for settlement*.
Confirm the amount you are able to borrow and calculate your capacity to repay your loan, without negatively impacting on your lifestyle or other financial commitments. Don't forget that a variable interest rate can move up and down, and you need to have a bit of leeway to cope if this happens.
To learn more about buying a property in your state or territory, visit the REIA's website at www. reia.com.au and click on Consumers or contact your local real estate agent.

Currently, the median house prices in each state and territory in Australia are:**

Canberra     $510,000
Sydney     $637,300
Brisbane     $440,000
Darwin     $550,000
Perth     $472,000
Adelaide     $410,000
Melbourne     $565,000
Hobart     $361,300
Source: REIA

Renting a property

When renting a property, you will be required to sign a tenancy agreement which is legally binding. Take the time to read the document carefully and understand all the conditions of the agreement, including rent payment requirements, before you sign.
You will also need to check and sign a condition report which documents the condition of the property. If you would like assistance in understanding any documents you need to sign, it would be a good idea to contact a solicitor.
Your right as a tenant is to live in a safe and habitable property. You also have a responsibility to maintain the property. Problems should be reported in writing to your real estate agent.
It is generally a requirement for the real estate agent to inspect the rental property to ensure that the property is being cared for property. This will be specified in your rental agreement.
Any rental increases must be in accordance with the contract and legislative requirements, and must be advised in writing.
It is your responsibility as a tenant to insure your own belongings and furniture. The owner's insurance does not cover your belongings.
If you wish to terminate your tenancy, it must be done in accordance with legislative requirements and the process set out in the tenancy agreement. You should always submit your notice in writing.

For further information, please visit the REIA's website at www. reia.com.au.
*Settlement is the final stage of the sale when the purchaser completes the payment of the contract price to the seller and takes legal possession of the property.
**This information represents the latest data recorded at the end of the March quarter 2011.

Dorothy and Ronald had always had a dream to live in Australia in South Australia as Dorothy had a sister and brother-in-law and their family and Dorothy also had an Aunt Wilma and Uncles Ron in Adelaide.
So when Dorothy was offered a position in a local hotel in Kangaroo Island just off the coast of South Australia and still recognised as part of South Australia it was like a dream come through for the young family.
Dorothy was a function Manager at this local hotel as they had built a new conference centre and this was a perfect opportunity for them to relocate and start a new life.
Dorothy contacted Global Tradesearch Recruitment based in Adelaide to assist with finding her a job in Australia and when Global Tradesearch Recruitment came back to Dorothy a few weeks late she was surprised and shocked at the new that her CV had been accepted by the employer and they wanted to set up some interviews with a view to sponsoring Dorothy out to Kangaroo Island-South Australia if she was the right person for the position.
Dorothy had the interviews and was accepted for the position and then decided to use Celtic Migration Services who was recommended by Global Tradesearch Recruitment to assist with the visa application which we did and all in all it was a truly great experiences.

Richard from Celtic Migration Services handled everything for us and walked us through the whole process and simplified each step of the process so we were able to understand the complexities of the Immigration process.
Once the visa was approved the Pena family arrived into Adelaide on 14th September 2010 and were picked up by their Aunt Wilma and Uncle Ron so they could spend a the first two weeks getting to know and understand Australian systems and how things worked for new migrants.
Off course as Dorothy and Ronald explained having family in Adelaide was a real privilege so many new migrants don't have so a lot of stress was taken away from them giving them time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of west lakes and the clean and beaches stretching right along the coastline of Adelaide.
On the second day of their arrival they were taken around by their family to assist with mobile phones on plans that had internet to communicate back home and talk to family and friends. They also organised Tax File Numbers which enabled them both to work in Australia, they had the opportunity to purchase a small family car through a local car Dealer, sorted out registering with Centrelink for family payments and Medicare for healthcare and finally opening up a bank account they had

achieved a lot on their second day so a glass of South Australian wine was quite welcomed at the end of the day. On the Third day they called into the office of Global Tradesearch Recruitment and Celtic Migration Services to meet the two people that had changed their lives and the lives of their children it was a beautiful day and both companies welcomed us to Australia with big bright smiles we knew then that we had mad the right decision and things were going to work out for us.
Day four we went shopping to purchase some furniture and general house hold utilities to take with us to Kangaroo Island as there was not as much variety on the Island and to be honest it was a bit cheaper as well.
Day five all the family took the 45 minute trip by ferry from Cape Jervis South Australia to Kangaroo Island and spent the next two days there to meet the employer whom had given this family the opportunity of employment. This also gave the Pena family the chance to look around the Island and find a house for rent, talk to the local school and generally meet some of the locals as the Island has a community of approximately 4500 people. Kangaroo Island is one of South Australia's most popular tourist attractions, attracting over 140,000 visitors each year, with international visitors, primarily from Europe, accounting for more than 30% of these visits.

Kangaroo Island is one of the world's last great unspoiled island wildernesses. Australian nature and native wildlife abound, and many species of plant and animal that are found on Kangaroo Island are no longer seen on the Australian mainland.
Location: 113km south west of Adelaide, about 90 minutes drive from Adelaide through the Southern Vales wine region of South Australia. They automatically fell in love with Kangaroo Island which had much to offer because of the thriving tourism industry, surfing, fishing, house riding, seal bay, fabulous beaches such as Penneshaw and Emu Bay to mention but a few.
Day 7 the family arrived back into Adelaide to have much needed weeks holiday before starting work the following Monday.
The Pena family have now been living on Kangaroo Island for the past 12 months and Dorothy's Husband has developed an online international business and is also the Manager for Hertz car rentals on the Island and as the family they believe this has been the best experience for them and they now know that life will forever be very different for them and their children. The children's grand parents have also travelled to visit them and also love Kangaroo Island and are considering a contributory parents visa to be with their children in Australia.

We asked Dorothy and Ronald a few questions... about the move and this is what they had to say:

Are you glad you made the move?

Yes, our gut feeling about this move was right and with the two companies Global Tradesearch Recruitment and Celtic Migration Services helping us made it far more easier than we expected.

What's been the nicest thing for you since you arrived?

Dorothy said, believe it or not it's the people we can't get over how nice people are they have a very friendly attitude.

Would you recommend Australia to anyone?

Ronald Replied, Absolutely there is so much work here if you want it.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?

Dorothy Replied, I still us living here on Kangaroo Island after our two years sponsorship commitment ends as I think I will still have my job at the hotel which I enjoy doing very much. I can certainly see Kangaroo Island expanding slightly which will be good for us but I also think Kangaroo Island is small piece of Australian paradise My children are ins school and getting more involved in the community sports and making lovely friends, so KI as the locals call it is home for the foreseeable future.

Let's look at Australia's key industries:
Biotechnology
IT
Minerals
Transport
Automotive Services
Business
Manufacturing
Renewable Energy
Aero technology
Energy

Biotechnology

Biotechnology this industry is expanding without limits within every state and territory. 470 core biotechnology companies operating in Australia in 2007. 49 per cent are involved in therapeutics, 15 percent in agricultural biotechnology and 13 per cent in diagnostics.
With a turnover of around $13 billion in 2006 up to 30,000 employees presently increased to $16.74 billion employing 190,050 people.
Pharma-manufacturing sector turns over around $16 billion and employs 16,000 people.
Australia invested to date $117 million on developing the industry within the area of research and development and will cap the investment at $150 million by 2010.
Australia has achieved recognition worldwide as leaders in the development of medical bio-industries, developing and exporting products and services in fields

such as Pharmaceuticals, bio-medical services, hospital design, construction and management, medical and administrative software.
Established bodies like CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization) support Australia's bioscience industry.
The Science and Research Council help to combine business and research excellence to assist its place and recognition within the global divisions of Human Science Research.

IT&T Industry

Software development, System Integration, consulting, I.T Network, and outsourcing business and services training. These are some of the industries developing constantly within Australia's national companies.
A liberalized trade environment for IT &T, and an ability to stay at the forefront of global telecommunications, competitive company tax levels, and open foreign investment policy, these are but a few of the incentives Australia has to offer to sustain an environment for foreign investment in this industry which is why most international major computer companies are represented in Australian companies such as IBM, Compaq, .IPEX, Dell and apple share in Australia's I.T industry. New government investment has taken place in Australia of $43 billion to expand Broadband connection to regional and remote parts of Australia have been

announce and should take place from 2011 onwards as it is processed through parliament in the coming years. New broadband plan offers unprecedented opportunities for Australia.

Minerals

Australia has a vast variety of mineral resources and because of this a significant number of global companies have been attracted to open operations in Australia. Alcan, Alcoa, Anglo American, BHP Billiton, Citic, Rio Tinto and Shanghai Baosteel to name but a few: Such as mineral sands, nickel, tantalum, Uranium and Zinc, putting Australia in the position of having the largest resources on a global scale.
Australia is also one of the top six countries for bauxite, black coal, brown coal, cobalt, copper, gold, iron ore, lithium magnesia ore, rare earth oxides and gem diamonds. Australia has sixty active mining, refining and smelting operations worldwide.
Australia internationally is a leader in the field of occupational health and safety, environmentally sustainable mining and mine-site rehabilitation in time with its natural landscape and environment. In 2008-9 mineral resource exports (include metallurgical coal) are forecast to be around $113.9 billion or around 68 per cent of Australia's total merchandise trade; and Over the five years to 2008/9 all minerals industry exports have totalled over $441 billion.

Natural Gas

Extensive exploration of Australia's National Gas resources has expanded to meet the needs of a growing export market.
Although reserves are in remote offshore deep water areas between Carnarvon and Darwin, Australia has shown immense resources estimated to be some 115 trillion cubic feet (tcf).
Australia's Gas Reserves has attracted a large number of international investors looking towards Australia as a location for Gas -to -liquid (GTL) projects.
The Gas boom has attracted companies such as Woodside petroleum; Santos and Novus petroleum, off shore basins include areas such as Carnarvon, Bonaparke, and Browse in North Western Australia.

Petroleum Exploration

There are 1800 wells drilled in the Australian offshore area and 21 onshore oil and gas wells. The Australian Government is continuing to work to secure a competitive exploration program to ensure a continued amount of oil and gas reserves and attract the large investment needed to sustain this lucrative expanding market product

Transportation

Extensive road networks provide access to all major cities and towns throughout Australia's State and territories. Inner city transport is equal; to any country worldwide, providing Ecofriendly bus transport while holding onto its nostalgic tram systems.
Taxi companies provide private transport and Australian Rail system provides interstate and territory fast track connection for national commuters. All cities within Australia provide airport transportation. Interstate flights are competitively priced and very affordable, while international flights support our ever increasing tourism market as well as industry export and imports systems.
Australian exporters can reach global markets utilizing Australia's shipping routes, designed departure dates are available on a weekly service operating between Europe and Australia via the Suez Canal. 14 vessels reach destination such as Antwerp, Felixstowe, Rouen, Le Harve, Marseille, Spezia, Pointe Des Galets (Reunion), Port Louis (Maritius), Melbourne, Sydney, Free-mantle & Newzealand of which these services are continually provided by the MSC Europe Service vessel in Freemantle. Shipping transport through Australian ports is on the increase and Australian moves forward to free trade status can only but have a bright and expanding future.

Automotive Industry

The Australian passenger motor vehicle (PMV) industry consists of three car manufacturers and more than 200 component, tooling, design and engineering firms.

The industry is largely based in Victoria and South Australia, with a small share of activity in New South Wales.
The three motor vehicle producers in Australia are Ford, Holden and Toyota since the shutdown of and withdrawal of Mitsubishi Motors Australia. Toyota Australia is involved in the manufacturing, assembling, importing and distribution of motor vehicles and replacement parts for the Australian and overseas markets. Toyota Australia is administered from its head office in Melbourne, and employs approximately 4,500 people across Australia.
The company's flagship brand name is Toyota, which has been associated with the motor vehicle industry around the globe for over 50 years. Toyota builds three models at its Altona manufacturing plant in Victoria, the Camry, Camry Hybrid and Avalon.
Toyota's hybrid range is a range of vehicles which are powered by a hybrid engine, a combination of petrol and electronic power, which are aimed at lower fuel-consumption and a more environment friendly form of fuelling. The range includes the Prius and Camry Hybrid models, the Camry Hybrid being the first hybrid-powered vehicle to be manufactured in Australia.
Holden's manufacturing plant based in Adelaide employ 9500 people Australia wide.GM Holden LTD is an Auto manufacturer that operates in Australia, Its plant is based in Elizabeth Adelaide South Australia. Ford manufacturing plant is based in Broadmeadows and Geelong and Victoria and employs 1560 people presently.

The industry is presently being affected by slump in car sales worldwide and currently facing global changes which may cost jobs to be reduced to maintain profit margins in the future as Australia adjust to world market trends and global economic problems and the strong Australian Dollar.

Financial Services

Despite the downward trend of share markets, Australia recorded stronger than most other Markets. Australia due it continued global demand for it vast mineral base continues to survive the global economic crisis to date.2008 to 2011 has not been a pretty picture.
The whole ‘deleveraging process' - or investors and companies selling shares and other assets to pay off debt - has taken its toll on world economies. Data from all parts of the world shows downward pressure on incomes, profits and economic growth. That's a difficult recipe for risk assets, like shares. Not surprisingly, the major share markets have fallen across the board. Asia and the emerging markets have done a lot better than Europe, which is the region under most financial pressure. Year to date, European markets are down around 12%, the Asian markets are barely down at all and the US is somewhere in between.
Australia has a sophisticated financial market. The Finance and insurance sector contributed almost 8% of GDP in the previous years and had an average annual growth of 5.3 percent. Banks in Australia offer a variety of financial corporate services as well as traditional services and financial advice. Australia's

financial market although on a global scale is small however within the Asian pacific region, it is a large entity. The industry is going through turbulent time and will with defined regulation recover and bounce back and is already showing signs of recovery with governmental Financial Industry incentive stimulation. Presently house prices are dropping and people are cautious, real estate agents have more houses on their books than buyers and banks are expressing if you have a steady job and sufficient income loans are available and they are seeking new customers, this year the banking system has displayed large profits and is in a healthy condition to do business Indicating Australia's economy is vibrant.

Manufacturing

Australia manufacturing accounts for almost $69 billion worth of exports consisting of shipbuilding, automotive components, metals and wood products as well as chemical, Machinery and equipment employs nearly one million people across Australia. Manufacturing exports also take in Nanotechnology products an industry supported by 12 Cooperative Research centers (CRC).

Manufacturing in Australia:

Globally manufacturing of any product is competitive, certain aspects influence the climate of any manufacturing industry: Labor rates, materials, Government support, tax incentives, and rate of inflation, sub-contracting, environmental support and investment attraction.

Australia has developed a structured approach when it comes to attracting overseas manufacturing companies to invest in Australia. Government organizations like Invest Australia, Austrade and Ausindustry have been set up to assist overseas interest in expanding and investing in Australia’s manufacturing industry.
There is a range of manufacturing categories which sustain growth and create employment: food, beverage & tobacco subdivision 23.3%, Machinery and equipment 19.8%, metal product manufacturing 18.0%. 24.7% of revenues was generated by way of exports, while import penetration was 38.1% of domestic demand overall in 2002-03 manufacturing generated $265.7 billion dollars within Australia. Large manufacturing businesses dominate employment up to 54.1% of the manufacturing workforce. Two thirds of the manufacturing activity is situated within the state of New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria. Victoria’s prominent contribution was in machinery and equipment manufacturing with 68,700 people employed and $5.333 billion dollars of produce. Food beverage and tobacco employs 53,700 people and $4.6 billion dollars of produce. Petroleum, coal and chemical and associated product manufacturing employed 38, 9000 people amounting to $3.7 billion dollars.

Renewable Energy

Energy demand is on the increase globally, every country has similar issues as the demand for energy grows and due to the pressure of global warming from emissions of unwanted dangerous poisonous gases into the atmosphere.

The world has stopped to take a breath and address this problem by investing in renewable energy programs such as solar, wind power, hydro, bio-fuel and remote area power systems. Australia is progressing rapidly in its efforts to intensify innovative research and development in new technologies like thin film photovoltaic, fuel cells and control systems. This industry is supported by Australia’s abundant natural resources and 1st class research and development capabilities. This industry provides the Australian consumer of energy with a choice of applications backed up by financial incentives such as rebates, grants and facilitation services giving the customer a level of renewable energy in electricity they can purchase. The aerospace industry employs up to 21,878 people with a turnover of $3.9 billion dollars. Related exports represented 18% of the annual turnover amounting to $709 milion dollars, with civil and military imports of around $3.2 billion dollars. This industry includes aircraft engine refurbishment, avionics repair, guided missile manufacturing and helicopter repairs and manufacturing.
With the reserve bank’s interest rates sustained and relatively low and the national rate of inflation running at 3.7 per annum a good climate for domestic spending has developed increasing the need for supply and demand for domestic manufactured products and an increase in service provider requirements generating new and higher employment opportunities nationally.
Under the Australian Governments Investing for Growth Initiative launched in 1997, assistance has been directed to three key drivers of growth- innovation, investment and exports.

While remaining focus on that area's also encouraging companies within the manufacturing industry to develop new products through grant aided research and development creating an expanding bright future for Australia and its people.

Road Rules

The rules are uniform throughout Australia and approved by Australia's transport Minister. For newcomers a Road Rules Drivers Hand Book can be obtained from any government licensing or car registration office.

Overseas Driver’s Licence Holders

What do you need to do: If you have an overseas Driver’s Licence and have moved to Australia.

You must hand in your overseas Driver’s Licence and obtain an Australian Driver’s Licence within 3 months of being issued a permanent visa and becoming a resident. You will have to pass a written test on the Australian Road Rules. The test can be done at any Customer Service Centre between 9am and 4.15pm Monday to Friday or at country Police Station. Once passed the written test you will be given a Temporary Driving Permit for 1 month. Within that month you will need to do a driving test with an Authorised Testing Officer. It is recommended you have some driving lessons to get familiar with Australian roads and conditions and to familiarise and up date you skills as driving instructors are reasonable priced.
However, the countries listed below have been identified as having comparable licensing standards to Australia.

Applicants from these countries are exempt from undertaking the practical driving test: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Canada, Ireland, Spain, Denmark, Japan, Sweden, Finland, Luxembourg, Singapore, Switzerland, France, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Germany, New Zealand & United States.
A "Certificate of Competency" will be issued to you by the testing officer; you must then take this certificate to the Customer Service Centre for the issue of Drivers Licence. You will have your Photo taken at this stage and a Temporary drivers Licence will be issued to you. You will receive a Learners Permit by post within one week.

You're overseas Driver's Licence.

If your licence is not written in English you must bring an English Translation of your Driver’s Licence or your International Driving Permit proof of identity which is proof of your signature, your age and where you live payment for a written test. While the Road rules are uniform across Australia, some variations in speed limits may exist between states and territories. Road signs designate speed limits in country areas, cities and suburbs.
Drivers must note that speed limits may change as they cross state and territory boundaries. Fines for breaking speed limits can be substantial. It is Illegal to drive if blood alcohol level is over 0.05 % volume Drivers and passengers must wear seat

belts. This includes children. Where babies are carried, special securing bolts and seats must be fitted to the car to accommodate baby capsules.

On the spot fines:

These are called Expiation Notices.
Payments must be paid for by date on the notice or a driver may have to appear in court and will the incur court fees also.
Demerit Points:
Australian Drivers license contains 12 demerit points. Road offences diminish these points every time an offence occurs. If you loose all 12 points in any 3-year period your license will be revoked for a set period. If caught driving while disqualified one could be imprisoned for up to 6 months. Defective Vehicle:
Vehicles driven on Australian Roads must be road worthy. This is a requirement of the Road Traffic Act. If you vehicle is not Road worthy and you are stopped by the police they can defect your vehicle on the spot by sticking a notice on your windscreen. This notice will require you to remedy the defect and then visit a road transport depot to have you vehicle inspected and the defect lifted. A Fee for this will apply. Using Mobile Phones while driving:
It is an offence to use a mobile phone while driving in Australia. You are permitted to use a mobile phone when using a hands fee kit while the vehicle is in motion however this may change soon.

Travelling with animals:
Animals carried in cars must not be on a lead while in transit, and must have adequate ventilation.

Compulsory Third Party (Bodily)

Insurance:
Drivers in Australia must be covered by insurance. It covers injury you may cause to other people while driving. It does not cover injury to you. It does not cover damage to any vehicle or property of your own or any other person. It is an offence to drive a vehicle without the insurance and licence disqualification would result. The insurance premium forms part of the fee required when registering your vehicle. This insurance is covered by SGIC General Insurance.
Third Part (Property) Insurance:
This covers you for property damage e.g. other people’s cars or property. This is at the drivers discretion and is a personal choice. Without it, you may be required to pay for damage to other other people’s property in the event of an accident.

Buying a vehicle in Australia:

Second hand vehicles, The Commissioner for Consumer Affairs provides protection for consumers under the second-hand vehicles ACT 1995. This ACT contains sections dealing with licensing of dealer warranty and sales process.

Items you need to look at first:
1. Affordability
2. Arranging Finance
3. Cost of Insurance
(type of insurance)
4. Vehicle Follow Up Service
5. Stamp Duty
6. Registration
7. Transfer Fee
It is recommended that you have a second opinion on a vehicles condition before you buy. You may obtain this report in writing from the motoring organisation (e.g. RAA in South Australia, NRMA in Victoria, etc.), the Motor Trade Association (MTA) or a qualified independent mechanic. Dealers who sell vehicles must insure prior to sale that there is no existing finance owed on the vehicle. If this should be the case, the dealer must bare the loss.

Details you need to know from the dealer on the sales document:
1. dealers name and address
2. name and address of previous owner
3. accurate odometers reading for warranty condition
A form one is displayed on vehicle windows for purchase of viewing. Form three is you contract of sale. Read this contract carefully; make sure all details are correct. Conditions that you have agreed upon must be on this form. A vehicle must be sold in a road worthy condition, form four covers sale on behalf of a dealer i.e. auctioneer. Form six (6) has to be completed for sale of a vehicle on behalf of non-dealer sale.

Warranty issues:
Defect, which occur or are found during the warranty period, must be rectified according to your warranty conditions with the dealer. There would be no charge to the purchaser warranty applies from the date of purchase. Vehicle costing and warranty: Vehicles costing $3000 to $6000 are covered for the first 3000kms or 2 months, which ever comes first. Over $6000, vehicles are covered by warranty for first 5000kms or 3 months, which ever comes first. Warranty does not apply if:
1. V ehicle is valued at $3000 or less
2. V ehicle is over 200 000kms on odometers
3. V ehicle registration is greater than 15 years
4. Sold over 3 months and is being leased by you
5. Accessories listed on form 1 by the dealer
6. Damage deliberately after the sale of the vehicle
7. Defect not reported during warranty period
It pays to have all warranty work carried out first, an independent inspection carried out prior to purchase will highlight warranty issues at earliest stage. You may forfeit warranty in order to gain a better deal on the sale price. This is ‘waiver of rights’. You must sign an agreement to do this in the presence of a Justice Of the Peace

Private Vehicle Seller:

The seller is not a dealer, warranty will not apply but under general law you still have rights. It is wise to obtain legal advice these are private issues.
Vehicle Securities Register:
This a service you may require which gives you information on any out standing finance owed on your intended purchase, you can use this service to trace the history of the vehicle. Vehicle VIN Number or Chassis Number, Engine Number and Registration need to be provided to this organisation.