[Paul&Chris]

Hi Rachel,

There is nothing wrong with being a student - when I came out of the Air Force I did a 2 year BTEC in Computing and I was 44 at the time, however I have got to admit that if Paul isn't able to join the military out there then I think it would be better for Paul to do the studying as it is quite difficult to transfer his skills from the military into civilian life. I wished I had joined this site a long time ago, it gives me heart to know that other people are succeeding in getting to Australia. Thanks once again for all the info and advice
Chris

Originally Posted by Rachel&Stu

Hiya Chris

Happy to help with any questions - cheeky or otherwise! It's such a traumatic experience trying to follow all the rules and regulations of the DIMIA, I think that's why myself, and others here on PIO don't mind sharing our experiences!

Stu is 31 on Sunday and Jenna is 17. He's going to study Automotive Engineering and my daughter, a Diploma in Children's Services. We' ve had loads of help and advice from Katherine at www.studyaustralia.com.au. All of her advice and help has been free, as she gets paid by the Australian colleges to place international students. We decided that Stu would be better as the, er, student, as I am the big four-oh this year, by the time I'd be finishing the course would be 43,44 and cutting it a bit fine. So I will work the 20hrs that I'm allowed, and Stu and Jen can also work 20hrs.

We are really big fans of WA and Perth in particular, but struggled finding info on International Students in that State. Katherine is based in Melbourne, so that's where we're headed. There are at least 2 other regular posters on PIO that are also studying, they're both off to Qld.

The official Government website is www.studyinaustralia.gov.au, and I also found www.LiveInVictoria.vic.gov.au a helpful site.

Ask away anything......and good luck.

Rachel