I agree runslikeafish, economy in Oz is definitely better than UK. Cost of living in Tasmania, I have been told, is cheaper than Perth where I am. Personal preference between Launceston and Hobart for us, people seemed friendlier when we were there on holiday and there seems to be more to do in Hobart. Mind you we are in our late 40s/early 50s and will be looking for totally different things than someone with a young family. Employment agencies will definitely be the way to go for us, I am a nurse and should be ok for a job, but my 54 year old husband is worried that he won't get anything, but hopefully as runslikeafish says, it isn't always what you know but who you know when looking for a job, so think we will be networking as soon as we can. We will make a decision about a move after our second visit next month, Perth or Tassie. Good luck with your decision, would be interested to know what you decide. Anne