PWA200

Its just like the EU - it all starts with the 'free trade' then slowly it will turn into 'free movement' and eventually Australia will be flooded with cheap foreign labor. Warning to all Australians: Look at what has happened in the Uk with the Eastern Europeans flooding the market. Don't be fooled by your politicians. All of your jobs and industry will disappear if you continue down this path. Don't let it happen.

In general, to apply for citizenship you will need to: be a migrant who is a permanent resident satisfy the residence requirement be likely to reside, or to continue to reside, in Australia or to maintain a close and continuing association with Australia be of good character if you are 18 years of age or over. I don't think you will fool them.

What are you going to do while you are 'waiting' in Australia for 4 years? I was always under the impression PR was for those who wish to make a serious commitment to Australia and eventually become a citizen?

Probably best for you to stay in India then.

I haven't struggled to find work. However this is because I have the relevant experience and qualifications (i.e loads of DP time, extensive anchor handling, project vessels etc etc....). I was also aware of this before I migrated which many don't seem to be on here. Its clear what qualifications/experience companies want - its always advertised - and if you don't have this then there is no point migrating. Simple. The questions within this thread are always about passing orals, 'send me ur questions plz' and paperwork etc........I think people who are even thinking of moving to Australia need to step back and make a realistic assessment of their employability before mentioning the paperwork. For example if you've been Master for 20 years on a bulk carrier your not going to get work in the offshore sector because you don't actually have the relevant experience (sorry but its true - been there and seen the consequences). The government are clearly wrong with the 1000 person ceiling for Maritime Transport Professionals. There is work, but as you said, it is very specialized and only suitable for a very few with specific backgrounds. This thread needs to reflect that - as someone mentioned $20'000 spent on migrating is a pretty bad investment if theres no job at the end.

I went through with the process and moved to Australia and I agree with your statement (and the prior statement). I wouldn't recommend even thinking about this to 99.99% people: Unless you are single, have no children, can support yourself with significant savings, have actual relevant work experience and some very specific qualifications (and I don't mean Master 1) its pretty much a ridiculous path to take right now. Some people have actually done it and you have my full respect - however you really do have to commit to this process: for example it took me over 2 years just to get the visa (not even mentioning moving half way around the world then having to find work). The Skillselect occupation ceiling for up to 1000 Marine Transport Professionals per year is in no way an indication of a high demand for marine personnel down here. A PR visa is not a 'golden ticket' which will guarantee you work in the Australian maritime sector. This thread needs a bit of a reality check because at times it appears to encourage people to take some serious risks and waste a lot of their money/time. There is a lot more to this than simply clearing orals exams, AMSA and paperwork (which seems to be the main concern of people coming on here begging to be spoon fed everything). The orals shouldn't be a big deal - we have all done this before and should be able to pass without an issue. Your problems going to be finding work after you eventually arrive. I know this will ruin some people dreams, but its just a reality. I'm on the ground here, I've been through the process and I know these things from experience.

Having just moved down here I agree with CaptainR. The job market is extremely tough and I would say unless you have 5+ years of offshore experience you are not going to find a job in Australia.

What do you think about the Land Cruiser V8 turbo diesel?

Yeah I suppose the offshore experience helps quite a lot in Aus................luckily I've got lots of that. I think it would be much higher risk to move to Aus without offshore and DP time. I think $50-$75 is reasonable to be honest..........$120 was never particularly realistic............arabs building ski slopes in the desert! Clearly ridiculous! And always remember, 'constant care' is how we will 'win in the storm' LOL :wink:

Will be in WA, probably going to buy a new one (had some bad experiences with 2nd hand cars in the past!)

Yes we are similar ages.........and appear to have left Uk for similar reasons.........sounds like Aus is screwed then............oh dear...............like you say the entire industry is taking a hammering. My previous employer sent out a message about potential redundancies yesterday.........and have banned cashing in leave......luckily I cashed my leave early and quit! Not sure why I'm still on their mailing list really! Always interesting to hear whats going on anyway...... Your analysis of aus sounds like UK (minus cruise ships)! I will buy a cheap 4WD or van, and take a later life gap year around Australia, then see my days out in McDonalds (I'm not going back to Uk! Never!) Not really sure about the price of oil being unsustainable at $50.........I thought most of Aus was gas anyway? I suppose the two prices are linked anyhow.

Hi furkew, Thats some great input! I'm planning on going offroad/touring. Whats your opinion of the Patrols 3.0L turbo diesel - do you think its underpowered? Is the 3.0L diesel quite reliable? I was always told the patrols drive train is very strong compared to most 4WDs. I done quite a lot of offroad in the middle east and always thought the large V8 petrols were best on the sand, though I don't know how much sand driving is done is Aus? Now I'm leaning towards the Patrol (after looking at a few today!)

Well........since I started working in 2006 my generations entire existence seems to have been one long never ending recession, so it doesn't bother or worry me much. Its been alright for the older generation whose houses, land and state benefits seem to go up in value regardless of the economic climate. How long do you think it will take for things to pick up CaptainR? Mcdonalds Australia here I come - another great stage in life! But I agree with you its probably not a good idea to move unless you have a job or significant savings to see you through potential unemployment.

From my research: Patrol Y61 (standard): $60,027 Land Cruiser 70 (wagon): $66,500 So about $7'000 difference. Land Cruiser seems to keep its value more as well............

Still can't decide! Its between Land Cruiser 70 Wagon GXL vs Nissan Patrol ST. I decided the Defender is a no-go. Nissan is cheaper but the engine is smaller and I'm not sure if its as tough as the cruiser. I am going to take the car properly off road none off this sissy nonsense! Prado doesn't have proper off road suspension/ground clearance at the front I was told? Think I'm edging towards the Land Cruiser 70......................... I might hire one for a day and see what its like (probably really bad on tarmac).