MrsPOB

What service are you using for the doggies? We've used PetAir each time, and like you, we had one easy flyer and one anxious. Fraggle our boy, no problem ever. Our girl, Doozy, is an anxious flyer. We always get the service that sprays the crate with calming pheromones, which is really helpful. We also requested that the crates be placed together (next to each other) so that they can see and smell each other. This also goes for quarantine. We are a little worried about our next trip, as it will be the first time Doozy has ever flown without her brother. She was a bit lost the first two months he was gone and was always looking for him. She's only now using all of the dog bed. She still doesn't sit on his side of the sofa, eat from his side of the bowl or wait on his side of the door. The other day I was grooming her, and when I pulled out the brush, I realised I had left hair in the brush from the last grooming. It was Fraggle's; after a bit of a cry, I realised that Doozy was smelling and licking the hair. Her tail was wagging, and she looked up at me as if to say, I smell him! I smell him! Where is he? Even now, the tears are flowing.

Part of the responsibility of taking the visa is making sure that you pass along your knowledge, experience and skill to an Australian Citizen. The point is that you make yourself "unnecessary" in order for an Australian to step into your role. So you come in with the knowledge that you will be replaced and that you will "no longer" be necessary... if you do your job right. And my goal is to do my job right...just today, I was told that I "fought too hard" to make sure my skill was passed along. My response... Sorry, I want to make sure there are more women in my field. I don't apologise for that.

I completely agree @Raplin45. Our beautiful boy was with us for 14 precious years, and we lost him just a few months ago (Feb), and we still catch ourselves having those weak moments. He went through two passports and never had a problem with travelling. Even the last time we came to Australia (six years back), he was stuck in "jail," and the husband made it a point of visiting him nearly every day (2-3hrs on public transport to visit him), whenever visiting hours permitted. He was with us through thick and thin, and we were with him.. the same. People did question us why, and we would say because we love him, and he loves us... he got the experience of running in the mountains of California, the tundra of Canada, the farmlands of England and the outback of Australia. Not to mention all the places in between. He hasn't been "replaced" and more than likely never will... he was one of a kind.

Completely agree. The husband and I agree that if we had children, it would be a whole other story. But so would the job/profession I have chosen; not everyone is comfortable with knowing that your role will be gone (or you will no longer be needed) after 12-14 months. You come, you do your big project, make friends, live the local experience and then get the offer to move along to the next "must-do" project on the list. I think, thanks to our early career opportunities, both the husband and I got used to moving and experiencing something different every 2-3 years. As we get closer and closer to retirement age, that will no doubt change... but for now, we enjoy the opportunity to explore new places or re-experience a place we've been many years before. Definitely different strokes for different folks.

I think that's like saying everyone who has a job gets paid fairly or everyone who deserves help gets it ... the best I can recommend is ask the Australian government why policemen/women are no longer on the list or why they aren't on the Global Talent hunt list. I can only speak for my personal experience and what may be possible. I know everyone has a difference visa experience and a lot of that has to do with timing... which is unfortunate. Especially when there are time limits placed on who's offered or allowed a visa.

Keep in mind that this... "permanent visa for people who have an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement in an eligible field" is a relative measurement based on the track/field in which you are looking to obtain a visa. I've been in the tech field for 25 years and have spent the last seven years focused on HPC/Data/AI/ML workloads. It may not be special to some, but to others, it is. Yes, I have a boatload of certifications, went through the ACS professional certification process, have several publications (whitepapers and studies) under my name and have done the international speaking circuit for High Capacity Workloads - all of which were submitted as my record of achievement within my field. When we were looking to return to Australia, I was given the impression that I was too old. Then it was suggested I wasn't talented enough. But that wasn't the case; the Global Talent visa was created to address issues around not having enough people in Australia within specialised areas that could help and contribute to a healthy economy. During the whole process, I was actually called a "unicorn" (which made me laugh); the reference was made because there are only a handful of women in the field in which I focus. Now to those I work for and with, I am considered special because of what I can bring to my role, but to others who have no idea about my area of speciality, I might not meet their definition of "special" or "exceptional". It really is relative to the track/field in which you are looking - you can't paint everyone with the same brush. It takes many different professions to contribute to a healthy economy, not just one kind. Referring back to the OP who asked if there was a way, I mentioned there is... actually there are several ways. But, like everything, you need to figure out what matches up with who you are and what you can bring to the table. At the end of the day, if you can show how you can contribute to Australia's economy and society positively (and better yet, exponentially), then the powers that be will see that there is an advantage to extending a visa.

LOL ... it's not really news, I know everyone feels that way. My 98-year-old grandfather keeps telling everyone he hasn't aged since 50. So very much a state of mind. The feeling I was trying to convey is that being over 45 doesn't stop or mean you can't contribute to the society or economy. If you have something to offer (and I think we all do through our backgrounds and experience) then don't let that stop you or hold you back from trying for a visa.

It's really nothing overly complicated. You find your track; you get your recommendation and submit your proof of experience. It's no different than all the hard work anyone puts in to get their visas. The big 'rock' is that your profession or skillset needs to be on the list of professions that will help Australia thrive. And, like most countries, there are a lot of professions that are needed to build a healthy and thriving economy. One of my biggest accomplishments since being here has been hiring 25 Australians into role and helping them gain skills and qualifications in the tech space. But there's loads of other areas to build upon... if you have the experience, knowledge and skill, there's opportunity. It's not about being anyone 'special' we've all gained experience and skill, it's just about being willing to share and help others grow and be successful.

James, I'm not sure of your background/skillset, but you might want to check out the Global Talent Program (Global Talent Independent program (GTI) (homeaffairs.gov.au)). I was extended an invite at the ripe old age of 53 (in body, mentally I'm in my 30ies - at least that's what I believe ;)) and just celebrated my 54th birthday in Australia. I started the process in Mar/Apr 2022; we had visas issued in Aug (2022) and were on a flight by September.

Many thanks all for the additional responses and thoughts. Our decision has been in the making for just over a year (without sounding too cold or morbid, that's when the obligations that originally brought us back to the UK are no longer a factor) - so indeed there have many, many conversations. Checking out the forum, looking at current and previous posts, speaking about what drove our frustrations - some ended in laughter, some ended in "why were we so worked up" and loads ending in "well that's what we'd be going back to". We've had countless conversations with friends - both still in Australia and those elsewhere. So it's a topic that's been well covered and I'm sure will continue to be one, because we both know that even then, there are going to be new experiences that haven't been considered. Just like when we returned to the UK, times/situations change. The experiences we had back in 2014/2015 have more than likely have morphed, especially given the current climate of the world - but, as said before, we are looking at the totality of the experience. And pragmatically going in with our eyes wide open - well, attempting to anyway As mentioned above, the possibility of returning is somewhat of a long-shot... but I'll remain to be positive until I get that door slam

I think that's a fair statement. There were loads of bumps in the road, many we weren't prepared for... that combined with the pressures we were facing from the UK just made everything seem worst than what it really was. Looking for every crack, every little bump, it eventually just piled up. Like most people, looking back, who've gained a sense of perspective once we were out of that moment. Coming to the conclusion that what was clearly a mountain, followed by an erupting volcano at the time, was nothing more than an anthill - was most certainly a face slap realisation. But as they say, 20/20 is hindsight. We can't go back, we can just own up to the bad decision made and take some comfort, at least, in the knowledge that we know better now and we don't blame each other for the decisions that were made in the moment. Regret is a big enough thing to carry around, we don't need blame - which thankfully both my husband and I agree isn't a healthy thing to keep around in a marriage. Oh and why go back... I should have answered that first We realised that we were our healthiest and most active as a couple while in Australia. The difficulties we faced actually pulled us together as a couple... We were more interested in each other - our well-being, mental health, etc. So really, that was it... we were healthier, happier and stronger as a couple. And although the sunshine was not missed as a huge bonus - it was really our enjoyment as a couple that stood out. PS And just for those curious, we are still riding high as a couple since our time in Australia. We would just like to continue the lifestyle.

Many thanks to you both for your quick responses. I've reached out to someone who comes highly recommended on the forum, so I'm not really worried about that bit - meaning getting the assessment, it's just a matter of filling it out. Although you both have confirmed our worst fears. It was recommended that we look at a sub 124 (Distinguished Talent Visa) because of my experience and status I hold within my area of work expertise - and I haven't hit the age limit of 55 (for a few more years). It seems pretty straight forward and with the ability to show that I've published whitepapers, have done the conference circuit in my field, held roles of importance, yadda, yadda, yadda - can prove my impact within my business area. We are also exploring the sponsor-yourself route for a 457, as well as a business investment - but both of those come with their own challenges. *sigh* We've always prided ourselves in saying we've done things in our life that we wanted, normally against the grain and not with much family support or approval, and we haven't regretted any of those decisions - be the outcomes good or bad. But the one we made through pressure, we've always regretted... and I fear it will always stay with us.

Thanks for sharing the update... *sigh*

As per recommendations on the forum, I'm in the process of filling out an assessment form to speak in a bit more detail about my query - but as most know, there's loads of information to fill out. And, I thought, in the interest of time (and my sanity) I would just throw out this query in the hope someone might have been (or is) in a similar situation. I'm currently in a Global role as an independent contractor based in the UK, but the plan has always been to relocate back to Australia (we lived in Australia 6 years ago, but had to return to the UK due to family obligations, which no longer exist). My employer has offered me a permanent role with the option of living "anywhere". They are a very large global company and there is some flexibility in the job I do - as I work with people all over the world. But here's the twist - they do not sponsor visa, full stop. Happy to do transfers for people who move on their own steam, but I guess don't want the headache or responsibility of dealing with mobility issues. I have the option of remaining a contractor or flipping to a perm, but we (my husband and I) would really love to get back to Australia before our age becomes an issue (although I've already gone over the golden age of 45, the husband still hasn't). Has anyone been in a somewhat similar situation? Looking to move, but don't need a job - as you have one and are gainfully employed. Employer is happy to keep you on, but not willing to formally sponsor a visa. As a side note, I should mention my husband is self-employed (eCommerce business) and he, as well, can be located anywhere. Any thoughts or inputs much appreciated!

I'm guessing the weather there is pretty much similar to that of Sydney... Pissin' down and cold! ? Although I'm sure you have the good future of having central heating and a well insulated house that doesn't have 2 inch gaps at the bottom of every door ?

Thanks srh82, been on there - not many open to taking pets or at least the ones that are, are asking for huge deposits up front. We'll keep looking...

Professional couple relocating to the London area seeking short-term let for a period of 6-8 weeks. Looking for a flat/house in good condition with full amenities (all utilities, kitchen & white goods, lounge & bedroom furnishings, wifi, tv/cable, etc.), easily accessible to the city, local to parks and accepts pets (we have a hypo-poodle cross - near zero smell and shed). Happy to provide additional information and reference upon request and agreement.

Not so much "reskill" as "re-hone" ... You have a tremendous asset, your maturity. Many organisations (especially those in Australia) look at maturity as an asset and someone who can bring a wealth of experience (as long as it's relevant to Australia, of course :wink:). So if I could make a recommendation... I'd say use your knowledge to re-hone your skill set and look to the cloud. Take a step back and approach it from the angle of what would an organisation need to do to accomplish a "lift and shift". Move their on-premise data assets (hardware, software, services, etc.) to the cloud. As you have insight into the applications, their architectural requirements, you can provide that all-up view of what it would mean to move a particular process and/or service into the cloud. As more and more organisations look to leverage services in the cloud, you can, from a strategic point of view, use your previous experience as a developer, support analyst and even project manager to help guide them in that move. I know it's difficult and I'm sure you've heard it a thousand times... but the IT field requires a constant evolution in skill set. But let's be honest, the majority of the time its rarely the case of completely re-skilling. It's mostly re-honing or adjusting the focus point of the skills we currently have... Just a recommendation, so definitely take with a pinch of salt

I was kinda in the same boat... I got my husband excited about a move Down Under... Wouldn't it be great... sunshine everyday, BBQ's every night, beautiful wide open spaces and a lovely open plan home. Cost of living is cheap and we wouldn't have to put up with the everyday grind... But really, in the end we were worst off and as the months ticked by I became more and more miserable until I couldn't hide it any longer. It was a last minute trip home that did me in... I was near tears just thinking about how I had to get back on a plane to Sydney. When I got back I told the hubby I just couldn't do it any more. I didn't want to stay in Australia one more year. He was understanding and asked questions... And in the end he said what mattered the most... "your happiness is important - we are either both happy or not." It was hard to bring up and I thought about how I would approach the subject the entire trip back... It was me, after all, that talked him into the move. But as many people have mentioned, you need to communicate - especially when you are supposed to be taking on the world together. Take a deep breath and, if necessary, a shot of liquid courage and start talking.... you will full loads better for coming clean and including your partner in your thoughts and worries.

Thanks Cal!

We are heading back after 2 years and I'd have to agree with everyone else's replies - stay put. Unless you are both tremendously keen on the move... it will be hard going the first couple of years. Granted there might be a few positives, but really when you compare the two, London to Melbourne, there really isn't a huge benefit in the swapping of one lifestyle for the other. It's like changing an apple for an orange... in the end both are fruit, just really depends on your personal taste....

We are planning our move back to the London area and are in the market for a short-term let to get us through the first couple of months while we get settled. PIO seems like the perfect cross roads for a posting, as it has people coming over and people going back. But I'm not quite sure which forum area is the best to post the request in... Would it be real-estate? Moving back to the UK? Or Wanted? Suggestions or Thoughts?

You can add me to the list as well - still here in AU and have managed to secure a position in London with an agreed start date. Definitely was a lot easier looking for and securing a job from the AU to UK, versus the other way around. I posted a message on the IT thread that your husband might find helpful... just some tips for looking remotely. PS I have to mention, video conferencing is quite common now and most business, large and small, have some sort of service that supports the capability. One thing I'd mention, make sure you have an account set up that's associated with a "professional" name... rather than any nickname or "handle". Good Luck with the Search!

It's been a while since I've been on the thread and with a recent change in our situation I thought I'd quickly chime in... After nearly 2yrs in Australia we've decided to head back to the UK. Like most who've made the decision, it's just come down to different strokes for different folks. To make our UK landing as soft as possible, I decided to do what I did before (when we were looking to move from the UK to AU) - start the job search remotely and see what could be lined up for when we landed back in the UK - initially I thought best case would be in-person meetings/interviews. And I have to say, the process was 1000% easier this time around (AU to UK) - I'm sure it was due to a combination of things, but what struck me the most was the fact that most recruiters, employers and interviewers found my "global foot print" to be a huge asset. They didn't see the lack of experience locally for the past 2 years as a negative, they considered all of my experience - in total, as an opportunity to contribute a different point of view to the organisation - whereas when I was looking before for Australia, no one cared about the experience I had in the States, Europe or the Middle East, even Asia... all wanted local Australian experience. It seemed, at the time, not many were interested in the external experience you could bring into the organisation, they were more interested in maintaining the status quo. What relevance could you bring to the role, did you have the Australian mind-set, etc. For me, I found this very challenging in positioning myself as the best possible candidate for the job I was going for... I did in the end succeed with a global company (I mentioned before in another posting that, that only lasted 6 months before I was on to my next role). Anyway... All in all, I have to say (looking back and revisiting old emails) that I probably spent around 6-8 months looking for a job in AU, whilst in the UK, before I landed a job in Sydney and we were packing up to head down under. On the flip side, it took me less than 8 weeks looking and landing a role in London... that's job offer in hand and start date scheduled. I will say that the old tips still hold true - 1) Customise don't generalise your Resume > Recruiters spend less than 2 mins looking at a Resume, make sure yours resonates and reflects the job you are applying for - use the correct buzz words and local references > Avoid overly wordy Resumes - remember there's a difference between a Resume and CV (http://jobsearch.about.com/cs/curriculumvitae/f/cvresume.htm)... I have 3 different "versions" that I tweaked based on the roles I applied for... my visual "One Pager", a Resume and my CV... use each wisely. 2) Update your LinkedIn profile > Make sure it's current and up-to-date with your experience and qualifications > Update your location to be the one you want to work in (you can still put your actual location in the specific role you currently hold or did most recently hold) > Make sure you have a current photo (not a party photo or a holiday photo, an actual professional-looking one) > Join in any local groups to help build your local network (connections will help you land jobs and can also help with doing an internal referral - and everyone likes getting a bit of £££ for a successful referral) > If you are someone who leads initiatives, programmes or projects ... MAKE sure to make use of the Projects capability of LinkedIn, let people know what you've done 3) Subscribe to Skype or another similar service > Use technology to your advantage, don't only agree to a phone call... suggest a video call. Everyone likes to SEE who they are talking to and video technology is very common place in most organisations. You'll be surprised how many people appreciate this offer and how many brownie points it can win... just remember, dress to impress not to "chat" 4) Don't flood the market > Avoid flooding the job market with your CV, it will be the fastest way for recruiters to ignore your CV when a role for an exact match does come up. > Be picky (as much as you might not be able to) about where you post your CV and whom you share it with Hopefully the above helps... happy to answer any questions, PM or otherwise.

Definitely don't let guilt drive your decision or what you think others might think of you ... you need to do what's best for you, your family and Rufus. As an outsider looking in, my opinion would be to re-home him, it might sting at the beginning but as long as you can see him settled with a good family it will, in the long run, probably be the best decision for all. Like most on here, we are pet owners and we've made several big moves with our beloved Fraggle - we couldn't image leaving him behind, there was never a discussion about leaving him behind it was a given he'd be moving with us - wherever we went. To discuss it would be like having a discussion about whether my husband would like to stay behind. But that's us and everyone is different. I've had friends who've given their beloved pets to good families... they made the same loving decision we made - what's in the best interest of the family and pet. It's a hard decision, so sending you good vibes and best wishes in whatever you decide to do...