WelshBen

I always use http://www.skyscanner.com.au/ On there you can filter on dates, airline, number of stops etc. It should enable you to get the best price.

Christmas in July is quite popular with my friends. The weather in July in Melbourne can be similar to the UK in December. Lots of bars in St. Kilda have Xmas decorations up, play Carols and serve a traditional Turkey Roast.

I had this issue, you need to change your region to Australia. It then allows you to use an Australian card to pay for things. Settings > iTunes & App Stores > Apple ID > View Apple ID > sign in > Country/Region

I was in a similar position to you, being around the same age and a Software Tester. I decided to go for State Sponsored Permanent Residency. Victoria was (and I think still is?) the only State that sponsors Software Testers.

I went last year with a general admission ticket and had a brilliant time. Everywhere is crazy busy though, so it can be difficult to see the action (and get to the bar!!). Reminded me a lot of Cheltenham on Gold Cup Day. I'll be attending again this year but going to take in Derby Day too, as everyone I've spoken to says its the best day.

Thanks for the replies folks!

Hi, Is anyone able to recommend me a good Melbourne based accountant to do my tax return? I am based in St. Kilda but happy to travel. My return should be very straight forward, but I'd like to ensure I maximize the allowances I'm entitled to. Thanks!!

I used Seven Seas to ship 4 large boxes to Melbourne. It was a fantastic service, door to door - I'd highly recommend them.

My timeline is in my signature. Once the ACS has everything they needed, it took approximately one month. I have no idea what current processing times are though. Good luck with the rest of your application!

You've made the correct decision for SA - https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/SNOL%20data

Hi Noob - I was successfully assesed under 'Software Tester'. They are two seperate codes. When I was looking only 'Software Tester' was on the list for Victoria, and only 'ICT System Test Engineer' was on the list for South Australia. If you applying for State Sponorship, make sure you've selected the correct one for your chosen state.

Hi Stu, St. Kilda isn't a particularly big place, so you won't have much trouble finding everything. Ackland Street is full of good bars and restaurants – I recommend Veludo and Big Mouth (bars) on the weekends. You’ve obviously got Luna Park which is worth a look. Fitzroy Street is home to the Elephant and Wheelbarrow and numerous other bars, and the ESPY on the promenade is worth checking out, especially on a Sunday. When I first moved over I stayed at the Barkly Hotel backpackers. The bar there is always lively and a good place to meet other backpackers. Enjoy!

A couple of areas that might be worth looking at: Chadstone Ringwood Box Hill Quite an easy commute into the city, and you’ll find houses within your budget. I can’t comment on the schools though.

I was in a similar position, I also work in IT but as a software tester. I applied for lots of roles from the UK and had zero interest. I made the move to Melbourne, and as soon as I starting applying from this side I had huge interest and I was able to secure a 6 month contract role within two weeks of landing. My advice would be go for it, and make the move if your situation allows. Good luck!!

Another good recommendation – thank you!!

That could definitely be an option. I was speaking to someone last weekend who put me off heading somewhere with a tropical climate March due to the wet season. I’ve never experienced a wet season before. Should this put me off? I’d love to visit Cairns or the Port Douglass area.

Hi guys, myself and fiancé moved from UK to Melbourne back in October and loving in so far. My brother (our 1st visitor) arrives in 3 weeks for a 2 week stay. We’re planning on taking some time off and going away on a long weekend with him. Initially I had my heart set on the Gold Coast, and we were thinking of heading up to Byron Bay but have been warned off about the wet season? Another option is the Great Ocean Road, although again I’m a bit concerned about the weather as we’ll be in the beginning of March. My back up plan is Sydney as I was in the Coogee / Bondi area over New Year and loved it, but would prefer somewhere new. I’m 31, my partner 25 and brother 22 – we’re looking for something ‘beachy’ with good nightlife and show him a different side to the City Life of Melbourne. Any ideas gratefully received!

I booked my flights last week for my trip in August. I always use http://www.skyscanner.com to find the best deals.

Another vote for Singapore. We flew Heathrow to Mellbourne and were very impressed. We have since booked a return vist back home with them.

The majority of people that have consumed the burgers are said to be in a 'stable' condition :biglaugh:

In the weeks before I moved over, I started applying for jobs via Seek but had absolute zero interest. I did arrange a meeting with Hays upon my arrival, who discussed the current market and rates etc. which was pretty usefull. Here's the link - http://www.hays.com.au/advice-services/HAYS_178758 However once I had arrived and had an Australian address on my CV, I was getting reponses to nearly every application I made. I started a new contract within 2 weeks of landing in Melbourne. It can be daunting, but if you've got the right skills you shouldn't have any issues. Good luck!!

It's an amazing feeling after all the hard work - enjoy :cool: