spicton1979

Hi, I haven't lived in both places but I can tell you that the cost of living QLD is silly expensive as well. I currently live in the Redlands and we are really struggling as a family of 5 on $100k+super+family assist. We have cut our spends again and again but are facing the reality of possibly having to leave as more than 6 months has gone by and we are still supplementing our income with our previous savings. Your situation will be very different to mine so giving you a breakdown of the spends might not help but as food goes, we only shop at Aldi at the moment and can't bring the cost down from $300 per week.

Hi, I arrive in Brisbane on 2nd September (so a week on Sunday) and will be looking for work (175 permanent residency visa). I have heard two things recently that have concerned me; apparently the IT sector in QLD is heavily reliant on the insurance and public service sectors and both have been hit hard recently, I've been told the following: 1) Due to the floods from 18 months ago, the insurance companies are on their knees and have had to make a lot of cuts to IT services etc. 2) There have been big cuts to the government service sector due to some new austerity measures. I have a strong CV and haven't had any problems getting work in the UK but I must admit that I am concerned as I don't have any contacts over there and can't afford to be out of work for months on end. If anyone is in the know about how the market is for Software Developers, I'd be greatful to hear what you think? Thanks Steve