cw1968

When I told a few people that it would cost £4k to take our dog some were surprised we would pa that and one comment was along the lines of leave him here - he's only a dog. My response was that he is like a child to us - that's the context of my comment. The "just" above is in that it is my wife, me and the dog is no other dependents - ie "just"!!!

thanks Carissa - I knew the company, and an old colleague recommended me.

I must admit I have fell for the myth on PR after 2 years on a 457 (if we decided to stay). We would not qualify for a points based visa now. This is a key issue now as I would find getting another job in the UK difficult. Appreciate the advice.

We don't have kids - just a westie - who is just as important to us though. I guess the job questions are the most of concern if we return after say 2-3 years or sooner. I will be in my 50's and despite what some might say that's a difficult age to get another job.

Thanks - I need to clarify - I am happy to receive a do it or don't do it view from those who have or haven't - apologies for the confusion. Cheers.

Hi, New to forum but have been a lurker for months. I have received a sponsored job offer in Sydney, am going through a 457 process, have a wife and a dog who will be coming with us. I am self employed but the role I have been offered is actually less then I can earn in the UK if fully employed and my wife is a nursing auxiliary who hopefully would eventually find something similar in Oz. My wife is fantastic in that she is happy to go anywhere within reason and we were originally looking at this as an opportunity to try Oz and see if we liked it - even though it would be a very expensive gamble given move costs, upheaval and all the other emotional issues. NOW...................I'm having doubts about whether we should take the gamble. We're late 40's, and whilst do not live with a grass is greener mindset - am thinking if the thoughts about what we'll miss - family/friends, real ale, country walks/pubs, access to Europe, music festivals, and the variety of countryside within such a small and accessible area (UK compared to Oz) - is reason enough to save our money and just be happy with what we have here and know. I am also concerned with the cost of living in Oz and the potential of an economic downturn but that could apply here in due course I guess. This is a decision that my wife and I will make pretty soon and obviously one we will consider carefully so whilst I am not looking for any do it / don't do it advice (although I'm happy to receive it) I am asking if anyone else had these concerns well in advance of moving and how they felt after the move if they did indeed decide to do it. Thanks for reading. CW