Brit In Oz

I'm interested .... how much computer knowledge is required? Cheers.

Hi John, I've been finding that there are heaps of jobs here in Oz for manual trades, building type jobs. Especially if you've got good communcation/language skills (which you have obviously have), which puts you at an immediate advantage over alot of the other applicants (not from English speaking backgrounds), which many of these roles seem to attract. A local Aussie guy that Ive been doing some labouring for has been finding it almost impossible to get an additional Carpenter on his team -- seems like any qualified Aussie carpenter is off starting his own business / doesnt want to work form someone else. Get in touch with the some of the small individual builders https://www.oneflare.com.au and show them that your keen. I've found most Aussie great in that way, they are usually keen to give you a go if you've got a good attitude (you've obviously got the experience - 30 years exp)

agree ... Sydney/Australia is definitely not perfect ... but then again, what country is. From my perspective --- there arent too many 1st world countries like Australia that you can earn good money, have a career, where they speak English, and where you can go to the beach / have a great outdoors lifestyle so close to the city centre. But each to their own I suppose. I'm definitely not one to criticize others for their personal choices.

Caloundra is one of my favourite places too. It's a pretty happening place with lots of chilled out cafes, bars, restaurants etc - and a stunning beach. But nowhere near as over the top as Surfers ... Another fav of mine up that way is Noosa. I lived up on the Sunshine Coast for a few months late last year/earlier this year before coming down to Sydney, and the Noosa Surf Club was a regular spot for me - the view of the beach from up on the 1st level is incredible! Noosa def is a little bit more expensive, but there are affordable options if you keep your eyes open! I'd definitely recommend that you rent for a while after you land in Oz, dont rush into it, just so that you can sample a few different places and get a feel for each. You can try all the usual suspects: Stayz.com.au , AirBnB ...

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if proximity and $$$ are the most important factors for you ... then yes, Randwick is definitely going to be your best option

I've got a mate that was working out there not too long ago ... he didnt have great things to say about it LOL. But seriously ... he didnt have any troubles (working during the day), but yeah, did say there were some dodgy areas at night. I think you'd be ok there, just need to keep your eyes and ears open ... just all the normal stuff you'd already do in some of the dodgier places back home.

I'm finding Seek is good but the jobs seem to be mainly for the bigger companies. I'm finding more luck on jobs with small companies on gumtree ... http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-jobs/nsw/c9302l3008839 ... so sort of depends what type of company size your applying for I'd say. Hope that helps.

I've been told yesterday that I can definitely work as Trades Assistant (TA) ... which apparently has rates $ much better than a general labourer. Apparently the deal is that a TA works alongside a licenced sparky, but essentially they are doing the same work (especially if you are an Electrician anyway) ... however, the Aussie sparky needs to be present to review and signoff on all work.

Definitely agree that you need to pick your days (if possible) for sightseeing in Sydney during winter. It's not uncommon at all to get bright sunny days during winter! (with temps up to around 22-24 degrees). Agree with @FTA who said to avoid the Blue Mountains on a cloudy/foggy day - can get quite wet and damp on a day like that. Oh ... what about Katoomba ? I've been up there on a cold/wet day and had a great time - quite a few old pubs / cafe's in the area that are at their best on a cold winter day with open fire, beers, food. Definitely worth keeping in mind. You could try: http://www.hydromajestic.com.au/ or the art deco Paragon cafe http://www.bluemts.com.au/11104/the-paragon-cafe/ (lots of other interesting cafes and antique/collectable shops in the area too)!

Randwick is going to be close to work ... but doesnt have alot of atmosphere / not very pretty. I'd suggest Coogee or Bronte if your looking for something close to the hospital (both closer to beach). You should also think about other areas in the Eastern Suburbs like: Paddington, Rushcutters Bay, Darlinghurst, Elizabeth Bay ... these have heaps of things to see and do (much nicer than Randwick) ... and not too far from Prince of Wales hospital by bus.

I've just come down to Sydney after spending last 6 months up on 'the Coast'. I was living at Broadbeach (with my girlfriend) in an apartment ... I love it. Loved being closed to the action, but just far enough out of Surfers to have some peace and quiet. Lots of transport options (buses) that run pretty regularly too.

Hi All, I'm new in Sydney, having recently arrived on a working holiday visa. I'm an Electrician looking for work. Can anywhere point me in the right direction where best to find work in the construction industry? Cheers James