daveinoz

Thanks for the feedback, but I can't see a more suitable spot for this query than here.

Thanks for the replies and the links guys, and sorry for not responding. I must fix my notifications! Due to my disability, my super is in my bank, but it's not a fortune. However, a move is "doable", as is 12 months rent in advance. That should help towards the habitual residency requirements I would think. Another question though. My partner and I have been together for 27 years, but we've not married. Will she be eligible to move as my spouse? I've been all over the relevant sites, but I'm getting a smidge confused.

I've just joined the forum, so hi everyone. I'm sure my circumstances aren't unique, although I've never heard the same story. I've been in Australia for 47 years. I was unwillingly "emigrated" by my parents when I was 11. There was no round-table discussion and no choice, and I didn't want to come. I understand why my parents chose to emigrate, but it's only as I've become older that I realise that I was traumatised by this (and probably need therapy ). Despite growing up here, living as an Australian and becoming naturalised, I've never felt a sense of belonging in Australia. I've always been an Englishman living in Australia. I've just come back from another trip home and am in post-holiday blues mode. Without sounding melodramatic, the need to go home is like a physical tugging in my gut. I've maintained my dual-citizenship, but I'm on disability. I know how hard it is to get approved (it took me 3 years here), and know the habitual residency rules. As I've never worked in the UK, I don't have a National Insurance number. Is it worth my while to get one and to start making contributions? Will that make any difference to eligibility for benefits, or am I better off to squirrel cash away than pay into NI? All help appreciated