Guest263228

17 hours ago, starlight7 said:

If China coughs, Australia sneezes of course.  The Chinese own half the country already which at least gives us some measure of security- it is in their interests that we don't take a nosedive.

Well we take a nose dive and they buy up even more at cheaper rates. The Chinese 'of means' are far more numerous than the entire Australian population, many times. They could between them buy and sell Australia many times. It should be remembered China regards Chinese abroad as belonging to the Motherland and will defend them with the power at its means if deemed necessary.

12 hours ago, benj1980 said:

It is clear from the very long article that Australia needs to diversify, I'm just wondering how long this has been talked about and what has been the outcome? I think a lot of the article is waffle and very much one persons opinion. That said we are too dependent on China and I guess this has been a marriage of convenience for a long time now so it's hard to break!

Australia has been very lazy with the usual sell out politicians to the highest bidder. There are plenty of examples of this from the sale of Darwin Port to various agricultural lands of national interest.

It is clear China will influence will expand ever more in the future as their tourists dominate, students out rank all other internationals by far, trade dependency and not forgetting the biggest intake of migrants as well as investors in shoring up the housing market.

This will enable China to wield undue influence behind the scenes and at a stage influence policy.  

2 hours ago, Toots said:

I thought China was Australia's largest foreign landowner but it is in fact the UK.

https://www.therealestateconversation.com.au/2016/09/08/britain-australias-largest-foreign-landowner/1473298259

China is new to the game. The real estate lobby have own interests at stake here, being  not happy with crackdown of Chinese funds entering Australia, along with potential government toughening up on Chinese 'investment' in Australian real estate that has challenged local ability to partake especially in the bigger cities.

There is a lot more to the game than purely the amount .  

On ‎3‎/‎12‎/‎2017 at 05:52, Parley said:

Luckily China is still powering on endlessly.

Well no it isn't and has extensive internal issues. But The state controlled system has challenged the concept of liberal economic democracy and found it severely wanting. It is far from only Australia that is being 'taken over' by China. The process is well under way, in a far more advanced form in certain South East Asian countries Pacific Islands and African countries, where Chinese buy influence and control.

You may well consider China being the saviour of Australia, but it will come at a very heavy price. Already Chinese influence is deeply felt. A recent book publican was banned due to criticism of China by the publishers. They are as the Americans before, paying lobbyists within the media and those of influence to ensure the Chinese point is clearly expressed of whatever interest that might be, It is not hard to see where a conflict of interest could easily make Australia a victim of such a policy. China will extract a price for its shoring up the economy on every form from trade, tourism to students .

5 hours ago, Scousers1 said:

Friends have come and gone that many times. I have mostly had Aussie friends but some poms too, plus sri lankans, malays etc and they never stay in Melbourne. I was talking to another girl from Liverpool yesterday about it and thinking of all the ones who have been friends here that have left, either interstste or overseas and it has been alot. So, friends wise only a couple left! Family, of course hubby and daughter are my family but back home i have cousins, aunties etc who i would spend alot of time with. Interestingly, no one has moved away back home except me!

We have found the same in Perth. I don't think a single person remains here from late 90's. Loads moved overseas, but also to Melbourne and Sydney. Almost all were foreign born. I thought that was a Perth thing? Looks from your experience, the same thing in Melbourne. But London the same as well.

2 hours ago, Marie Pulma said:

Thank you for all ideas and information. Appreciate so much. This would help me decide. God bless.. 

I do hope you arrive at the answer to your particular issue. Tread very carefully would be my advise and do nothing hasty.

17 minutes ago, path2aus said:

To be really frank when someone asks such questions we just need to provide our experience. We should not question someone's intelligence or ability etc. This is a public forum and we do not know the poster who is asking the question and we don't know their situation either. The poster is just looking for some answers as to how people got along with their application. In the end it is a personal decision based on the responses they get. By just throwing unnecessary things around and calling people using agents as lazy is not going to help anyone.  I used an agent myself, not because I am lazy or dumb or cannot read a form, it is because I just did not have the time to go through the process due to my work. I used an agent and I am very glad that I did. Every thing went smooth and I got the visa and I am now in Australia. People need to make their own informed choice from the the information they read from the forums and from their own research regarding immigration. We should not force and tell things which might have worked for us. Just because we did the application ourselves does not mean others can, no matter if they are a scientist or CEO of a company, there are some things even they would probably find it difficult due to their situation or lack of time.

The MA's here are trying to help and if someone wants to use them that is their decision. We need to stay out of it, no matter what our opinion is regarding their decision is.

Well I Take it you are referring to me. Why not? Some people are up to it others are not. It is up to the individual to decide what and where they stand. We do not have to know the poster to give a general outline. Fact is a number of people are 'lazy' these days and prefer to outsource tasks. I did not refer only to the use of migration agents, or real estates or lawn mower cutters as a single item, but a host of things. Fact being we tend to live in an age where they are led to believe any number of things are too difficult or to time consuming for a host of reasons, but some obvious ones do tend to stand out.

Now by informing the OP that there is indeed the option of doing it themselves that will hopefully allow that individual to make up their own mind as to the process they prefer to follow.

You appear to be justifying your own situation for some unknown reason. Stay out of what exactly? A question was posed on this forum to members at large. Not aimed at migration agents, whose views will hardly be non partial with such a question. Of course they are fine to put their side as well, even though the question was not posed to an agent.

I keep out of migration direct questions where migration agents are involved as a rule, but this isn't one of them.

Perhaps you could explain just what your beef is really about?

1 hour ago, wrussell said:

.Anybody who thinks s/he knows all about this business is deluded.

I get more or less as much from the forum as I contribute from other RMAs answers, especially the warnings about overnight,  draconian changes and  unusual circumstances posted by applicants and so on.

Well I have yet to meet anyone whom claims to have all the answers. A lot depends on the applicant and type of visa. What should be pointed out, once again, is that it is indeed very possible to do ones own application. A change in regulations, which I have agreed are frequent, are as a rule not in place, until the following financial year. Here in Australia that begins 1 July. '

The Australian Immigration Handbook will have will provide most the requirements for applicants. Well worth the less than $100 if of the mind to wade through it.

Yes we all learn from others answers. Just like the fact that it is possible to go it alone.

I'd go for a councillor at least for initial point of contact. Such a service will be free.

21 minutes ago, Alan Collett said:

Are you trying to be offensive, or does it come naturally?

It appears you haven't lodged a visa application for many years.  Given this is so - I'm sure you'll tell us if it isn't - it is bewildering how you can be so assertive about the visa application process in the current era.

By contrast, I dare say you have cut your own lawn in the last month.

Regards.

What does come naturally is being on the ball. Not spending money un necessary and helping others to consider areas of saving, if so asked.Don't bother to cut my own grass, as a rule, as it stands. But quite possibly have cut grass, since lodging or helping others to lodge, their visa application forms. I understand it is in your interests to make it sound hard work. Fair enough. We all have to put a crust on the table. 

But what should be underlined is the process is perfectly doable one self. I have noted a reference book that will guide most through the process. I personally would have no hesitation lodging the process of visa application myself today, if so required.

But then, I accept I have some knowledge already on the matter and what I need to brush up on I would probably be able to ascertain by consulting the Australian Immigration Companion 2017. A look through it today confirmed pretty much so.

I can accept border line cases may well be in requirement of some 'fine tunning' to get over the mark. While others lack confidence or willingness or just can't be bothered, much as with me and my lawn. Lazy on my part I admit. But outlay is low, besides I prefer other tasks. Still got me thinking........ 

8 minutes ago, Alan Collett said:

If you can't see that drawing parallels between having your lawn cut and the delivery of migration advice is absurd there clearly isn't any point in entering into a meaningful exchange of views.

Regards.

Well on my part there wouldn't be anyway. I'd likely be banned. But you obviously pick up on what you want to and disengage the rest. I stated the analogy between people unwilling to commit to simple tasks out of laziness, or perhaps let everyone do everything for them, outsource, to more involved tasks like migration. Come now it is not that difficult for some of us. I understand you are rent seeker, with an interest to invalidate every post, by belittling but really all my posts point out a reality. You are not obliged to agree. .

I believe it has improved though and have met migrants, whom claimed to like it . But no real idea about modern Kal, and I would agree with Paul, err on caution. I think it is good advise to seek out a migrant councillor. At least sort out the legalities.

5 hours ago, ramot said:

This is what absolutely p-----s---s me off about some posters The free  help and advice that hundreds of posters have received from the MA's who give of their time on PIO is possibly now jeopardised for the future.

I would like to thank Alan and Raul and George for help they have generously given to  me and my family  and also all the other MA's who have helped so many posters.

No need to be p=====ed off.  There is nothing at all wrong with pointing out alternatives are available, I seem to recall the question was asked with regards to self application and saving money. As this forum, I thought, was about helping potential migrants by answering their questions, as well as pointing out alternatives, I see no reason for such a comment.

I have clearly stated there is a need for agents, (the immigration process is more complicated, these days) as far from all applicants will feel comfortable or capable of going alone. For the small number than do feel able surely there should be room for encouragement?

 Of course agents give valuable advise. Nobody denies it. But why should the future be jeopardised? The agents by giving advise advocate for their business at the same time surely?  Long may all options continue.

Ok. Why not use The Immigration Companion which can be purchased for under $100. I was researching an edition in a library today. It explains all you will need to know and if, only if, the matter appears complicated or too taxing, approach an agent. All agents I expect will have in their possession such a book.

Just make sure it is the latest edition as migration rules change on an annual basis in this country. You can be your own expert.  

18 minutes ago, Raul Senise said:

Any regular member of the forum knows you are just trolling (by your own admission).

The problem is that non regular members may take you seriously and not know that you are providing advice from your own experience, from 20 years (or more) ago.There is no comparison with the Immigration process between now and then. Such old anecdotal evidence has absolutely no relevance to today and is helpful to no one.

The fact that you believe that the Immigration Process is simply a bit of form filling, evidences how out of touch you are. 

All other responses (whether for or against) except yours have been relevant and measured.

Please consider others before posting.

 

The problem is that things are written that others may not by choice  want to read. But I am not a troll and never stated as much. Every thing I state I firmly believe , in fact know it to be truthful. It may well not suit commercial aspects of some, but believe me I do have a reasonably good understanding of what goes on. A lot I do not disclose on the forum for obvious reasons. It remains clear if I get into a debate with a migration agent how the end result will be.

I do consider others only too well. Hence why I take the bother to post.

12 hours ago, Alan Collett said:

If you are fishing for a response, I'm out.

Regards.

Not  fishing, sometimes an unbaited line hooks a passing fish.

11 minutes ago, simmo said:

See my point . 2 sides argueing over who has the most parking places.

Make or break issue for some. I don't do sides either. One man band me. Don't want a cuddle either, so save your breath.

2 hours ago, Alan Collett said:

Is it a saving - or a false economy, with a possible 10 year ban if you get it wrong?

This is a legal process.   Comparing it to cutting your lawn or house clearing is a ridiculous analogy.

Best regards.

I thought I might get a bite. Well lets not over complicate things shall we? Nothing like inducing a sense of fear of course, in citing a ten year ban. Fact remains a normal application, completed by an average competent person , without additional pragmatic considerations,  when all said and done should not find a problem.

As I have stated, if not good at form filling or understanding requirements or have problems with reading or such like, rather expensive paid help may be required.

The analogy is of course, far from ridiculous, as all tasks mentioned one could generally be expected to be able to fulfil. One may indeed enjoy the 'luxury' , and preference of having some one else cut their lawn, do their garden, complete their accounts or indeed fill in an immigration application form.

The individuals choice, but at least allow them to understand that there is indeed the possibility of a choice.

1 hour ago, Paul1Perth said:

Plenty of people find car parking spots in Cottesloe. They are still free there too aren't they? 

Quite enough energy and vitality for me and the wife in Perth.

As far as London goes I've never liked it. That included a stint where I worked there mon - fri travelling from Manchester every week. Did it for about a year and liked where the company was based in Teddington. They put me up in a decent hotel all the time too and the money was good. Teddington, Bushy Park and the local squash club were good. Great pub at Teddington Lock but central London no thanks.

Rather have Northern Cities.

Well plenty might but there is not plenty of parking. (weekends) On several occasions we have had to terminate attempts to find a spot at that beach.  Like I wrote, bit of a joke these past few weeks, with only a small section of beach, and I mean small, available to ordinary beach goers. (from around 8.45 until noon)

I agree some don't crave, nor like vitality. It's not a matter of liking London. It's only a day. A complete change from anything possible in Perth. I've often thought Perth is holds more of an attachment to a particular sort of person, less to others. Anyway Teddington is hardly in the centre of where it happens. All to their own of course.

No one would argue the convenience involved in using an agent. Surely that applies to everything and anything in life? From cutting your lawn to cleaning your house, to doing your accounts and so on. I believe most people of ordinary intelligence will be able to complete requirements quite amply.

If there are borderline considerations or don't meet criteria, for a particular reason, there is obviously a chance they may get you over the line. I'm afraid the argument that it is just another cost on top of a substantial amount already paid, is lazy talk, which doesn't wash in the slightest with me. Surely the idea is to save where possible. Immigration is a hell of an expensive operation. One would have thought savings would be welcomed where ever possible.

5 minutes ago, Marie Pulma said:

Tink thank you. I will check on it. 

AJ we are still together but we are like not sleeping together anymore. No husband and wife relationship anymore. Can you please give me idea Aj if He will do something bad to me physically how it would affect our visa. Thank you

If you are not to be living as man and wife, on a 457 visa, living apart, how do you reflect on your entitlement to remain in Australia?

32 minutes ago, AJ said:

Then all your opinions are old and out of date!  Maybe you should visit first before you comment further, there has been a lot of changes in the 8 years I have been here!

Not many necessary for the better. Still rather recognisable though in that time frame.

21 hours ago, Paul1Perth said:

Sorry Bunbury but my points are valid. I wouldn't give you tuppence for any market. Salzburg,  Stratford anywhere where its going to be cold and packed. Find a parking spot, pay a fortune for it, walk to the venue with 100s more people for a couple of bratvursts in the cold. 

No thanks mate, I'll take the warm weather.

I don't like London one bit and avoid it when I'm over. When my Mum died last year my Sister and fella went down to see someone they knew in a West End play. I declined to go as it's just not my cup of tea. 

My sis lives near Stamford which is a lovely town but talk about busy. Nightmare to drive through. Had great times in the pubs on the weekends though and I love the pub scene there.

Try finding a car parking spot at Cottesloe during summer .  For that matter try finding a spot on the beach to swim on a weekend during the morning. Cottesloe Life Saving seem to have commandeered pretty much the entire beach. Full of nippers.

Markets are a choice but are lively and full of things going on. Perth doesn't come remotely close in what here terms markets. Far more than bratwursts .

I accept if you don't like crowds and lots of vitality and energy Perth will be preferable. But to write an opportunity off to visit London, when in the neighbourhood, is almost sacrilegious.

Nobody can really tell you the best thing to do. Is the job opportunity an improvement on your husbands present position? Is it worth persevering for a short time?  Have you been there? It is remote. It is quite outback in locality. It can be rough, in the Aussie style. I have heard it has improved over the years with even a bit of 'class; in places. Not sure to be honest. Not a place I would move to  but I'm sure our situations differ.

There's a lot to consider. If you don't find work there, will your economic situation be better than present? Are there members of your ethnic community and language group present there?

16 hours ago, bunbury61 said:

now you are getting to the issue tink ...mass immigration across the western world

why ? ....is it to give people from the third world freedom ? ...or is I to drive up competition and drive down wages of the inhabitants ?

are we all better off than we were in the 80s -90s ?

can our children buy a house in Melbourne or Manchester , work hard , and have it paid off in 10 years ...like it used to be ?

if not ...why is that ?

and some people , just don't see it

In the case of Australia, a settler and there for migrant country, immigration is hardly the issue. What is the issue is record immigration without any call for, purely to support a population Ponzi in growth and demand.

It is a very sad case indeed, not to say dangerous, that the majority of people not in housing, will as things stand, never be able to afford housing in Australian main cities.

I do wonder how long Melbourne has hide behind the smoke screen of being labelled 'worlds most desirable city.' Even if only aimed at a business elite, not normal people, the PR is worth a lot, besides many do not pick up the elitist ethos of the measurement.

Greed of developers and bankers and Big Business and the real estate and lobbyists of various descriptions, are indeed challenging tolerance of populations as living standards decline . Massive immigration  is unneeded in this age with technological changes and robotics increasingly coming into play.

I find it amazing that none of the political parties, including The Greens, challenge the current manta of A Big Australia. Why not? Why such little discussion about it in the press? Likely reason all behold to retain the over inflated housing costs and the banks have got themselves in far too deep in loans on housing, to be questioned. No body wants to be responsible in pricking the bubble.

All I suppose a rather pointless exercise on an immigration forum where people just want to get to their nominated destination by any means possible.