Johnnyboy

Hiya, Thanks, I've seen that already and got the right info - I need to apply for CDR. It is what it is, I'm not particularly happy with them contacting my existing employer but there is no way around it.

Hello, I'm a telecoms engineer and even though I found a job already in Australia, the whole visa process seems a headache. The easiest option was 457 but because I'm 43 now, I won't be able to apply for 186 in 2 years time under the new rules. Both myself and the employer decided to apply for 186 visa but I'm being asked for a skill assessment and work experience requirements. I've got 17 years experience in my field... how can I get a skill assessment ?! Thanks a lot

Hello, I'm being asked for certified copies of qualifications and work experience, I was wondering what kind of documents did you provide ?! I'm form UK and certified copies could be a headache. From another point of view, I don't fancy my current employer knowing about my emigrating intentions. Same thing for skill assessment, surely they can't ring my existing employer and ask if I work for them ?! I'm happy to provide my employment contract, payslips, etc but an employment reference might get me in trouble. Which employer would be happy with someone thinking of leaving their current job in a few months/one year time ?! Thanks

Thanks a lot! Found this as well: http://www.abacusvisa.com.au/news-flash/reforms-to-permanent-employer-sponsored-visas-subclasses-186-and-187-from-19-april-2017

Just found this: From March 2018, for 186 and 187 applications: Residency: The residence eligibility period will be extended from two to three years for Temporary Residence Transition stream applicants. Work experience: At least three years’ relevant work experience. Age: All applicants must be under the maximum age requirement of 45 at the time of application.

Thanks, Raul.

Hello, I've already found a job in Oz and the company has already lodged the sponsorship, then we can apply for 457. I'll be 44 years old next year and I won't be able to apply for MLTSSL at the end of the current one (obviously, IF it's granted) because the new age threshold will be 45. I can't find anything related to changes to 186 visa though as the age limit for that is 50, so I'd guess I'll be eligible (of course if the age limit won't be changed on that as well). I'd guess I can go ahead with 186 after 2 years, if everything goes well and nothing changes in the meantime. Or would be better to apply for 186 instead of 457 now if the employer agrees? The waiting time is only a few months difference between them. Am I missing something here ?! Thanks a lot in advance.

Hello, I'm currently waiting for my 457 visa but I've got some tough decisions to make. Because I'm 43 now, I don't know what are the chances to progress towards a PR/citizenship after the March 2018 changes. I've got a mortgage in UK and my current deal ends in a couple of months. I can remortgage for 2-5 years and rent the property out while working in Oz. If I'd go for 2 years, I'd guess will be very difficult to secure a mortgage back in UK after that as I'll be working abroad. So the longer term, the better. I'll have very limited chances to buy a property in Oz if I'll sell the property in UK now so I'd rather keep it for a while. Hopefully I won't run into any issues if I'll rent it while living in Oz. I presume there are people out here having had the same experience so your advice is very valuable. Thanks a lot in advance.

Terrible! I was listening on 5live on the way to work this morning and was just shocking. Nobody knows how they were given permission to insulate the building with those panels prone to fire. There are also rumors about gas pipe being installed without proper permission. The people were told to stay inside in case of a fire as the building is fireproof but when the fire brigade arrived, they were rushing everyone to get out of the building as quick as possible. The interviews on the radio were heart moving...

If it's independent / church school, do we have to pay fees?

Hello, I'll be a field engineer so 30-60min to CBD is reasonable enough for us.We're looking for state schools with grades as close as possible to 100. We have to avoid toll charges toward CBD and ideally good traffic towards there. Thanks

Hello, Can I ask if it's possible to recommend us some affordable suburbs in Melbourne with good primary schools (scores over 90), please? Our budget is around 2k/month for a 3/4 bed house. We're hoping for a leafy suburb with parks & shops nearby. Thanks a lot in advance