Jock

Let me give you a heads up on the diplomatic relationship between OZ and the UK, there is none!!!!!! In 2001 both countries had a wee tiff, and both have the same agreement, which is : I will not receive an Australian STATE pension if I continue to live in the UK after pension age, I can, however live in other European countries, like Ireland where both my parents are from, and claim my Oz pension, and I think that's what I might do. And I might become an Irish citizen in the process

Came back in 2018 as I was extremely pissed off with OZ, too long a story for here. Been back since November 18, and just like OZ when I first emigrated I had to sit all my bus exams again to get my bus licence. There’s no comparison on daily life expenses, everything is totally different especially in wages. I do miss the weather and some amazing people. I’m a bit luckier than most ( or not) that I don’t have a family of my own. Already been told my the OZ government that I won’t receive any Australian State pension if I continue to live in the UK after pension age, ( 2029). Feel kinda lost at the moment, maybe I was too hasty. Don’t really know what to do next.

To be honest, I wasn't going back to find employment right away. I've always wanted to tour the Britiish Isles. First port of call was obviously back to my home town to see my family and catch up. Then after Xmas,2018, I'm going to sit my PSV licence . Then do my tour, and THEN, look for employment. Thanks for all your responses, truly grateful . I came here in 1994 to work on the new submarines, but the visa situation back then was tricky, and I couldn't get a start, so I ended up being a TransAdelaide bus driver, my calling. I think. Still love driving buses. No mortgage,no kids, no wife or partner, time for a change. Jock

For the last two years I have been on casual employment and it's not been a financial success, and when the school holidays kick in, I have not a lot of work. I'm a school bus driver . I made a deal with myself that if I didn't get a permanent position, by the time I'm 58, I would return to the UK. So, as I haven't been back for some years, I would like to hear some thoughts,ideas about the pros and cons of heading home. Funny that,,saying heading home. Been here since 1994 and I don't think I've ever called Adelaide home!