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Hi everyone, Looking for a bit of advice please. Am I right in thinking to be eligible for NSW 190 nomination I must only submit an EOI for NSW? In other words will submitting EOIs for other states make me ineligible for NSW nomination? (In terms of increasing chances of PR) Many thanks, Kyle

Hi and Happy New Year! Just thought id create this thread to see if anyone has had a recent 190 Visa granted? Just some background, I submitted my application in March 2020 (Offshore), now waiting almost ten months. Processing times on the home affairs website is saying 10-13 months. Fingers crossed I get a grant soon, however not sure how about processing given Covid and the current travel restrictions. Appreciate any feedback. Regards,

HELLO everyone I got my second assessment outcome for the hope to be invited for 190 NSW for the occupation electronic instrument trades worker (general) 342314 on 6th march and submitted an eoi for nsw 190 visa. my previous assessment was electronic instrument trades worker (special class) 342315 that wasn't on the NSW list. I am claiming 60+5 points, (having pte academic +65 score). this is about 2 weeks I am waiting to be invited for nsw but a little I am disappointed !!! do you think I should try for pte academic +79 that is somehow difficult for me or wait for more? how likely am I going to be invited? is there anyone with the same occupation and points? thanks

Hello, I will land in Sydney on the 4th of January. The rules are that I should do a test within 24 hours and another one on or after 6 days. Does that mean I can do the second test on the 9th of January?

Hi folks, I'm about to buy a motorbike. I've learned a few things possibly worth sharing, and have a few questions. Firstly - I found the bike on bikesales.com.au. Decent site, seems de-facto standard for buying/selling, and I went to view a Honda Blackbird on Saturday. The guy and bike both seemed to check out OK, the bike felt really good, and I placed a deposit. First tip is: use that site Second tip is: check the location. They only go as granular as the state, and AU states are a lot larger than UK counties, of course. They had 27 Blackbirds in NSW, but 12 of those were more than 2 hours' drive. I was flabbergasted twice by my insurance checks. The first was when I checked 3rd-party insurance rates: Around $120-160 for a 200mph superbike, third party! It would have cost a grand at home, so seemed really cheap. The second time was when I actually figured out how insurance works, and suddenly it was a lot more expensive. That quote doesn't include 3rd-party liability to people (injuries, deaths) - which is the compulsory green slip (CTP). For that, I had to look at the official site, pretend it was up for renewal, and discover the next renewal would cost me $800 a year, for starters! Add to that my optional insurance of $160 (third party property/car/etc damage) or $800 (Fully Comp), and yes, it is around a grand a year (£). That's an unmodified bike, no claims, points, etc. I didn't try to use my UK No Claims Bonus - but I tried quotes with and without claiming previous insurance/NCB, and there seemed to be no real difference. There also seems to be no Third Party Fire & Theft - or at least, it's a less common option than it is in the UK. They also a few different questions. Previous accidents, licence and years riding, etc. are there, but employment type is not asked for or considered. You can check the current reg and insurance on the bike on a NSW Gov Site, and pay for a full history check on another official NSW Gov database, price $18. Then you can check for outstanding finance for another $14 on the Revs site. As for paying: you can use a bank transfer like "Pay anyone", which may be instant if you're both with the same bank, but overnight if not; Westpac have a $10k limit on that. Or you can get a Bankers' Cheque (Draft) in-branch, instantly, for a reasonable fee. You apparently also need a customer number; this is in advance of an NSW Driving licence, and is a unique reference number for you, for life, that allows you to register a vehicle in your name. I picked one up in an RTA office in half an hour, with proof of ID, address, etc. etc. Finally - I took the bike for a test ride. I was.. amazed.. that the guy let me take it for a spin without giving him any ID, proof of bike licence, or arranging any insurance (although I guess the Green Slip covers that). The only reference was "You break it, you pay for it. OK?". Good on him! So - where I could do with some advice is: - Am I going to have any issues getting insurance on a UK licence? Some of the larger sites state in their initial assumptions that I have an Aussie licence, and I've said "Yes" to get to the quote. Should I be wary of any issues? - What docs should I ask the seller for (Green slip, Bike reg, I guess)? - What other steps do I need to take? Many thanks! Damo

Hi guys, we are looking to meet some ex pats in our area! In Newie and loving it .X2 teenage kids, we have lived in Devon, Somerset and London

Hi, We are Lee and Fiona, new to this blog and currently in Maidstone UK but we have been granted Family Sponsored Visas (491)for Regional NSW, so basically we have the whole stat we can live/work in, but not Sydney itself. Fiona is a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience and would like some sort of lead on finding a job before we move out. We are looking Woolongong/Illawarra region ideally, but would also be happy Newcastle/Central Coast etc. We are happy to go where work is most available. Does anyone in any of these regions have any advice/details of recruiters/companies she could get in touch with? Thanks in advance for your help.

Hi everyone, I'm looking for the Visa 489 in the NSW South Coast and I have a bit concern about job opportunities in this area, I'm a computer programmer and my wife is a fitness trainer. I've checked some websites such as seek.com and indeed.com but I couldn't find a considerable number of related job opportunities. I really appreciate if anyone lives or work there, explain to me about these topics: 1) Where's the best town in this area in terms of facilities and job opportunities, is it the Nowra or somewhere else? 2) Which sorts of jobs we can find? Is there any chance to find a related job or we have to do casual jobs? 3) which cities are in the area of Visa 489? can I work in the Illawarra or Wollongong? 4) what're the procedures of release letter? Thanks 17/5000

Hi I submitted my EOI on a June 8 for NSW 190 Management Consultant with 90 points (superior English). Does anyone have any idea when we might be invited? I lose age points in September so I’m worried about that. Any insight or personal experience anyone can share would be very helpful. Thanks

Hi all, I’m hoping to hear from other forum members about their experience with State sponsorship from NSW. We have put an eoi in for State sponsorship from NSW (190), Secondary school teacher, on the 22nd of August with 65 points (including state sponsorship points) and I wonder how long others had to wait for an invite? My husband’s points are 25 for age, 15 for Education and 20 for English. The short(er) version of our story is that we lived in Perth for 14 months (on a student visa) till last March but had to leave Oz because our visa ran out and we didn’t receive an invite for the eoi we put in for Family Sponsored 489 (WA) or the 189 skilled independent (not enough points after they changed the minimum required points). Since then we’ve been back in the UK but can’t wait to return to Oz asap. We have recently put in an eoi for NSW as well, as they don’t seem to invite anyone for the Family sponsored visa anymore ? And from what I’ve been reading they need lots of teachers in regional areas in NSW, especially science teachers and we are more than willing to go country so I am hoping we will receive an invite soon. But sometimes I am losing all hope of ever returning as they seem to change the rules constantly... Thanks for “listening” ? and looking forward to hear other people’s experiences.

Hi We've submitted an EOI for 190 visa (February 2020), plumber 70 + 5, hoping to get invited by NSW. Wondering if any plumbers have been invited by NSW recently and how many points you had / how long it took to be invited? Or if you're in the same boat waiting for NSW plumber invite let's get in touch and keep each other updated on progress!

Hi, Im looking for some help regarding moving to Australia. I’m a gas engineer, qualified to SVQ level 3 in domestic natural gas installation and maintenance. I completed my apprenticeship through a company doing both on site and college work. I’ve never done any plumbing at all, so don’t have any plumbing qualifications etc... this worries me as I’ve seen gas engineers saying they’ve opted to go down the plumbers route for applying as it’s easier? i’ve been reading a lot of other people’s posts about the difficulties of applying and the steps which you need to go through to finally land in Oz successfully. I want to move over in the next 3 years with my partner and young son, somewhere in NSW. I’m aware of the points system, that there is tests to be taken, evidence of work to be given. I just don’t know where to start, any help would be appreciated. cheers Brian

HI We have just moved to the Tweed Heads area and my husband is looking for work in the area. He is a qualified bricklayer with 15 years experience. Does anyone have any contacts ? kind regards Emma

Hi everyone, I have a few questions that I hope I will get the answers here. I have just received an email stating that I got pre invited by NSW yesterday. The state gives me 14 days to complete the application form for NSW nomination. The state also requires me to provide documents as proofs to show that my case is genuine and my point is real. I'll break down my point to make it a little easier to understand. - Age: 30p (PROOF: Passport) - English: 20p (PROOF: PTE certificate) - Australian study + Qualifications: 5p + 10p (PROOF: All of my certificates) - Single: 10p (I don't think I need to show any proof for this category) There are 2 categories left, which are experience point (5p) and regional study (5p) that I'm not sure which documents I should submit as evidence. Unfortunately, the official website of NSW does not list which specific documents either. I don't have an employment contract since I'm casual (but I have been working at my current workplace for almost 2 years, with working hours ranging from 15+ to 40+/week). I can get my hands on my pay slips, letter of employment confirmation, bank transaction history and payment summary. Are there any other documents that I should provide? Should I also provide tax assessment or super certificate as well? Thank you in advance for any kind souls who reply to this post. I would be really appreciated.

Any nurses had invites in the last couple of months? I’m checking my emails relentlessly but still nothing ? I’m on 70 points too

Hey Guys, I am Chef by profession and have over 8 years of experience. For my EOI i didn't claim any points for employment. I got nominated by NSW. During the submission i provided my detailed resume. Do i still need to provide documents for the work experience, even though i didn't claim any points for the same and marked it as irrelevant on my EOI. Additionally NSW didn't ask for any employment documents and assessed my application in half a day.

Bondi From its amazing surf breaks, to its bohemian population, Sydney’s most iconic beachside suburb is one of the most fabulous locales in the country. Situated 7km from Sydney’s CBD, Bondi is the heart of the Eastern suburbs. With a population of only just over 20,000 residents, the suburb is home to celebrities, surfers, families, travellers, artists and everything in-between. To locals, Bondi has many monikers. “The bubble”, “the valley” and “2026” are three that spring to mind readily. Here you’ll find some of Sydney’s most prime and prestigious homes alongside a raft of backpacker accommodation and family homes. The lay of the Land Bondi’s architecture is a melting pot of shiny newly built dwellings, federation homes, 70’s apartment blocks and a touch of old art deco buildings. Over 70% of the dwellings are apartments adding to the sense of community here. Bondi opens onto the truly beautiful Bondi Beach. It is defined by the bustling Campbell Pde that runs adjacent to the beach and a series of residential streets running down towards the water. Locals understand the suburb in terms of South Bondi and North Bondi, with Hall Street as the demarcation point. From the south to the north, Bondi is crammed with bars, restaurants, hotels, fashion boutiques and everything that the hipster generation requires for survival. It has been said that Bondi possibly possesses that highest rate per capita of yoga studios and gyms of anywhere in the country. Fuel for the Hipster Generation The suburb pulses with coffee addicts and fitness enthusiasts side by side. There is a focus here on healthy eating and the enjoyment of fine food. Cafes abound throughout Bondi, as do organic food establishments. Organic Food: Orchard St Bondi Wholefoods Sadhana Vegan Pokebowl Fishbowl Alongside this, Bondi has experienced an explosion of burger joints: BL Burgers at the Beach Rd hotel Tony’s Burgers Milky Lane Macelleria Oli’s Chicken Burgers Paradise Road At the higher end of the scale, Bondi is home to some truly amazing fine dining establishments. Perched at the top of the famous Bondi Icebergs ocean pool is Bondi Icebergs Dining Room. A hangout for celebrities, it has an intimate bar and dining room overlooking the crashing waves and a vista from the south end of Bondi to the north. At the opposite end of the beach, the simply named North Bondi Fish is a high end seafood restaurant boasting a very cool balcony overlooking the south side. In between, Sean’s Panaroma on Campbell Parade is a years long fine dining establishment in an intimate space. Newly opened Fonda with its South of the Border cuisine leads the pack for casual dining with a bar like atmosphere. It’s rivalled by Rocker at the North Bondi interchange featuring twists on local produce and ethically sourced ingredients. Cafes Bondi is the pinnacle of café culture in Sydney. Locals are passionate about their coffee choices and the surroundings it is served in. The craftily named “Coffee” on Curlewis St is Bondi’s only local roaster. But don’t go there for your standard latte. There is no dairy or sugar at all on premises. Each coffee is a handcrafted work of art, made with their own nut milk. Gertrude and Alice on Hall Street is a bookstore first and café second. Sip on your coffee in the comfort of a velvet armchair whilst you delve into a great vintage read. Head to CaliPress on Hall St if you’re curious about what a $10 coffee tastes like. Go for their “BulletProof” a concoction of coconut oil, cayenne pepper and maybe just a hint of actual coffee. There are far too many cafes to mention – each with its own edge. Pubs, Bars, Clubs There is a thriving bar and pub scene in Bondi. It’s best understood by breaking down the ways you can enjoy a tipple locally. Nightclubs as such don’t exist in Bondi due to stringent local licencing laws. Bars do. Of these there are many. Here are a handful of must-visits: The Bucket List – festooned with fairy lights and featuring fresh stripes just about everywhere, this indoor/outdoor bar is right on the drive along the beach. Great food, cocktails and spotting position. Bondi Hardware – was actually once the local hardware store. Now, however it is a dimly lit, intimate cocktail bar and restaurant positioned amongst all the normal suburban amenities on Hall Street. Mamasan – directly opposite the local’s local – The Beach Road Hotel, Mamasan is a pumping cocktail bar with an Asian inspired vibe. Now that we’re talking pubs – Bondi is home to surprisingly few. Of these, The Bondi Hotel on Campbell parade is the most frequented by tourists. The Beach Road hotel, with its rooftop bar, beer garden, awesome burger bar and ever evolving line-up of DJs and bands is the local’s choice. The Beach is top and tailed with two Clubs of considerable notoriety. At the south end is the world famous icebergs club. Featuring the stunning ocean pool, fitness centre and high end Icebergs Dining Room, it is one of the best clubs to take in the entire Bondi vista. At the south end is North Bondi RSL, a fabulous local institution, well known for its live entertainment and truly spiritual view. Local Events Bondi is host to several community events during the year. Flickerfest – short film festival in January Bowl-a-Rama – international skating competition at the Bondi Skate Bowl on the beach Festival of the Winds – International Kite Festival on the beach in August The Winter Festival – featuring an Ice Skating Rink open air by the beach Sculpture by the Sea – Sculptures all along the coastal walk from Bondi to Bronte Living in Bondi Bondi is a safe, chilled suburb. The police station is right in the centre of the suburb and the crime rate is relatively low. Walking the streets late at night is a safe pursuit. The suburb hums with life all day and night. It’s a harmonious suburb comprised of residents who are largely respectful and community based. 50% of the population is Australian born, with 22% of the residents identifying as having an English background. The median age within the community is 33% and over one third of the population list themselves as having no religious beliefs. A very high percentage of the population rent their homes, particularly apartments. The average rent per week is $640 according to the 2016 census. But in 2017, that would be considered nothing short of a bargain. The median house price in Bondi is currently $2.7million for a house and $1.6 million for an apartment. Education Public, private and religious school are all within Bondi. There are no notoriously bad schools. Public schools provide free education and the private schools range in price based on the facilities they provide. Bondi Beach Public School – Campbell Pde Bondi Public School – Wellington Street Montessori School – Wellington Street Galilee Catholic Primary School – Blair Street All the above are co-educational. Many other schools exist on the boundaries and surrounding suburbs. There are two high schools within Bondi itself. But within the Eastern Suburbs are some of the most prestigious and expensive private schools in the country. Locally, the Public High School – Rose Bay High is co-educational. It is a large campus and also houses a selective (high achieving) stream of students. Reddam House is located on Blair Street and is a co-educational private school. It is one of Sydney’s most expensive high schools and is ranked within the top 10 of schools in the state. Services in the Suburb Medical – There are many local medical clinics and doctor’s surgeries in Bondi. Some will and others will not bulk bill. Bondi Doctors on Hall Street Bulk Bills for children but not adults. The closest public hospital is St Vincents in Darlinghurst or The Royal Hospital for Women in Randwick or Prince of Wales Hospital in Randwick. The Childrens Hospital is also in Randwick. Randwick is 5km from Bondi. Here is a list of local practitioners: Bondi Doctors – Hall Street 9365 2833 Bondi Physio – Curlewis St 02) 9130 6914 Bondi Dentist – Curlewis St (02) 9365 7187 Transport Bondi is well serviced for public transport via our bus system. Grabbing a bus from Bondi to Bondi Junction is about a 10 – 15 minute exercise. The 380, 386,387, 333, 389 all work these routes. From Bondi Junction Train Station, you can access the State Rail Network. You can also access the ferries by taking a bus from Bondi to Rose Bay ferry stop. Bondi also has just seen the introduction of a new public bicycle companies, ofo. Push bikes are scattered throughout Sydney (particularly Bondi). You access them via an app and can hop on, ride around and leave them wherever you like for the next client to pick up.

Hello is Dere any one in Murray region in nsw living or waiting for invitation from them ?? Plz reply

Hello everyone I am a midwife who just apply for 190 nomination in NSW. Can anyone share some experience ? How long it going to take ? If you are invited, what's your score when you apply ? Thank you

Hi We're going for a state sponsored visa but have to head to Far South NSW, can anyone tell me the most northerly town that is in the right post code? Is it Nowra? Anybody living and working in that area and can shed any light on what life's like? We live in Gibraltar so used to small town life but concerned about the job market and schooling. My husband is an IT Manager and I'm a PA/Office Manager, we have kids aged 4 & 6. Any advice or insight would be gratefully received! Thanks C

Hi all, I am currently on a bva wa, waiting on my application for last remaining relative. I understand that I have no work rights and the processing time for this Visa is around 8 years. I need to apply for a work permit and I have no idea where to start. Has anyone done this that can give me some advice?

Hi, I am currently studying A Levels in the UK, England. My boyfriend and I are thinking of moving to Australia in the near future, he is fully Australian and his family live there also. After I have finished my A-levels, this is where my problem starts, I have no idea of any of the methods in which I can train. I am fully English myself so I can imagine this could be quite awkward. I have tried looking into this but I cannot find a lot of information, my plan in the UK was to finish my A-levels, move on to a higher apprenticeship and continue from there until trained and qualified. Is an apprenticeship in Law an option in Australia, NSW? Or do you have to go university? If a junior contract is available, are they easy to find? If not is there any advice on how university would work for me? And how long either of these processes will take? Will becoming a solicitor eventually be an option to me in Australia or is it the end of what I wish to do? Please leave ANY advice you have as I am completely stuck!! Thank you in advance, Whitney.

Hi everyone! My partner and I are going to begin the process of submitting our expression of interest soon so I was just wondering if anyone on here has a similar situation/circumstances as us. My partner will be the main visa applicant as a solid plasterer (333212), with 60 points. We'll be applying for NSW state sponsorship also. Has anyone else recently been on the same path as us and been invited to apply? Curious to know what timescales other people have encountered. Thanks!

Hi all just wondering if anyone lives, or has lived in a nice sub what they would recommend for a family who love sailing, rugby, and the good old out doors. We are looking at the Far South Coast, or Mid North Coast. Would love some inside knowledge. Thanks for any help.

I'm not sure if I'm being silly here lol, but can anyone advise us on what an occupation ceiling is? I'm a solid plasterer 333212. Thanks