Reasons to migrate to Australia

Friendly people – easy going lifestyle.

Top of the list has to be friendly people and easy going lifestyle. Australian people regardless of their ethnic background or cultural beliefs would have to be amongst the friendliest people in the world.

This is evidenced by the low crime rate and lack of social unrest in comparison to almost every other country. Sure we may have the occasional street march or neighbourhood dispute but these are not common place. When anything does happen it is all over within a few hours with little or no injuries or loss of life. Australians also have a strong sense of social justice and stand up for the underdog and the less privileged.

Australian educational institutions rank amongst the best in the world and students worldwide look forward to an Australian Education. Our medical institutions are second to none and all citizens are cared for under a government run medical program called Medicare. There are also private medical facilities and health insurance providing services equal to if not better to anything in the world.

Australia is fortunate to be experiencing a very high employment rate which is forecast to continue for many more years into the future, so job opportunities abound for those who want to migrate here.

Last but not least Australia is a land of beauty and wonder with so much to see and with unique animals and plants that are not found elsewhere.

Australia is a prime destination regardless if you are a student, a tourist or want to stay permanently.

Question about IELTS scores.

I have received several private emails about IELTS scores so I thought I should publish my response.

Applicant wants to apply for the skilled migration visa –independent skilled. Qualifications accredited to Australian standards and have scored academic IELTS score, overall 8.

The question was will immigration accept the IELTS score?

My answer was that the department will accept the score because the reason for the tests either general or academic is to test the applicant’s knowledge of English. So it is obvious if one is proficient in a higher band than it will certainly be acceptable if the visa requirement is set for a lower band score.

Work and holiday visa arrangements with Thailand

Australia and Thailand have agreed to more than double their reciprocal work and holiday visa arrangement for young people.

In Bangkok today, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, said the change will increase the number of work and holiday visas available to each country from 200 to 500 per year.

‘This is an investment in future relations with Thailand to help develop links between people in both countries,’ Senator Evans said.

‘This visa assists young people in Australia and Thailand to travel and experience different cultures and have closer contact with a local community while holidaying.’

The work and holiday visa enables professional and tertiary educated Australians and Thais aged between 18 and 30, to visit each others’ country for up to 12 months and subsidise their holiday through periods of work.

The work and holiday visa differs from a working holiday visa as it requires applicants to have the support of their government, hold tertiary qualifications or be studying towards a tertiary qualification, and to speak functional English or Thai respectively.

Applicants must also must meet health and character requirements and have no dependent children. Work and holiday visa holders may do temporary or casual work for up to six months with any one employer.

Thailand was the first South East Asian country to agree to a reciprocal work and holiday visa arrangement with Australia in July 2004.

‘Each year almost 50 000 Thai people visit Australia and Thailand is a popular destination for Australians with over 300 000 departures to Thailand every year,’ the minister said.

‘The expansion of the work and holiday arrangement will help to further enhance this important bilateral relationship.’

Australia also has reciprocal work and holiday arrangements with Malaysia, Chile, Turkey and the USA. Earlier this week, Australia and Indonesia agreed to introduce reciprocal work and holiday visa arrangements.

Australia’s New Guest Worker Scheme

Australia is going to trial a Guest worker Scheme similar to a programe run by the New Zealand government.

This will intitially be only available to Pacific island nations and they will have to compete to take part. About five countries are expected to be able to take part in the pilot program

The scheme is designed to hopefully alleviate the shortage of staff in the rural and horticultural industries. The rural sector especially the hortucultural industries like fruit picking always face a seasonal shortage of workers but the government has indicated that it is only a trial program and could be stopped if the Australian economy slows down too much.

Minimum salary increase for skilled workers

Salary increases by 3.8 percent for skilled workers in Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) occupations.

This increase for the ENS follows a similar increase for the subclass 457 visa program.

Most skilled workers who are on a temporary visa such as the 457 visa, use the ENS to apply for permanent residence if they wish to stay.

The increase will ensure the program closely aligns with the 457 program and helps to maintain the integrity of Australia’s skilled migration programs.

The standard minimum salary level will increase to $43 440, and for ICT professionals will increase to $59 477.

These changes only apply to positions that are nominated under the ENS from August 1, 2008.

These increases do not affect ENS visas and employer nominations lodged before August 1, 2008.

Ombudsman welcomes 457 visa appointment

Queensland Workplace Rights Ombudsman Don Brown has welcomed the appointment of a 457 visa holder as an organiser with the Australasian Meat Industry Employees’ Union.

Mr Brown said that the growth in the number of foreign nationals in the meat industry brought with it potential communication issues which could in turn lead to workplace issues.

“With some 2000 foreign nationals working in the meat industry in Queensland the move to employ a Brazilian national is a move in the direction of helping create fairness in the workplace,” he said.

“Regrettably there have been cases where 457 workers have been treated unfairly as a result of limited understanding of the language.

“One of my functions is to facilitate and encourage fair industrial relations and work practices in Queensland,” he said. “I believe this move by the AMIEU will both improve protection for vulnerable workers and assist them and their employers in their mutual dealings.”

The Queensland Workplace Rights Ombudsman can be contacted on the Queensland Workplace Rights Hotline on 1300 737 841.

For further information on the Queensland Workplace Rights Office and Ombudsman, visit the website at www.workplacerights.qld.gov.au.

Mining sector requires additional 87,000 new workers

Source: The Australian Newspaper – Business Section
Florence Chong | July 28, 2008

WITH the global resources super cycle expected to continue for a decade or more, Australia's mining industry will require an additional 87,000 workers, according to research commissioned by the Minerals Council of Australia.
This figure represents a 68 per cent increase on the current workforce in the sector.
Council education and training director Chris Fraser said the research highlighted a challenge for the minerals sector.
"That challenge is to attract, train and retain workers in occupations that are in decline in the economy more generally," Mr Fraser said.
It would place added pressure on an already tight labour market for minerals sector tradespeople and professionals in remote areas.
"The labour market is already running at capacity and this extra demand will mean it is even more critical that Australia's chronic skills shortages are addressed."
New workers would require considerable training to maintain safety and productivity standards.
The Minerals Council welcomed federal Government initiatives to increase skills training and streamline temporary visa applications for skilled migrants.
More was needed to expand and reform the vocational education and training system and lift funding for earth science courses in the higher education sector, he said.
The research shows Western Australia will require the largest increase, projected at 48,000 people -- or an 86 per cent increase in demand.
WA will represent 55 per cent of the total national increase in labour demand.
Queensland's demand is projected to rise by 23,035 workers.
The most rapid increase in labour demand will be in South Australia, with a 100 per cent rise.
The study says this figure is "conservative" given the planned expansion of Olympic Dam.
The authors write: "The potential for increased demand for labour at Olympic Dam is still uncertain at this point and if this mine is expanded, copper and uranium demand for labour will increase."
The study, by the National Institute of Labour Studies at Flinders University, projects the labour demand for nine major commodities from 2007 to 2020.
The increases are projected to be in iron ore (21,000 people) and coal (19,000).
The biggest increase in the demand for labour in absolute terms by occupational category is projected to be in the trades and semi-skilled worker categories. The study says these two categories represent a total of 61,000 people.

Registered Migration Agents (RMA)

Registered Migration Agents (RMA)

If you want your visa application to be easier and more effective use the services of a registered migration agent (RMA).

A registered migration agent (RMA) is a trained professional and will guide you through what can be a minefield for the unwary. The RMA knows the rules and is always kept updated on the latest changes which can happen rather frequently. Also as a professional the RMA has the expertise to handle your case and do the paperwork for you.

Another great advantage is that the registered migration agent has to put up with all the red tape, bureaucracy and frustrations. A good example is waiting on hold on the telephone for two hours only to find out you are no more advanced than before you started. Anyone who has dealt with a government department will know exactly what I mean and this fact alone has got to be worth the expense of using a registered migration agent.

Okay I know many people will think that I am biased because it is my profession, so I will ask the following questions;

How many of us like standing in queues?

How many of us like waiting for hours on the telephone?

How many of us like waiting for a taxi or bus or the train?

Let’s not forget being stuck in peak hour traffic and so on, I think you get the picture. So you can choose to do it yourself, wait in line and get angry and frustrated or use a professional to handle your case and chill out. Modern life is stressful enough, so avoid extra stress and let the registered migration agent handle it for you.

I think enough has been said on this so let’s move on.

It is illegal for a person to give immigration assistance unless they are registered with the MARA (Migration Agents Registration Authority), so you can check the registration of your agent on the MARA website. Just be aware that this applies only to anyone offering immigration advice within Australia. The Australian government has no control over so called agents in other countries. There are MARA registered agents overseas who can be checked on the MARA website and so can be used if their credentials are genuine. If anyone claims to be a MARA registered agent, ask for their MARA number. A genuine agent will always be happy to provide the details. Only by using a MARA registered agent can you feel confident that you will be dealing with someone who knows what to do and how to help you.

Although the rules are very strict, there are some exemptions that allow certain people to offer immigration assistance such as close family members, sponsors and nominators. But they can only do so as long as they don’t ask for payment or some form of reward.

Reasons why you should use a migration agent.

Reasons why you should use a migration agent.

Australian immigration law is quite complex and changes to the laws are frequent.
Registered Migration Agents must study and do exams as a requirement for their yearly registration. This requirement ensures that the Migration Agent is fully aware of the many and regular changes to the Australian migration program.

Unfortunately many people don’t realise how complex the Migration Laws are and can involve laws and regulations from a number of government agencies.

Depending on the individual’s circumstances, it can be more than just a simple matter of filling in the boxes or ticking the appropriate square.

Yes, in some cases it can be simple and straightforward but most times it requires an in depth analysis of an individual's circumstances. A Migration Agent using his/her knowledge would analysis all the information supplied by the individual and advise how the Migration Laws would apply to such circumstances.

Also what has to be considered is that filing an application without expert help or advice can lead to mistakes which can be costly and cause delays and sometimes rejection of the application. Also timing is a critical factor in immigration and unless aware of this, an application can be delayed or rejected.

Not using a Migration Agent can also be costly as the Department of Immigration and Citizenship has a non refundable fee policy. Simply put if you get it wrong it is not only frustrating but you also lose your money.

The Australian government does have websites where you can get information and access to forms and department offices that you can telephone for advice. Only problem is that you will probably be more confused especially if you telephone for advice.

These sites can be useful in that they give some idea of what to expect in applying for a visa and also other things like living in Australia, our culture, history, our people and ways of living.

While the internet can be a wonderful resource it doesn’t always provide the exact information you need and that is why you need a Migration Agent.

A Registered Migration Agent will work with you to prepare your application and if problems arise, the agent often has additional resources available to help you.

It is always best to ask for the agent’s registration number as there are many who claim to be registered. Do not trust anyone who claims to be registered if they can’t or won’t show you their number and certificate. By law in Australia it is illegal to practice migration law without MARA registration. Registration can be checked at the Migration Agents Registration Authority website: http://www.themara.com.au/Online/default.asp

Useful Information Links

Although it is highly advisable to use a registered Migration Agent, for your information the following links are provided:

The Australian Department of Immigration
http://www.immi.gov.au/

Visit the Australian Department of Immigration for much useful information on visa requirements, settlement information, to access visa application forms or to learn about government news and legislation changes.


The Migration Agent Registration Authority

http://www.themara.com.au/

You should never use a migration agent who is not registered. So please visit Mara’s website to find a registered agent or to check the credentials of the person who is acting on your behalf.

Australian Job Opportunities

Australia is in the grip of a resources boom and the are many employment prospects on the mine sites and towns and cities that support them. To see what employment opportunities may suit you please go to the following website:

Australian Employment Opportunities


To get the latest news on Emerald, the town in the heart of Queensland's coal mining boom please go to:

Emeraldonline

Australian Visas means more job opportunities

Grab an Australian visa and come to the land down under for more job opportunities.

The Australian mining boom is creating golden opportunities for people skilled or unskilled.

Central Queensland is the heart of the Australian coal mining boom and there is intensive research to create clean power from coal that will also have less damaging effects on the environment. A world's first demonstration clean coal power station could be up and running by the year 2012, creating 700 jobs in Central Queensland during the construction.

The operation of the plant will create up to 100 jobs and the demonstration plant will play a significant role in reducing green house gas emissions.

Stage one of the ZeroGen project will involve an 80 megawatt net coal gasification demonstration plant located near Rockhampton.

Carbon dioxide emissions will be captured at the site and transported approximately 220 kilometres for injection and safe storage in deep underground reservoirs in the Northern Denison Trough.

Premier Anna Bligh said that the proposed new plant will demonstrate capture of up to 75 percent of carbon dioxide emissions which will be trucked to identified geological storage sites.

"The technical and financial feasibility of stage one will be assessed through Zer0Gen undertaking a detailed feasibility study and business case capital raising by 2009", said Ms Bligh.

ZeroGen Pty Ltd Chairman Elizabeth Nosworthy said the new two staged configuration of the project was aimed at "de-risking" the technologies whilst simultaneously accelerating their large scale development.

Stage two of the project will be developed concurrently with Stage One and will involve the deployment of a large-scale 300 megawatt net coal gasification plant with carbon capture and storage facilities.

"Siting of the large-scale plant in stage two will be determined in close collaboration with the Queensland Government to ensure that the economic needs of the State are met", said Ms Nosworthy.

The Premier Anna Bligh said, "Given positive feasibility and financing outcomes, the new 2 stage configuration plant could be a forerunner for a commercially based larger plant by 2017".

Grab your opportunity now send for information about visa applications for 457 skilled visas, spouse and partner visas, business skills and business investment visas, family visas and student visas, tourist and working holiday visas.

IMMIGRATING TO AUSTRALIA

Gateway to Immigrating to Australia

My name is Constantinos B. Cominos and I am a registered Migration agent. I can provide expert services to help you in all areas of your visa application.

Australian migration and visa laws are complex and there are many different types of visas, so it is advisable to use the services of a registered Migration Agent.

You can do it yourself but mistakes do happen and a lot of visa applications have been knocked back or delayed because simple and most often common mistakes were made.

Using a registered Migration Agent will save you a lot of frustration, time and money.

For a FREE basic assessment of the visa type and your chances of success please send a confindential email requesting the forms to me at the following address:

ccominos@gmail.com

You will receive the forms by email, once you have filled them out email them back to me.

Depending on how simple or complex your application is, I will then take between 3 to 7 days to assess your application and will reply with details of the appropriate visa and charges.

If I think that you have no chance I will advise and explain why. I will not take on a client and have them waste their money for nothing.

PLEASE NOTE: All potential applications have to be approved by the Australian Department of Immigration.

Migration Agents or other legal professionals cannot influence the decision making process or guarantee success as it is entirely a government decision whether a visa is granted or refused.

DIAC citizenship testing in Roma, Charleville and Emerald

DIAC citizenship testing in Roma, Charleville and Emerald

Residents in Roma, Charleville, Emerald and surrounding areas who are planning to apply for Australian citizenship will be able to take citizenship tests locally next week.

Most people applying for Australian citizenship must pass the test before lodging their application.

Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) officers will also be available to interview people older than 60 and under 18 who are exempt from the test.

Testing will be conducted in Roma on March 31 at the Community Room, Roma Cultural Centre, corner of Bungil and Quintin Streets, Roma.

Testing on April 1 and 2 in Charleville will be conducted at the Murweh Council Chambers, 95-101 Alfred Street, Charleville.

In Emerald, testing will be held on April 3 and 4 at the Gallery Meeting Room, Emerald Shire Council, 65 Egerton Street, Emerald.

Appointments can be made by phoning 07 3136 7321.

DIAC has increased the number of test locations in response to concerns about the travel distances raised by councils and community leaders.

The citizenship test, introduced on October 1 last year, includes 20 multiple choice questions based on a resource booklet, Becoming an Australian Citizen.

The booklet can be obtained from the department by phoning 131 880. It can also be downloaded from the DIAC citizenship website at www.citizenship.gov.au.

Between October 1 and December 31 last year, 92.9 per cent of people who took the citizenship test passed on their first or subsequent attempt.

Emerald Online - News from Emerald, QLD. Australia

Emerald in Central Queensland, has a new web based news service just go to the following address:

http://www.emeraldonline.com.au

Have a look at the story heading, New service for Emerald. It a short introduction about myself and my migration office visa services.

Emerald is in the middle of the mining boom and there are employment and business opportunities.

There are many types of visas such as business visa, skilled visa, family and partner visas etc.

Please contact me for more information on how to get your visa and to find out what type is more appropriate to you and your particular situation or skills.

Australian Visa Types – The 457 Visa

Australia is need of skilled workers and the 457 visa is the visa most often used for Australian or overseas employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers to work on a temporary basis in Australia. Depending on the circumstances an applicant on this type of visa can often apply for another visa type leading to permanent residence after a suitable qualifying period.

Commonly known as the 457 visa the correct tittle for this subclass of visa is Temporary Business (Long Stay) - Standard Business Sponsorship (Subclass 457).
Holders of this visa may be employed for a period of between three months and four years and may bring any eligible family members, who are allowed to work and study in Australia. Holders of the 457 visa have no limit on the number of times they travel in and out of Australia.

Employers must be approved by the government as an eligible employer. Employees are not free to change to a different employer as the visa is not transferable.
Employees must be paid a minimum gross annual salary, based on a 38 hour week, of $57,300 AUD for employees in the IT industry and $41,850 AUD otherwise. These figures may be lower in regional areas.

Employees must meet minimum levels of work and English language skills and must meet character and health requirements.

Whilst the employer can nominate a person for the particular position they are trying to fill, it is the Dept of Immigration and Citizenship which assesses and determines whether or not a visa will be granted.

Please come back every day as I will be adding more visa information daily if time and circumstances permit. Any urgent questions will be answered if you send me an email.

Also please note that all information is current at the time of publication. Because of frequent changes to the legislation it is advisable to always check. Doing so can save you a lot of time and money. The best way to do this is to use a Migration Agent.

Important Information

It is advisable to use the services of a registered Migration Agent because Australian migration and visa laws are complex and there are many different types of visas.

For a FREE basic assessment of the visa type and your chances of success please click on the contact button to fill out a confidential form.

PLEASE NOTE: All visa applications have to be approved by the Australian Department of Immigration. Migration Agents or other legal professionals cannot influence the decision making process or guarantee success as it is entirely a government decision whether a visa is granted or refused.