Starting a new life down under

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said 385,000 left the country for long-term migration in the year July 2006, the highest figure since current counting methods were introduced in 1991.

So why are so many deciding to leave?

Well, Australia offers a relaxed lifestyle. Sydney and Melbourne offer a fast cosmopolitan lifestyle comparable to Manchester or London. Regional cities and country towns offer a very relaxed quiet lifestyle. Australia and New Zealand offer great contrasts in landscapes any immigrant will be amazed with what can be seen and experienced.

The quality of life in Australia is excellent. Medical treatment is of the highest standard in the world. Labour conditions are good and tradesmen and enjoying high salaries.

Australia is currently suffering from shortage of trades people despite a boom in resources, thus creating a need for people to come across from overseas.

A number of projects in outback Queensland, Victoria and Western Australia are seriously short staffed. The salaries paid are high and conditions are good for those workers wishing to undertake such projects. The Australian government has introduced a number of incentives to encourage skilled tradespeople and professional into Australia, for example, tradesmen wanting to work on large projects are fast tracked into residency.

The immigration process is complex and using a legal professional will fast track an application through the complex process of obtaining a residency visa. Dealing with the department can be difficult and frustrating. Preparing residency documentation quickly and completely will minimise delays. An applicant must score points based on a number of factors such as age, ability to speak English, qualifications and work experience. If the applicant obtains sufficient points and achieves the pass mark a residency visa is issued. A skilfully prepared application by a professional will ensure the applicant achieves maximum points and is able to obtain a visa.

All applicants must undertake a positive skills assessment. This means qualifications and work experience are comparable to the Australian equivalent. A registered legal migration agent will ensure all the criteria are satisfied so that the outcome will be positive. The key to positive skills assessment is experience in the presentation. An understanding of what documents are required and how to prepare the application is crucial.

After the applicant obtains a positive skill assessment the migration application is lodged. Again, lodging a complete and correct application is paramount. Experience in lodging and preparing such applications is crucial and will save time and fast track the issue of a visa.

So, with options in abundance it is clear to see why people are taking the chance to start a new life in Australia.