ANZ Outlook / Issue 2

First Trans Oz bike race will take riders 2,000 miles across Australia

Traveller's guide Cairns & the Great Barrier ReefAgent X Choosing the right migration agentInside Brisbane Our guide to Queensland’s capitalGoing out PerthPLUS Migration news, Expert advice, Study in Australia, plus much more...

expat profile Rob and Lucina Levens on why they emegrated

“Australia is a

fantastic place !”

Cyclecrazy

the

ashes2010

the

ashes2010

Everything you

need to know

about the Series

SHIPPING • BAGGAGE FORWARDINGOVERSEAS REMOVALS • STORAGE

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AUSTRALIAANDNEWZEALANDOUTLOOK

We received a wonderful response to our launch issue. This time around the magazine is packed with even more high quality, informative travel articles, expert advice and real-life stories.

This free digital magazine aims to give you all the information you need to know if you intend to travel to or move Down Under and is designed to keep you fully informed of local news and important travel and visa information in a fun and friendly way.

Last month we looked at renting in Australia, New Zealand’s skilled workers gap, life in Sydney, moving pets overseas and the best beaches Down Under. This month, our team of writers tackle working holidays, how you find a migration agent, studying in Australia and we also bring you the personal experiences of Rob and Lucina Levens who moved to Brisbane in 2005.

As you no doubt saw on the eye-catching cover, we look at cycling across Australia and have an interview with British explorer Mike Laird, a man who cycled solo across Australia earlier this year and – having “felt sad” to have done it on his own – is now organising an epic amateur bike race that could see you follow in his tracks. Mike battled brown snakes, giant spiders, a locust plague, saddle sore, gruelling terrain, scorching heat, and floods to become the first Briton to cycle across Australia, solo and unassisted. Read more about his fantastic adventures and maybe even join the race on page 40.

We are just weeks away from the Ashes – which is causing a bit of a divide in our office – and so we have endeavoured to bring you everything you need to know about the 2010 Series (we even have last minute travel deals inside!).

Australian and New Zealand Outlook will be available every month as a digital magazine and every quarter we will produce a printed edition that will be distributed at selected outlets.

Look out for our next issue!

Ian Armitage, Editor

Cycle across Australia?EDITORIALEditor: Ian ArmitageWriters: Colin ChineryChris FarnellRuari McCallionJane Bordenave

BUSINESS General Manager: Stephen WarmanResearch Manager: Don CampbellResearchers: Andy WilliamsElle WatsonDave HodgsonChris BolderstoneAdvertising Sales Manager: Andy EllisSales Executive: Jon JaffreySales Administrator: Abby Nightingale

ACCOUNTSFinancial Controller: Nick CramptonAccounts: Margaret RobertsAlexandra Buchlakova

PRODUCTION & DESIGNMagazine Design: Optic JuiceProduction Manager: Jon Cooke

TNT PUBLISHINGCEO: Kevin EllisChairman: Ken HurstPublisher: TNT Publishing Ltd

Australia and New Zealand Outlook, The Royal, Bank Plain, Norwich, Norfolk, UK. NR2 4SFTNT Magazine, 14-15 Child’s Place, Earl’s Court, London, UK, SW5 9RXTntmagazine.com

ENQUIRIESTel: +44 (0)1603 3432267Fax: +44 (0)1603 283602Email: [email protected]

SUBSCRIPTIONSCall: +44 (0)1603 343267Email: [email protected]

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03

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CONTENTS

PAGE22

PAGE

42

PAGE18PAGE

46

PAGE

50

AUSTRALIAANDNEWZEALANDOUTLOOK

06 News The latest news from Down Under

10 Migration Update Up-to-date migration information

14 Whats on Our guide to the unmissable events, holidays and celebrations in Aus-

tralia and New Zealand this month

16 Going out... pERTH Experience the extraordinary

18 Travellers guide to.... Cairns We take a look at the city of Cairns, a jumping off point for some of

Australia’s greatest natural wonders

22 The asheS Everything you need to know about the 2010 Series which kicks off in

November

28 Expat Profile Rob and Lucina Levens

32 Ask the Expert Expert advice on all things visas, migration and more

36 Studying Down Under Australia and New Zealand Outlook examines the advantages of

studying in Australia

38 Agent X Choosing the right migration agent

40 Cycle across Australia First Trans Oz bike race will take riders 2,000 miles across Australia

44 where to settle New Zealand: A land of Plenty

50 Working holidays: New Zealand What you need to know about NZ working holidays

54 Next month What to expect from our next issue

CONTENTS

05

NEWS


Wellington is to become the first New Zealand city to trial production electric cars with the launch of a fleet of five battery-powered vehicles in Civic Square.

The fleet will be trialled over the next two years.

The Wellington City Council is working with Meridian Energy, Mitsubishi

Motors, New Zealand Post Group and The Wellington Company to trial Mitsubishi i-MiEVs. The i-MiEVs seat four and have a range of up to 155km.

Mayor Kerry Prendergast said the trial would demonstrate that electric cars were viable in Wellington and help identify any barriers to their widespread adoption, such as the need for charging stations.

"By working together we will gain a better understanding of how this exciting technology could change the way we travel and do business in Wellington," Prendergast said.

Wellington electric car trial begins

House prices in Sydney, Perth and Adelaide are expected to grow by about 20 percent over the next three years, says a recent housing report.

The QBE LMI Australian Housing Outlook Report, prepared by BIS Shrapnel, forecasts the strongest growth to be in Perth, Sydney and Adelaide “with all three cities to experience house price rises of around 20 percent during this period”.

More moderate house price growth is expected in Brisbane (+15 percent) and Hobart (+13

percent) where “affordability is not as strained or there is substantial dwelling deficiency”.

The weakest price growth is expected in Darwin (+12 percent), Canberra (+10 percent) and Melbourne (+9 percent).

Ian Graham, CEO of QBE LMI said steady growth was expected throughout the nation.

“Future median house price rises will be underpinned by a deficiency of dwelling stock across most capital cities,” he said.

House prices set to

rise 20% in Sydney, Perth and Adelaide

ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

blunder: Host announces wrong winner

Model show

Awkward doesn’t quite cut it.Imagine being told you’ve just been signed to modelling agency Priscilla's, won a A$25,000 contract to appear in a Levi's campaign, have the chance to visit New York to meet with ELITE agency, got a Ford Fiesta Zetec, A$20,000 cash, and also won a chance to pose for an eight-page spread for Harper's Bazaar Australia only to have it all taken away because of television blunder.

It is exactly what happened to Kelsey Martinovich, 19.

Midway through her acceptance speech, host Sarah Murdoch, presenter of Australia's Next Top Model and wife of Lachlan Murdoch, son of Rupert, cut in to announce the mistake.

Murdoch was mortified when she announced the wrong winner on live TV after being fed the incorrect name via her earpiece.She had to cut short

Martinovich’s celebrations and reveal the actual winner was her 18-year-old rival Amanda Ware.Martinovich handled the situation well and didn't walk away empty handed. She received A$25,000 and a holiday in New York.

The show is based on a franchise that was created in the US by Tyra Banks with America’s Next Top Model.

AUSTRALIAANDNEWZEALANDOUTLOOK 07

Australian PM Julia Gillard has called on the NSW government to honour its agreement to support uniform occupational health and safety laws.

The success of Commonwealth-state

relations depends on states honouring agreements they have signed - and NSW is not immune, Gillard said.

NSW Premier Kristina Keneally has written to Gillard asking her to ensure unions in NSW retain the right to prosecute employers

for work safety breaches and that the onus of proof remains on employers to show they exercised due care.

Keneally is concerned these rights were not part of the proposed national set of uniform workplace safety laws.

Gillard: NSW should honour deal

NEWS


Cyclists coming from

the Inner West or the

North Shore to the

CBD can now enjoy

a safer journey with

the opening of City of

Sydney’s first completed

cycleway route.Lord Mayor Clover Moore

MP officially launched the

route connecting the Sydney

Harbour Bridge and Anzac

Bridge at the National Ride

to Work Day breakfast in

Hyde Park.The Bridge-to-Bridge route

is 2.6km long.“Connectivity is the key to

supporting safe, convenient

cycling. The community told

us they wanted a good bike

network and I am excited to

declare the first part of

it open.“Already, well over 1100

riders are using the Union

Street route in the morning

and evening travel times,

and these numbers will only

grow,” Moore said.

Sydneysiders consulted

for Sustainable Sydney 2030

said they wanted safe cycling

routes that could be used to

get into and around the city.

“A number of bike

corridors are now being

improved in the city and the

Bridge-to-Bridge route is

one of many interconnected

bicycle routes which will

form part of a 200km network

that will help keep Sydney

moving and ease congestion

on our roads,” Moore said.

“Bike riding is a smart and

sustainable transport option

for short inner Sydney trips,

which is why the numbers

of bike riders in Sydney is

increasing rapidly.”

Sydney gets it’s first complete

cycleway route

Australia captain Ricky Ponting remains defiant in the face of the team’s worst Test-match losing streak in 22 years, saying he believes he’s the man for the job.

Speaking in Sydney after

his arrival home from India, where Australia lost the Test series 2-0, Ponting said he still feels he’s the right person to lead the side.

“Absolutely,” he said. “I’ve got no doubt about that all. “I’m still learning

about my own game and my captaincy and if the other players can learn a bit from that trip then it should hold us in good stead for the summer.”

The Ashes kick off at the Gabba on 25 November.

Ponting: I'm the right man for the job


ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

Qantas launches Melbourne-Darwin

servicesQantas will commence direct Melbourne-Darwin services from May next year.

Group Executive Qantas Airlines Commercial Rob Gurney said the new services reflected Qantas' commitment to extending its CityFlyer offering on flights into the Northern Territory.

"The introduction of Melbourne-Darwin services will help meet strong demand in the market and increase the options available to our customers in the Northern Territory and Victoria," Gurney said.

"We are delighted to be adding this important north-south route to our network. The new Qantas services will support growth

in business travel and tourism between Melbourne and Darwin.

"With Jetstar also set to expand capacity into Darwin, today's announcement shows the Qantas Group's two-brand strategy in action."

Qantas currently offers direct services between Darwin and Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth and Sydney, as well as direct QantasLink flights to Alice Springs, Cairns and Gove (Nhulunbuy).

The new schedule would comprise three return Melbourne-Darwin services operating on Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday, while a fourth service would operate on Mondays during the Territory's peak season from July-October.

Veitch gets old radio job backControversial sports broadcaster Tony Veitch has been given his old job back as the breakfast presenter on New Zealand’s Radio Sport.

“D’Arcy Waldegrave will be moving from breakfast to

the late-afternoon drivetime programme, and this provides an opportunity for Tony to host the show after nearly a year of sports-news presenting and back-up sports hosting with Newstalk ZB and Radio Sport,” said Dallas

Gurney, general manager of talk programming for The Radio Network (TRN).

“Tony is a quality sports presenter and we are very pleased to be able to give him this opportunity to host the breakfast programme again.”

migration update


Immigration New Zealand has announced that submissions are now open for its second bi-annual review of the Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) and Immediate Skill Shortage List (ISSL).

The ISSL includes occupations that are in immediate demand in the New Zealand labour market. The LTSSL includes occupations that are in long-term and global shortage.

In a release, Nigel Bickle, Head of Immigration New Zealand, said the Department regularly reviews the labour

market and works closely with key stakeholders to help identify areas of immediate and long-term skill shortage.

“This is to ensure that the lists reflect genuine skill shortages so New Zealanders are not disadvantaged while at the same time employers get the skilled employees they need.

“We encourage individuals and organisations to work together as a coordinated group to provide a combined industry submission which represents the shared views of the key players within their particular industry.”

Submissions will be accepted until Friday 12 November 2010.

Submissions open for 2010 LTSSL and ISSL

second review

NZ visa changes unveiled NZ employers are set to benefit from changes to temporary work visas in proposals that have been described as a “bonus for businesses”.

“In most circumstances it provides continuity in the workplace as employers have the security of knowing that their staff members can work legally,” said Immigration Minister

Dr Jonathan Coleman “For some time temporary migrants have been falling through the gaps… Knowing they can maintain lawful status while applying for a new visa will provide peace of mind.”

The visa will be introduced in March next year and the changes are part of the new Immigration Act, which comes into effect in November.


Keep track of the latest news and developments on moving Down Under

Immigration South Australia has announced its new interim State Sponsorship list for overseas workers to live and work in South Australia.

Immigration South Australia has announced it will very shortly be accepting new sponsorship applications from migrants for a limited number of occupations in an interim list (pending the introduction of State Migration Plans).

Migrants with occupations on the Interim Sponsorship List will be able to apply to be sponsored for an Australian Visa in the near future.

However, you’ll still have to meet all other state sponsorship criteria!

Occupations included on list include GP, dentist, plumber, electrician, project builder, and mechanic.

If your occupation is not on the Interim List it means that it is:

not on DIAC’s Skilled Occupations List, Schedule 3 OR it has not been identified as a priority occupation for this state and will not be considered for sponsorship.

When the SSML is released you can apply for sponsorship if: your occupation is on the list AND you meet all the requirements AND you wish to live and work in South Australia.

The South Australian Interim Sponsorship List will be used until the South Australian State Migration Plan and associated occupation list is implemented later this year.

South Australia

Sponsorship List Announced

Official statistics show net migration to Australia has slowed.

In the first three months of this year, Australia’s net migration was 61,800, Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data showed.

That is 37 percent below the historical high of 98,100 in the March 2009 quarter.

ABS said the rate of population growth had eased to 1.8 percent for the first three months of 2010, compared to 2.2 percent in 2009.

Australia’s population reached 22,272,000 by the end of March 2010, with an increase of 403,100 people over the year. Net overseas migration accounted for 60 percent of the growth.

The figures seem to contradict claims that Australia’s population is growing too fast.

Australia immigration

falls

migration update

NZ tax reforms take effect


NZ Tax changes in brief

From 1 October 2010, personal taxes will

be cut, GST will rise to 15 percent and NZ

Superannuation, Working for Families and

benefit payments will increase – lifting

incomes, keeping skilled Kiwis in New

Zealand and helping families get ahead.

From 1 April 2011, tighter rules around the

taxation of investment property will take effect –

making the tax system fairer.

From 1 October 2010, the tax rates for

most PIEs and bank interest will fall. The

tax rate for other savings vehicles will

fall to 28 percent from 1 April 2011 –

encouraging savings.

From the 2011/12 income year, the

company tax rate will fall to 28 percent –

encouraging productive investment and

lifting competitiveness.

Tax cuts aimed at strengthening the economy and helping families kicked in during October.

And it was broadly good news, with cuts across the board. The tax cuts have

been offset with a rise in Goods and Services Tax (GST). GST increased from 12.5 to 15 percent.

Working For Families, New Zealand Super and Benefit Payments will

increase by 2.02 percent to compensate for the GST increase.

The Government’s taxguide.govt.nz calculator shows that a NZ$30,000 wage earner will get a net weekly gain of NZ$5.29 after GST and income tax cuts are considered, while someone on NZ$120,000 will be NZ$52.78 better off.

The average household should be about NZ$25 a week better off, even with the increase in GST.

Someone on an average wage will be almost NZ$15 a week better off.

Finance Minister Bill English and Revenue

Minister Peter Dunne said the tax cuts and other tax changes will strengthen economic growth and help families get ahead in New Zealand.

“This is the most significant tax reform package in New Zealand for nearly 25 years. For ordinary New Zealanders, it will reward effort, encourage savings and help families get ahead.”To find out how the tax changes will benefit you, please visit the tax calculator at www.taxguide.govt.nz.

13AUSTRALIAANDNEWZEALANDOUTLOOK

HeadingHome?

AustraliaPh: 0845 074 2657 E: [email protected]: www.commbankuk.co.uk

New ZealandPh: 0845 074 2658 E: [email protected]: www.asbuk.co.uk

Important Information. Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 is incorporated in Australia with limited liability, registered in England No. BR250 and authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Services Authority. ASB Bank is a part of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia Group and incorporated in New Zealand with limited liabilty. A Disclosure Statement and Personal Banking Terms and Conditions are available from the Commonwealth Bank and ASB Bank.

Let us help you make the move easier.

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TNT Full Page Advert DEC 09.pdf 1 18/12/2009 11:36:57 AM

What’s on...


Melbourne Cup CarnivalFlemington racecourse, Melbourne, VictoriaThe AS$6 million Melbourne Cup Carnival is a four-day celebration of racing, style, fashion and glamour. 2010 is its 150th running and it is a celebration not to be missed.www.melbournecup.com/melbourne-cup-carnival/

Auckland JazzFest 2010Maidment Theatre, University of Auckland campus, 8 Alfred Street, CBD, AucklandThe event kicks off on Monday November 1 with the Auckland Jazz Orchestra and across the three nights you’ll get to enjoy new music from the likes of Olivier Holland and Kevin Field and experience Roger Manin’s ‘Latitude’, featuring the legendary Bernie McGann. www.maidment.auckland.ac.nz

Mountain Cruizers Car ClubBarton Avenue, Wallerawang, NSWThis event is open to all cars, bikes, vintage cars, hot rods, rat rods and utes – in fact, if it has two or four wheels you can take it! There will be over 30 trophies presented on the day and money raised from entrants and spectators will go to local charities (drinks, barbecue and hot food will be available).http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=115580005239

30oct-6 th

1-3rd

14 th

What’s on...


Our guide to the unmissable events, holidays and celebrations in Australia and New Zealand this month

Paspaley Polo in the CityOxford Street, Sydney Suburbs, NSWPaspaley Polo in the City celebrates its fifth anniversary this year with what it is billing as the biggest and most exciting event series ever. The series has grown into a major national sporting event now played in five capital cities, showcasing Australia’s top professional players. www.polointhecity.com

Vodaphone Ashes Series, first testBrisbane Cricket Ground, BrisbaneDon’t miss the first ball of the first test at the Gabba. Steve Harmison’s wayward first delivery set the tone for the 2006/7 tour which Australia won in a 5-0 whitewash. But this time England travel Down Under at pretty much full strength and are very optimistic they’ll emerge triumphant. An estimated 42,000 England fans travelled to Australia in 2006, will make the trip this time around?www.cricket.com.au

Adelaide International Guitar Festival 2010King William Road, Adelaide, South AustraliaFeaturing some of the best guitarists from around Australia and the world, the 2010 Adelaide International Guitar Festival will run over four days and nights in November. The festival will feature more than 50 national and international artists in 16 performances, along with a range of free and low cost workshops, master classes, artist talks and panel discussions. www.adelaideguitarfestival.com.au

THE ASHES

20th

25-29 th

25-28th


going out

Perth Experience the extraordinary

Perth, situated on the banks of the Swan River, is modern, lively and multicultural. Dubbed the world’s most isolated city, Perth has more

sunshine than any other Australian capital city and its chilled-out atmosphere makes it a great place to stop and relax. Visitors can enjoy an active nightlife, a vibrant club scene, plenty of attractions and a renowned live music scene.

Where to eat...Perth has a lot of seafood on offer. However, the food scene is slightly fragmented, so be prepared to travel from one end of the city to the other in pursuit of greatness. Northridge is probably the best place to go. In the city, we recommend C Restaurant in St Martins Tower. It offers European cuisine and stunning city views.www.crestaurant.com.au

Where to drink...A Perth tradition is to go to the pub on a Sunday afternoon. The tradition is known as going for a “Sunday Session”. Perth has a huge selection of pubs, bars and clubs (more on clubs in a minute). We recommend heading for Beaufort Street in Mount Lawley where you’ll find a healthy selection of bars and pubs. The Queens Tavern and The Flying Scotsman are all worth a look.

Fremantle, Perth’s port city, has also built a good reputation for its microbreweries.

Where to party...Perth’s main nightclub area is Northbridge. Thursday, Friday, Saturday

and Sunday are the busiest days and nights, but there is a great atmosphere any day of the week. Popular nightclubs

in Perth are Hip-E, Library, The Deen and Black Bettys.www.hipeclub.com.au

Where to stay...Finding a stylish new hotel was a bit of a challenge for us. Perth certainly isn’t overrun with them. That said, the Duxton Hotel is one of the most glamorous addresses in town. As an alternative, you could stay at the Hyatt Regency, which has wonderful views of the Swan River, or you can opt for something more “down market’, which is close to many pubs, cafes and restaurants. www.duxton.com.au


For the kids...There is a lot for kids to do in Perth. We recommend Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, Perth Zoo, Perth Mint, Rockingham Dolphins, and the Scitech Discovery Centre (as well as a host of walks – see THE GREAT OUTDOORS section).

BUT, the major attraction has to be Adventure World – it is 20 minutes drive from Perth and is Western Australia’s major theme park. Open from September until April, it has over 30 exhilarating rides and a wildlife park;

Mandurah Estuary & Peel InletIf fresh-caught blue manna crab is right up your alley, this is for you. You might also see dolphins - they are regularly spotted in the area and special dolphin watching cruises take you up close to these friendly creatures.www.visitmandurah.com

Lake MongerLake Monger is home to thousands of magnificent water birds including the black swan - the emblem of Western Australia.www.wavisitorcentre.com

Munda Biddi Bike TrailWant to cycle through vast, unspoiled forest? This trail takes around seven days of pedal power to complete, with cyclists able to rest and replenish in purpose-built campsites.www.toptrails.com.au

Swan River Take a leisurely stroll or cycle along the gleaming Swan River, perfect for great views of the city and a mid-afternoon picnic.www.wavisitorcentre.com

Bibbulmun TrackThis is Western Australia’s only long-distance walk trail. It is a 963km trek that stretches from Kalamunda to Albany. www.toptrails.com.au

Cottesloe BeachThe sprawling white beaches in Perth are sensational – but Cottesloe beach is the most beautiful. www.cottesloe.wa.gov.au

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

it is worth a visit and entry is free.www.adventureworld.net.au

For those that love nature or long walks, Perth is ideal. We recommend:


TRAVELLER'S GUIDE


Cairns

We take a look at the city of Cairns, a jumping off

point for some of Australia’s greatest natural wonders

You’ll love


Pop quiz. What’s the biggest structure ever built by living organisms? The Great Wall of China? Nope. The Burj

Khalifa in Dubai? Sorry. The Boeing Plant in Everett, Washington? No, and also you lose points for looking it up on Wikipedia. You see, mankind doesn’t have a monopoly on building really, really big stuff, and while our ancestors were just figuring out that caves could help you stay out of the rain, Mother Nature was already laying the groundwork for the gold prize winner in this category- the Great Barrier Reef. The reef weighs in at over 2,900 reefs over an area of over 133,000 square miles, a feat that becomes more impressive when you realise it’s made from billions of life forms only a few millimetres in length.

Reefer MadnessThe Great Barrier Reef is big enough to see from space, but Virgin Galactic hasn’t yet got round to offering an orbital reef tour. However, if the idea of a bird’s eye view of the reefs appeals to you, there are other options that are slightly closer to home.

Cairns Seaplanes offers a range of tours over the Great Barrier Reef, launching from and landing in the water. There’s definitely something to be said for looking down the crystal clear waters of the Reef from 500 feet in the air. The company offers a variety of flights, from a simple 30 minute scenic flight, all the way up to custom chartered flights, or the romantic “Honeymoon Package” option.

Of course, you might want your encounter with the Reef to be a bit more up close and personal, and there are plenty of businesses working out of Cairns that will be more than happy to cater to you. Even if you’ve


TRAVELLER'S GUIDE


never so much as tasted a snorkel, you’ll find plenty of diving schools, such as Pro Dive Cairns, who offer a five-day training course for A$825.

During the course you will spend two days learning the basics in the classroom and pool, before being let loose on the Reef for three days and two nights on a dive trip that will take you to some of the best Outer Reef dive sites out there.

If the A$825 price tag is a bit much for you, a budget course is available from Diving Cairns for A$425 for four days and four dives. Cairns is absolutely crawling with diving centres however, so it’s worth shopping around.

Once you’re out there you’ll witness a mind blowing array of wildlife, including dolphins, turtles, stingrays and giant clams. There are even clownfish, so there’s a real possibility that you could actually find Nemo.

But then again, you’d be well within reason to think that learning how to scuba dive sounds like far too much effort. Isn’t there some way you can enjoy one of the greatest natural wonders in the world, while still having access to an air conditioned room, luxury meals, and well, a spa? That doesn’t seem too unreasonable, and Coral Princess Cruises doesn’t think it’s too unreasonable either. The cruises, which are available through Audley Travel, offer the chance to indulge in snorkelling, guided rainforest walks and presentations by a marine biologist, while also giving you the option to simply lounge on the sun deck, or enjoy the ship’s spa.

Your launch pad for all these activities will be the city of Cairns. It may not have the most glamorous origins (the city was originally swampland) but over the years the city has developed a thriving tourist industry, and today it makes a perfect home base for

your excursions to the many natural wonders in the area.

But you don’t have to have your adventurer’s hat on to enjoy this city. Following a major revamp in 2003, Cairns has many attractions within its city borders. Perhaps the best hangout spot in the city’s

foreshore promenade, which features a 4,800 square metre saltwater lagoon that brings the beach to the heart of the city. Around the lagoon you can engage in all of the favourite Australian pass-times, including swimming, holding a barbecue, and of course, topless sunbathing.

Launch Pad to Adventure (or Not)


If you’re looking for something a bit more culturally nourishing it’s worth checking out the Cairns Museum for an insight into the history of Cairns, as well as the much longer Aboriginal history of the area. Another good spot to check out is the Cairns Regional Gallery, a gorgeous building where you can find the world of artists such as Donald Friend and

Russell Drysdale alongside a cornucopia of Aboriginal art.

After spending all that time improving your mind, you’ll probably want to hit the beach. Fortunately Cairns is barely a hop, skip and a jump away from the beautifully scenic Ellis Beach, a great spot for working on your tan, and also a popular venue for competitions and events courtesy of the Ellis Beach

Surf Life Saving Club, so you may occasionally catch the odd sexy coast-guard type around.

In the Summer the waters around Ellis Beach can play host to nasty fauna of the stinging variety, so it’s worth being careful, although the Ellis Beach lifesavers also maintain and patrol a stinger net from November to May in this area.

The RainforestThe Great Barrier Reef is probably what Cairns is most famous for, but it’s far from the only natural attraction in the area. Two hours south of the city you’ll find the mighty Tully River, which runs through magnificent rainforests. A great way to experience the Tully River is to spend a day white water rafting your way down it. Of course, when not done carefully this can be dangerous, so it’s important to go with someone who knows what they’re doing. Audley Travel offers an excellent package that includes expert tuition, a full briefing, a day that includes five hours of rafting on all grades of rapid, and perhaps best of all, a barbecue lunch.

If you want your rainforest experience to be a little bit less white-knuckle, you could do worse than take the century old railway from Cairns to the mountain retreat of Kuranda. The train journey will take you through tropical rainforests, up mountain ranges, and past breathtaking sights such as the Barron and Stoney Creek Falls, as well as the impressive engineering feat that is the Barron River Falls Bridge.

www.cairnsseaplanes.comwww.prodivecairns.comwww.divingcairns.com.auwww.coralprincess.com.auwww.audleytravel.comwww.cairnsmuseum.org.auwww.cairnsregionalgallery.com.auwww.ellisbeachslsc.comwww.kuranda.org

Out at Kuranda you’ll get the chance to see exotic butterflies, parrots, fresh water crocodiles and the always hilarious duck-billed platypus. Kuranda’s street markets are also an excellent place to pick up souvenirs, as a range of Aboriginal artefacts are for sale there. You can even learn how to play the didgeridoo!

There are many wonderful sights and experiences to be head in and around Cairns, more than you could possibly fit into one trip. But whatever you do here, you’re going to end up with some stories to tell.

USEFUL LINKS

AshesThe


Sport

AshesEverything you need

to know about the 2010 Series

The Ashes - 5 tests, 22 players, a small urn for the winner, and nothing for the loser. It is far

more than just a sporting rivalry. The Ashes sees England pitted against

Australia in a battle for victory and national pride. It is a unique spectacle, full of skill, tactics, controversy (at times), determination and brilliance.

Last time out Down Under (2006-07 Series), things didn’t go well. England suffered a humiliating 5-0 whitewash.

This time, things are different and England go into this series full of optimism. Their Test side is considered to be “better” than Australia. And, after a recent defeat by India in Bangalore, Ricky Ponting's team slipped to fifth on the world rankings, making those claims official.

Of course, past performance is no guarantee of future success. And rankings, to most, mean almost nothing.

Yet, Strauss and Co. are likely to be pretty excited. This is the first time that England have been able to look down on the Aussies.

Over the next few pages, you’ll find everything you need to know about the

2010 Ashes series, the host cities, and Australia’s cricket heritage.

The action begins in Brisbane on 25 November before the series heads to Adelaide (December 3-7), Perth (December 16-20), Melbourne (December 26-30) and Sydney (January 3-7). An estimated 42,000 England fans travelled to Australia

in 2006, but according to Cricket Australia, the economic

Australia’s failure to find a spinner with even a fraction of Shane

Warne’s ability.Graeme Swann.

England are genuine contenders to bring back the Ashes after a

24 year wait.Captain Andrew Strauss

(and his work ethic).England’s strong batting line-up.


Reasons for optimism:

the

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Australian residents. It is important to note that December and January are two of the most popular months for travel to Australia out of the UK, but this series isn’t expected to replicate the pandemonium of 2006-07. Some packages are still available:Gullivers Sports Travel offers Official Vodafone Ashes Series supporter tours and packages with guaranteed match tickets. Prices start from £4385 per person for the 5th Test in Sydney on the fully escorted ‘Emu Tour’ (29th December 2010 – 10th January 2011). The price includes return international flights with Malaysia Airlines, ten nights B&B accommodation at the 5-Star Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, Official Gold Category match tickets for the 5th Test,

downturn has affected sales this year. "The economic situation has changed and the British pound is now far weaker in comparison to the Australian dollar,” said Peter Young, Cricket Australia’s public affairs general manager.

In Australia, it’s just not summer without cricket and the Aussies won’t be bowled over.

England hold the Ashes after winning the last year's series 2-1 at home.

Can they defend their crown?

How to bookTickets for the Ashes became available to England fans in July and have all but sold out. Around 80 percent of tickets for the 2010-11 series were kept aside for Australian Cricket Family members, who must be


Sport

© GullivErS SporTS TrAvEl

the

ashes2010

return international flights with Qantas Airways, seven nights accommodation at the 4-Star Novotel on Collins Melbourne Hotel, internal flight Melbourne to Sydney, eight nights B&B accommodation at the 4-Star Four Points by Sheraton Sydney, airport transfers, Official Silver 4th and 5th Test match tickets, and the services of a Sport Abroad tour manager. Tailor-made options are also available.

For more information call Sport Abroad on 08456 803 086 or visit www.sportabroad.co.uk

welcome drinks reception, New Year’s Eve party, access to the Gullivers Sports Travel Cricket Forum and the services of a dedicated Gullivers Sports Travel Tour Manager. Tailor-made packages are also available.

For more information call Gullivers Sports Travel on 01684 293175 or visit www.gulliverstravel.co.uk

Sport Abroad offers Official Vodafone Ashes Series supporter tours and packages including Official Test Match Tickets. Prices start from £4695 per person for the ‘Silver – 4th & 5th Tests (22nd December 2010 – 8th January 2011) including

Andrew Strauss Age: 33 Tests: 77Test Debut: England v New Zealand, Lord’s, May 20-24 2004.Batting average: 43.11

Matt PriorAge: 28 Tests: 35 Bat av: 42.13Test Debut: England v West Indies, Lord’s, May 17-21 2007.

Graeme SwannAge: 31 Tests: 24Bowl av: 25.11Test Debut: India v England, Chennai, Dec 11-15 2008.Likely impact: Huge. Swann is currently regarded as the world’s best spinner.

Key player profiles

Chris Tremlett

Jonathan Trott

ENGLAND ASHESSQUAD 2010-2011


Andrew Strauss (Captain)

Paul Collingwood

Alastair Cook

Steven Davies

James Anderson

Graeme Swann

Kevin Pietersen

Eoin Morgan

Ian Bell

Matt PriorSteven Finn

Tim BresnanStuart Broad

Monty Panesar


Ashes City guidesBrisbane is a fast-paced metropolis and it has all the trappings of a big city. Queensland’s capital, it is Australia’s third largest city and a gateway to Surfers Paradise, Noosa and the Gold Coast. Brisbane is much more than you might expect and is an affluent, party-going city, which is a big hit with us Brits.

Getting to and from the Brisbane Cricket Ground (Gabba) See www.thegabba.org.auMore information www.visitbrisbane.com.au

Adelaide is in many ways the ideal Australian city; it has a Mediterranean

climate and offers easy access to the beach. It is probably the perfect place to enjoy a

summer of Test Cricket (and is home to the Bradman Collection Museum, ideal for cricket lovers). Adelaide is a sophisticated, cosmopolitan city and features streets filled

with lively cafes and restaurants.

A quick guide to the five host cities: Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Melbourne and Sydney.

Sport

Getting to and from the Adelaide Oval See www.cricketsa.com.au

More information www.southaustralia.com

BRISBANE

ADELAIDE


Perth is defined by beaches, sunshine and blue skies; what more do you need? Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a great place to watch cricket. Situated on the banks of the Swan River, Perth is a modern, lively, multicultural city, much like a small-scale Sydney. Over 80 percent of WA’s population lives in Perth, and, although it’s one of the most isolated cities in the world, visitors can enjoy an active nightlife, plenty of attractions and museums, a healthy cafe culture and a superb live music scene.

Melbourne is probably Australia’s “sportiest” city – it is the birthplace of Australian Rules Football, has hosted an

Olympic Games and is home of the Melbourne Cup, a horse race that “stops a nation”. For us cricket fans,

Melbourne is the place for another “nation-stopper”, the traditional Boxing Day Test. Melbourne is more than sport, though, and the city oozes culture. Its cosmopolitan

style is reminiscent of a European city. Melbourne has plenty to offer.

Sydney is Australia’s biggest and most famous city, and it is also its most geographically and

culturally diverse. Forget the ocker tourism slogans like “Throw another shrimp on the

barbie” or “Where the bloody hell are you?” Sydney is a city that is well and truly grown up. From the grand Sydney Harbour to the buzzing

beaches, Australia’s jewel in the crown is a fantastic city to visit.

Getting to the WACA cricket groundSee www.waca.com.au More information www.westernaustralia.com

PERTH

MELBOURNE

SYDNEY

Getting to the MCG See www.mcg.org.au

More information www.visitvictoria.com

Getting to the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG)See www.sydneycricketground.com.au

More information www.sydney.com

the

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Expat PROFILE

Migrating to Brisbane from England has been the fulfilment of a vision for Rob and Lucina Levens. But as Lucina tells Colin Chinery, it also takes serious planning and application.

Five years ago Lucina Levens had a high-powered job in the head office of an international

law firm in the City of London. She was there in the summer of the

al-Qaeda terrorist attacks 2005 which killed 52 civilian and injured a further 700. Lucina remembers Major Emergency lunchtime with friends in a coffee house as armed police poured in, ordered them to remain inside, and sealed off the building and adjoining streets.

BuzzExpatS in brief

NAME: LUCINA LEVENS

Occupation: LAW

NAME: ROB LEVENS

Moved from: IPSWICH, UK

Moved to: Brisbane, Queensland

on track to the Brisbane


She recalls too the 80 mile daily train commutes back to her home in Ipswich, Suffolk, sometimes sitting on the floor of overcrowded, late arrival trains.

Now five years on Lucina and husband Rob are Australian citizens, working and living in Brisbane in the Sunshine State. They have a beautiful two month old daughter, Helena, and life is good.

“Looking back it can be quite scary to realise we might never have known all of this. I think of a pair of train doors slamming tight on the London Underground, and we only just squeezed on because we were so close to not getting our visas. So it could all have been so different, but here we are living a complete life rather than a much reduced version of what it can be.”

Lucina, 32, and Rob 37, began their visa applications after holidaying in Perth where Rob had relatives. “When we got back to England it was December, very grey and cold.”

In April 2005 the visas came through leaving six months in which to activate them. “We decided on Brisbane and Melbourne - the two big cities we hadn’t seen - to look for jobs.”

With sectors and companies researched and recruitment consultants e-mailed, they set

up job interviews. “We made certain we would hit the ground running in those three weeks.” It paid off.

“Melbourne probably had the better job prospects but Brisbane still had good opportunities and was more relaxed. And obviously there was the weather –it wasn’t as hot as we had dreaded!”

When they flew out of Brisbane Rob and Lucina had secured jobs, Rob a project management role within state-owned electricity distribution company Energex, and Lucina a position within the communications team at Virgin Blue Airlines.

“I remember arriving back and thinking, here we are living in this very small grey world in England. And there’s this parallel universe the other side of the world where people are living a very different and far more expansive life, and thinking, I want us to be part of that life. We look back and despite missing family and friends, the history, buildings, culture and countryside of England; we know we made the right decision

“We found Brisbane a very modern city, vibrant, with lots going on from free salsa dancing lessons in the streets to ballet and creative arts. You can have a good job and still live within ten kilometres and afford a nice house, it’s close to beaches and things to do at the weekend, the people were outgoing and friendly; all round a good balance. It still has something of a small town appeal, but with a real buzz. It’s a ‘Happening City, so we settled on Brisbane.

“Queensland has got the best beaches in the country, and we feel very lucky to have them on our doorstep. It means a lot, and I suppose it’s the quintessential Australian life where you work during the week in a city with buzz and at the weekend put your shorts on and go

Australia is a fantastic place to come and live. Do your homework and be prepared to work hard and fit in

Expat PROFILE

to a beautiful beach

without having to stay over and pay a lot. It’s fantastic. It makes you think; gosh I’m here and got a completely different lifestyle to what I would have had in England.”

Lucina, currently on maternity leave from her post as Communications Manager at Bupa Australia, dismisses British TV re-location programme clichés about the supposedly ‘Laid Back Oz Lifestyle’

“The Australians are serious about everything they do whether lifestyle or work. They are pretty competitive, and very patriotic, which is a fantastic thing.”

Entry cue for one of Australia’s youngest

- Helena Sofia, born to Lucina and Rob two months ago at Brisbane’s Mater Mothers’ Hospital.

“We can understand why it’s been called the Hilton,” says Lucina, “ the food and service, the scope , sophistication and quality of pre and post natal care, and the 360 degrees attention paid to the welfare of both babies and mothers. Altogether very impressive. Rob and I are so appreciative.”

“Looking ahead we feel the child care and education systems here are so much better. And for Helena there will be so many more opportunists here growing up in an outdoor and safer environment. I feel I wouldn’t have wanted to have children if we had been living in Ipswich. The way things are in Britain I don’t think there would have been much to look forward to!”


In respect of visa applications it’s worth

having a good migration agent because

there’s so much red tape and they can push

Government departments.

You need to be efficient because the point’s

qualification tends to go up every year and

we almost missed out because we left our

lodgement to the last minute. That was pretty

tight and scary! It made us realise how much

we wanted it though.

It’s important when you come here not to

view it as a holiday. We treated our three

weeks here very much as working. We

worked day in and day out in our suits job

hunting. We didn’t lie on a beach thinking

isn’t this lovely, because this is not how your

life is going to be. Australians work long

hours and work hard, and they do expect

you to fit in.

Don’t come here thinking it will be cheap,

that you will halve your grocery bill because

it wont be. Food is very expensive. So are

used cars. And it’s tough for people to get

on the housing ladder, which is why you find

young people still at home in their late 20s.

But things like eating out are much cheaper.

Emigrating is tiring and emotional. If you

are lucky and hit the ground running with a

job you can burn out after six months. But

you’ve got to be prepared to put the work in

up front.

Try to imagine how you can cope

alone as a couple and spending

time with perhaps a limited

number of people until you have

built up a friends network.

If you can save before you come

to Australia I would strongly

advise it.

Research the job market and try

and get a job before you come out

here. Hone your CV – here called

resumes - and try and see a copy

of an Australian resume to see

what it is like.

I thought having a job in London

would be near the top of the

list, but it isn’t. In Britain it

would be a big thing, but here

it’s inconsequential and some

recruitment consultants are

only interested when you’ve got

Australian brands on your CV. Get

a job even if it isn’t exactly what

you want; show you have been

active in the Australian job market.

Try and get on the property

ladder as soon as you can - which

is what we did. There’s no point

in trying to save up for it because

you will be chasing forever

moving goal posts.

Some guidelines:

This month, Chartered Accountant Allan Collett answers your tax questions….

ASK THE EXPERT

AIncome tax in the UK nd in Australia started from substantially

the same base way back in the dim and distant past. However in

the modern day there are many differences, including the rates of

income tax, and the ability to claim tax deductions for amounts

paid by taxpayers - claiming tax deductions is far more common in Australia than

in the UK, and allows individuals to reduce their tax liability. For example, many

taxpayers in Australia claim tax deductions for work related expenses in a manner

that is simply not possible in the UK.

In addition, while most individual taxpayers in the UK do not complete a tax

return each year, almost all Australians are required to complete an annual return of

their assessable income.

However, there are some similarities including the separate taxation of spouses, self-

assessment - and interest on tax that is paid late!

Q Is income tax the same in Australia as it is in the UK?Chris, Twickenham


Q Am I taxed on monies I bring into Australia at the time I move? Sarah, York

A No. Australia does not tax money that is brought into the country - the Federal Government will be delighted that you have decided to bring your

money to the country!

Q In the year I leave the UK, am I entitled to a tax refund?

Jim, Reading

A As a general rule individuals who leave the UK part way through a UK tax year and who have been receiving a salary or wage under the UK PAYE system can obtain a repayment of tax from HM Revenue if they complete a form P85 and submit it to their employer’s tax office with the form P45 they receive when their employment ceases. Form P85 can be obtained by typing the form number into the search box at www.hmrc.gov.uk.

Q Are there any hidden taxes I should be aware of?

Richard, Newcastle

A : All of the taxes in Australia are fairly well known, but there are some aspects of the Australian tax system that are peculiar to migrants and should be borne in mind when you are moving to Australia. These include the liability that can arise if a newly arrived migrant decides to transfer UK pension benefits into an Australian superannuation fund more than 6 months after commencing tax residency in Australia. Australia also operated what was called the Foreign Investment Fund legislation until relatively recently. The FIF rules affected migrants who became tax residents of Australia who retained certain types of investments located outside Australia, including endowment policies, ISAs, and Bonds, and required such taxpayers to include the annual growth in the value of these investments in their assessable income, even if the investment had not been sold. This legislation was abolished from the end of the last income tax year, on 30th June 2010.

AYes, UK pension fund benefits can usually be transferred into

an Australian superannuation fund - and this exercise is often

worth undertaking from a tax perspective. We say this as UK

source pension income received in the hands of an Australian

tax resident is usually taxable wholly in Australia under the provisions of the Tax

Treaty between the two countries. By contrast, benefits received at retirement age by

an Australian resident from an Australian superannuation fund that derives from a

transferred UK fund are generally free of tax in either country.

Note also that an individual should not receive a benefit from the transferred

fund for five complete UK tax years following departure from the UK to avoid a tax

charge arising under the UK’s QROPS tax provisions.

Q Will it be possible to transfer a UK pension to Australia? Kim, London


A The tax free status of certain UK investments

such as PEPs, ISAs, and endowment policies ceases to be available when an individual holding such investments moves to Australia as the holder of a permanent residency visa - such a person is subject to Australian tax on his/her worldwide income and capital gains. If you are in this position you should therefore look at the investment on the basis of its investment potential, rather than from the tax benefits that are available when a UK resident.

Note also that the Foreign Investment Fund rules noted at 3 above no longer apply following their abolition at the end of June 2010.

Q A friend who recently immigrated told me I should

cash in my ISA before I leave. Is that good advice?

Brian, Great Yarmouth

ASK THE EXPERT

A Yes, a choice between visas can make a significant difference to how an individual is taxed when moving to Australia. As a general rule, temporary visa holders who are resident in Australia are only subject to Australian tax on their Australian source income and capital gains - meaning that income from sources such as UK property, UK shareholdings, and UK bank deposits are not subject to Australian tax if you are the holder of a temporary residency visa.Indeed, some attractive tax planning is available when a temporary visa holder is moving to Australia and has investments such as property or a business interest that would generate a significant capital gain if sold.

Q Does my visa have any affect on my tax position? Brian, Great Yarmouth


Q Where can I get information on Australian taxation and

Tax Packs?

Anon, BristolA Information relating to Australian taxation is available through the Australian Taxation Office website, at www.ato.gov.au - or from all good tax advisors!

ABOUT THE EXPERTAlan Collett is a qualified Chartered Accountant in UK and Australia.

With Jane Cooper (also tax qualified in both countries), he owns and

operates Go Matilda Accounting and Tax, which provides tax advice and

ongoing tax compliance services such as tax return preparation for those

who are moving to Australia. Go Matilda has offices in the UK and in

Australia, and can be contacted in the UK on 023 80 30 25 24, and on the

Internet at www.gmtax.com.au.

Q What if I am paying back

a student loan?John, London

A The obligation to repay a student

loan arises once an individual’s

assessable income in the UK exceeds

£15,000; loan repayments are to be made

at the rate of 9 percent on the excess over

this threshold, and when an individual

with a student loan obligation is employed

his or her employer will deduct the

required amount from salary.

When moving to Australia there is an

obligation to notify the Student Loans

Company, and to continue making

repayments at the same rate – i.e. 9

percent of income that exceeds the

equivalent of £15,000.

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studying down under


Australia is one of the best places to live and study. If you want a quality education and a good lifestyle, it’s the place to be.

ASK QUESTIONSOk, you’re sceptical; you’re thinking, “Why should I listen to this?” So, I went searching for personal experiences and it wasn’t long until came across Mike176 (he didn’t want to give his real name – not sure why – but I’m guessing it is Mike) on an Expat forum. He had moved to Australia a few years ago and had worked in the UK as an IT professional. He heard about a shortage of IT specialists through a friend and wanted to give it a go. The trouble was he had no formal qualifications and didn’t qualify for a visa. “There was the option of studying to gain a formal qualification and Australia was always somewhere I had wanted to go,” he says. “I made the decision and ended up

Are you stuck in a dead-end job? Are you looking for a change? Do you want to gain the

professional qualifications you need to make that change? And do you want to do it outside the UK? If the answer to these questions is yes, have you thought about Australia?

Trips to Australia aren’t just about holidays, gap years and migration anymore and over recent years, more and more Brits have been going to study. Australia is in many ways the ideal destination for those wanting to gain professional qualifications: they speak English, it has a number of internationally recognised universities, it can enhance your migration prospects, you don’t always need formal qualifications, and you get access to a fun lifestyle and a warmer climate (fees and living costs are also generally comparable to the UK).

in AustraliaAustralia and New Zealand Outlook

examines the advantages of studying in Australia


getting onto a masters degree – thankfully, the university recognised work-based learning and I was well on my way.”

The added bonus was that he was also able to apply for an 18-month work permit on completion of the course and his qualification is recognised in the UK, where he’ll soon return.

Mike isn’t alone. A lot of people from the UK study in Australia, for a variety of reasons. And there are a number of other professions where you are entitled to an 18-month work permit – although the list constantly changes (see Migration update, page 10).

According to the latest figures, almost 3,000 people from the UK have chosen to go back to college or university in Australia the last year. More than half of the new students were mature students enrolling in postgraduate courses at universities or trade training programs in the vocational education sector.

Qualifying as a teacher or nurse are two of the more popular choices.

Let’s start with nursing. The Australia nursing qualification is a two-year course. It is a qualification that is recognised in the UK and the fees paid are comparable, if not a little better than the UK.

As far as teaching is concerned, many students end up getting positions in

Australian schools on completion of their course. The Graduate Diploma is similar to the UK’s PGCE and runs for one year, combining theory and teaching placements.

IT, nursing and teaching aren’t the only fields where there are opportunities - there are plenty of others (especially if you broaden the search to New Zealand, something we’ll talk about in future issues). “Australia needs certain skills,” a Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) spokesman told me. “There is still

a critical need for skills across a range of Australian industries.”

VISA RULESIn order to go to Australia to study you will need a student visa. There are no age restrictions. You just need an offer of study from a recognised education provider (such as a university or college).

On a student visa you will have an opportunity to live and study in Australia for the length of the course.

As a student you will be able to work for 20 hours a week during the course and full-time during holiday periods. Your partner, if you have one, will be able to work part-time for the duration.

The rules are subject to change and for more information visit The Australian Government Department of Immigration and Citizenship (www.immi.gov.au).

Study Options is a free, independent, expert service for people looking to study in Australia and New Zealand. It is the representative of Australian and New Zealand universities and colleges in the UK and Ireland, and can help with your application process. www.studyoptions.com

NEED ADVICE?

www.oznzout look.com38

Choosing the right migration agent

A registered migration agent can ensure a visa application goes smoothly, but how do you choose the right one?

Australia’s immigration law is complex and constantly changing to accommodate shifts in the Government’s immigration policy.

Yes, getting through the immigration system is difficult, but it is not impossible. Australian’s are famous for their friendly and easygoing outlook on life. But anyone planning to come to Australia should understand that the Australian Government is serious about protecting the security of its borders and the integrity of its immigration system.

Legal requirements for visas are rigorously enforced and applications are closely examined. You ultimately have to have the necessary skills to benefit Australia.

“Immigration rules are complicated and difficult to grasp for the inexperienced or untrained,” says Emma Smith-Jones of Grist International Pty Ltd, an expert in free full assessments, skills assessment, skilled, family and employment sponsored visas.

Rules change to cater for Australia’s needs at different periods, and you have to have the skills it deems necessary to benefit the country. An applicant might not meet the criteria of a certain category today, but they might meet it in 12 months. Australia's target migration intake is set yearly with a balance of different areas: skills, family and refugee/humanitarian. Of these

areas, there is a strong policy emphasis on boosting skills and business skills intakes. “It is changeable,” says business visa expert Richard Gregan of Overseas Emigration Ltd.

It seems reasonable then, that professional expertise is a must, especially if you are not familiar with the ins and outs of Australian migration law, regulations or policy.

CODE OF CONDUCTIn Australia, only professional migration agents (who are registered with the MARA (Migration Agent Registration Authority)) can provide migration advice. All registered migration agents (RMA) undergo extensive training and must pass a string of tough exams.

The Migration Agent’s Code of Conduct governs all


registered agents and giving advice in Australia without being registered can result in a conviction and pretty hefty fines or even a jail term.

To be registered, migration agents must demonstrate a sound understanding and knowledge of migration law and practice, and they must continually update their knowledge.

Unfortunately, the industry is rife with unscrupulous operators. Outside of Australia, there is no restriction on who may give Australian migration advice and charge you for it. In Australia, however, the authorities strongly recommend the use of a registered agent.

CHECKING THEY'RE REGISTEREDOk, we’ve established that you need to ensure the migration agent you’re dealing with is registered. And, it’s easy to check: you can ask to see their certificate of registration, which has their photograph on it, or you can check the register of agents on the MARA website.

So what next? Well, get a contract and ask for an outline of the fees applicable to your circumstances. Don’t sign a thing until you fully understand the terms and requirements.

Also, ask as many questions as you can, seeking to clarify anything you don’t quite understand.

It might also be well worth getting a second opinion; going to another registered agent to see what they have to say/offer.

Regardless, you have to ensure that your agent has sound knowledge, abides by the Migration Agent’s Code of Conduct – as a lot of the above is covered by the code (like making sure agents keep clients aware of all the costs involved with their application and the expected time needed to perform the service).

On a final note, registered migration agents must provide you with a copy of the Information on the Regulation of the Migration Agent profession, which provides basic consumer protection information. The document is produced by MARA and tells you everything you need to know about the profession and what to expect.

CONCLUSIONS...Immigration to Australia is always a contentious issue,

especially during hard economic times and it is likely that over the next few years policy will be based upon conservative economic data.

It is going to be vital for people applying for Australian visas to prepare their applications thoroughly to maximise their chances of success in what is a highly competitive situation.

Professionally prepared applications, presented to the Australia Immigration Service, will, in most cases, result in a successful visa application.

For more information visit www.mara.gov.au.

Questions to ask your RMA...

What are you areas of expertise?

Do you have the right knowledge, competence

and experience? What are my options? What are the fees and what are the terms?

Are there any hidden costs?


ADVENTURE


CycleAustralia?

Do you want to

across

First Trans Oz bike race will take riders 2,000 miles

across Australia


After cycling solo across Australia earlier this year, British explorer Mike Laird could have

been forgiven for going back to his day job and never getting on a bike again.

However, Mike isn’t like most of us. Instead he decided to organise an epic amateur bike race that will follow a similar route.

Mike battled brown snakes, giant spiders, a locust plague, saddle sore, gruelling terrain, scorching heat, and floods to become the first Briton to retrace the steps of 19th century explorers Burke and Wills across Australia, solo and unassisted.

He cycled over 2,000 miles from coast to coast to achieve his goal. It took 33 days.

“I cycled through numerous picturesque towns, cycled across major rivers, saw cultural landmarks, and battled the heat and dust along long stretches. I saw everything.

“I saw more of Australia than most other people ever do. I would see regularly 30, 40, or more, kangaroos every day bouncing along besides me.” The adventurer clearly met plenty of Australia’s wildlife but like Burke and Wills, his journey across inland Australia was not without drama.

“When I crossed the states of New South Wales and Queensland I was hit by severe flooding which meant he had to alter my route,” Mike says. “The rain was a challenge and certainly unexpected. I’m a pretty prepared chap and I suppose the fact I was prepared got me through it. I was often carrying bikes through waste deep water; I lost my video, my GPS system, and my mobile phone – so to a degree I was then very much reliant upon survival and map and compass reading skills. The people coming


ADVENTURE


on the race however won’t need to do any of that kind of thing – we have it covered. They will benefit from my experience.”

I know what you are thinking… why inflict all this on others? “I felt sad to have done it on my own and not have anyone to share it all with, it would have been nice for there to be someone to share it with,” he reasons.

The first Trans Oz Bike Ride, which will take place in May, will cover 3,200km (2,097 miles) in 17 stages, with competitors starting in Melbourne and riding north through Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland to finish in Cairns.

The race will include road, dirt road and hill stage, and riders will need to average 188km a day to be in with a chance of winning the £5,000 prize.

“We have a Route B as well,” says Mike. “The reason for that is we have had an awful lot of interest from people who love the idea, and would love to cycle across Australia, but said the stages were just a bit too tough for them.”

Route B is aimed at “giving people the same experience, but keeping them in the saddle for no more than 6 hours a day”.

“What we have done is we have kept the route the same, reduced the price for Route B, slightly chopped the time for Route B and we have reduced the stages in terms of length,” says Mike. “This is aimed at giving people the same experience, but keeping them in the saddle for no more than 6 hours a day, which means they’ll get a lot more enjoyment, and a lot more time for their legs to recover, but they’ll also get the chance to see and experience a little bit more of Australia, again what it is all about.

“It is only really two to three days shorter in terms of time. It is 15 stages over 16 days, rather than 17 stages over 19 days.”

The good news is that Mike is still looking for people. “It is an ever changing demographic, which is very interesting,” he explains. “Yes, we are looking for more people; we would love more people.

“We wouldn’t run either route without a minimum of 40 entrants; likewise, neither of the groups will go off with more than 100 people. For 100 people, for example, I need one ton of drinking water a day. Any more and we’d have to alter provisions.”

Early stages of both routes will retrace the steps of the ill-fated Burke and Wills expedition of 1860, when seven men died attempting the north-south crossing on foot, camel and horseback.


“Although competitors will still face hazards, including extremes of temperature and the local wildlife, we have planned and researched every element of the race to ensure that the Trans Oz Bike Ride runs as smoothly as possible,” Mike, a risk manager, says.

The race will be shadowed by a number of accompanying vehicles manned by the race management and support team. There will be a lead vehicle, keeping ahead of all riders at every stage. There will also be a tail vehicle, staying a short distance behind the last cyclists in each stage. Further support vehicles will be driving in between the lead and tail vehicles.

“These support trucks will carry water, supplies and luggage and spare kit, and will be on hand to assist any riders who experience difficulties,” Mike explains. “We have also arranged meals, accommodation

and entertainment for all riders and crew.“My experience was truly an experience

of a lifetime and I’m delighted to be able to open this up to other people with an appetite for adventure,” he continues. “We’re looking for anyone with determination, bags of energy and a decent bike to be involved.”

The expedition of Robert Burke and William Wills has long been part of Australian folklore. The pioneers led a team of 19 men, 26 camels and 23 horses to explore inland Australia for the first time, but it turned out to be a doomed journey as both expedition leaders died on the way back. All together seven men lost their lives, and only one man, John King, was rescued by Aborigines and returned alive to Melbourne.

Mike, 41, said he felt “immensely privileged to have followed in their footsteps” on the 150th anniversary of the ill-fated crossing and was “proud to offer others the opportunity”.

“I’m a seasoned traveller who took part in the BBC’s Castaway 2000 TV programme alongside Ben Fogle.

“Since that time I haves led and joined expeditions in remote locations as diverse as Ethiopia, Bolivia, Mongolia and Alaska.”

In 2007 Mike joined Coalition Forces in Afghanistan as a war correspondent. He is currently CEO of the charity Marocaroundtheclock, as well as a trustee of the UK Scientific Exploration Society and a Fellow of the Royal Geographic Society.

To find out more about the Trans Oz Bike Ride, visit www.transozbikeride.com or email [email protected].

And enjoy a few tinnies when you finish!

Where to settle...

Queensland’s capital is becoming increasingly popular with us Brits

Brisbane is Australia’s boomtown. The city has changed considerably in the last 10 years. Yes, most people still pass straight through because they’re off to

Cairns or the Gold Coast (see page 18), but they’re really missing out. When you get around and explore a bit, it’s amazing how much great stuff is going on.

Queensland’s capital has all the trappings of a big city, plus the laidback style, which epitomises Queensland. It’s the third-biggest city in the country, but a million miles away from Sydney and Melbourne in lifestyle.

Built along the Brisbane River, it’s a clean, attractive city, and is worth staying to explore for a few days.

Inside



“Brisbane had good opportunities and was relaxed. And obviously there was the weather –it wasn’t as hot as we had dreaded!” says Lucina Levens (this month’s expat - page 28).

Brisbane is rapidly developing and forward-thinking; it maintains a youthful enthusiasm and has a vibrant atmosphere. Its year-round warm climate, spectacular scenery and high-spirited locals attract many British visitors.

There really is a lot going on. All of Brisbane’s districts do things a little

differently, from bustling live music scene in The Valley to hobnobbing in New Farm.Green cabs (www.greencabs.net.au) are a great way to travel. Essentially a rickshaw, they accommodate up to 2 adults and 2 small children, and mostly operate between West End, South Bank, the CBD, the Valley and along the river, although you can arrange to be taken elsewhere. Green Cabs currently operate on weekends and during special events.

Brisbane has a public transport system. The three main public transport options of

The main tourist districts are:

CBD, Brisbane’s major business hub. Also home to several shopping malls, cinemas, parks and many of Brisbane’s historical tourist sites.

South Bank is full of ethnic restaurants and “edgy” cafes. Also a great place for a riverside walk.

The Valley (Fortitude Valley) is where you’ll find Brisbane’s Chinatown and vibrant nightlife.

West End is an edgy, bohemian district.

New Farm, home to upscale shopping and upmarket, trendy dining places.

Portside Wharf is where the cruise ships dock on the Brisbane River.

Paddington is now becoming the place to shop and is full of fashion gems.

Rosalie is home to quaint bars, markets and restaurants.

Milton has two of Brisbane’s most famous icons placed side by side - the XXXX Ale House and Suncorp Stadium.

Mount Coot-tha, which is, obviously, home to a mountain. It also features the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and Planetarium and numerous walking and bicycle tracks.

www.anzout look.com

Brisbane - ferries, buses and trains - are linked by a common ticketing system, known as TransLink. CityFerries and CityCats have also become an icon of the city and are fantastic ways to tour the city along the river.

A BRIT'S PERSPECTIVEAdrian Wallace moved to Brisbane in 1998, landing on a wet, grey and generally uninspiring day in August 1998. He was initially motivated to move to Queensland’s capital because he didn’t want to “fall into city life” or get “trapped by urban big city problems”.

The city has grown a lot since then. “Brisbane, it seemed to me, was small enough that I could escape the city easy, but big enough that I could find work,” he says. “These days transport can be a challenge. Brisbane has grown very fast in the last 10 years and the infrastructure does struggle. Some roads are choked in peak times with busiest times being 7:30-8:30 inbound and 16:00-17:30 outbound.

“From where I live the drive time into the CBD would be 45 minutes in morning peak and about 20 minutes any other time of day. Parking in the CBD can be outrageously expensive, but if you get in early enough most car parks have early bird rates for all day parking. Buses are cheap, improving all the time and although are often overcrowded they are at least now all air-conditioned and comfortable enough. The days of buses being like mobile saunas seem to be behind us.”

To learn more about living in Brisbane check out this month’s expat profile on page 28.

Where to settle...

Australia’s 3rd largest city The city sits on the famous river

Scenic beauty, friendly atmosphere and fine temperate climate Low cost of living Range of recreational and cultural activities Proximity to major tourist attractions Casual lifestyle and friendly people

ABOUT BRISBANE

46


HOTELSBrisbane has a hotel for everyone - budget, business, tourist, luxury, bed and breakfasts and apartments. Some of our favourites include:

HiltonWithin walking distance of the Brisbane Conference and Exhibition Centre, Brisbane Hilton overlooks Queen Street Mall and is just minutes from Brisbane’s Central Station. It has everything you’d expect from a city centre hotel.Hilton, +61 7 3234-2000. 190 Elizabeth St

MarriottWith its stylish architecture, elegant spaces and attentive staff, the Brisbane Marriott Hotel makes a lasting impression. Unique among Brisbane hotels, discover stunning guest rooms, suites and executive-level rooms, which capture views of the skyline and Brisbane River.Marriott Hotel, +61 7 3303-8000. 515 Queen Street

SofitelPositioned in one of the city’s most central location, Sofitel Brisbane offers range of leisure facilities. The hotel is located within a kilometre of Anzac Square War Memorial, Freemasons Ann Street Memorial Centre, Cathedral of St. Stephen, Aboriginal Art Trail and MacArthur Museum.Sofitel, +61 7 38353535. 249 Turbot Street

GETTING THEREBrisbane Airport is 20km Northeast of the city centre at Eagle Farm, north of the river.

It is possible to fly directly to all Australian capitals and numerous regional centres. Major carriers include Virgin Blue, Jetstar and Qantas.

The international terminal is serviced by many regional airlines and it is possible to fly daily to most Asian centres (and on to Europe), the United States and New Zealand without flying via Sydney or Melbourne.

FOODAustralia is gaining an international reputation for its quality natural produce and interesting blend of cooking styles. Its multicultural society is reflected in the range of cuisines readily available in Brisbane: Italian, Vietnamese, Thai, Chinese, Middle Eastern, Indian, Korean and Japanese. Brisbane is well known for its superb seafood and fabulous selection of tropical fruits.

The weather in Brisbane

is comfortable and sub-

tropical. The city enjoys

a climate of brilliant hot

summers and clear

mild winters.

CLIMATE

www.anzout look.com

Where to settle...

THINGS TO DOThe third largest city in Australia has plenty to offer the adventurous traveller and here are some highlights:

South Bank is a great place to visit. There are great grassy areas to picnic and you can swim at the man-made beach. Check out the markets (Friday to Sunday) and enjoy a beer at one of the bars by the river.

Story Bridge (www.storybridgeadventureclimb.com.au) is the little brother to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and designed by the same architect, John Bradfield. It’s nice to look at and even better to climb, with amazing views over the city.

Downtown’s Queen Street Mall is a must see and a real gauntlet of trashy shopping centres and fast food joints.

The South Bank is home to the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, great for all you art buffs. The Gallery of Modern Arthouses a great selection of works from Australian, Indigenous Australian and international artists.

The Brisbane area is home to some of the world’s most stunning, clean, sandy beaches.

Balloons over Brisbane (www.balloonsoverbrisbane.com.au) give you an opportunity (for as little as $255) to gain an aerial perspective as you float over the city in our hot air balloon.

Cruise the Brisbane River - there are many tours available that cruise the Brisbane River and will help you take in the sights of the city.

Kangaroo Point - the walls along the Brisbane River are a popular spot for rock climbers and give an excellent view of the CBD skyline just across the river.

There are a number of great bars to visit: The Pig ‘N’ Whistle is big with British expats (www.pignwhistle.com.au).

The Lone Pine Sanctuary Koala Sanctuary is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Brisbane.

There are a number of remarkable historic buildings, which include the Parliament House, City House, General Post Office, Commissariat Store Museum, Newstead House, Old Government House and Old Windmill.

48


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Working in new zealand


Spending a gap year in Australia is a traditional rite of passage for many. But Brits are increasingly been lured to New Zealand.

Workingholdays in New Zealand


Planning a working holiday or gap year might seem daunting. From fruit picking or hospitality work to office

work or teaching, New Zealand has a lot to offer the working backpacker, the gap year student or the professional looking for timeout.

Your working holiday visa will ensure that you can work legally and safely, and find a job relatively easily. Here we’ll tell you all you need to know to plan a working holiday.

The working holiday visaThe Working Holiday Scheme Visa (WHSV) allows holders to stay in New Zealand for up to 23 months, working for 12 months. Holders can leave and re-enter New Zealand as often as they wish and are allowed to work for one employer for the full period should they wish.

It is important to note that applicants must be aged between 18 and 30 but you can apply from anywhere in the world, including from within New Zealand. You can even enter the country on a tourist visa first – which lasts for six months and is free – and then apply for a WHSV.

On arrival you may be asked for evidence of sufficient funds to meet living costs and support yourself while in the country – a bank statement showing NZ$350 for each month you intend to stay should be proof enough. You also need a return plane ticket or sufficient funds for one.

Applications can be made online at the Immigration New Zealand website, but you can’t take children and must not have been approved a visa or permit under a working holiday scheme before. There are also certain health criteria you have to meet.

Nothing to do with New Zealand,

but Brit Ben Southall beat 34,000

applicants to become “island caretaker”

of Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef, a

six-month contract promoting tourism

in Queensland a few years back –

great work if you can get it! Perhaps

you’ll find a similar gem for your

working holiday?

just the job

working down under

With all these things, visa eligibility requirements and entitlements are subject to change – so check before applying. If you’re caught breaching the rules, you could be booted back to where you came from.

AccommodationNew Zealand has excellent hostels, hotels and B&Bs, and well-equipped campgrounds. Booking ahead is essential in December and January, when the locals are on holiday. Many hostels will give you a reduced rate if you stay for a week. But once employed you should look for your own place – perhaps even flat-share.

WorkThere are many short-term jobs in NZ but finding something suitable will not always be easy. Hunt around for worthy opportunities. Most people go for work in

tourism or related industry. Fruit picking is available year-round (seasonal fruit picking, pruning and harvesting is prime short-term work for visitors) and ski instructors are in demand in winter (check resort websites for opportunities). For an office

job, the larger the city, the better the chance of employment: Auckland is the best bet. You should register with a recruitment agency.

TaxLike all New Zealand workers, you will need an IRD number so that your employer can deduct tax from your earnings at the correct rate. In New Zealand, you pay tax on a pay as you earn (PAYE) basis. This means that there should not be a large refund or an amount to pay when you leave.

Whats the climate like?New Zealand’s seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere. This means that the warmest months are December, January and February, while the coldest are in June, July and August (winters tend to be short and generally fairly mild).

That said, on any given day the weather and temperature can change unexpectedly and dramatically. Be prepared for that.

And don’t forget the climate changes from north to south.

And the food?Like the climate changes from south to north, so do the local speciality foods. Some specialities to look for on menus in the far north and the Auckland region are avocados, nuts, citrus fruits and Asian vegetables. A variety of fruits thrive in most of NZ’s grape-growing districts, and travellers will also find some great local food matches with the speciality wines of each region.


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