Regardless of our background, social status, or cultural upbringing, there is one thing that can unite everyone around the world… a will to provide a better future for our children. The primary years spent growing physically and mentally are vital for every person’s own journey in life. As parents it’s a large responsibility to do...

In October the Government announced the new definition of ‘Regional Australia’ will change to encompass all areas of Australia except for Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane from 16 November 2019. As a result, both Perth and the Gold Coast will be reclassified as regional areas for visa and migration purposes to allow more skilled migrants to settle,...

Australia’s permanent migration intake has fallen to its lowest level since 2008 with only 160,323 permanent residence visas granted in 2018-19, according to recent Department of Home Affairs statistics. In 2019/20 and over the next four years, we can expect this figure to plateau with Australia’s new planning cap formally set at 160,000 permanent visas...

The Government has introduced legislation for Australia’s new Skilled Regional Visa options, which will require migrants to work for three years in regional areas before becoming eligible to apply for permanent residence. Written by Sheila Woods of Interstaff 18 April, 2019 Currently, migrants can directly apply for permanent residence in regional areas through the Subclass 187...

Parent visas, which allow parents to join their permanently resident child or children to join them in Australia are in great demand but they have been subject to long wait times and high costs. This is now an issue getting attention in Australian politics. Interstaff set out the current political developments. Written by Sheila Woods of Interstaff...

Australia’s immigration plans have been subject to uncertainty but the plans for the next three years are now clearer following the 2019 election. Interstaff set out the expectations. Written by Sheila Woods of Interstaff 30 May, 2019 Following the 2019 Federal Election, there is now greater certainty of Australia’s immigration policy directions over the next three-year...

Fewer General Skilled Migration Visas are due to be issued in 2019-20 and with a strong pipeline already in place the number of invitations likely to be issued will drop and Interstaff advise how to increase your chances of a successful application. Written by Sheila Woods of Interstaff 30 May, 2019 The Department of Home Affairs...

This World Mental Health Day, new research from AXA – Global Healthcare suggests that many expats have struggled with life overseas. The research reveals that almost nine in ten (87%) expats have felt isolated during their time abroad, with half (48%) of those saying that missing friends and family was the primary reason. Written for...

When living or working abroad one of the major issues to be addressed is how to access good quality healthcare.  In many countries you can access the state healthcare system if you are a resident of that country, but there may be conditions before you qualify.  Whenever you travel abroad you need to consider how...

Australia has excellent state and independent schools to choose from. School education in Australia includes preschool, preparatory (or kindergarten), primary school, secondary school (or high school) and senior secondary school (or college).  School education in Australia lasts for 13 years, and is compulsory between the ages of six and sixteen (Year 1 to Year 9...

Getting connected – organising mobile phones (cellphones) for yourself and your family members, together with broadband for your new home –  will be one of your first and most important tasks when arriving in the Australia.  Electricity Mains voltage in Australia is 230V 50Hz. Most countries in Europe, Asia and Africa have appliances that...

Researching your move to Australia? Read Crown Relocations’ tips for a seamless move Downunder. Written exclusively for Expat Network by Crown Relocations   Gaining a visa Visa documentation can be a key cause of stress when planning an international move. Immigration to Australia is calculated on a points system, based on factors such as if...