The experience of living in a foreign country can be exhilarating yet daunting for expatriates. It offers a unique chance to immerse oneself in a new culture and way of life. However, it also comes with challenges like homesickness, language barriers, and cultural adjustments. One of the best ways to sooth these feelings and embrace...

Stepping into the realm of solo female expats is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. It’s about defying societal norms and embracing independence on your terms. Firstly, cultural differences may seem daunting initially, but you’ll thrive with an open mind and respect for local customs. Secondly, building a strong support network is vital, connecting you...

The cost of moving all of your household goods can be significant, particularly if you are moving to another continent, and it may take weeks or months for your possessions to arrive. You need to consider what it is sensible to take with you, and whether you need to send some things ahead. Where you...

UK and Indian passport holders are set to benefit from new visa and mobility arrangements that have been recently negotiated in Australia’s Trade Agreements. The Australia – UK Free Trade Agreement (A-UKFTA) came into effect on 31 May 2023 and will soon allow UK passport holders up to the age of 35 to come to Australia on...

Australia allocated almost double the amount of placements to Parent Visas in 2022/23 (8,500 placements) compared to the previous year (4,500 placements), and another 8,500 places have again been allocated in 2023/24. Written by Sheila Woods (MARN: 0533879) of Interstaff  15 June, 2023 But although the Government is continuing to focus on granting Parent Visas, unfortunately applicants are still...

The Australian Government has made an industry-specific Aged Care Labour Agreement immediately available to aged care providers across Australia.  Written by Sheila Woods (MARN: 0533879) of Interstaff  15 June, 2023 Recognising that the aged care sector is an essential industry experiencing persistent skills shortages, it allows aged care providers to sponsor overseas workers with greater flexibility for these direct...

Whether you are making a trip across town, or heading towards a new life with a trip across the world, you are faced with a massive problem… what exactly are you supposed to take with you, and what do you want to leave behind? It can be a much harder choice than many people think,...

While some ignore the importance of community in expat living, others embrace it. And they thrive for it! In our guide, we want to explain why this is the case. The sense of belonging in an expat community The sense of belonging is a fundamental aspect of human existence. It provides a deep connection to...

Make sure you get quotes from three potential removal companies. Then you will need to evaluate them and make a choice. Price will clearly be a factor, but you should decide what is important to you and ensure that you take these into account and avoid choosing the cheapest and then incur more cost down...

After months of planning, you’re finally ready to move overseas. After spending hours figuring out visas and ensuring you have what you need when you arrive at your new home, there’s only one more task to complete: Shipping your car. Unfortunately, it is more complicated to ship a car when moving overseas than shipping...

The government’s first Federal Budget since it was elected in 2022 has revealed the size and composition of the migration program will continue to focus on skilled migration in 2023-2024.  Here’s a summary of the main Budget announcements under the Department of Home Affairs portfolio and what they mean for migrants and employers of visa holders. Written by Sheila Woods (MARN: 0533879) of Interstaff ...

Following Home Affairs Minister, Clare O’Neil’s announcements on changes to the skilled migration program a few weeks ago, here’s how some of the changes will be implemented. Written by Sheila Woods (MARN: 0533879) of Interstaff  21 March, 2023 Read on to understand what this means for employers and skilled visa holders/applicants. Consider Minimum Salary (TSMIT) Impacts for Employees Businesses will need to assess if...