worzel

I was working with a guy on a day trip to Karratha yesterday who has lost his job due to the collapse of the mining boom. He has a few fingers in pies but was considering moving his family to the Middle East or Brisbane to find work.

I was just wondering whether there was much of that about. Are you or do you know of someone else in this boat?

Obviously it doesn't bode well for Perth if the population starts shrinking. But if it reduces the competion for jobs it could be a mercy. We also failed to get our daughter into our preferred high school (private) as we registered too late. But she is 10th on the reserve list with a year to go and could rise up that if people move from Perth or decide they cannot afford school fees. (Assuming I still have a job and can afford to pay them myself!)

renth

I reckon there's plenty on 457 visas who will be leaving soon, through no choice of their own, including a number of people I know. Very sad.

verystormy

No point in moving to QLD as i am in the mining sector and i have friends who are geologist like myself who have left to go back to the uk and another who is looking for bar work - no jobs there at present

northernbird

It is sad. However the 457 is a temporary visa and those who come on one (me included) know the risks. People on 457 visas should apply for their PR as soon as they are able if they want to stay here long term. If they don't they always have that cloud over their heads.