Abject_Rage

I'm on a 457 and, stated in the employment contract I signed, is a clause covering a substantial sum of money my company here paid to relocate me, my family and possessions. Basically, it's 100% repayable if I leave the company's employ in the 1st year, 75% if during the 2nd, and 50% during the 3rd, going to zero if I stay over 3 years.

So, the question. If I leave during the first year, due to untenable working pressures, could I get out of having to pay the money back somehow? It's contractural, I know, and I signed to it, but could I argue it's unreasonable of the company to expect the money back? I suspect I know the answers...

Alan Collett

Speak with an employment lawyer ...

Best regards.

Abject_Rage

Thanks Alan. Can you, or anyone else, suggest someone in Melbourne I might be able to speak to initially, for free, to see if there's any mileage?

Alan Collett

I have the contact details of an immigration barrister who may be able to advise you - but be prepared to pay for her time. If this is of interest please send me a PM or an email.

Best regards.

andrew63

?? If you leave your employer on a 457, then you have 28 days to leave the country or get a new employer to sponsor you.
a) If you leave the country, it is highly unlikley your sponsor will find you. Mind you, you would certainly not be able to get another visa here.
b) If you found a new employer to sponsor you, ask them to take over the debt
c) If you have found another way to remain here, speak amicably to your sponsor about the pressure and why you have to leave and offer to re-pay at $100/week or something like that.

Just my opinion

Andrew