I think the only way to do this properly is to get out there and check it out at ground level. We did some checking on web etc but you can't beat driving round an area at different times of day, going to the local shops, eat in the local restaurants, people watch, get chatting to locals etc...I would do all these things when moving to a new suburb in UK so no different really. We did a reccy trip late last year and so glad we did. We was hell bent on Sydney based on our backpacking experiences 10 years ago but its changed so much, mega busy and expensive, we quickly decided on Brisbane (also we have family there) so it was a no brainer.

Schools are difficult as there is no OFSTED etc so you need to get the local low down etc and google away on search strings such as "best schools in xxxxxx" or "worst...." to know what to avoid. To houses I think www.realestate.com.au is best but there are loads, once you've nailed a suburb and streets you can secure a place remotely having been there.

TO ALL - please feel free to copy the list, that's why I stuck it up here, just bear in mind we have no house to sell and I am a freelancer in IT so these bits may be different.

Please could I have a simplified version? I am blonde

Oh and it needs to include alcohol breaks!

Cheers,

Jackie x

or say you are african then you can come for free.you wont have to shell out thosands on applications ,agents,medicals,visa,etc then get free housing.just start saving all your money because your gonna need it.... rob

Simple version:

1 - Plan in pub & get drunk
2 - Pack up
3 - Get drunk
4 - GO!
5 - Arrive
6 - Get drunk
:scared:

:scared:

Not sure how/why, but this thread has been moved from immigration to lifestyle? Can someone move it back please?

:scared:

I'm a freelance IT PM too, also headed for Brisbane in September if things go to plan.
I was interested in your company set up stuff, are you planning to contract in Oz? I would love to but I've been warned that you're taxed at source in Oz & the rates aren't so good, to the point where the difference doesnt cover taking holiday during the year.
I'd resigned myself to going perme once there..... have you heard differently ???

Now thats more my style!

Cheers RayZor

quality Ray

Notify PC-Big and Bouncy

At least that is one of my subscriptions!

Yep I agree, far too complicated, heres mine:
Buy a HD Plasma screen 40"
Buy a Pioneer Home Cinema System
New beds (water)
New Sofa
In Fact everything you need to set up out there......................and promise to pay next year LOL
Just Kiddin' HONEST
Paul

I would imagine it is now in lifestyle because none of it relates to immigration as such. The Immi forum is linked with usenet (don't as me ) this is more of a general things to do for living not on how to get a visa - worded very badly, sorry but have only just woken up

Good list by the way. Although I think I would clarify visa limitations whilst in the UK - you weren't planning on asking the customs man when you arrive were you

Youve missed out the inflight drinks! They are FREE!!

Whattt??? your plan involved wine, wine and more wine

Rossifumi needs the plenty of time bit because so much wine will be supped, they will get kicked of their flight until they've sobered up

UH they are already there, they arrived a few days ago