ajwhitehead

Hi All,
Hope someone can help with some queries.
My fiancee and I are considering applying for a skilled independent visa.

- I (an accountant) have 135 points and my fiancee (a teacher) 120 points, before additional spouse points. Is there any need to have her qualifications assessed, given that it would cost AU$450 to do so?

- Can any ex-UK (primary) teachers offer advice on moving to the Australian teaching system? Is any additional training required? She is 4 years post-qual and has management/TLR experience.

- Could anyone offer general observations on life in Sydney vs Melbourne? We have spent 8 months backpacking in Oz previously and been to both cities, but would appreciate others' opinions.

Thanks very much

JAJ

1. No need to get her skills assessed for migration purposes IF you are confident in your points score (many people are over-optimistic, many also forget the basic requirements which must also be met)

2. She will however probably need state registration to work in Australia as a teacher. Not all UK qualifications are recognised in Australia. 4 year BEd is usually ok, degree + PGCE usually ok, however GTP type qualifications definitely not ok.

3. If you've been to both cities you should probably rely most on your own opinions.