We are on 475 visas and the requirement to gain PR is to work full time (35 hours or more) for 12 month in a 'regional area'.

If you are on temporary or contract jobs, weeks with Bank Holidays are these included ? Also, are you entitled to 4 weeks holiday during that year and these count ?

Anybody had experience of this or spoken to the DIAC to query ? I've tried getting through to the DIAC but their phone lines are really busy.

Even if you meet the criteria, the documentation says 'you may qualify for PR' - anybody being rejected ?

I queried this a short while ago, the answer I got was you have to be in paid work 35 hours a week for 52 weeks and holidays and sick days don't count unless you're paid for them, the 35 hours must be worked by 1 person but can be made up of up to 3 jobs....hope this helps Fiona

hi,
I have IELTS overall 6 band I want to applye for 475 as concessional english program offered by NSW do you think it is good to get the provisional visa or should I set for another ielts test

Are Public Holidays really excluded so you are required to work a year and 10 weeks if you are a temp/contractor ?

I guess it does, yes if you don't work them and don't get paid them....my husband is self employed and I asked if we could count christmas and was told unless he works the hols or gets paid for them they don't count..must be 35 hours a week for 52 weeks. good luck fiona