Hello, I am going out to WA in JAn 2010. I was just wondering about what happens after 2 years of service out there. If you are sponsored for PR, does that mean you still have to work for the DET after PR is granted?

No you don't .
PR means you are free to work for anyone anywhere in Aus, just like any other PR visa holder.

Hello,

We are on the 457 visa by DET.

What happens is about 2 months before your 2years working in WA is up, they nominate you. Then about 8weeks later you get your number to do online visa form.

Anyway regarding the visa it is a Sponsored Permanent visa (ENS). This means DET have told immigration they will have a job for you for at least 3 years. So your secure job wise.

Heres the bit your interested in.
Once your 2 years is up/gained PR visa, you should get automatic permanent employee status. This means you are now eligible to either stay in your current school or put in for a transfer.

As you have done country service you are now eligible for positions in Perth or around WA. So can put in for a transfer via DET.
(Even OZ trained teachers have to do country service).
We like rural and dont want to go to Perth now (can buy acreage here).

In theory DET have to have a position for you in WA for 3 years. However I have heard that immigration will not do anything if you have made every effort and its not intentional that you left your position once you have PR visa. Basically they do not enforce you to stay with employer.

So in theory you can move on to another part of WA, the private sector eg Catholic schools, or even move states.

However best not to do this the first week of your PR visa, as DET might want their nomination fee back etc, or complain. However nothing stopping you moving on once you have PR.

Once you have your PR visa you can pretty much do what you like. Stay with WA DET, or move on choice is yours.

You are not locked into working with DET for a further 3 years if your dont want it.

Gems

Thankyou you two for your replies, very helpful!