How does the Skilled Migration Program differ from employer sponsored work visa’s?
The skilled migration program is offered to individuals who have a skill set that is considered in short supply across regional areas of the state of Victoria. The visa only allows the recipient and their immediate family to live and work in a regional area. The visa is sponsored by the State Government rather than a specific employer.
More information can be found at http://www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au/
What is the closest major City to Bendigo?
Melbourne is the closest major city to Bendigo. Melbourne has a population of approximately 4 million people and is 1.75 hours by car from Bendigo. There is also regular rail service between the two cities.
Can I work in other regional areas?
You may work in any regional area in Australia on the skilled regional visa. You can start in one region and move to other regions while completing the two year regional residence requirement and 1 year regional work requirement.
How long does it take to obtain a visa?
Processing times vary, but generally 6 to 8 months is a good timeframe to work on.
How long does it take to find a job?
This varies according to the local job market conditions and the nature of your profession. Some people find work in their field prior to or immediately after arrival, but many people take up opportunities in an unrelated field while they continue to search for a job in their profession.
Can you assist me in finding a job?
We are able to act as a resource for you in terms of guidance. We have a network through which we can distribute your resume to many Human Resources Managers in Bendigo and region, however we also recommend that you get in touch with the local agencies that can assist you in searching for work, as well as keeping your eye on this website and other employment related websites for job opportunities that become available.
I am over 45, am I eligible?
You are not eligible for a visa through the State sponsored skilled migration program, however you may be eligible for other types of visas that are sponsored by employers.
Please visit the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website http://www.immi.gov.au/
Am I allowed to work in a metropolitan city?
You are not allowed to work in a metropolitan city while on a skilled regional visa. By working in a metropolitan city you would invalidate your visa and be subject to visa cancellation. Other employer sponsored visa’s allow you to work in metropolitan cities and are subject to different criteria.
To check your eligibility please go to http://www.immi.gov.au/
Is my spouse allowed to work in a metropolitan city?
No. Your spouse’s visa is also a skilled regional visa and is subject to the same conditions as the primary applicant.
What is the climate like in Bendigo and region?
| Summer |
December to February |
| |
Temperatures: from 21°C to 34°C, average 28°C
|
Autumn
|
March to May |
| |
Temperatures: from 11°C to 19°C, average 17°C
|
Winter
|
June to August
|
| |
Temperatures: from -1°C to 12°C, average 8°C |
Spring
|
September to November |
| |
Temperatures: from 10°C to 20°C, average 17°C |
Am I eligible for Government assistance?
No. The state sponsored skilled regional visa does not extend the right to Government assistance, such as unemployment benefits and subsidised medical care.
Do I need private health insurance?
Yes. You are required to hold private health insurance on the skilled regional visa, and evidence of this will be required at the time of applying for permanent residence.