Government of Western Australia

Skilled Visa Information

Information about migrating to Western Australia for skilled workers and their families

www.migration.wa.gov.au

The Government of Western Australia welcomes skilled, business and investor retirement migrants to the State.
If you are considering emigrating on a skilled, business or investor retirement visa, the State Government will assist qualifying migrants with sponsorship and provide information and guidance on living, working and establishing a business in Western Australia. For further information including visa eligibility criteria and State sponsorship requirements contact: State Migration Centre Small Business Development Corporation 553 Hay Street (Corner Pier Street) PERTH Western Australia 6000 Telephone: +61 8 9220 0222 Facsimile: +61 8 9221 1132 Email: information@migration.wa.gov.au Website: www.migration.wa.gov.au

Western Australian Government Assistance

International Trade Offices The Government of Western Australia has International Trade Offices in Asia, Europe and the Middle East to provide assistance and information on the State and its migration programs. For further information on overseas offices including contact details and location go to www.migration.wa.gov.au. Business and Industry The Government of Western Australia has a number of business and industry assistance programs available to help create a strong, diverse economy offering migrants a range of quality business investment and employment opportunities. For further information visit the Small Business Development Corporation website at www.sbdc.com.au, and the Department of Industry and Resources website at www.doir.wa.gov.au. Regional Development Commissions Western Australia is made up of nine non metropolitan regions. There is great diversity between each region in terms of their economy, lifestyle, business opportunities and employment potential. Information and assistance on living, working and establishing a business is available from the States Regional Development Commissions at www.migration.wa.gov.au.

Published January 2008 by: Small Business Development Corporation 553 Hay Street PERTH Western Australia 6000 Telephone: +61 8 9220 0222 Facsimile: +61 8 9221 1132 Email: information@migration.wa.gov.au Website: www.migration.wa.gov.au Website: www.sbdc.com.au ISBN 978 0 9758250 7 5

Regional Western Australia

If you have the skills Western Australia can provide the lifestyle you are looking for.

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Why migrate to Western Australia?

A better place for work and business
Western Australia, with its diverse and internationally competitive economy, has during the past 10 years led the nation in economic growth, productivity, investments and exports. A world class infrastructure and a strong economic outlook have created a dynamic business environment, which is attracting high levels of investment and generating positive employment growth making the State a better place for work and business. Western Australia, from a prosperous mineral, petroleum and agriculture base, has developed thriving industries in business services, technology and specialist manufacturing providing a wide range of business and investment opportunities. Employment growth and a low unemployment rate have created skills shortages in many industries generating a wide range of jobs in demand in both metropolitan and regional locations. As a place to work and do business Western Australia is vibrant and full of exciting possibilities and in close proximity to the growing market potential of the Asia Pacic region. Now is the time to make your move to a better place for work and business. Come and settle in Western Australia to take advantage of the many employment, business and investment opportunities available across the whole State.

A great place to live

A temperate, Mediterranean climate and one of the best and healthiest lifestyles in the world, make Western Australia a great place to live and work. Boasting thousands of kilometres of white sandy beaches and a modern yet relaxed lifestyle, the State is considered one of Australias most popular destinations for migrants. Western Australia has affordable housing and rental properties, outstanding education and recreational facilities as well as excellent health and transport services. It is the unique blend of a friendly, secure, uncomplicated way of life and a clean spacious unspoilt environment combined with low living costs which makes Western Australia a highly attractive location. In many international comparative surveys, Western Australia consistently ranks as one of the best locations in the world for both quality of life and affordability. Furthermore, with around 30 per cent of the States population born overseas, this multicultural mix is reected by its diversity, heritage and social harmony. Taken together, all these qualities make Western Australia a very desirable place to live and work.

How can I use my skills and qualifications?

State Government sponsored migration
The Western Australian State Government sponsors skilled migrants in demand in their application to the Australian Federal Government for visas that allow them to live and work in Western Australia.

Employer sponsored migration

As an alternative to State Government sponsored migration under either the Skilled Regional Sponsored or the Skilled Sponsored Visa, skilled migrants can also be sponsored by an employer. This situation arises when a business in Western Australia has difculty lling a position locally and has been approved to recruit someone from overseas. Under these programs appropriately skilled

The State Government sponsors two types of visa: 1. Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa The Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa is a provisional visa, valid for up to three years, which allows skilled migrants to come to Western Australia to seek employment and to explore lifestyle opportunities. The Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa provides an opportunity to experience life and work in regional Western Australia. Holders of the Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa become eligible to apply for permanent residency after two years of living and one year of working in a skilled occupation in a regional area of Western Australia. 2. Skilled Sponsored Visa The Skilled Sponsored Visa provides permanent residency for skilled migrants who are committed to living and working in Western Australia. Under the terms of these visas, migrants must have specic skills required in Western Australia. It is the migrants responsibility to nd work and they, and their families, must commit to live and work in Western Australia. Details of the main conditions and how to apply for State Government sponsored skilled migration schemes are in page 14 of this booklet.

migrants can be sponsored by employers to ll vacancies on either a long term temporary or permanent basis. The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) is a visa which provides permanent residency for migrants in any of Western Australias regional areas. The Employer Nominated Scheme (ENS) provides permanent residency in the Perth metropolitan area. The 457 visa provides temporary residency for a period of three months up to four years with the option to apply for permanent residency. For further information on employer sponsored skilled visas refer to DIACs Booklet 5 (Employer Sponsored Migration) and Booklet 11 (Sponsoring a temporary overseas employee to Australia) available from their website at www.immi.gov.au.

You can learn more about the different visa schemes, and your eligibility, by visiting the Western Australian Government migration website at www.migration.wa.gov.au. State Migration Centre Small Business Development Corporation 553 Hay Street PERTH Western Australia 6000 Telephone: +61 8 9220 0222 Facsimile: +61 8 9221 1132 Email: information@migration.wa.gov.au Website: www.migration.wa.gov.au Website: www.sbdc.com.au All services of the State Migration Centre are provided free of charge.

Perth Our capital city

Welcome to Perth, Western Australias capital city one of the most popular destinations for migrants moving to Australia. And the reason for this is because Perth boasts countless blue sky days, fresh air, warm breezes and only a handful of mild winter months. Perth is able to offer its 1.4 million population modern amenities such as world class shopping and entertainment facilities, and also supplies the people residing in Perth all services and infrastructure expected of a major city. The city itself is nestled beneath Kings Park, a 400 hectare (988 acres) botanical showcase which provides facilities on its doorstep for its visitors to swim, sail, water ski, sh, cycle, walk and run. With a combination of new tall buildings, extensive freeway system and state of the art transport system Perth can be denitely classed as a city on the rise. Perth is also a multicultural city with 30% of its population born overseas, resulting in a harmonious society, where newcomers and visitors are always welcomed. With such a large portion of the population being born overseas this is reected on the citys cafes, bars and eating establishments, making Perth a modern cosmopolitan city with an underlying rich cultural heritage thanks to the diverse background of the population residing in Perth. The inner city residential market is continuing to evolve. A high level of construction activity will offer potential buyers a wide range of apartments from which to choose in a variety of locations. In the central business district and major suburban shopping centre centres, department stores, speciality shops and boutiques offer consumers a wide choice of international brand names and locally produced merchandise. World class cultural facilities and theatres are home to the States nationally acclaimed symphony orchestra, ballet, modern dance, opera and theatre companies. Each year the Perth International Arts Festival (www.perthfestival.com.au) provides a major showcase of international and local performances. One of the great joys of living in Perth is that it is easy to navigate. Even at peak hour getting from A to B rarely takes more than 30 minutes. Perth is a car orientated city. Most families own at least two cars. Many people use a combination of car and public transport to get to work. Perths excellent driving conditions, a comprehensive network of roads, highways and freeways and a modern, inexpensive and reliable public transport system allows you to get where you are going with the minimum of effort. Transperth is responsible for all public transport services in Perth, their service operates up to midnight on weekdays and Sundays and through to 2.00am on Fridays and Saturdays. Travelling on public transport within Perths Central Business District (CBD) is free of charge on any bus or train. There is also a free service, the Central Area Transit (CAT) system operating around the city centre. Residents also have access to many cinemas, numerous public and private galleries and museums, with major touring exhibitions supplementing local collections. For those with more contemporary tastes, Perth hosts many major international entertainment tours, while numerous clubs and hotels foster a vibrant local music scene. Sporting and leisure facilities are rst class and include the Burswood International Resort Casino, plenty of affordable private and public golf courses and host of other sporting activities including tennis, football and cricket clubs. You can soak up the sun at one of Perths many swimming pools or enjoy our world famous white sandy beaches. With more hours of sunshine than any other Australian capital city, there is also plenty of time to enjoy outdoor activities.

Kimberley
Lifestyle
The Kimberley region of Western Australia is the States northern most region and covers an area approximately three times that of the United Kingdom. The spectacular natural beauty of the region is the perfect backdrop to the diverse employment and lifestyle opportunities that are enjoyed by its residents. Its natural attractions make it an ideal place to work and live especially for those seeking adventure and a connection with the environment. auto mechanics It is one of the fastest growing regions in Western Australia with the youngest population in the State (average age 28). It has a large Indigenous (Australian Aboriginal) population, with over 100 Indigenous communities that range in size from one family to nearly one thousand people. Indigenous culture and arts are a feature of life in the Kimberley. The region has a unique sub-tropical environment and substantial natural resources which form the basis of the Kimberleys major industries of mining (predominantly diamonds as well as zinc, lead, and iron ore), agriculture, pastoral beef cattle , pearling and tourism. The growing economy and developing services, including education, health, retail and transport, provide the means by which the rapidly increasing population of the Kimberley can prosper and access opportunities for themselves and their families. welders. carpenters chefs child care workers cooks general electricians general mechanics metal machinists plumbers registered nurses The main population centres in the Kimberley are Broome, Kununurra, Derby, Halls Creek, Wyndham, and Fitzroy Crossing. There are numerous industries offering a wide range of employment opportunities with human services being the main public sector employer.

Employment opportunities
Employment opportunities exist in a variety of occupations with a high demand for skills in the following areas:

For more information about living costs, employment and lifestyle opportunities in the region contact the migration ofcer at the Kimberley Development Commission. Telephone: +61 8 9168 1044 Website: www.kdc.wa.gov.au

Pilbara
Lifestyle
The Pilbara region of Western Australia is often described as the engine room of the nation because of its immense reserves of mineral resources. It is also blessed with stunning natural beauty, boasting striking landscapes and a rich and diverse cultural heritage. Covering more than half a million square kilometres and home to over 39,000 residents, the Pilbara provides a relaxed and rewarding community lifestyle, magnicent climate, unique environment and a variety of recreational activities. A wide range of education, training, health and recreation services exist in the region to provide its residents with a standard of living comparable with other cities and towns in Western Australia. The Pilbara is renowned for its uniquely beautiful marine environment. The region has one of the highest ratios of boat ownership in Australia. Boating enthusiasts take advantage of the best shing and diving in the world or simply enjoy the rugged beauty of the coast and adjacent islands. The coastal towns of Karratha and Port Hedland are the major administrative centres for the region. The two towns generate much of the regions business activity and provide extensive shopping facilities. Inland, between Newman and Tom Price, the Karijini National Park has some of the worlds most dramatic and oldest gorges and is famous for its rocky pools and magnicent waterfalls. registered nurses sheetmetal workers (rst class). The Pilbara is the States major minerals producer with activity concentrated around iron ore and base metal mining, and the production of oil, gas and salt. Most employment in the region is related to these industries and the services that support them.

Employment opportunities
Employment opportunities exist in a wide range of occupations. The ten occupations most in demand are: boilermakers bricklayers carpenters electricians tters mechanical engineers medical practitioners plumbers refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanics

For more information about living costs, employment and lifestyle opportunities in the region, contact the migration ofcer at the Pilbara Development Commission. Telephone: +61 8 9185 0600

Website: www.pdc.wa.gov.au

Gascoyne
Lifestyle
The Gascoyne region is in the northwest of Western Australia and has a land area of approximately 138 000 square kilometres extending 600 km along the shores of the Indian Ocean and stretching about 500 km inland. The internationally recognised Ningaloo Reef and Shark Bay World Heritage Area and the ruggedly beautiful Kennedy Ranges and Mount Augustus provide much scope for exploration by outdoor enthusiasts. The Gascoyne has a climate ranging from moderate to arid and tropical in the north. It enjoys a reputation as the suns winter home with around 320 days of sunshine annually. Rainfall is low and highly variable, averaging 200 mm per year. bakers The Gascoyne has a diverse economy. The major industries are tourism, shing, mining, horticulture and pastoralism. In recent years tourism has grown rapidly and is a major contributor to the regions economy. The population of around 10,000 is concentrated in the towns of Carnarvon, Exmouth, Denham, Gascoyne Junction and Coral Bay. The climate and close proximity to untouched, pristine coastline make the lifestyle relatively relaxed and focused on outdoor activity. cooks refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanics. boilermakers chefs The region is serviced by hospitals in Carnarvon and Exmouth and an Aboriginal Medical Service in Carnarvon. Denham has a Silver Chain Nursing post with regular visits by Carnarvon doctors. Carnarvon also has an aged care facility. The region has eight government and two nongovernment schools with the Carnarvon School of the Air servicing students in remote areas. Tertiary and Further Education (TAFE) campuses in Carnarvon and Exmouth offer post-secondary education and community courses. Open Universities Australia also has an Access Centre in Carnarvon.

Employment opportunities
Employment opportunities exist in a wide range of occupations. The most sought after skills are:

For more information about living costs, employment and lifestyle opportunities in the region, contact the migration ofcer at the Gascoyne Development Commission. Telephone: +61 8 9941 1803 Website: www.gdc.wa.gov.au

Mid West
Lifestyle
Approximately one hours ying time north of Perth, the City of Geraldton is the major commercial, service and administrative centre for the Mid West. Situated on the coast, Geraldton offers a near perfect year-round lifestyle. A temperate climate and relaxed, affordable, friendly living combined with all modern amenities make it a very comfortable place to live and work. As the service centre for the Mid West, business and employment opportunities are many and diverse. The region has a diverse economy based on shing (rock lobster, scallops, n sh), agriculture, tourism and a booming mining sector (gold, mineral sands, iron ore, oil and gas). The region has beneted from recent signicant investments in infrastructure including port, transport, power, new technologies, health and tourism and is set to capitalise on this with substantial mining developments providing signicant employment opportunities. The region boasts pristine waters, magnicent beaches, boating facilities, shing, sailing, sporting facilities (golf, football, netball, tennis, surng and windsurng) dining, shopping and entertainment facilities. Combine this with safe and friendly neighbourhoods, affordable housing and living expenses, no trafc jams, no parking problems, minimal travel time to work (15 minutes) and you certainly have time to enjoy life. Supporting this is a Universities Centre, Technical and Further Education (TAFE) College, secondary schools, primary schools, child day-care centres, agricultural colleges, rst-class health facilities, aged care facilities, community centres and more. health professionals motor mechanics, particularly HD diesel mechanics panel beaters secondary school teachers truck drivers. Letting you explore the regions many and diverse attractions is a network of major sealed roads connecting the region with Perth, inland mining and farming towns and the North West, along with air services between Perth , Geraldton and regional centres.

Employment opportunities
Employment opportunities exist in a wide range of occupations with high demand for people with skills in the following areas: childcare workers civil engineers electricians

For more information about living costs, employment and lifestyle opportunities in the region, contact the migration ofcer at the Mid West Development Commission. Telephone: +61 8 9921 0702

Website: www.mwdc.wa.gov.au

Wheatbelt
Lifestyle
The Wheatbelt comprises an area of almost 155 000 square kilometres, more than twice the size of Tasmania Australias island State. The region is home to more than 72 000 people making it the third most heavily populated region in the State. The Wheatbelt has a diverse population with more than 11 per cent having been born overseas and around 4 per cent being Indigenous Australians. Over 10 per cent of the population are aged between 15 and 24 years with 12 per cent aged 65 and older. The average age is approximately 37. The population is widely dispersed with only around 16 000 people located in the main service centres of Northam, Narrogin, Merredin and Moora. electricians The environment of the Wheatbelt is as varied as the people. There is approximately 150 km of pristine coastline, expanding from Guilderton to Jurien Bay. The Avon region, close to Perth, is one of the oldest settled areas and has a diversity of agricultural and horticultural production. Eastern areas of the Wheatbelt are rich in minerals including, gold, nickel and iron ore while the remainder of the region, as its name suggests, is mostly agricultural. The region has well-developed transport links with most major highways and rail routes to Perth passing through. The region has 35 per cent of the States roads and easy access to the Port of Fremantle as well as regional ports at Geraldton, Bunbury, Albany and Esperance. There is a range of private air charter services available. Daily passenger rail services operate on the main eastwest line and a variety of passenger coach services traverse the road system. For more information about living costs, employment and lifestyle opportunities in the region, contact the migration ofcer at the Wheatbelt Development Commission. Telephone: +61 8 9622 7222 Website: www.wheatbelt.wa.gov.au farm assistants farm overseers farm plant operators heavy machinery mechanics horticulture tradespersons registered nurses. The region has extensive educational, health, recreational and cultural services and is home to the C Y OConnor College of Tertiary and Further Education (TAFE) and Curtin Universitys Muresk Institute of Agriculture. It also offers affordable housing and business premises including established industrial precincts ideal for manufacturing and new industry.

Employment opportunities
Employment opportunities exist in a wide range of occupations with high demand for people with skills in the following areas: abattoir workers accountants diesel mechanics

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Goldfields-Esperance
Lifestyle
A lifestyle to be enjoyed a great sense of community combined with excellent facilities and great opportunities. The GoldfieldsEsperance Region offers something for everyone. The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder retains its rich history from the heady days of the gold rushes but also offers all the facilities of a modern cosmopolitan city. To the south, Esperance and surrounding towns offer all the best of a friendly country lifestyle and more. The southern area of the region is typified by beautiful beaches and a rugged coast leading into extensive agricultural lands. Enjoy the tranquillity, experience a sea change, or the outback experience, explore the unique landscapes and live the GoldfieldsEsperance life. The diversity of the businesses and industries in the region offer people a wide range of employment and business opportunities, a high standard of living and a great, relaxed lifestyle. Other benefits include the true-blue nature of the people, the endless blue skies, bush landscapes and the pristine Southern Ocean. The region provides employment opportunities in industries including mining, tourism, retail, environmental, arts, health, government services, fishing and agriculture, manufacturing and service industries, along with port and grain handling facilities. The region offers a variety of educational facilities, both private and public, for primary, secondary, tertiary, technical and further education; including Curtin University and the world renowned WA School of Mines. Residents in the region have access to a comprehensive range of medical services, specialists and facilities. Recreational facilities include indoor swimming pools, sporting complexes and gymnasiums. Sporting activities include football, swimming, basketball, horse racing, land sailing, cycling, triathlons, martial arts and golf to name just a few. For the artistically inclined the Cities of Kalgoorlie Boulder and Esperance are rich with theatres, cinemas, art and crafts and musical groups.

Employment opportunities
Employment opportunities exist in a wide range of occupations including: automotive electricians boilermakers chefs and cooks construction trade diesel mechanics extractive metallurgists fitters metal machinists mining engineers registered nurses urban and regional planners welders

For more information about living costs, employment and lifestyle opportunities in the region, contact the migration ofcer at the GoldeldsEsperance Development Commission. Telephone: +61 8 9080 5000

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Website: www.gedc.wa.gov.au

Peel
Lifestyle
The Peel region is immediately south of the Perth Metropolitan area. It covers an area of 5,600 square kilometres and includes more than 130 square kilometres of estuary and inland waterways. The regions major advantages are its close proximity to the Perth metropolitan area, good quality community infrastructure such as schools and health services.

Employment opportunities
It is a region of incredible contrasts with beaches bordering the sparkling Indian Ocean, a wide coastal plain extending east to the Darling Range, a large expanse of majestic native forests and rolling farmland. The distinguishing feature in the Peel region is water. The water sources in the hills of the Darling Range ow through an extensive river system to a large expanse of inland estuary and then into the Indian Ocean. Peel is the fastest growing region in Western Australia with its population expected to double in the next ten years. The region has a diverse and unique mix of people and industry with bauxite mining, mineral processing, tourism, construction and retail industries being the main economic activities. Major investment is taking place in natural resources and infrastructure projects. As a result many businesses in the construction and engineering industries are looking for skilled employees. Many Peel businesses have successfully recruited skilled labour from overseas destinations such as the United Kingdom, South Africa, India, and Asia. electricians general medical practitioners motor mechanics registered mental health nurses registered nurses urban and regional planners welders. bricklayers carpenters chefs Employment opportunities exist in a wide range of occupations with high demand for people with skills in the following areas:

For more information about living costs, employment and lifestyle opportunities in the region, contact the migration ofcer at the Peel Development Commission. Telephone: +61 8 9535 0000 Website: www.peel.wa.gov.au

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Great Southern
Lifestyle
Encompassing an area of more than 45 000 square kilometres, the Great Southern is a region of opportunity that supports a range of agricultural activities, tourism, timber production, commerce and services industries. The regions cool, Mediterranean climate has fostered growth in such diverse activities as wine making and olive oil production. The Great Southerns port city of Albany, site of the rst European settlement in Western Australia, is now the regions commercial, administrative and service industry hub. The manufacturing and fabrication services that have been driven by the requirements of agriculture are now responding to the needs of a more diversied economy. Engineering, transport and commercial and nancial services are now key growth areas, and all have increasing demands for skilled tradesmen and professionals. In education, the region offers a choice of government and non-government primary and high schools. There are technical training college facilities in the regional centres and a campus of the University of Western Australia at Albany. Vocational training, which caters for both school leavers and mature age students, is available throughout the region. The medical health care system is both world class and accessible. Albany contains the principal medical centre and there are smaller hospitals and clinics in towns throughout the region. general electronic instrument tradespersons hairdressers mechanical tters motor mechanics primary school teachers registered mental health nurses registered midwives registered nurses vocational education teachers carpenters computing support technicians general electricians Most of the regions towns have their own sports and exercise centres and swimming pools. Recreation is generally outdoor oriented. The region boasts a strong cultural and familyfriendly environment with arts, crafts and popular entertainment widely available

Employment opportunities
Employment opportunities exist in a wide range of occupations with high demand for people with skills in the following areas:

For more information about living costs, employment and lifestyle opportunities in the region, contact the migration ofcer at the Great Southern Development Commission. Telephone: +61 8 9821 3211

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Website: www.gsdc.wa.gov.au

South West
Lifestyle
The South West region of Western Australia faces the Indian and Southern Oceans and is only two hours drive from Perth the States capital. It has a typically Mediterranean-style climate with dry summer months and a high rainfall in winter. building surveyors Currently more than 136,000 people live in the region and it has one of the fastest growing populations of regional Western Australia. By 2021 it is predicted that 175,000 people will make the region their home. The South West economy boasts extensive mineral wealth including alumina and mineral sands. It also has strong agricultural and horticultural industries, timber and forest products, viticulture, retailing and tourism. Attractions include Bunburys Koombana Bay dolphins, pristine national parks, towering ancient forests, sweeping coastlines, beautiful underground caves, world-renowned wineries and eco-tourism sites. This makes the South West the most popular tourist destination outside the Perth metropolitan area. The region has comprehensive educational, sport and recreational facilities. People are attracted to the South West for its great climate, affordable housing, well-developed health and educational facilities and business and work opportunities. Its an outdoor life. People like to go hiking through the majestic forests, take their children to the beach or go shing. And in summer an evening barbecue often provides a pleasant end to the day. civil engineers construction tradespersons machinists mechanical engineers radiologists sonographers truck drivers (heavy duty) welders

Employment opportunities
Employment opportunities exist in a wide range of occupations with high demand for people with skills in the following areas: boilermakers

For more information about living costs, employment and lifestyle opportunities in the region contact the migration ofcer at the South West Development Commission. Telephone: +61 8 9792 2000 Website: www.swdc.wa.gov.au

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Western Australian Government Sponsored Visas

The Western Australian State Government sponsors two visa schemes, the Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa and the Skilled Sponsored Visa. These schemes make it possible for people to live and work in areas where there is a shortage of skills created by the States strong economic growth. Both types of visas are granted by the Australian Governments Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa A Skilled Regional Sponsored (Provisional) Visa (Onshore -subclass 487, Offshore - subclass 475) is available for people whose employment skills will contribute to regional Western Australia. The Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa is designed to assist regional areas attract, and retain, skilled migrants to meet skill shortages and boost development in regional communities. In Western Australia (WA) there are nine regional areas (other than the Perth metropolitan area) where eligible Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa holders can live and work. The scheme provides skilled migrants with a temporary visa to look for employment and explore lifestyle opportunities. After living in an area of WA outside the Perth metropolitan area for two years and having worked in a skilled occupation in regional WA for a minimum of one year, visa holders become eligible to apply for permanent residency. The Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa is a provisional visa valid for a period of three years. You must meet both the nomination and visa eligibility criteria to migrate to Western Australia. 2. be granted a visa by DIAC. How the Skilled Regional Sponsored and the Skilled Sponsored schemes work with State Sponsorship in Western Australia Applicants are required to attain 100 points in the points score test. You can calculate your point score by completing the Points Test Self Assessment on page 18 of this booklet. The points test is explained in more detail in DIACs Booklet 6 www.immi.gov.au/allforms/booklets/ booklets.htm. Skilled migrants using State Sponsorship must successfully complete two processes to migrate under the schemes: 1. be nominated (sponsored) by the Western Australian Government; Be committed to living and working in Western Australia (Skilled Sponsored Visa); and Agree to the obligations under each visa class. See the State Migration Centres website at www.migration.wa.gov.au for full details about the criteria, how to apply and access to the online application form. There is no charge for lodging a nomination application with the Western Australian Governments State Migration Centre. Have researched the region(s) in which they wish to live and work; Be committed to living and working in regional Western Australia (Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa); Have recent work experience or study; Skilled Sponsored Visa The Skilled Sponsored Scheme encourages skilled migrants to settle anywhere in Western Australia where their skills are in high demand. The Skilled Sponsored Visa (sub-class 176) visa provides permanent residency. Applicants for the Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa will be required to sign an agreement that they, and the members of their family unit, will live, work or study in regional WA for the duration of their visa or until they obtain a permanent residency visa. Have a skilled occupation that is relevant to their skills and listed on the Skills Occupation List (SOL) - see www.immi.gov.au; Have a skill that is in demand in Western Australia (see Skills in Demand List and the Priority Skills list at - www.migration.wa.gov.au); Nomination The Western Australian Governments State Migration Centre (SMC) approves eligible Skilled migrants for sponsorship under these schemes. To gain sponsorship an applicant needs to:

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Visas The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) grants skilled visas under these schemes. The main criteria to qualify for a visa are as follows. be under 45 years of age at the time of lodging the visa application (there are some exceptions available under employer sponsored skilled visas only); have a minimum standard of English, as determined by IELTS (www.ielts.org)

To nd out more about the visa schemes offered by the State Migration Centre please visit our website at www.migration.wa.gov.au telephone us on +61 8 9220 0222 or write to us at: State Migration Centre Small Business Development Corporation Government of Western Australia 553 Hay Street PERTH WA 6000 GPO Box C111

a) at least a vocational level of English (a score of at least 5 in all four components) for trade occupations, b) at least a competent level of English (a score of at least 6 in all four components) for non-trade occupations (higher for some occupations); have qualications assessed as comparable to Australian requirements; and have a minimum level of recent work experience in their occupation. See DIACs Booklet 6 www.immi.gov. au/allforms/booklets/booklets.htm for full details about the criteria and how to apply, including the application forms. Charges apply to lodge a visa application with the Australian Governments Department of Immigration and Citizenship. All services of the State Migration Centre are free of charge.

PERTH WA 6001 Email: information@migration.wa.gov.au

You can learn more about the different visa schemes, and your eligibility, by visiting the Western Australian Government migration website at www.migration.wa.gov.au. State Migration Centre Small Business Development Corporation 553 Hay Street PERTH Western Australia 6000 Telephone: +61 8 9220 0222 Facsimile: +61 8 9221 1132 Email: information@migration.wa.gov.au Website: www.migration.wa.gov.au Website: www.sbdc.com.au All services of the State Migration Centre are provided free of charge.

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State Sponsorship Guidelines

To be read in conjunction with the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) information on State and Territory sponsored skilled visa requirements.
Western Australian Government State Sponsorship is available for the Skilled Sponsored permanent residency visa and for the Skilled Regional Sponsored temporary residency visa. The State Migration Centre (SMC) at Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC), on behalf of the Western Australian Government, approves all applications for State Sponsorship for skilled visas. To apply for Western Australian Government State Sponsorship, go to www.migration.wa.gov.au and complete the online application form. bring sufcient funds into the State to cover settlement costs. commit to living and working in Western Australia; participate in a survey every 6 months for 2 years; and You are required to seek the endorsement of the SMC before making any plans to relocate to any other State or Territory in Australia. You should also seek the endorsement of the State or Territory to which you are planning to relocate. In addition, you will need to seek the approval of the SMC before making any changes in the commitments made in your application. As part of the evaluation process, the SMC encourages applicants to evaluate the area of Western Australia in which they plan to live and work. The SMC will conrm state sponsorship directly to DIAC on the receipt of the signed State Sponsorship Agreement For the Skilled Sponsored Visa, DIACs have an occupation on the States Skills in Demand (SDL) List; or have an occupation on the Australian Skills Occupation List (SOL) that is supported by a Regional Development Commission (RDC) on the basis there is a demand for the skills that cannot reasonably be lled locally; commit to living and working in a regional area of Western Australia; and bring sufcient funds into the State to cover settlement costs. case le number is needed on the State Sponsorship Agreement to conrm sponsorship. All sponsored skilled migrants arriving in Western Australia from overseas, or from another Australian State or Territory, are required to notify the SMC of their residential and business address. In addition, sponsored skilled migrants must inform the SMC of any changes to their residential and business addresses. To apply for State Sponsorship, go to www.migration.wa.gov.au and complete the relevant online application form. Skilled Sponsored Visa Permanent Residency have an occupation on the States Priority Skills List (PSL); Note: Western Australian Government Sponsorship is not transferable to other Australian States or Territories without the approval of the SMC. Regional areas in Western Australia represent the entire State except for the Perth metropolitan area. A decision will be provided on State Sponsorship applications within 10 days of receipt of all relevant information and documentation unless otherwise notied.

Sponsorship Criteria
All applicants for Western Australian Government State Sponsorship are required to demonstrate they meet the DIAC criteria for either the Skilled Sponsored or Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa and submit an application addressing all of the following requirements: Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa Temporary Residency

Conditions of State Sponsorship

Further Information
For everything you need to know about skilled migration to Western Australia contact the State Migration Centre at the SBDC on +618 9220 0222, visit the Centre at 553 Hay Street in Perth or go to the www.migration.wa.gov.au website.

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How can I apply to migrate to Western Australia?

If you are planning to migrate to Western Australia as a skilled migrant under the Skilled Regional Sponsored or Skilled Sponsored scheme there are three steps that all applicants must undertake: 1. Have your professional or trade qualications assessed and recognised in Australia 2. Apply to the State Migration Centre (SMC) for WA State Government sponsorship for your Skilled Regional Sponsored or Skilled Sponsored application then, if sponsorship is granted 3. Have your English language ability tested 4. Apply to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) for a Skilled Regional Sponsored or Skilled Sponsored Visa.

Step 1 HAVE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS ASSESSED

You will need to have your qualifications and skills positively assessed according to Australian standards before you lodge an application. DIAC has commissioned a number of assessment authorities to assist you in this process. Each assessing authority has its own assessment procedures, time frames and charges. You need to contact the appropriate organisation well before you intend to lodge your visa application. Documents required by assessment authorities You will be required to submit various documents to obtain a positive skills assessment. Most assessing authorities require: Completion of an application form (usually available from their website) Certied (and in most cases translated if the original is not in English) copies of: - Qualications - Transcripts showing what you studied - A resume - Proof of registration / completion of an apprenticeship (if one was completed) where this is relevant to your occupation (usually trades and professions) - Reference from employers detailing specific duties and levels of responsibility.

(If you are unable to provide specic documents a statutory declaration signed by you and Justice of the Peace or equivalent may be acceptable.) The assessing authority will send you a written statement telling you whether or not your skills meet the Australian requirement to work in your preferred occupation. If your assessment authority advises that you meet the requirements you must submit this statement to the SMC and DIAC with your visa application. ASSESSING AUTHORITIES A full list of assessment authorities can be found on DIACs website at www.immi. gov.au/allforms/pdf/1121i.pdf. Some of DIACs key assessing authorities include: Trades Recognition Australia This organisation is the nominated assessment authority for a range of trade and associate professional occupations for skilled migration purposes. Examples include: Chef ASCO code 3322 - 11 Fitter ASCO code 4112 11 Welder (First Class) ASCO code 4122 15 Hairdresser ASCO code 4931 - 11 60points 60 points 60 points 60 points

Vocational Education and Training Assessment Services This organisation provides a range of assessments for those applying to migrate to Australia under DIACs General Skilled Migration Program and the Employer Nominated Scheme. Examples include: Occupational Health and Safety Ofcer ASCO code 2543 - 11 50 points Geologist ASCO code 2112 - 11 50 points

Urban and Regional Planner ASCO code 2523 - 11 50 points Applicants who are residents of the UK, South Africa, India, Sri Lanka and the Philippines will be required to have the following trades assessed by Vetassess: General Electrician ASCO code 4311 11 60 points

Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic ASCO code 4312 - 11 60 points Motor Mechanic ASCO code 4211 - 11 Carpenter and Joiner ASCO code 4411 - 11 60 points 60 points

Electrical Powerline Tradesperson ASCO code 4313 11 60 points Bricklayer ASCO code 4414 -11 For more information: www.vetassess.com.au 60 points

For more information please visit www.workplace.gov.au/tra

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Other Key Professional Bodies include: Engineers Australia www.engineersaustralia.org.au Australian Computer Society (ACS) www.acs.org.au CPA Australia www.cpaaustralia.com.au Institute of Charted Accountants of Australia www.icaa.org.au Australia Nursing and Midwifery Council www.anmc.org.au Australian Institute of Management www.aim.com.au Teaching Australia www.teachingaustralia.edu.au

Application forms may be lodged on-line at the SMC website www.migration.wa.gov. au. Your skills assessment and Curriculum Vitae must accompany your application. The SMC will generally notify you within 10 days if you have been sponsored under the Skilled Regional Sponsored or Skilled Sponsored scheme. You will be sent formal advice that will explain the outcome of your sponsorship application. The next step is to apply for a visa from DIAC. Points test self assessment The criteria for skilled migration varies between the different visa classes. In general, visa applicants need to meet certain point scores to qualify for a particular visa. For the two visa classes offered by the Government of Western Australia you are required to score 100 points to be eligible for sponsorship. To obtain sponsorship for the Skilled Regional Sponsored visa your nominated occupation should ideally be listed on the States Skills in Demand List. For the Skilled Sponsored visa an applicant must have a nominated occupation that appears on the Priority Skills List. To find out if you qualify for State Sponsorship under these two visa classes you can carry out your own selfassessment using the points test table provided on page 20. Alternatively you can view the Skills In Demand List and the Priority Skills List on the SMC website at www.migration.wa.gov.au and carry out a self-assessment online.

The test result used by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Applicants will also have to be tested to be classified as having either competent or vocational English. The IELTS test is administered by an international organisation. The test evaluates the ability for the four English language components, reading, writing, speaking and listening. Details of the test and the testing locations can be found at www.ielts.org.

Step 2 APPLY FOR STATE SPONSORSHIP (Skilled Regional Sponsored/ Skilled Sponsored)
The Western Australian Government, through the SMC, decides which skilled migrants are eligible for sponsorship under these schemes. The SMC sponsors skilled migrants on the basis that ideally they have a skill included on the WAs Skills in Demand list for the Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa, and for the Skilled Sponsored Visa must have a skill on the Priority Skills List. The Western Australian Government, through the SMC, decides which skilled migrants are eligible for sponsorship under the schemes. The SMC sponsors skilled migrants on the basis that you have a skill included on WAs Skills in Demand list for the Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa, or the 'Priority Skills List' for the Skilled Sponsored Visa. If you receive a positive skills assessment from an assessing authority, and your skill is in demand in WA, and you meet the Skilled Regional Sponsored/Skilled Sponsored eligibility criteria, you may lodge an application for Western Australian State sponsorship.

Step 4 APPLY TO DIAC FOR YOUR VISA

Once you have been sponsored by the Western Australian Government under either scheme, you will need to apply to DIAC for a visa. Details of all skilled migration visas, including information on which visa to apply for and the application forms to use and their location, can be found in DIAC Booklet 6: General Skilled Migration. You can download this booklet from the following link www.immi.gov.au/allforms/ books6.htm. You need to ensure that you include the sponsorship letter from the Western Australian Government with your visa application as DIAC gives priority processing to state sponsored visa applications. It may take 6-10 months to process your visa application.

Step 3 HAVE YOUR ENGLISH LANGUAGE ABILITY TESTED

You will need to have your English language tested before you lodge an application unless you are the holder of a passport from the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada or the United States of America who are classified as native English speakers. All applicants seeking to be classified as proficient in English will need to be tested.

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Points Test Self Assessment

Skills See DIACs Skilled Occupations List Age 18-29 years 30-34 years 35-39 years 40-44 years English Language Proficient English, IELTS score of 7 in each component Competent English, IELTS score of 6 in each component Vocational English, (Trades Only) IELTS score of 5 in each component Specific Work Experience At least 3 years in nominated or closely related occupation (60pt only) At least 3 years employment in a SOL occupation Australian Work Experience At least 12 months, closely related employment in Australia At least 12 months, closely related professional year Australian Education Completing Doctorate (minimum 2 years study) Completing a Masters and at least 1 year of a Bachelor (minimum 3 years study) Completing a Bachelor with Honours (minimum 3 years study) Completing one or more degree, diploma or trade qualifications (minimum 2 years study) MODL Nominated occupation is on MODL, at least 12 months closely related employment, Job offer Nominated occupation is on MODL, at least 12 months closely related employment Designated Language Completed a 3 years tertiary qualification, for which all tuition was in a community language Accredited as a professional interpreter (level 3) NAATI in a community language Study in Regional Australia Lived and Studied in Regional Australia for 2 years State/Territory Nomination Nominated by State/Territory for Skilled Sponsored (176 or 886) or Skilled Regional Sponsored (475 or 487) Designated Area Sponsorship Applicant applied for a Skilled Regional Sponsored (475 or 487) visa and was sponsored by an eligible Australian relative living in a designated area Partner skills Applicants spouse or interdependent partner: Is not an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident Is an applicant for the visa Meets the threshold criteria for GSM 25 10 5 5 5 20 15 25 15 15 5 10 10 10 5 25 15 15 30 25 20 15 Points Available 40, 50 or 60 Your Score

TOTAL

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Western Australian Government overseas offices

EUROPE LONDON Government of Western Australia European Ofce 5th Floor, Australia Centre Corner of Strand & Melbourne Place LONDON WC2B 4LG, UNITED KINGDOM Telephone: +44 20 7240 2881 Facsimile: +44 20 7240 6637 Website: www.wago.co.uk CHINA SHANGHAI Western Australian Trade and Investment Promotion Shanghai Representative Ofce Room 2208, CITIC Square 1168 Nanjing Road West SHANGHAI 200041 PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF CHINA Telephone: +86 21 5292 5899 Facsimile: +86 21 5292 5889 CHINA HANGZHOU Western Australian Trade and Investment Promotion Hangzhou Representative Ofce Room 910, World Trade Ofce Plaza Zhejiang World Trade Centre 15 Shuguang Road HANGZHOU 310007 PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF CHINA Telephone: +86 571 8795 0296 Facsimile:+86 571 8795 0295 TAIWAN TAIPEI Australian Commerce & Industry Ofce Australian Business Centre Suite 2606, International Trade Building #333 Keelung Road Section 1 TAIPEI 110, TAIWAN R.O.C. Telephone: +886 2 8780 9118 ext. 216 Facsimile: +886 2 2757 6707 INDIA MUMBAI Western Australian Trade Ofce 93, Jolly Maker Chambers No2 9th Floor, Nariman Point MUMBAI 400 021, INDIA Telephone: +91 22 5630 3973/74 & 78 Facsimile: +91 22 5630 3977 INDIA CHENNAI (MADRAS) Advisory Ofce Chennai (Madras) 1 Doshi Regency 876 Poonamallee High Road Kilpauk, CHENNAI 600 084, INDIA Telephone: +91 44 2640 0407 Telephone/Facsimile: +91 44 2643 0064 INDONESIA JAKARTA Western Australian Trade Ofce Jl H R Rasuna Said Kav, Kuningan JAKARTA 12940, INDONESIA Telephone: +6221 5290 2860 Facsimile: +6221 5296 2722 MALAYSIA KUALA LUMPUR Western Australian Trade Ofce 4th Floor, UBN Tower 10 Jalan P Ramlee KUALA LUMPUR 50250, MALAYSIA Telephone: +603 2031 8175/6 Facsimile: +603 2031 8177 SOUTH KOREA Western Australian Trade and Investment Ofce 11th Floor, Kyobo Building 1 Jongro 1-Ga, Jongro-Gu SEOUL 110-714, SOUTH KOREA Telephone: +82 2 722 1217 Facsimile: +82 2 722 1218 THAILAND BANGKOK Australian Trade Commission Australian Embassy 37 South Sathorn Road BANGKOK 10120, THAILAND Telephone: +66 2 344 6337 Facsimile: +66 2 344 6360 MIDDLE EAST DUBAI Western Australian Trade Ofce Emarat Atrium PO Box 58007 DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Telephone: +971 4 343 3226 Facsimile: +971 4 343 3238 JAPAN TOKYO Government of Western Australia, Tokyo Ofce 13th Floor Fukoku Seimei Building 2-2-2 Uchisaiwai-cho Chiyoda-ku TOKYO 100-0011, JAPAN Telephone: +81 3 5157 8281 Facsimile: +81 3 5157 8286 Website: www.wajapan.net JAPAN KOBE Government of Western Australia 6th Floor Golden Sun Building Chuo-Ku, KOBE 650-0004, JAPAN Telephone: +81 78 242 7705 Facsimile: +81 78 242 7707 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Western Australian Trade and Investment Ofce Howard Hughes Center 6080 Center Drive, 6th Floor Los Angeles CALIFORNIA 90045 USA Telephone: +31 0 216 2827 Facsimile: +31 0 216 5632

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Notes

State Migration Centre Small Business Development Corporation 553 Hay Street PERTH Western Australia 6000 Telephone: +61 8 9220 0222 Facsimile: +61 8 9221 1132 Email: information@migration.wa.gov.au

www.migration.wa.gov.au

DISCLAIMER This publication has been prepared by the Small Business Development Corporation to provide general guidance for business migrants relocating to Western Australia. The information contained herein is provided voluntarily as a service to our clients and is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate at the time of publishing. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment and that they should verify all relevant representations, statements and information. Neither the Corporation nor its ofcers take any responsibility for statements or representations, nor shall the Corporation or any of its ofcers be liable in respect of any such statement or representation, whether by reason of negligence, lack of care, or for any other reason whatsoever.