Australia

Australia, surrounded by the Indian and Pacific Oceans, is a vast country known for its opportunities, natural beauty, and high living standards. It's a hub for global work opportunities.

Home to 10% of the world's biodiversity, Australia boasts unique wildlife and indigenous plants. The country's landscape ranges from tropical rainforests in the north to red deserts in the center and snowfields in the southeast. Many of these places are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Culturally diverse, Australia excels in food, arts, and a creative economy that reflects its rich heritage. The country is also known for its achievements in research, design, innovation, and science, alongside a love for sports and outdoor activities.

Canberra is the capital city of Australia, with Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Hobart and Darwin being some major cities.

In line with common Western practices, Australians typically consume three meals a day. With over 65% of the population being non-vegetarian, meat and seafood are some common food preferences.

However, with rising globalization, a significant group of Australians have adopted vegetarianism and veganism, giving migrants plenty of non-meat options to choose from.

English is the national language of Australia.

However, around 300 different languages, including many Indigenous languages are spoken in the country. Some of the most popular ones include Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese, Vietnamese and Italian.

The Australian flag, also known as Commonwealth Blue Ensign, has three main elements:

a. Union Jack: Positioned in the canton (upper left quadrant), it acknowledges Australia's British heritage.

b. Southern Cross: A constellation prominent in the southern hemisphere, its five stars (including the smaller Epsilon Crucis) appear in the first and third quarters.

c. Commonwealth Star: A seven-pointed star in the lower hoist signifies the six states and the combined territories.

Australian dollar (AUD) is the official currency of Australia.

Australia Day, is the official National Day of Australia, celebrated on 26th January every year. It marks the first permanent European settlement on the continent.

A flight from India to Australia takes around 10-12 hours on average.

Australia's domestic economic policies are designed to foster a competitive, adaptable, and robust economy. Internationally, the country strives to enhance prosperity both at home and globally.

Key focuses of Australia's economic diplomacy include promoting investment, tackling trade barriers not related to tariffs, assisting businesses, championing a rules-based global system, and strengthening connections in science, technology, and innovation. These efforts are a primary concern for its diplomatic network.

Trade and investment at a glance (as per latest published data on Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, DFAT website)

a. GDP in 2019-20 was valued at $2 trillion

b. Since 1992, the Australian economy has grown faster than any other major developed country

c. Record trade in 2019-20 $873 billion (1 in 5 jobs rely on trade)

d. Record exports in 2019-20 $475 billion (1 in 7 jobs rely on exports)

e. $77 billion trade surplus in 2019-20, an Australian record

In May 2023, full-time adult average weekly ordinary time earnings and full-time average weekly total earnings both increased by 3.8% compared to the previous year.

Full-time workers consistently earned more than their part-time counterparts.

Males experienced a 3.5% increase in their full-time adult average weekly ordinary time earnings, while females saw a slightly higher increase of 4.6%. Additionally, the 3.2% increase in average weekly total earnings for all employees underscores the overall positive economic climate, with wages rising for most workers.

The data on average wages in Australia for May 2023 paints a picture of a growing economy with rising wages. The overall positive yearly changes in earnings indicate economic stability and opportunity for workers.

It's essential to have a valid passport for any international travel. Since the passport application process can take several months, it's advisable to apply for one as soon as you begin looking for overseas work opportunities.

Visit the Passport Seva website (https://www.passportindia.gov.in/AppOnlineProject/welcomeLink#) to apply for a fresh passport or renew your old one.

Australia, since 1994, has a universal visa system where all non-citizens must have a visa, either applied for or granted by law. Visas on arrival are not available, except for New Zealand citizens.

Under the Migration Regulations 1994, specific groups are recognized as having valid visas without undergoing the standard process:

a. Passport holders from 36 eVisitor countries (EU member states, four EFTA (European Free Trade Association) member states, the UK, and four European microstates) and 34 ETA-eligible countries.

b. New Zealand citizens under the Special Category Visa through the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement.

c. Certain foreign military and government-related visitors eligible for the special purpose visa.

In Australia, skilled migration visas are allocated using a points-based system. Applicants must first express interest via an online Expression of Interest (EOI) on the SkillSelect portal. If selected, they are invited to apply formally for a visa. The application requires meeting a minimum points threshold, assessing skills and likelihood of success in Australia.

Points are awarded for the following factors. The below table shows points based on various parameters:

In general, applicants need to score at least 65 points to be invited to apply.

You can also use the Australian government's points calculator (https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/tools/points-calculator) to get an estimate of how many points you would score under the Australian points test. This can help you to identify areas where you can improve your score.

Australia offers a variety of visas for different purposes:

1. Visitor Visa: For tourists or those visiting family in Australia.

2. Study and Training Visa: Not limited to full-time students, this includes short courses, degrees, language learning, and vocational training. Some study visas can be extended for work or travel, allowing a longer stay.

3. Family and Partner Visa: Designed to reunite immediate and extended family members with their Australian relatives or spouses.

4. Working and Skilled Visa: For skilled individuals or families aiming to migrate permanently to fill skill shortages in Australia. This includes points-tested visas under the General Skilled Migration program, which can be independent, state/territory-sponsored, or family-sponsored.

5. Refugee and Humanitarian Visa: A long-term residence permit for refugees under the Special Humanitarian Programme (SHP). It allows living, working, and studying indefinitely in Australia. The SHP includes Offshore Resettlement and Onshore Protection visa categories.

Important Visas

Study Visa (Subclass 500)

Allows students to live, study, and work in Australia for up to five years. Students can usually work 40 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during breaks. Currently, there's a temporary allowance for students to work beyond this limit and start working upon arrival in Australia.

Working and Skilled Visa

For skilled individuals or families seeking permanent migration to address skill shortages in Australia. These visas, part of the General Skilled Migration program, are points tested and may be independent, state/territory sponsored, or family-sponsored.

Some important visa subclasses in this category include:

a. Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186): For skilled workers nominated by an employer to live and work permanently in Australia.

b. Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858): A streamlined pathway for highly skilled professionals in ten future-focused sectors to live and work permanently in Australia.

c. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): For invited workers with needed skills to live and work permanently in Australia. This is a points-based visa.

d. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): For nominated skilled workers to live and work as permanent residents in Australia. Applicants can also sponsor eligible relatives.

e. Skilled-Recognised Graduate Visa (Subclass 476): For recent engineering graduates to live, work, or study in Australia for up to 18 months. Applicants must be under 31 and have completed a relevant degree within the past two years.

The 2022 Skills Priority List (SPL) report by the Australian National Skills Commission highlights occupation groups facing shortages:

a. Health Professionals: There's been a 47% increase in demand, indicating a significant shortage in this sector in 2022.

b. Technicians and Trades Workers: Notably low vacancy fill rates are seen in automotive and engineering trades, construction, and electrotechnology and telecommunications trades.

c. Teachers: Shortages, especially in Early Childhood, Primary, and Secondary School teaching, are challenging the labour market. This is compounded by an aging teaching workforce, with many nearing retirement.

Australia, identified by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) as one of the top destination for Indian workers, offers approximately 54,000 job opportunities.

If you're in India and considering employment in Australia, consider these avenues:

a. National Skill Development Corporation International job portal

Since its inception in 2021, National Skill Development Corporation International (NSDCI) has played a vital role in enabling International Workforce Mobility through strategic engagements with foreign governments, dedicated training programs, and inclusive digital and on-ground initiatives.

Indian workers seeking employment in Australia can explore job opportunities through National Skill Development Corporation International’s job portal: https://www.nsdcinternational.com/looking-for-jobs. You can create an account on the portal to register for the talent pool for international job opportunities in future.

b. Indian Recruiting Agents (RAs)

Indian Recruitment Agencies (IRAs) act as intermediaries connecting potential workers with Australian employers. They assist with job placement, travel, employment documentation, and understanding employment contracts. Ensure you engage with licensed agencies to avoid scams. For more information, visit the Ministry of External Affairs' website at MEA Recruitment Agencies.

Complaints of overcharging or cheating can be lodged with:

For FAQs in relation to complaint against RA you should check the Ministry of External Affair’s website: https://mea.gov.in/complaints-against-recruiting-agents.htm

About 68% of Australian households own their homes, but high prices, especially in cities, make buying challenging. The rental market is tight with high demand and low supply, resulting in high rents and difficulty finding accommodations, especially in urban areas. Migrants to Australia should be prepared for flexibility in housing choices.

Transportation in Australia is a diverse system that includes various modes of travel, primarily geared towards urban centers but also extending to regional and remote areas.

In urban areas, trains, buses, trams, and ferries are the most commonly available public modes of transport. Taxis are the most preferred method of private rides.

For long distance travel, you can opt for trains, buses, and domestic airlines.

You can also drive in Australia, if you own a valid overseas driver’s license. Please note that Australians drive on the left side of the road.

Australia offers a good work-life balance with paid leave and flexible work arrangements like part-time work and telecommuting. However, some sectors, like finance and healthcare, often have long working hours, and there's pressure to work extra hours for career advancement.

Australia boasts a world-class healthcare system, providing access to high-quality drinking water and clean air. The public healthcare system, Medicare, ensures universal access to essential services (https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/settling-in-australia/settle-in-australia/key-settlement-topics/health-and-wellbeing). Private health insurance is available for additional services like private hospital and dental care.

Australians have a strong community spirit, with 93% reporting having someone to rely on in times of need, surpassing the OECD average of 91%. This is attributed to Australia's multicultural society, egalitarian values, and low crime rate.

Australia enjoys a quality environment with low pollution levels but faces challenges like climate change and bushfires. The country is experiencing more extreme weather, rising sea levels, and changes in ecosystems. Bushfires, common due to the hot, dry climate, cause significant damage to property, infrastructure, and wildlife.

Here are key things to remember for a smooth journey to Australia:

a. Obtain Your Documents 

1. Ensure your passport and visa are ready well in advance.

2. Make two copies of your ID documents; leave one with your family in India.

3. Get your power of attorney and original employment contract from the Indian Recruitment Agency (IRA).

4. Collect necessary travel documents including airline tickets, work permit, and residence permit from IRA.

5. Complete a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate.

b. things to pack for your journey

1. Pack clothing and shoes suitable for Australia's upcoming weather.

2. Bring a sufficient supply of allowed general and prescription medicines, personal hygiene items, and snacks for initial days.

3. Organize important documents in a folder and keep it within easy reach.

4. Check your airline's baggage allowance and ensure your luggage is within the limit.

The Indian diaspora in Australia is one of the country's fastest-growing migrant groups. According to Australian Bureau of Statistics (2021 Census)xxxviii, 783,958 people in Australia declared Indian ancestry, representing 3.1% of the Australian population. Indian Australians come from a diverse range of backgrounds and regions, with the largest groups coming from Punjab, Gujarat, and Kerala.

Some of the Indian organisations / associations in Australia are:

a. Federation of Indian Music and Dance Victoria: It is a coalition of Indian music and dance schools led by eminent artistes and teachers of Indian fine arts in Victoria.

b. India – Australia Association of Canberra (IAAC): It’s a voluntary, incorporated organisation based in Canberra. It has been providing community services in Canberra and its surrounding regions from 1973 onwards. Serving to remove barriers and facilitate relationships between the Indian and Australian cultural communities.

c. Gujarati Association of Victoria (GAV): (Gujarati Samaj) Gujarati Association of Victoria (GAV) (Gujarati Samaj) is a non-profit cultural organisation setup (Est. 1982) in the State of Victoria, Australia, to promote the cultural heritage of Gujarat – a state from India.

d. Federation of Indian Associations of Victoria (FIAV): It was formed in 1989 by a group of resident Indian migrants of long-standing and repute that was keen to bring all the various regional, cultural and lingual Indian groups together under the one umbrella organization.

Here are the rights of immigrants in Australia that you should be aware about.

1. Immigrants have the right to work in Australia, regardless of their nationality or immigration status.

2. Minimum employment standard: Employees in Australia (including immigrants) are entitled to basic minimum employment standards, including:

• Authorised leave, such as annual leave, sick leave, and personal/carer's leave

• Breaks during the workday, such as a meal break and a rest break

• Superannuation, which is a retirement savings scheme

• Notice of termination, which is the amount of notice that an employer must give an employee before terminating their employment

• Minimum wage, which is set by the Fair Work Act.

3. Immigrants have the right to own and rent property in Australia, including houses, apartments, and businesses.

4. They have the right to access government services, such as education, healthcare, and social security as an immigrant in Australia.

5. Immigrants have the right to a fair trial if you are accused of a crime. This right is guaranteed by the Australian Constitution.

6. Immigrants have the right to freedom of speech and assembly, just like all other Australians.

7. Immigrants have the right to be treated equally under Australian law. You cannot be discriminated against based on your nationality, immigration status, or other personal characteristics.

1. Immigrants are expected to comply with Australian immigration laws, as outlined by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

2. Immigrants have a responsibility to pay taxes in Australia, just like all other Australian residents.

3. All residents, including immigrants, are expected to adhere to the law, ensuring the safety and security of themselves and others.

4. Immigrants are encouraged to embrace and respect Australian values, which include freedom, democracy, equality, and the rule of law.

5. Immigrants should make efforts to understand and appreciate Australia's multicultural landscape including respecting their cultural diversity, and being open to learning about the traditions, customs, and beliefs of others.

6. Immigrants are encouraged to actively participate in their local communities and contribute positively to Australian society.

7. Immigrants should be environmentally conscious, reducing waste, conserving resources, and supporting sustainable practices.

supporting sustainable practices.

Navigating your financial journey in Australia can be smooth with the right steps. Here's a structured guide to help you manage your finances effectively:

1. Setting Up a Non-Resident External (NRE) Account Before moving abroad, safeguarding your finances is crucial. Opening a Non-Resident External (NRE) account with either public or private banks in India is advisable. Opt for banks with branches in Australia, such as State Bank of India (SBI), Bank of Baroda (BOB), or Union Bank of India (UBI). This account allows you to transfer money from Australia to India, converting foreign currency into Rupees, while enjoying tax-free status in India.

2. Mastering Online Banking Familiarize yourself with your bank's online services. Learn to navigate account access, balance checks, fund transfers, and online bill payments. Implement robust security measures like strong passwords and two-factor authentication to protect against online fraud. Embrace digital payments and mobile wallets for convenient, cashless transactions.

3. Effective Money Management

a. Setting Financial Goals: Discuss and set clear financial objectives with your family, such as purchasing assets (like a goat for milk production) or long-term plans (like house construction).

b. Budgeting and Saving: Allocate a portion of your income to savings immediately upon receiving your salary. Seek advice from your bank on low-risk, high-return saving options. Create a monthly budget, distinguishing between wants and needs, to ensure spending within your means.

c. Tracking Expenditures: Continuously monitor your spending to adhere to your budget and identify potential areas for cost reduction.

d. Emergency Fund and Insurance: Regularly contribute to an emergency fund for unforeseen situations like theft or illness. Additionally, securing insurance is essential to mitigate financial risks.

4. Remittance Options from Australia to India Choosing the right remittance channel depends on factors like speed, cost, and convenience. Here are some options:

a. Online Money Transfer Services: Services like Wise, Revoult, and Remitly offer competitive rates and lower fees. Registration is online, and transfers can be made via bank accounts or cards.

b. Bank Transfers: Direct bank transfers are secure but may involve higher fees and less favorable exchange rates.

c. Money Transfer Operators: Western Union and MoneyGram provide fast cash pickup options but might have higher fees.

d. Mobile Wallets: Platforms like Paytm or Google Pay allow direct transfers to Indian mobile wallets.

e. Foreign Exchange Brokers: Suitable for large amounts, offering competitive rates.

f. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Transfers: Can be favorable but less reliable.

When selecting a remittance method, consider the transaction amount, recipient's preference, urgency, and overall costs. Prioritize choosing a reputable service for secure transactions.

Here are some things you can do if you are in distress when in Australia:

A. Contact the Indian High Commission in Australia

The Indian High Commission in Australia is responsible for protecting the interests of Indian citizens in Australia. They can provide assistance in a variety of situations, including:

1. If you have been a victim of crime

2. If you are in financial difficulty

3. If you have lost your passport or other important documents

4. If you need help finding accommodation or transportation

5. If you need medical assistance

6. If you need help getting in touch with your family back home

B. Contact the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF)

The Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) is a fund that provides financial assistance to Indian citizens in need while they are overseas. The ICWF can help with expenses such as medical care, transportation, and repatriation. ICWF aims to provide the following services to the emigrant workers:

1. Boarding and lodging for distressed Overseas Indian workers in household/ domestic sectors and unskilled labourers.

2. Extending emergency medical care to Overseas Indians in need.

3. Helping distressed NRI women.

4. Providing air passage to stranded Overseas Indians in need.

5. Providing initial legal assistance to Overseas Indians in deserving cases.

6. Paying small fines/ penalties in deserving cases.

7. Extended help on accidental and for airlifting of mortal remains to India or local cremation/burial of the deceased Overseas Indians where the sponsor is unable or unwilling to do so as per the contract and the family is not able to meet the cost.

Documents required for transportation of mortal remains

• Power of attorney and consent from the legal heir

• Clinical death certificate

• Embalming certificate

• Passport for cancellation

• NOC from the Indian Mission/Post

To apply for assistance from the ICWF, you will need to contact the Indian High Commission or one of the consulates in Australia.

C. MADAD Portal

As a Indian Migrant, you can login to the MADAD portal to register your grievances and seek redressal. It seeks to address grievances on issues related to workers abuse, sexual abuse, recruiting agents, sponsorship and contract issues, repatriation of Indian nationals, tracing whereabouts of Indian nationals, death/injury compensation, transportation of mortal remains of deceased Indian nationals, marital dispute issues and other issues.

You or your family member can directly register your grievances on the portal (madad@gov.in).

D. Contact the Australian government

The Australian government also provides a number of services to people in distress, including:

1. The National Debt Helpline (1800-007-007) can provide advice and support to people who are in financial difficulty. Link: https://ndh.org.au/about-national-debt-helpline/contact-us/

2. The National Relay Service can provide a telephone service for people who are deaf or have hearing or speech impairments. Link: https://www.accesshub.gov.au/about-the-nrs

3. The Lifeline Australia crisis support phone line (131114) can provide support to people who are experiencing emotional distress. Link: https://www.lifeline.org.au/131114/

4. The Australian Red Cross can provide assistance to people who have been affected by a disaster or emergency. Link: https://www.redcross.org.au/

Remember, you are not alone. There are people who can help you if you are in distress.

1. e-Migrate: You can visit the e-Migrate website (https://emigrate.gov.in/) for the seeking assistance for issues related to living and working abroad.

2. Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayta Kendra (PBSK): PBSK is a facilitation centre that provides support services to persons desirous of going abroad for employment purposes.

3. Protector General of Emigrants (PGE): Protector General of Emigrants (PGE) in the Ministry of External Affairs is the authority responsible for protecting the interests of Indian workers proceeding abroad for employment purposes.

4. Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Under PKVY, Indian workers can receive Pre-Departure Orientation Training familiarising migrant workers with the destination country’s culture, language, traditions and local rules and regulations. The workers receive a certificate officially stating that they have received PDOT for going abroad.

5. Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY): Before applying for Emigration clearance (EC), on eMigrate, it is important to take Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY).