Mobile Network operators in New Zealand

http://www.telecom.co.nz/home/

http://www.2degreesmobile.co.nz/home

http://www.vodafone.co.nz/

How To Convert An Overseas Driving License

http://www.nzta.govt.nz/licence/index.html

Although you are permitted to drive in New Zealand if you hold a valid driver’s license from another country, you will need to convert this license to a New Zealand one if you are staying here for 12 months or more. Here’s how you do it.

Where to go

You will need to apply in person at a New Zealand Transport driver licensing agent to get your current license converted. These agents are selected VTNZ and VINZ stations and most AA offices. Look these up online to see where your nearest or most convenient agent is.
When you get to your nearest or most convenient agent, find the relevant application for that you will need to complete.

What You’ll Need

You will need to present your current overseas driving license in order for you to be issued with a valid New Zealand license. You will also need to bring along another form of ID, a passport is preferable, and evidence of address. The evidence of address can be in the form of a bank statement or a utility bill, both no more than 12 months old.
You may also have to present a current medical certificate if required and pass an eyesight screening check.

Cost

Once you have filled out the relevant forms you need to pay a fee to get your new license. This varies between $70 and $120 depending on what license you need to get (learner, restricted or full).
After all the forms have been checked and your fee paid, you will then get your photograph taken and your new license will be sent to you by post.

Annual Update of Skilled Occupation List - 1 July 2013

Annual Update of Skilled Occupation List - 1 July 2013

The Skilled Occupation List

The Skilled Occupation List (SOL) will change from 1 July 2013, with five occupations to be removed. The SOL determines which occupations are eligible for independent and family sponsored skilled migration.
The updated SOL is based on expert advice from the Australian Workforce Productivity Agency (previously known as Skills Australia). The list of occupations reflects the Australian Government's commitment to a skilled migration program that delivers skills in need in Australia. The SOL will continue to deliver a skilled migration program focused on high value skills that will help to address Australia's future skill needs.


Summary of changes to the SOL
The following changes have been applied to the SOL.
Occupations removed from the SOL

ANZSCO Code	Occupation
251511	Hospital Pharmacist
251513	Retail Pharmacist
323111	Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Avionics)
323112	Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Mechanical)
323113	Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures)

Occupations on the SOL from 1 July 2013

ANZSCO Code	Occupation
133111	Construction Project Manager
133112	Project Builder
133211	Engineering Manager
133513	Production Manager (Mining)
134111	Child Care Centre Manager
134211	Medical Administrator
134212	Nursing Clinical Director
134213	Primary Health Organisation Manager
134214	Welfare Centre Manager
221111	Accountant (General)
221112	Management Accountant
221113	Taxation Accountant
221213	External Auditor
221214	Internal Auditor
224111	Actuary
224511	Land Economist
224512	Valuer
231212	Ship's Engineer
231213	Ship's Master
231214	Ship's Officer
232111	Architect
232112	Landscape Architect
232213	Cartographer
232214	Other Spatial Scientist
232212	Surveyor
232611	Urban and Regional Planner
233111	Chemical Engineer
233112	Materials Engineer
233211	Civil Engineer
233212	Geotechnical Engineer
233213	Quantity Surveyor
233214	Structural Engineer
233215	Transport Engineer
233311	Electrical Engineer
233411	Electronics Engineer
233511	Industrial Engineer
233512	Mechanical Engineer
233513	Production or Plant Engineer
233611	Mining Engineer (Excluding Petroleum)
233612	Petroleum Engineer
233911	Aeronautical Engineer
233912	Agricultural Engineer
233913	Biomedical Engineer
233914	Engineering Technologist
233915	Environmental Engineer
233916	Naval Architect
234111	Agricultural Consultant
234112	Agricultural Scientist
234113	Forester
234611	Medical Laboratory Scientist
234711	Veterinarian
234912	Metallurgist
234914	Physicist (Medical Physicist only)
241111	Early Childhood (Pre-Primary School) Teacher
241411	Secondary School Teacher
241511	Special Needs Teacher
241512	Teacher of the Hearing Impaired
241513	Teacher of the Sight Impaired
241599	Special Education Teachers nec
251211	Medical Diagnostic Radiographer
251212	Medical Radiation Therapist
251213	Nuclear Medicine Technologist
251214	Sonographer
251311	Environmental Health Officer
251312	Occupational Health and Safety Advisor
251411	Optometrist
252111	Chiropractor
252112	Osteopath
252311	Dental Specialist
252312	Dentist
252411	Occupational Therapist
252511	Physiotherapist
252611	Podiatrist
252712	Speech Pathologist
253111	General Medical Practitioner
253211	Anaesthetist
253311	Specialist Physician (General Medicine)
253312	Cardiologist
253313	Clinical Haematologist
253314	Medical Oncologist
253315	Endocrinologist
253316	Gastroenterologist
253317	Intensive Care Specialist
253318	Neurologist
253321	Paediatrician
253322	Renal Medicine Specialist
253323	Rheumatologist
253324	Thoracic Medicine Specialist
253399	Specialist Physicians nec
253411	Psychiatrist
253511	Surgeon (General)
253512	Cardiothoracic Surgeon
253513	Neurosurgeon
253514	Orthopaedic Surgeon
253515	Otorhinolaryngologist
253516	Paediatric Surgeon
253517	Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
253518	Urologist
253521	Vascular Surgeon
253911	Dermatologist
253912	Emergency Medicine Specialist
253913	Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
253914	Ophthalmologist
253915	Pathologist
253917	Diagnostic and Interventional Radiologist
253918	Radiation Oncologist
253999	Medical Practitioners nec
254111	Midwife
254411	Nurse Practitioner
254412	Registered Nurse (Aged Care)
254413	Registered Nurse (Child and Family Health)
254414	Registered Nurse (Community Health)
254415	Registered Nurse (Critical Care and Emergency)
254416	Registered Nurse (Development Disability)
254417	Registered Nurse (Disability and Rehabilitation)
254418	Registered Nurse (Medical)
254421	Registered Nurse (Medical Practice)
254422	Registered Nurse (Mental Health)
254423	Registered Nurse (Perioperative)
254424	Registered Nurse (Surgical)
254499	Registered Nurse nec
261111	ICT business Analyst
261112	Systems Analyst
261311	Analyst Programmer
261312	Developer Programmer
261313	Software Engineer
263111	Computer Network and Systems Engineer
263311	Telecommunications Engineer
263312	Telecommunications Network Engineer
271111	Barrister
271311	Solicitor
272311	Clinical Psychologist
272312	Educational Psychologist
272313	Organisational Psychologist
272314	Psychotherapist
272399	Psychologists nec
272511	Social Worker
312211	Civil Engineering Draftsperson
312212	Civil Engineering Technician
312311	Electrical Engineering Draftsperson
312312	Electrical Engineering Technician
313211	Radio Communications Technician
313212	Telecommunications Field Engineer
313213	Telecommunications Network Planner
313214	Telecommunications Technical Officer or Technologist
321111	Automotive Electrician
321211	Motor Mechanic (General)
321212	Diesel Motor Mechanic
321213	Motorcycle Mechanic
321214	Small Engine Mechanic
322211	Sheetmetal Trades Worker
322311	Metal Fabricator
322312	Pressure Welder
322313	Welder (First Class)
323211	Fitter (General)
323212	Fitter and Turner
323213	Fitter-Welder
323214	Metal Machinist (First Class)
323313	Locksmith
331112	Stonemason
331211	Carpenter and Joiner
331212	Carpenter
331213	Joiner
332211	Painting trades workers
333111	Glazier
333211	Fibrous Plasterer
333212	Solid Plasterer
334111	Plumber (General)
334112	Airconditioning and Mechanical Services Plumber
334113	Drainer
334114	Gasfitter
334115	Roof plumber
341111	Electrician (General)
341112	Electrician (Special Class)
341113	Lift Mechanic
342111	Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic
342211	Electrical Linesworker
342212	Technical Cable Jointer
342313	Electronic Equipment Trades Worker
342314	Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (General)
342315	Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (Special Class)
399111	Boat Builder and Repairer
399112	Shipwright
411211	Dental Hygienist
411212	Dental Prosthetist
411213	Dental Technician
411214	Dental Therapist

Australia to tighten skilled immigration rules from July 1

A number of changes will be made to 457 visa programme to prevent abuse

By

• Majorie van Leijen

Published Saturday, June 15, 2013

A number of changes will be implemented to the 457 visa programme beginning July 1.




According to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIC), the primary aim of the changes is to safeguard the integrity of the program.

The 457 visa program was developed with the purpose to enable employers to fill skills shortages by recruiting qualified overseas workers where appropriately skilled Australians are unavailable.

It is a temporary visa, lending a quick-fix solution to labour shortages. However, over the years, the program has been prone to misuse by employers as well as foreign employees.

As a result, the position of the local employee has been undercut, and the conditions of overseas employees have been neglected in certain cases.

“The 457 program has expanded well above the national employment growth rate, and while most employers are using the subclass 457 appropriately, the nature of the program’s use by some employers indicates that the objectives of the program are not being fully met,” the DIC explained on its website.

“Within the program, significant growth in applications was recorded in 2011-12 from working holiday maker and student visa holders. Many of these subclass 457 visa applicants were nominated to work in occupations and regions which are not experiencing widespread skills shortages, and in some industries, they accounted for over half of total grants. This trend suggests that usage of the program is being increasingly driven by temporary visa holders seeking to remain in Australia instead of the demands of the Australian labour force.”

With the changes to the program, the DIC hopes to increase its capacity to respond to the integrity concerns by strengthening current legislation. The following changes will be introduced by the beginning of next month:

- The position must be a genuine vacancy within the business. When there are concerns the position may have been created specifically to secure a 457 visa without consideration of whether there is an appropriately skilled Australian available, investigation may be carried out;

- DIC may take action against sponsors who engage in discriminatory recruitment practices;

- The market salary exemption threshold will be increased from $80,000 to $50,000 to ensure that higher paid salary workers are not able to be undercut through the employment of overseas labour at a cheaper rate;

- The English language exemptions for certain positions will be removed. In this way 457 visa who have an ongoing position with their employer and want to apply for permanent residence in the long-run will not disadvantaged because of their language ability;

- Applicants who are nominated with a salary greater than $92,000 will continue to be exempted from the English language requirement;

- The requirement for sponsors to train Australians will be strengthened with some amendments, introducing an ongoing and binding requirement to meet training thresholds for the duration of their approved sponsorship;

- Workers with a 457 visa must be engaged with the company through an employment contract, as opposed to a business contract for services;

- Sponsors will solely be responsible for recovery costs.

“The changes will not adversely affect the vast majority of employers who are using the program appropriately. The changes will, however, strengthen the government’s capacity to identify and prevent employer practices that are not in keeping with the purpose of the 457 program,” stated the DIC.

Likewise, existing 457 visa holders will not be affected by the rule, because presumed is that they are already doing the right thing. Potential applicants for the 457 visa program will have to take notice of the rules because they might be required to provide with additional evidence to prove their integrity, the DIC concluded.

Sri Lankan community celebrates New Year

Changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) from 23 March 2013

Changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) from 23 March 2013

From 23 March 2013, in response to recommendations four and eight of the Strategic Review of the Student Visa Program 2011 (the Knight Review), new post-study work arrangements will be introduced for graduates of an Australian Bachelor Degree, Masters Degree or Doctorate. The post-study work arrangements are being introduced as a new stream of the existing Temporary Skilled Graduate (subclass 485), which will be renamed the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485).
See: Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

Australia and NZ Jointly Manage Overseas Immigration Physicians

Australia and NZ Jointly Manage Overseas Immigration Physicians Tuesday, April 23, 2013 According to a recent announcement, New Zealand and Australia agreed to jointly manage an offshore network of panel physicians to improve the quality of health examinations visa applicants receive. Panel physicians consist of doctors and radiologists who undertake immigration health examinations for visa applicants. Australia and New Zealand signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) which creates a jointly managed network co-ordinated by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). The MOU is considered to bring several benefits to both countries, according to the Head of INZ, Nigel Bickle, and his Australian counterpart, the Secretary of DIAC, Martin Bowles. The benefits of alignment include: improved customer service targeted communication, administration, performance management and training for a single panel physician network, and related cost savings enhanced integrity through robust auditing and analysis expansion of tuberculosis screening and treatment networks, and progression of Five Country Conference objectives including the promotion of health protection and efficiency through effective shared management and quality assurance, and promoting best practice, partnership and shared investment. Mr Bowles said the arrangement would facilitate INZ implementing electronic processing of its immigration health examinations and support broader alignment of Australian and New Zealand immigration health policies and processes. The implementation of the network will occur in three phases and is expected to be fully implemented by July 2014. If you are interested in Australian visas, contact Migration Expert for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our visa eligibility assessment to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to Australia. Hanna Eliasson | Migration Expert Australia

New Zealand Sri Lanka Foundation

Welcome

We are the New Zealand Sri Lanka Foundation (NZSLF), a community organization promoting communal harmony amongst the various ethnic groups within the Sri Lankan (SL) Community and between various ethnic groups living in New Zealand (NZ).


The New Zealand Sri Lanka Foundation was established in 1998 with a vision of building a common bond through the SL community. Based on our vision and mission we present in our website information about the NZSLF, information about SL for those who are going to SL and information about NZ for those who are coming from SL.

WEBSITE 

Student Loan

Selylan Bank – Seylan Scholar
The loan scheme will fund Overseas Education and Local Education (Eg CIMA, CIM, SLIM, IPM, IIT & MBA)
Maximum loan of LKR 7.5 Million, repayment up to 7 years.
http://www.seylanscholar.lk/About_Scholar.php
You can use loan calculator of Seylan bank to determine loan installments.


HNB (Hatton National Bank) Educational Loans
HNB provides three types of loans: (1) School/tuition fees, (2) Higher studies, (3) Career Development
Loans upto Rs 300,000/-
http://www.hnb.net/data/for_individuals/educational_loans.php

BOC (Bank of Ceylon) Educational Loans
They offer two student loan systems:
BoC Comprehensive Educational Loan Scheme
Loans upto Rs. 4.0 Mn
http://web.boc.lk/index.php?route=product/category&path=87_165_166
Educational Loan Scheme For Students of Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka
http://web.boc.lk/index.php?route=product/category&path=87_165_168

Peoples Bank Educational Loans 
Facilities are considered for your local or foreign education needs to cover university fees, living and medical expenses, based on repayment ability, requirement and security offered.
http://www.peoplesbank.lk/products/educationloan

Commercial Bank Educational Loans
Student preparing for a professional examination or a parent or guardian of such student can apply.
Loans upto Rs. Rs 3,000,000/-
http://www.combank.net/newweb/personal/loans?product=16

Educational Loans from NDB Bank
Funding for your local and foreign educational needs.
Loan amounts will range from Rs.100,000/- upwards, depending on your repayment capacity.
http://www.ndbbank.com/prsnl_serv/educat_loans.jsp

DFCC Vardhana Bank Nenasa Educational Loans
A loan scheme for both Undergraduate and Postgraduate Studies
Loan amount determined by the loan Installment that you can pay based on your budget.
http://www.dfcc.lk/personal-banking/loans/nenasa-educational-loans

HSBC Sri Lanka Lifestyle Education Loans
You can apply if you are currently employed in a confirmed post.
Loans upto Rs. 2,500,000
http://www.hsbc.lk/1/2/personal/lifestyle-loans/education-loan

TFC (The Finance Company) Education Plan
Parents or guardians who wish to send their children overseas to study or students pursuing professional courses can apply.
http://www.thefinance.lk/eplan.php

Sampath Bank PIM loans
They provide loans to students follow MBA Programmes at the Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM) affiliated to the University of Sri Jayewardenepura.
http://www.sampath.lk/pim.php

VETASSESS - Australia

About VETASSESS

VETASSESS is Australia’s leading vocational education and training (VET) assessment provider.  We help individuals, training providers and industry groups around the world define and achieve their learning and assessment goals.

http://www.vetassess.com.au/index.cfm

Funds Transfer to a bank account in New Zealand

Funds Transfer Scheme

Transfer of living expenses to a bank account in New Zealand

We have received information from various education providers that some overseas students are facing problems in obtaining part-time work in the current economic situation. Whilst all students are required by instructions to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to pay for the tuition fee and to meet their living expenses in New Zealand, it appears that a majority of the Sri Lankan students may not be carrying sufficient funds for their living expenses and are looking for part-time work soon after entering New Zealand.

As the economic growth slows down, overseas students might find it harder to get part-time work as more New Zealand residents and citizens will be looking for jobs. This could leave more international students disappointed which has the potential to adversely affect the New Zealand's reputation overseas.

In order to mitigate this risk Bangkok branch proposes to put in place a system requiring students to transfer at least 12 months’ living expenses to a bank account in New Zealand, in addition to paying the tuition fee for one year. The amount deposited in the bank is locked for a period of 12 months and then drip-fed to the student on a prearranged basis.

The banking option will work in one of the following three ways.

1. Students will have an option to open an approved savings account with ANZ Bank in New Zealand from Sri Lanka and deposit the amount stipulated by INZ for cost of living support funds, into that account. They would then provide evidence of this with their visa application. If the application is declined, INZ will advise the bank and provide a copy of the biodata page from the student’s passport. ANZ will then remit the funds and the accrued interest back to a nominated bank account in Sri Lanka, or
2. The student can indicate when the visa application is lodged that they will remit the funds to the ANZ bank account. This can be done by opening an account with ANZ and attaching a copy of the 'welcome letter' received in response along with the application. If they do this they will not be required to show INZ source of funds for cost of living expenses in New Zealand.  If all other aspects of the application are positive the application will be considered a Positive Profile student.  The student will then receive an Approval in Principal (AIP) letter requesting them to pay the course fee, deposit the cost of living funds in the ANZ account and provide INZ evidence of this within 30 days.  A visa will then be issued. If, after receiving the AIP letter, the student declines to deposit the money, the application will be transferred back to the immigration officer for reassessment, or
3. Where INZ Bangkok has concerns as to whether the money shown for cost of living in New Zealand will actually be made available to the student, the student will be offered the option of demonstrating that our concerns are unfounded by transferring that money to an ANZ account in New Zealand. Should the student choose not to transfer the money this will be taken into account in assessing whether the funds will be made available to the student to take to New Zealand and, therefore, whether the application meets instructions to be approved.

How the funds transfer scheme will operate

INZ has arranged with ANZ Bank in New Zealand to facilitate the funds transfer scheme.

Step 1: The applicant completes the enquiry form available below and sends it with the first biodata page of their passport to ANZ Bank at indianz@anz.com.

Step 2: The applicant then lodges their student visa application with the branch along with evidence of having a reference number for the FTS account application issued by ANZ Bank.

Step 3: The INZ branch processes the student visa application and, if satisfied, notifies the applicant that they have been approved in principle.

Step 4: The applicant provides a copy of the AIP letter to ANZ Bank. An account will be opened and account details will be sent to the applicant. The applicant then approaches their bank in Sri Lanka to remit the money to the New Zealand account.

Step 5: ANZ Bank notifies INZ confirming the applicant’s account balance.

Step 6: Applicant submits fee receipt, ANZ account balance letter and other AIP requirements for issuance of a student visa.

Step 7: On arrival in New Zealand, the student visits the nearest ANZ Bank branch and activates their bank account after which the bank releases funds on a prorated basis from the student's holding accounts to the transaction accounts which the student can use for meeting living costs.

In the event that a student takes up the funds transfer option after submitting an application with INZ, step 2 will be redundant.

Note: Students will have only limited access to the holding account. ANZ bank will notify INZ if students request to withdraw money directly from their holding account.

The fund transfer scheme will ensure that the students are aware that whilst their student visa allows them part-time work in New Zealand, this work may not be readily available and will require them to make sufficient arrangements to meet their living expenses.

This is not a student instructions requirement but only an option that can be provided to students as an alternative to submitting numerous documents to demonstrate access to sufficient funds or alleviate any concerns that INZ may have with regard to funds shown by a student.

Advising students of the funds transfer option during the course of processing of an application

Students should be advised of the funds transfer option when INZ is not satisfied that the funds shown in support of a student visa application will not be available to the student, for example:

• funds shown are not owned by an immediate family member
• funds shown are recent in nature and satisfactory evidence cannot be provided to establish the source of these funds.

The advice should clearly indicate that this is only an option and not a mandatory requirement. If the student does not choose to take up this option, comments and/or additional documents should be provided to satisfy any concerns around funds.

Deciding applications under the Funds Transfer Scheme

When an application where the funds transfer option has been taken is approved, an additional AIP requirement would be that evidence is provided that the stipulated funds have been transferred to New Zealand. This evidence will be in the form of a confirmation of receipt of funds directly from ANZ Bank.

Once the AIP requirements are met, the visa will be issued.

In the event that an application is declined and the funds have already been transferred to New Zealand, the immigration officer must advise ANZ Bank quoting the account number and the student’s details. ANZ Bank will then arrange for the funds and the accrued interest to be remitted back to a designated bank account in Sri Lanka.

Once the student arrives in New Zealand

On arrival in New Zealand the student will need to go to the nearest branch of the ANZ Bank to activate their transaction account and start the monthly payments into this account from the deposit account.

In case the student terminates their study and intends to return to Sri Lanka, they will need to provide a letter from their institution confirming termination of education and air tickets. The outstanding amount in the savings account along with the accrued interest will be remitted back to a bank account in Sri Lanka. In such an event ANZ Bank will also advise INZ Bangkok for appropriate action.

Benefits of the process

For the students

• Allows students’ parents to have control over the amount of money that their child has access to in New Zealand.
• Ensures that the student will have access to sufficient money to meet cost of living expenses in New Zealand.
• It is a lot easier than the current alternatives available – where a range of documentation is required and/or a bank loan must be taken out.
• Applications submitted under this scheme will not be subjected to in-depth fund assessments which will reduce processing times.

For INZ

• Helps the immigration officer to determine the ability of parents to fund their child’s tuition and living costs in New Zealand.
• Cuts down on processing timeframes as in-depth funds verification and assessment is not required.

ANZ contact

The ANZ contact is Sunil Kaushal:
Sunil Kaushal
Head of Indian Segment
ANZ New Zealand
Level 6, 209 Queen Street, Auckland, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 252 4244 | Mobile: +64 21 280 4189 | Fax: +64 9 252 4233

 

Canterbury Skill Shortage List updated

Canterbury Skill Shortage List updated with new construction occupations

Friday, 16 November 2012

Thirteen construction-related occupations have been added to the Canterbury Skill Shortage List after a review of critical skill shortages in the region and analysis of available skilled New Zealanders to do the work.

All the occupations on the Canterbury Skill Shortage List require qualifications, experience or registration and apply to people undertaking senior roles in the rebuild.


If an occupation is on the Canterbury list, employers can hire migrants more quickly. Suitable applicants who meet the requirements of the occupations on the list and who have a job offer in Canterbury may be granted a temporary work visa without a check needing to be done on whether there are skilled New Zealanders available.

The Canterbury list will be reviewed every three months from now on. Occupations may also be removed from the list as New Zealanders become available who have the level of skills and experience required.

The review involves a detailed analysis of how many beneficiaries, trainees or people from elsewhere in New Zealand are available to fill the skilled vacancies; forecasts for where and when there will be demand for skilled workers in certain occupations; and consultation with key Canterbury stakeholders.

What are the new occupations?

Download the full list and read the Questions and Answers.
The skilled occupations that have been added to the list, yogether with the relevant ANZSCO code, are:

• Solid Plasterer (333212)
• Painting Trades Worker (332211) 
• Wall and Floor Tiler (333411)
• Fibrous Plasterer  (333211)
• Brick layer (333111)
• Carpenter (331212)
• Roof Tiler (333311)
• Joiner  (331213)
• Glazier (333111)
• Floor Finisher (332111)
• Stonemason (331112)
• Drainlayer (334113)
• Carpenter and Joiner (331211)

Page Last Updated: 15 Nov 2012

First court finding against 457 visa sponsor

First court finding against 457 visa sponsor

02-07-2012 -

The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) today welcomed a Federal Magistrates Court decision against a Victorian 457 visa sponsor who underpaid a worker by $10 000.

The court issued a pecuniary penalty of $35 000 plus costs of almost $11 000 and put significant weight on the need to deter other employer sponsors from breaching their obligations.

A departmental spokesman said today that, for the first time, an action had been brought before the courts under the Migration Legislation Amendment (Worker Protection) Act 2008. He said the court found 457 sponsor Sahan Enterprises Pty Ltd had failed two of the obligations: the obligation to pay equivalent terms and conditions, and the obligation to keep appropriate pay records.

“DIAC will not tolerate abuse of the skilled migration program and this finding should send a strong signal to sponsors that they must fulfil their sponsorship obligations,” the spokesman said.

“This is a timely reminder that Australian workplace laws apply universally to all. Sponsors found to be doing the wrong thing by the department’s inspectors may be subject to administrative sanctions, an infringement or civil litigation, as in the case of Sahan Enterprises.”

During the monitoring process, inspectors uncovered failures of the sponsorship obligations. The sponsor was initially served with an infringement notice and asked to repay the visa holder. The sponsor did not comply with the requests and the matter was referred to the courts for a civil penalty.

The spokesman said the court finding represents a significant win and underscores the strength and importance of the reforms embodied in the Migration Legislation Amendment (Worker Protection) Act 2008 (the Worker Protection Act) sponsorship obligations.

“While other cases have been filed, those matters have been settled via alternative means to the satisfaction of the department and any sponsored people involved,” he said.

“While the vast majority of sponsors are compliant, DIAC remains committed to strengthening the integrity of Australia’s skilled visa programs by identifying and penalising employers who do the wrong thing.

“The department welcomes this finding, which is the result of its thorough approach to monitoring investigations and the high calibre of the sponsor monitoring inspectorate.”

Media Enquiries: National Communications 02 6264 2244

Four more boat arrivals returned to Sri Lanka

Four more boat arrivals returned to Sri Lanka

20-10-2012 -

The Department of Immigration and Citizenship said today four more Sri Lankan men were returning home voluntarily from Nauru after choosing not to pursue their asylum claims.

This brings the total number of Sri Lankans to return home in 2012 to 79, including 47 since the department began transferring people to Nauru as part of the new regional processing arrangements.

“These individuals have chosen not to pursue asylum claims and therefore are no longer seeking to engage Australia’s protection obligations,” a departmental spokesman said.

“The men were in the post-13 August cohort and so were subject to transfer to a regional processing centre – they have instead chosen to return home voluntarily.”

The spokesman said transfers of boat arrivals to Nauru continued this week and more would follow in the coming days and weeks.

“Regular transfers to Nauru and more Sri Lankans returning home is further proof that there is no advantage engaging with people smugglers,” the spokesman said.

People in immigration detention can request their removal from Australia at any point in time. Those who choose to depart voluntarily can be provided with individual reintegration support to assist with their sustainable return, through the International Organization for Migration.

Reintegration packages are determined on a case-by-case basis depending on need and eligibility.

Media Enquiries: National Communications 02 6264 2244

Australia by boat? NO ADVANTAGE

Australia by boat? NO ADVANTAGE

The first group of irregular maritime arrivals arrived safely in Nauru on September 14 after being transferred from Christmas Island. The transfer follows passage of legislation through the Parliament to allow regional processing of people who arrive by boat after August 13 and the designation of Nauru as a regional processing country. The introduction of regional processing in Nauru and Papua New Guinea was a recommendation of the Expert Panel on Asylum Seekers’ report. This sends a strong message of deterrence to anyone considering using a people smuggler to make a dangerous journey by sea to Australia. Australia by boat? No advantage. 

http://www.newsroom.immi.gov.au/videos/first-transfer-of-imas-from-christmas-island-to-nauru 

Australia Needs Foreign Healthcare Workers

Report Says Australia Needs Foreign Healthcare Workers

Friday, October 12, 2012
A 450-page report claims that Australia needs more foreign doctors and nurses to fill the expected health worker shortfall over the next decade and a half.

The nation's top health workers advisory body, Health Workforce Australia, reports that the country will face a shortage of 109,000 nurses in aged care and mental health and 2,700 doctors by 2025. Doctors include radiologists, psychiatrists, pathologists, general practitioners, and obstetricians.
Health Workforce Australia Chief Executive Mark Cormack says the shortage of qualified health practitioners and aids is being felt in remote areas of Queensland, Northern Territory, and Western Australia.
In an attempt to encourage more medical and health workers to migrate to Australia, the government is offering higher compensation and generous employment conditions.
According to the medical recruitment company Triple0 General Manager Andrew Arps, the Northern Territory and Western Australia offer the biggest salary range for doctors and nurses.
Graduate doctors or those with no specialization can earn around $100,000 annually and up to $400,000 a year for specialists. Registered nurses receive an annual salary range of $78,000 to $130,000.
Although each state offers its own bargaining agreement, recruitment agency Randstad Director of Healthcare Christine Curphey said the employment conditions in Australia are more generous than in other countries. Employment advantages include relocation assistance, travel and educational stipends, additional leave, and free or subsidised accommodation.
One of the suggestions of Health Workforce Australia is to simplify the visa process in order to attract more foreign doctors and nurses to work and migrate to the country.
The Health Workforce Australia report was released after a meeting in Canberra by the Federal, State, and Territory Health Ministers. "Ministers agreed that the report presents the need for essential coordinated, long-term reforms by governments, professions and the higher education and training sector," the Ministers said in a joint statement. "It is clear . . . that we must look further than just adding to the existing workforce profile."

Australia Facts and Figures

Australia 

Facts and Figures

IOM Member State; readmitted 1985 Capital: Canberra Population (2011): 22.6 million Area: 7,692,024 sq km Language: English Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD) GDP per Capita PPP (2009): USD 39,407 HDI Rank (2011): 2 of 187 Remittances (2011 estimate): USD 5,141 million Net Migration Rate (2010-2015): 4.5 migrants / 1,000 population Immigrants (2010): 21.9% Population under 15 (2011): 19% Adult HIV Prevalence (2009): 0.1%

New Zealand Facts and Figures

 New Zealand  

Facts and Figures IOM Member State since 1955; readmitted in 2003 Capital: Wellington Population (2011): 4.4 million Area: 270,467 sq km Language: English, Maori Currency: New Zealand dollar (NZD) GDP per Capita PPP (2010): USD 29,531 HDI Rank (2011): 5 of 187 Remittances (2011 estimate): USD 1,009 million Net Migration Rate (2010-2015): 3.2 migrants/1,000 population Immigrants (2010): 22.4% Women as a Percentage of Immigrants (2010): 52.4% Population under 15 (2011): 20.4% Adult HIV Prevalence (2009): 0.1%

Can I work in Australia with a student visa

Working in Australia as an international student

Can I work in Australia with a student visa?

International students and dependants in Australia on student dependant visas who are residing in Australia will automatically receive permission to work with their visa grant.

 Your student visa automatically gives you permission to work. Your visa information is held electronically by the Australian Department of Immigration (DIAC) and can be accessed at any time using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system. Employers, banks and Government services can also check details about your visa entitlements on VEVO once they have your consent to do so.

How many hours a week can I work?

Holders of a student visa can work up to 40 hours per fortnight while their University program is in session, and full-time during University vacations. In general, students should not expect to cover tuition fees or living expenses from casual work.

Tax File Numbers

You should obtain a Tax File Number (TFN) from the Australian Tax Office if you are going to work in Australia. You may also need a TFN to open a bank account. In addition to supplying your name, current address and date of birth, you may also need to supply your date of arrival in Australia, your passport and proof of enrolment.

Financial requirements for Australia

Financial requirements

Travel, tuition and living expenses

You must have enough money to pay for travel, tuition and living expenses for yourself, your partner and your dependent children for the duration of your stay in Australia.
You must:

• show proof that you can meet these financial requirements for the first 24 months of your stay in Australia.
  Note: If you have completed 75 percent of your course and are applying for a further student visa, you do not need to show your savings history.
• declare on your application that you can meet these financial requirements for the remainder of your stay in Australia.

The table below outlines the amounts in Australian dollars (AUD) that you need access to. These amounts are the minimum required for this visa. They do not necessarily represent the cost of living in Australia.

Expenses	Per Person	Amount required in AUD
Travel	Yourself	Return air fare to Australia
	Family members	One return air fare to Australia per person
Tuition	Yourself	Course fees
	Children aged 5-18	AUD8000 per year
Living	Yourself	AUD18 610 per year
	Partner	AUD6515 per year
	First child	AUD3720 per year
	Each other child	AUD2790 per year

The department must be satisfied that an applicant, once in Australia, will have genuine access to the funds they claim to possess to cover the travel, tuition and living costs for themselves and their family members.

Acceptable sources of income

The money to support you and your family members must come from one or more acceptable sources, which may include:

• a money deposit with a financial institution that has been held for at least three consecutive months immediately before the date of your visa application by
  • you
  • your partner (spouse or de facto partner, including same-sex de facto partners)
  • your brother or sister
  • your parents
  • your grandparents
  • your aunt or uncle (only if they usually live in Australia and are either a citizen/permanent resident of Australia or an eligible New Zealand citizen)
• a loan from a financial institution made to (and in the name of)
  • you
  • your partner (spouse or de facto partner)
  • your brother or sister
  • your parents
  • your grandparents
  • your aunt or uncle (only if they usually live in Australia and are either a citizen/permanent resident of Australia or an eligible New Zealand citizen)
• a loan from the government of your home country
• your proposed education provider
• the Australian Government or an Australian State or Territory government
• the government of a foreign country
• a provincial or state government of a foreign country that has the written support of the national government of the foreign country
• an organisation gazetted by the Minister
• an acceptable non-profit organisation
• a multilateral agency.
  Examples: United Nations, World Bank or Asian Development Bank

Note: Non-cash assets such as property and shares are not acceptable sources of income. However, non-cash assets may be liquidated or used as collateral on a loan, if they are provided by an acceptable source.

Providing evidence of money deposits or loans

You need to show evidence of how the money to fund your studies was accumulated.
If your source of income is a money deposit held in a bank account, you must provide the following evidence:

• pay slips
• bank loan documents
• interest from investments.

If your source of income is a loan, you must provide the following evidence:

• a bank statement showing the amount of available credit
• a statement from the holder of the loan that its purpose is to support your studies.

Note: If your source of income is a home loan with a redraw facility from an Australian financial institution, the funds from the redraw facility may be considered a loan. A home loan with a redraw facility from a non-Australian financial institution may be acceptable, but must be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Financial support from a non-profit organisation

A non-profit organisation providing you with financial support must be lawfully established and operating in Australia or overseas.
You must show evidence of the organisation's non-profit status, including:

• statement from the Australian Taxation Office showing organisation's status
• documents of incorporation as a non-profit organisation.

You must also show evidence that the organisation has sufficient funds or income to support you financially. Evidence may include:

• bank statements
• financial statements.

Supporting family members when studying for less than 12 months

If you are applying to study in Australia for less than 12 months, your family members are not eligible to come with you to Australia. However, you must show that you have enough funds to support your family members in your home country, taking into consideration the standard cost of living in that country.

Source - http://www.immi.gov.au/students/student-information.htm

Living costs in Australia

Migration regulations in Australia require international students to show evidence that they can contribute to the cost of living and studying in Australia. This helps to ensure students are better able to make the most of their studies and have a safe and enjoyable experience in Australia.
While international students are able to supplement their income with money earned through part-time work in Australia, the ‘living costs’ requirement helps to support the success of students in their studies by ensuring that they don’t have to rely on such work to meet all their expenses.
From 1 January 2010, the basic rate of living costs under the Migration regulations increased. Under these regulations prospective student visa applicants and their family members must have access to the following funds to meet the living costs requirements:

• A$18,000 a year for the main student;
• A$6,300 a year for the student’s partner;
• A$3,600 a year for the student’s first child; and
• A$2,700 a year for every other child and where required.

Students must demonstrate that the funds they are relying upon to meet the costs of studying in Australia will be genuinely available to them during their stay in Australia.
The figures above are indicative only and that costs can vary significantly depending on where you live in Australia. You should be prepared in case your living costs are greater than the indicated figures.
For more information visit www.immi.gov.au

Budgeting

Once you’ve settled in it’s recommended you work out a budget covering costs including clothing, food, accommodation, transport and entertainment. Travel costs and child care, if applicable, should also be taken into account. It’s important to be aware of how much money you spend and where you are spending it. Sticking to a budget will ensure you are on top of where you money goes.
Read more about budgeting at www.understandingmoney.gov.au

Shopping

Australia’s major town centres and capital cities have world-class shopping facilities. Hours are generally 9.00am to 5.30pm seven days a week, with late night shopping until 9.00pm on Thursdays or Fridays. Some supermarkets are open 24 hours a day seven days a week.
Mainstream grocery stores in Australia include Coles, Woolworths and Aldi. Major department stores in Australia include Myer and David Jones.
Below is a list of average costs for everyday grocery products in Australia:

• loaf of bread – A$2.50 to A$3.00;
• two litres of milk – A$2.20 to A$2.90;
• newspaper – A$1.50 to A$3.00;
• box of breakfast cereal – A$3.00 to A$4.00;
• jar of instant coffee – A$3.00 to A$4.00;
• bottle of soft drink – A$1.50 to A$3.00;
• bottle of shampoo – A$2.50 to A$4.50;
• bar of soap – A$1.50 to A$2.50;
• one apple – 50 cents to 80 cents;
• one banana – 60 cents to 90 cents;
• beef (500 grams) – A$7.00 to A$8.00; and
• chicken (600 grams) – A$7.00 to A$8.00

Clothing

While there are no set rules on clothing in Australia, many workplaces, restaurants, clubs and bars have a dress code. Australian people generally dress in modern clothing influenced by personal taste, status, place of work, lifestyle and location.
The cost of clothing in Australia can vary. There are a number of quality variety stores such as K-Mart and Big W where you can find low cost clothing and shoes of all varieties. Department and speciality stores such as Myer and David Jones carry more expensive higher end clothing labels.

06 September 2012

New Zealand employers want visas to deal with skill shortages

More than 40 employers and New Zealand immigration advisers attended a forum in Invercargill last week to learn how to bring in more foreign workers to combat skill shortages.

Employers in New Zealand claim they can't find the labour they need locally.

Several industries in New Zealand claim they will be facing crippling labour shortages in the near future unless they are given access to foreign labour.
Employers claim there is a lack of local labour prepared to work in the mechanical trade industry, the dairy industry and the service industry and that lack could become harmful unless measures are taken.
"We need to look at bringing more skilled workers in and the only way this can happen at the moment is with foreign workers," said Jim Ridley of DN Brown Engineering.
Current New Zealand immigration policy stipulates that local labour must be sought before an employer can turn to importing labour but employers warn that much of the local labour market has inadequate skill levels for the jobs required.
"We need workers but are running into problems getting people with suitable basic skills such as a driving licence," said one dairy worker.
Meanwhile, one cleaning firm owner who said he had previously employed foreign labour with success found more problems within immigration policy that prevented long term solutions from being found.
"I have employed several foreign workers and they do a great job but because the work is not considered skilled enough it makes it hard for them to qualify for permanent residency," he said.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) held a forum for Southland employers last week explaining the benefits and options available to companies who wish to bring in foreign labour, claiming there is a range of options open to anyone looking to recruit from overseas.
Jodie List, casework manager at the New Zealand Visa Bureau, says policy can often get in the way of progress.
"There is plenty of opportunity in New Zealand which foreigners would be more than happy to do, businesses need workers and recently arrived migrants want to contribute to their new home, immigration policy should bear in mind what's best for everyone in these situations."

NZ Immigration Expressions of Interest

The NZIS has published the August 08 figures for successful Expressions of Interest in the Skilled Migrant Category. This was the sixteenth draw of 2012.
A total of 561 Expressions of Interest – representing 1,147 people – were selected. These applicants will now undergo preliminary checks to decide whether an invitation to apply for residency will be issued.
466 out of the 1,147 applications were from people who already have job offers or a job.
EOIs were selected as follows:

• 428 EOIs were selected that had a points total of 140 or more;
• 121 EOIs were selected that had a points total of 100 or more but less than 140, and included points for offers of skilled employment or current skilled employment in New Zealand.
• 12 EOIs were selected that had a points total of 135 or more but less than 140, and included 15 bonus points for work experience in an area of absolute skill shortage.

1,403 Expressions of Interest (EOIs) remain in the pool following the selection. While these EOIs satisfied the general requirements for NZ immigration, they did not meet the selection criteria applied on this occasion. They may potentially be selected in a future draw.

The 10 countries most people were selected from:

Country	Selected EOI’s
India	32%
UK	12%
Philippines	8.0%
China	7.7%
Fiji	4.5%
South Africa	3.6%
South Korea	2.5%
Malaysia	2.3%
Pakistan	2.1%
USA	1.6%
Other Countries	24%

Sydney Airport

Sydney Airport has a reputation around the world for exceptionally high levels of passenger service as well as outstanding facilities for airlines and other aviation-related businesses. 

http://www.sydneyairport.com.au/

The University of Colombo establishes a new partnership with Massey University, New Zealand

A high-profile delegation from Massey University, New Zealand, visited the University of Colombo on the 21st of August 2012, to formally sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the two universities. The delegation was headed by the Vice-Chancellor of Massey University, the Honourable Steve Maharey, and also included Professor Tony Norris, Professor Mark Brown, Mr. Arthur Chin, and Mr. Nick Nelson. The Vice-Chancellor and Deans of the University of Colombo met with the delegates at the Senate Hall and discussed the possibility of international partnerships between the two universities, including PhD supervision and student exchange programmes as potential avenues of collaboration. .

Melbourne Tops Livability List

Melbourne Tops Livability List

Melbourne has edged out Austria's capital Vienna to claim the Global Liveability Survey title of the best city in the world to live in for the second year running.

The global liveability survey is an annual list compiled by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). Survey editor Jon Copestake says that while Melbourne enjoys top bragging rights, there is little separating the top Australian cities.

"Australian cities continue to thrive in terms of liveability. Not only do they benefit from the natural advantages of low population density, but they have continued to improve with some high profile infrastructure investments," Copestake said in a statement.

Melbourne's score of 97.5 per cent is close to the perfect score, with the city only losing points for climate, culture and petty crime.

Copestake said the impact of the Arab Spring and the Euro zone crisis were significant factors in the 2012 global rankings.
The survey measures cities across five categories: stability, health care, culture and environment, education and infrastructure. It surveyed 140 cities worldwide.

The world's top 10 most liveable cities:

1. Melbourne, Australia.
2. Vienna, Austria.
3. Vancouver, Canada.
4. Toronto, Canada.
5. Calgary, Canada.
5. (Equal) Adelaide, Australia.
7. Sydney, Australia.
8. Helsinki, Finland.
9. Perth, Australia.
10. Auckland, New Zealand.

Source: The Economist Intelligence Unit's Global Liveability Survey 2012.

Authorized panel of doctors for Australia

Immigration Panel Doctors

A Panel doctor is a doctor or a radiologist who has been appointed by the Australian Government to perform medical examinations on visa applicants who have applied from outside Australia.
Medical examinations conducted overseas are generally only acceptable if conducted by Panel doctors. More information is available about the health examination for visa applicants and attending a Panel doctor.

Panel Doctors

Colombo

Medical and Radiology Clinic
Asiri Surgical Hospital
21-25 Kirimandela Mawatha
Colombo 5
Telephone: +94 11 452 4400
Fax: +94 11 452 7311
Doctor(s):
Dr Deepamali Wimalasena
Dr Geetha Preethi Liyanage
Dr James Jayantha Thambar
Dr Dilini Natasha Peiris

Australia needs 800,000 workers in next 5 years

Australia needs 800,000 workers in next 5 years

August 13th, 2012

Australia must find 800,000 new workers over the next five years to ensure economic growth says a new report.
The call for more workers comes as a surge in service industries eclipses the resources boom, forcing employers to redouble efforts to find skilled staff. The Gillard government has been warned of a coming structural shift in the jobs market as demand grows for professional skills, offsetting the expected loss of another 85,000 manufacturing positions.
The government analysis, obtained by The Australian, is being taken to business executives to shape new policies aimed at increasing the labour supply in key service industries that show the strongest growth. In a danger sign for workers with no training, the number of low-skill jobs is tipped to rise by barely 10,000 a year over the forecast period, making up just 7 per cent of all new jobs created.A regional shift is forecast as Queensland outstrips other parts of the country in job-creation, adding 220,000 positions compared with about 190,000 in NSW, 180,000 in Victoria, 150,000 in Western Australia and 50,000 in South Australia.

Federal Employment Minister Bill Shorten received the analysis from his department last week, and is using it to start policy talks with executives in service industries, where demand for workers is greatest.Mr Shorten is citing the figures to take aim at critics of the Fair Work Act, warning that employers will have to do more to attract the best staff.
“If the demand for skilled workers increases, the person with the skills is going to be able to choose the job they want,” Mr Shorten told The Australian. “It makes the IR debate look very old-fashioned.”

Countering assumptions about the source of new jobs, the findings show the service industries will need more workers than any other part of the economy, even as the resources sector continues to grow.
While mine companies will need about 100,000 new workers over the next five years, healthcare and social assistance employers will need 240,000 staff and professional services companies will require 110,000. Education, tourism, retail and financial services will all create new jobs as the manufacturing sector shrinks.
“Employment growth for most states will be dominated by healthcare  and social assistance, construction and professional, scientific and  technical services industries,” the report says. “In Western Australia,  not surprisingly, mining is projected to provide the most new jobs.”

 Come to Down Under Live – and find your dream job in Australia. Events in London, Leeds, Birmingham and Glasgow in 2012

Federal Employment Minister Bill Shorten received the analysis from his department last week, and is using it to start policy talks with executives in service industries, where demand for workers is greatest.
Mr Shorten is citing the figures to take aim at critics of the Fair Work Act, warning that employers will have to do more to attract the best staff.
“If the demand for skilled workers increases, the person with the skills is going to be able to choose the job they want,” Mr Shorten told The Australian. “It makes the IR debate look very old-fashioned.”

Posted in Australia News, Jobs, Migration News

Australia urged to fast track visas for overseas workers

Australia urged to fast track visas for overseas workers

Industry bodies across Australia have urged the government to fast track applicants from overseas to help fill growing vacancies in its tourism sector.
The Australian Hotels Association has urged the Immigration Department to “fast-track” English-speaking workers from the US, Britain and Ireland.It’s branch in Western Australia wants to bring in gambling workers, beauty therapists, receptionists, waiters and bar attendants, and pay them the minimum award wage.
Meanwhile, the Cairns Chamber of Commerce has told the review that high salaries for mining workers are “skewing” the market rates for tourism workers, and wants to link the salaries of foreign workers to awards.
The NSW branch of Tourism Accommodation Australia has cited “significant difficulties” in sourcing Australian workers “at all levels of the business from bar attendants to managers” in Sydney, the NSW south coast, and the northern and inland regions.
The Immigration Department states in an industry discussion paper that employers would have to provide “substantial evidence of recent recruitment efforts and employment conditions” before winning approval for foreign workers.
“Recruiting overseas workers should not be used as an alternative to attracting local workers through better employment incentives such as improved working conditions,” it says.
The department insists foreign workers would have to be employed full-time, and notes that it is “current government policy” not to allow overseas workers to be paid less than $51,400.
A spokeswoman for Immigration Minister Chris Bowen refused to say if he supported the department’s proposal. “The government is currently working through the submissions and will respond in due course,” she said.

Sri Lankan web sites from New Zealand

http://www.nzslfoundation.com/

 http://www.srilankaramaya.org/

 http://www.nzslfs.wellington.net.nz/

 http://www.spur.org.nz/Aboutus/tabid/56/Default.aspx