1131 - Employer Sponsored Migration - 5

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Employer Sponsored
Part 1: General information
Living in Australia
The following information is about some of the important things you should consider
before deciding to apply to migrate to, or remain permanently in, Australia. The
information provided here is a general guide only and it is entirely your own
responsibility to investigate your settlement prospects in Australia.
Cost of living in Australia
The cost of living in Australia is high when compared to many other countries. It is
essential that you think about how you will provide for yourself, and any family
members, for at least the first 2 years.
The cost of relocating is high. There are significant costs involved in travelling to
Australia, moving household goods and setting up a home.
Waiting periods for social security
All new Australian permanent residents must generally wait for a specific period of time
before they are eligible for social security payments.
A 2 year waiting period applies to the following social security benefits:
• unemployment assistance (Newstart Allowance, Sickness Allowance;
• student assistance (Austudy, Youth Allowance);
• carer assistance (Carer Payment);
• disabilities assistance (Mobility Allowance);
• hardship assistance (Crisis Payment);
• concession cards (Health Care Card, Commonwealth Seniors Health Card).
A 10 year waiting period applies to Age Pension and Disability Support Pension.
Other social security payments have ‘qualifying residence’ requirements which are
separate to the waiting period.
It is very important to understand that you should have enough money to support
yourself, and any family members, for at least 2 years in Australia. If you have a sponsor,
you should ask them about the support they are willing to provide prior to your arrival in
Australia.
Waiting period exemptions
A payment called Special Benefit may be available during the waiting period if you are in
hardship because you have suffered a substantial change of circumstances beyond your
control. This payment is only available in very limited circumstances. An inability to find
a job or remain in employment is not considered a change of circumstances.
If you become widowed, disabled or a single parent after you have commenced living in
Australia as a permanent resident, you may be eligible for an allowance or pension.
You may also be able to get a pension without having lived in Australia for 10 years if
you are covered by an international social security agreement. A list of countries which
have social security agreements with Australia can be found on the Centrelink website
www.centrelink.gov.au/internet/internet.nsf/publications/int002.htm