Monday, November 10, 2008
Monday, November 3, 2008
Australian Migration to Only Become Harder in 2009
Australia may be forced to decrease its intake of migrants in 2009 and possibly further into the future. Pressure is rising from the opposition to cut the number of new arrivals before the current financial years end. This pressure is a result of the global financial meltdown, which in turn is forecast to push unemployment rate up in Australia.
This may mean that 2008 may be the best time to commence your Australian migration, so to improve your chances of successfully obtaining a visa.
The opposition for Immigration spokeswomen, Sharman Stone, said “It is important they remain flexible because the most important thing to do is look after Australia's own unemployed”.
Such calls from the opposition seem to be coming from the result of the bigger banks cutting interest rates so to push up spending. The Commonwealth Bank (Australia’s biggest home loan lender) became the third bank to cut rates recently, shaving 0.21% off its standard variable rate fro home loans, thus resulting in repayments on a standard $300,000 loan to be cut by about $42 a month.
The worldwide slowdown is cutting growth in Australia and some economists are now predicting unemployment will surge by 200,000 and hit 6 per cent by the end of 2009.
Australia was battling a general labor shortage earlier this year but now key industries have started to shed jobs, with even the mining industry slowing down.
It is thought that the migrant intake should be re-examined and looked at via skill categories first then on settlement locations before cutting numbers willy-nilly.
This may mean that 2008 may be the best time to commence your Australian migration, so to improve your chances of successfully obtaining a visa.
The opposition for Immigration spokeswomen, Sharman Stone, said “It is important they remain flexible because the most important thing to do is look after Australia's own unemployed”.
Such calls from the opposition seem to be coming from the result of the bigger banks cutting interest rates so to push up spending. The Commonwealth Bank (Australia’s biggest home loan lender) became the third bank to cut rates recently, shaving 0.21% off its standard variable rate fro home loans, thus resulting in repayments on a standard $300,000 loan to be cut by about $42 a month.
The worldwide slowdown is cutting growth in Australia and some economists are now predicting unemployment will surge by 200,000 and hit 6 per cent by the end of 2009.
Australia was battling a general labor shortage earlier this year but now key industries have started to shed jobs, with even the mining industry slowing down.
It is thought that the migrant intake should be re-examined and looked at via skill categories first then on settlement locations before cutting numbers willy-nilly.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
No Borders Reaching Out to the Community
(Above picture - Maren Pastyr from the Marketing Team; assisting people with their migration issues)
Last month No Borders Migration Advocates spent a day at the Inala Shopping Centre (Predominately Vietnamese populated suburb of Brisbane, Australia) with the intention of promoting both our migration and legal services to the community. No Borders sees the need to inform the public of the migration and legal services available. So that people can feel safe and educated about their life and their options in regards to living in Australia and a persons legal rights.
The marketing team, made up of Maren Pastyr and Peter Collins, headed out to Inala to set-up an information stand and answer people's questions about migration. There was quite a lot of interest by the community wanting to know what their options are for becoming a Permanent Resident of Australia.
No Borders will continue to reach out to local Brisbane communities over the next 12 months in attempt to educate local migrants on the current migration laws and how these affect their opportunities for living in Australia.
Oktoberfest at the Brisbane German Club 2008
October 17th & 18th saw the Brisbane German Club host its annual Oktoberfest celebrations. No Borders decided to help out with the decorating and set-up of the weekend's festivities, also we helped out with the celebrating of the festival (No Borders employee Leighton Crisp to the right - showing that he got his hands dirty when putting up flags and signs).
The weekend proved to be a great success, with plenty of patrons walking through the door to celebrate German culture. This year saw a large range of people attend, from young 20 year old Australians to German gents and ladies in their 70's.
The strong relationship that the Brisbane German Club and No Borders share was shown with staff members helping out in hanging flags, banners, signs and moving tables. The Brisbane German Club also allowed No Borders Migration Advocates to have a presence at the event displaying a banner and offering vouchers for free quick assessments to all attending and their friends.
Overall the event was a hit and we all look forward to it again next year!
25% Discount for First Home Buyers/Builders!
On Sept 1, the stamp duty threshold increased to $500,000 for first home owners. On Oct 14, the first home owners grant doubled and trebled to $14,000 and $21,000 (for a newly constructed home). Morpheus Property put the icing on the cake, with a 25% discount off the standard 2.2% service fee (offer ends 30 June 2009). Of course, the buyer must be eligible to receive the First Home Buyers Grant to receive the discount.
Why offer the discount? Many people are uncertain about what to buy, where and for how much and many are sitting on their hands. At the same time, Morpheus Property is out there getting great deals for their clients, before the market takes off. It is during these times, that it pays to have a buyer’s agent giving you expert advice and first home owners usually need this the most.
Morpheus Property are out there finding, appraising and negotiating every day on their buyer’s behalf, acting exclusively for the buyer! On top of that, we will ensure that everything that needs to get done ... is done.
Q So, should you be buying your first home before the next property boom, but are procrastinating, too busy or doesn’t know where to start? Or do you know someone who is?
Do them a favour and forward a link to this great opportunity. Not only will the Morpheus Property team work hard to find them the right property for the right price, they will be eligible for a 25% discount off the Morpheus Property service fee, ensuring they’re off to a great start!
For more detailed information, visit the Morpheus Property website or call us to get the ball rolling today! - 1300 727 586.
To check for eligibility, speak to your accountant or visit the Queensland Government website.
Yours in property!
Martyn Fleming & Guy Clarke
Morpheus Property – Buyer’s Agents
Ph: 1300 727 586
E: enquiries@morpheusproperty.com.au
Why offer the discount? Many people are uncertain about what to buy, where and for how much and many are sitting on their hands. At the same time, Morpheus Property is out there getting great deals for their clients, before the market takes off. It is during these times, that it pays to have a buyer’s agent giving you expert advice and first home owners usually need this the most.
Morpheus Property are out there finding, appraising and negotiating every day on their buyer’s behalf, acting exclusively for the buyer! On top of that, we will ensure that everything that needs to get done ... is done.
Q So, should you be buying your first home before the next property boom, but are procrastinating, too busy or doesn’t know where to start? Or do you know someone who is?
Do them a favour and forward a link to this great opportunity. Not only will the Morpheus Property team work hard to find them the right property for the right price, they will be eligible for a 25% discount off the Morpheus Property service fee, ensuring they’re off to a great start!
For more detailed information, visit the Morpheus Property website or call us to get the ball rolling today! - 1300 727 586.
To check for eligibility, speak to your accountant or visit the Queensland Government website.
Yours in property!
Martyn Fleming & Guy Clarke
Morpheus Property – Buyer’s Agents
Ph: 1300 727 586
E: enquiries@morpheusproperty.com.au
Monday, October 13, 2008
Changes to Australian Visa Laws - Skilled Graduate (subclass 485)
As from the 27th October 2008, the Australian Government will introduce a change to the laws regarding the Skilled Graduate Visa (subclass 485). (note: This date may be subject to change.)
Up until the 27th October migrants were able to lodge their visa application prior to achieving sufficient IELTS scores. This is with the intention of attaining the necessary IELTS scores in the near future. The system worked favorably for the migrant as it gave them more time and options.
However, the new changes that take place on the 27th October will mean that one can only lodge their application for a skilled Graduate Visa (subclass 485) after they have received their required IELTS test results. The results (evidence) needs to be shown at the time of lodgement so to prove that they have met the relevant English language standards.
The standard for professionals, para-professionals and managerial occupations is ‘competent’ English (a score of at least six (6) on each of the four (4) components of the International English Language Test Scheme (IELTS) test or equivalent standard in a specified test).
For people who nominate an occupation in the Major Group IV in the Australian Standard Classification of Occupations, the standard is ‘vocational’ English (a score of at least five (5) on each of the four (4) components of the IELTS test).
IELTS test results must be no more than two (2) years old at the time of application.
This is a departure from the current regulations which allow an applicant to apply having only booked an English language test.
There are exceptions though, people who hold an eligible passport from either Canada, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom or United States of America are not required to submit evidence of their English standard.
For further information about this policy change and how it may affect you please contact our office.
PH: +61 7 3876 4000
Email: migration@noborders-group.com
Website: http://www.noborders-group.com
Up until the 27th October migrants were able to lodge their visa application prior to achieving sufficient IELTS scores. This is with the intention of attaining the necessary IELTS scores in the near future. The system worked favorably for the migrant as it gave them more time and options.
However, the new changes that take place on the 27th October will mean that one can only lodge their application for a skilled Graduate Visa (subclass 485) after they have received their required IELTS test results. The results (evidence) needs to be shown at the time of lodgement so to prove that they have met the relevant English language standards.
The standard for professionals, para-professionals and managerial occupations is ‘competent’ English (a score of at least six (6) on each of the four (4) components of the International English Language Test Scheme (IELTS) test or equivalent standard in a specified test).
For people who nominate an occupation in the Major Group IV in the Australian Standard Classification of Occupations, the standard is ‘vocational’ English (a score of at least five (5) on each of the four (4) components of the IELTS test).
IELTS test results must be no more than two (2) years old at the time of application.
This is a departure from the current regulations which allow an applicant to apply having only booked an English language test.
There are exceptions though, people who hold an eligible passport from either Canada, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom or United States of America are not required to submit evidence of their English standard.
For further information about this policy change and how it may affect you please contact our office.
PH: +61 7 3876 4000
Email: migration@noborders-group.com
Website: http://www.noborders-group.com
MIGRATING TO AUSTRALIA – THERE MAY NOT BE A BETTER TIME
If you have been thinking of migrating to Australia, recent events may be the push you’ve needed to make your dreams a reality. The attractive exchange rate for overseas nationals buying Australian dollars, an economy better placed than most in the developed world to withstand the current turmoil, and the likely tightening of the migration scheme which may make it more difficult to migrate in the future, means there may not be a better time than now for moving to Australia.
In recent months the Australian dollar has collapsed, from a high of almost dollar for dollar with the US to 1US : 0.69AUD, and 1 Euro now buying 2 Australian Dollars. The exchange rate is likely to become even more attractive as the Australian Reserve Bank cuts central interest rates to keep the Australian economy moving.
Just like the rest of the world, the Australian economy is weakening and as the rate of unemployment grows the government will be under pressure to cut skilled migrant intakes. The current Rudd government has announced overnight that next year’s intake of skilled migrants will be lower than this year’s. This policy could be introduced by lowering the maximum number of applications per annum, raising the threshold requirements prospective migrants will need to meet, or indeed both.
Nevertheless, the International Monetary Fund reported yesterday that while the rest of the world enters into a recession, Australia may experience 2% growth. Australia’s commodity boom is likely to slow, but there should remain plenty of opportunity in the mining sector and related occupations, and Australia seems to have a shortage of skilled employees in key areas throughout the economy.
If you are interested in migrating to Australia, it is certainly a time to take some action. There is no doubt that opportunities will begin to decrease in the current economic climate and there is no knowing just how bad the situation could get in Europe, the UK and the United States. Australia will also suffer, however with the exchange rate low and dropping, your savings may well go a lot further in Australia, and if you have the right skills your employment prospects may also be a lot rosier.
For a quick assessment of your options to migrate to Australia CLICK HERE or visit our website: www.noborders-group.com, email our friendly staff: migration@noborders-group.com
In recent months the Australian dollar has collapsed, from a high of almost dollar for dollar with the US to 1US : 0.69AUD, and 1 Euro now buying 2 Australian Dollars. The exchange rate is likely to become even more attractive as the Australian Reserve Bank cuts central interest rates to keep the Australian economy moving.
Just like the rest of the world, the Australian economy is weakening and as the rate of unemployment grows the government will be under pressure to cut skilled migrant intakes. The current Rudd government has announced overnight that next year’s intake of skilled migrants will be lower than this year’s. This policy could be introduced by lowering the maximum number of applications per annum, raising the threshold requirements prospective migrants will need to meet, or indeed both.
Nevertheless, the International Monetary Fund reported yesterday that while the rest of the world enters into a recession, Australia may experience 2% growth. Australia’s commodity boom is likely to slow, but there should remain plenty of opportunity in the mining sector and related occupations, and Australia seems to have a shortage of skilled employees in key areas throughout the economy.
If you are interested in migrating to Australia, it is certainly a time to take some action. There is no doubt that opportunities will begin to decrease in the current economic climate and there is no knowing just how bad the situation could get in Europe, the UK and the United States. Australia will also suffer, however with the exchange rate low and dropping, your savings may well go a lot further in Australia, and if you have the right skills your employment prospects may also be a lot rosier.
For a quick assessment of your options to migrate to Australia CLICK HERE or visit our website: www.noborders-group.com, email our friendly staff: migration@noborders-group.com
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Looking at Purchasing Property From inside Australia or Overseas
Finding it hard finding the right property for you?
Tired of spending your valuable weekends driving from one dud house to the next?
Not sure where to look for a commercial property that will giec you a head start with your business?
Your solution is Morpheus Property.
Morpheus Property is a trusted partner of No Borders Migration Advocates. Martyn and Guy focus on finding and negotiating the best property purchases possible. Their areas of excellence include:
- Finding property
- Negotiating great deals
- Investing in property
- Satisfying customers
They can help you with:
- finance your residential or commecial property
- buy your property at the right price
- negotiate new lease agreements
With a passion for property investment and in helping the client get the best property for their lifestyle Martyn and Guy from Morpheus Property are the men to talk to when you are looking at purchasing property. Both residential or commercial.
Ph: 1300 727 586
Email: enquiries@morpheusproperty.com.au
Fax: +61 7 3102 9154
Website: www.morpheusproperty.com.au
Blog Site: http://morpheusproperty.blogspot.com/
Tired of spending your valuable weekends driving from one dud house to the next?
Not sure where to look for a commercial property that will giec you a head start with your business?
Your solution is Morpheus Property.
Morpheus Property is a trusted partner of No Borders Migration Advocates. Martyn and Guy focus on finding and negotiating the best property purchases possible. Their areas of excellence include:
- Finding property
- Negotiating great deals
- Investing in property
- Satisfying customers
They can help you with:
- finance your residential or commecial property
- buy your property at the right price
- negotiate new lease agreements
With a passion for property investment and in helping the client get the best property for their lifestyle Martyn and Guy from Morpheus Property are the men to talk to when you are looking at purchasing property. Both residential or commercial.
Ph: 1300 727 586
Email: enquiries@morpheusproperty.com.au
Fax: +61 7 3102 9154
Website: www.morpheusproperty.com.au
Blog Site: http://morpheusproperty.blogspot.com/
Monday, September 15, 2008
Snoop Dogg Gets Granted An Australia Visa
The immigration department says rapper Snoop Dogg has been granted a visa to enter Australia for a concert tour after concluding a full character assessment of the entertainer.
The department had earlier expressed concern about Snoop Dogg's criminal record but took into account the fact that he had traveled to Australia three times without incident.
The department said in a statement on Friday it weighed his criminal convictions against his previous behaviour while in Australia, recent conduct, including charity work, and any likely risk to the Australian community when making the decision.
It said the rapper, whose birth name is Cordozar Calvin Broadus Jr, has committed to doing charity work with at-risk youth during his visit to Australia.
Snoop Dogg was refused permission to even apply for a visa to enter Australia in 2007 because of his criminal record, sinking plans for him to co-host the MTV Australia Video Music Awards.
Australian immigration officials last month cleared an October visit, but then demanded more information after a spate of public complaints from Australian victims of crime groups.
"We took into account all relevant factors and, on balance, the department decided to grant the visa," an immigration spokesman said.
Oscar-winning Australian actor Russell Crowe this week wrote a letter to immigration officials to support Snoop Dogg's visa application and 17-day "Smoked Out" tour.
"I submit to you that Snoop Dogg poses no threat to Australia or to any individual in this country," Crowe wrote.
The spokesman said the visa will be canceled if Snoop failed to abide by the law during his visit to Australia and strict behaviour rules to abide by while in the country.
He has also been denied entry to Britain.
Source: Rob Taylor, Bill Tarrant & The Press Association
The department had earlier expressed concern about Snoop Dogg's criminal record but took into account the fact that he had traveled to Australia three times without incident.
The department said in a statement on Friday it weighed his criminal convictions against his previous behaviour while in Australia, recent conduct, including charity work, and any likely risk to the Australian community when making the decision.
It said the rapper, whose birth name is Cordozar Calvin Broadus Jr, has committed to doing charity work with at-risk youth during his visit to Australia.
Snoop Dogg was refused permission to even apply for a visa to enter Australia in 2007 because of his criminal record, sinking plans for him to co-host the MTV Australia Video Music Awards.
Australian immigration officials last month cleared an October visit, but then demanded more information after a spate of public complaints from Australian victims of crime groups.
"We took into account all relevant factors and, on balance, the department decided to grant the visa," an immigration spokesman said.
Oscar-winning Australian actor Russell Crowe this week wrote a letter to immigration officials to support Snoop Dogg's visa application and 17-day "Smoked Out" tour.
"I submit to you that Snoop Dogg poses no threat to Australia or to any individual in this country," Crowe wrote.
The spokesman said the visa will be canceled if Snoop failed to abide by the law during his visit to Australia and strict behaviour rules to abide by while in the country.
He has also been denied entry to Britain.
Source: Rob Taylor, Bill Tarrant & The Press Association
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Snoop Dogg Denied Australian Visa
For yet another time, rapper Snoop Dogg may possibly be denied entry into another country, this time the Long Beach native has the Immigration Department in Australia a little skeptical.
After initially giving Snoop Dogg's provisional approval on his visa, the Immigration Department in Australia decided that they would instead conduct a full character assessment to see if Snoop would be allowed entry into the country.
According to a spokesperson for the Immigration Department, the full character assessment was a result of public concern.
"Mr. Broadus has not been granted a visa, there are further steps required beyond character assessment before a visa is granted. The department has now decided to do a full assessment of the character of Mr. Broadus," a department spokesperson said. "Community complaints have no effect on the grant or otherwise of a visa. Each application is assessed individually on its merits."
Snoop Dogg is awaiting approval from the Australian Immigration Department in order to tour with Ice Cube in October.
In 2007, Snoop Dogg's visa request to enter the United Kingdom was denied by officials because of an incident with Snoop and his entourage that happened the previous year at Heathrow Airport in London.
Source: hiphopdx.com – 28/08/2008, Danielle Harling
After initially giving Snoop Dogg's provisional approval on his visa, the Immigration Department in Australia decided that they would instead conduct a full character assessment to see if Snoop would be allowed entry into the country.
According to a spokesperson for the Immigration Department, the full character assessment was a result of public concern.
"Mr. Broadus has not been granted a visa, there are further steps required beyond character assessment before a visa is granted. The department has now decided to do a full assessment of the character of Mr. Broadus," a department spokesperson said. "Community complaints have no effect on the grant or otherwise of a visa. Each application is assessed individually on its merits."
Snoop Dogg is awaiting approval from the Australian Immigration Department in order to tour with Ice Cube in October.
In 2007, Snoop Dogg's visa request to enter the United Kingdom was denied by officials because of an incident with Snoop and his entourage that happened the previous year at Heathrow Airport in London.
Source: hiphopdx.com – 28/08/2008, Danielle Harling
New Laws to Reduce Australian Migration Challenges
Australia's growing popularity with other national citizens has resulted in the Australian government feeling the need for constant review of existing migration laws, so to stay in touch with current trends and global transitions. At present Australia is actively involved in recruitment drives to obtain skilled workers due to the current major skills shortage in many of Australia’s industries.
The government is attempting to reduce the number of migration cases which are being challenged in court, through constantly reviewing and if in need amending laws so to improve migration processes.
Refusal of a visa application can often lead to lengthy and expensive challenges being made within the Australian legal courts. With this in mind the bill which is awaiting introduction is expected to help clarify the way in which the immigration department, the Migration Review Tribunal (MRT) and the Refugee Review Tribunal (RRT) communicate decisions on Australian visa applications and cancellations.
The bill which will be titled the Migration Amendment Bill 2008 will allow the relevant minister or tribunal greater powers, so that non-compliance on minor technical details can not be used by applicants as a rule in the hope of postponing official decisions.
In addition to the migration amendment bill a further bill entitled 'the Migration Legislation Bill (no.1)' was passed by Australia's lower house, this proposed over 100 changes to Australia's migration laws across four Acts.
Aside from addressing similar issues regarding the communication of different immigration organistations, the greatest change will see the ability of the minister involved with a case to cancel transitional visas based on character grounds.
Source: Global Visas - 04/09/2008 by Simon Wallace
The government is attempting to reduce the number of migration cases which are being challenged in court, through constantly reviewing and if in need amending laws so to improve migration processes.
Refusal of a visa application can often lead to lengthy and expensive challenges being made within the Australian legal courts. With this in mind the bill which is awaiting introduction is expected to help clarify the way in which the immigration department, the Migration Review Tribunal (MRT) and the Refugee Review Tribunal (RRT) communicate decisions on Australian visa applications and cancellations.
The bill which will be titled the Migration Amendment Bill 2008 will allow the relevant minister or tribunal greater powers, so that non-compliance on minor technical details can not be used by applicants as a rule in the hope of postponing official decisions.
In addition to the migration amendment bill a further bill entitled 'the Migration Legislation Bill (no.1)' was passed by Australia's lower house, this proposed over 100 changes to Australia's migration laws across four Acts.
Aside from addressing similar issues regarding the communication of different immigration organistations, the greatest change will see the ability of the minister involved with a case to cancel transitional visas based on character grounds.
Source: Global Visas - 04/09/2008 by Simon Wallace
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Gay & Lesbian Issues - What's Going On?
According to the Victorian Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby, 84 per cent of gay men, lesbians and bisexual Victorians have been discriminated against because of their sexuality. A 2006 study of 5,500 gay men, lesbians, bisexual, transgender and intersex (GLBTI) people in Australia found that nearly 70 per cent of GLBTI people modify their daily activities because of fear of prejudice and discrimination. It is no wonder that this has an impact on the health and wellbeing of gay and lesbian people.
While gay and lesbian people are as diverse as the rest of the population, their shared experience of discrimination creates common health issues. Australian society generally regards heterosexuality as the most acceptable sexual orientation, which means that gay men, lesbians and bisexual people may be marginalized and discriminated against.
Gay men and lesbians in Victoria are denied reproductive rights currently enjoyed by heterosexual couples, including access to:
• Adoption
• Artificial insemination
• Other in vitro fertilization techniques.
While many things have improved for gay and lesbian people over the past 50 years in Australia, there is still constant uncertainty about whether they will receive acceptance from families, friends, colleagues and service providers. The constant pressure of dealing with this uncertainty has an impact on health.
Gay men and lesbians have higher rates of mental health disorders than the rest of the population. They also have higher rates of obesity, smoking and unsafe alcohol and drug use, and are more likely to self-harm. These conditions develop in response to the kind of scenarios listed below:
• ‘Coming out’, only to be rejected by family members and friends
• Being bullied or taunted by schoolmates on a daily basis
• Homophobic jokes or harassment in the workplace
• Being threatened or bashed when out on the street
• Hiding part of yourself in social situations for fear of being rejected or marginalized
• Feeling guilt and shame about one’s own sexuality in the face of negative messages being delivered by the society around you.
Source: http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
While gay and lesbian people are as diverse as the rest of the population, their shared experience of discrimination creates common health issues. Australian society generally regards heterosexuality as the most acceptable sexual orientation, which means that gay men, lesbians and bisexual people may be marginalized and discriminated against.
Gay men and lesbians in Victoria are denied reproductive rights currently enjoyed by heterosexual couples, including access to:
• Adoption
• Artificial insemination
• Other in vitro fertilization techniques.
While many things have improved for gay and lesbian people over the past 50 years in Australia, there is still constant uncertainty about whether they will receive acceptance from families, friends, colleagues and service providers. The constant pressure of dealing with this uncertainty has an impact on health.
Gay men and lesbians have higher rates of mental health disorders than the rest of the population. They also have higher rates of obesity, smoking and unsafe alcohol and drug use, and are more likely to self-harm. These conditions develop in response to the kind of scenarios listed below:
• ‘Coming out’, only to be rejected by family members and friends
• Being bullied or taunted by schoolmates on a daily basis
• Homophobic jokes or harassment in the workplace
• Being threatened or bashed when out on the street
• Hiding part of yourself in social situations for fear of being rejected or marginalized
• Feeling guilt and shame about one’s own sexuality in the face of negative messages being delivered by the society around you.
Source: http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Bechtel Engineering Gets Behind the Twogether Society
Members of Bechtel Engineering will be Showing their Support for the Twogether Society when they line up to run in the 2008 Bridge to Brisbane.
Left to right: Andrew, Stewart, Lucas, Tom, Hayley & Alice.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Move Over Al Gore, Skippy can Save us From Global Warming!
An Aussie scientist claims that eating kangaroos could massively reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Dr George Wilson, of the Australian Wildlife Services, has recently urged Australians to arm the country’s most iconic marsupials, roo roast could soon become a menu staple, and why not? Australia already makes, sells and eats kangaroo sausages, steaks and rissoles. If fact Australia is the only country to eat the animal that is part of the country’s Coat of Arms.
Wilson and Greenpeace claim that Aussies could dramatically reduce their carbon footprint by eating less beef and more of the local wildlife. Removing seven million cattle and 36 million sheep by 2020 and replacing them with 175 million kangaroos could lower national greenhouse gases by three per cent a year, says Dr George Wilson from the University of New South Wales.
Why? It's all because kangaroos don't ‘break wind’. Or, to put it rather more scientifically, whereas cows and sheep release vast quantities of methane through belching and flatulence, kangaroos release virtually none.
The report says cutting beef consumption by 20 per cent (and thus the amount of cattle reared) and substituting it with kangaroo steaks, mince, burgers, ribs and so on would reduce Australia's greenhouse gas emissions by a staggering 15 megatons by 2020.
It's not as mad as it sounds. On top of their impressive personal hygiene, kangaroos make model livestock. They need less food than sheep or cattle, are better adapted to drought and are far less damaging to the fragile topsoil than their sharply-hooved bovine counterparts.
And they don't taste bad either... With a distinctive gamey flavour, very tender, best brushed with oil and cooked rare to medium rare (to stop it becoming dry and chewy), it looks just like prime roast beef.
Modern Australians are uncharacteristically sentimental about an animal that has become a national icon and which pops up on the country's coat of arms (opposite an emu) and on the country’s coins. They claim it just feels wrong - disrespectful, almost - to be tucking into their national emblem.
The kangaroo industry, meanwhile, is doing its best to toughen them up and overcome their squeamishness and two years ago, amid much fanfare, it launched a five-year "eat roo" campaign. There were specialist recipe books (invaluable if you fancied a seared kangaroo salad, smoked fillet of kangaroo with brioche and pear chutney, or maybe a nice bowl of kangaroo tail soup). There were also new products (kangaroo microwave meals, kangaroo kebabs, kangaroo burgers) and a huge drive in supermarkets. Many now have whole sections dedicated to kangaroo meat - steaks, mince, readymade microwave meals, barbecue packs, kanga-bangers, you name it - nestled between the beef and chicken.
There was even a competition to come up with a new name that wouldn't put diners off their dinner - a sort of equivalent to pork for pig and venison for new deer. Sadly, this not a great success - after 2,700 entries from 41 countries, "australus" was chosen, but was dismissed by restaurateurs as "silly" and "pathetic" and was too similar to a brand of cosmetics (called Australis) to catch on.
It's enough to put a spring in your step - if you can just forget for a moment that you're eating poor Skippy.
Source: www.dailymail.co.uk
Wilson and Greenpeace claim that Aussies could dramatically reduce their carbon footprint by eating less beef and more of the local wildlife. Removing seven million cattle and 36 million sheep by 2020 and replacing them with 175 million kangaroos could lower national greenhouse gases by three per cent a year, says Dr George Wilson from the University of New South Wales.
Why? It's all because kangaroos don't ‘break wind’. Or, to put it rather more scientifically, whereas cows and sheep release vast quantities of methane through belching and flatulence, kangaroos release virtually none.
The report says cutting beef consumption by 20 per cent (and thus the amount of cattle reared) and substituting it with kangaroo steaks, mince, burgers, ribs and so on would reduce Australia's greenhouse gas emissions by a staggering 15 megatons by 2020.
It's not as mad as it sounds. On top of their impressive personal hygiene, kangaroos make model livestock. They need less food than sheep or cattle, are better adapted to drought and are far less damaging to the fragile topsoil than their sharply-hooved bovine counterparts.
And they don't taste bad either... With a distinctive gamey flavour, very tender, best brushed with oil and cooked rare to medium rare (to stop it becoming dry and chewy), it looks just like prime roast beef.
Modern Australians are uncharacteristically sentimental about an animal that has become a national icon and which pops up on the country's coat of arms (opposite an emu) and on the country’s coins. They claim it just feels wrong - disrespectful, almost - to be tucking into their national emblem.
The kangaroo industry, meanwhile, is doing its best to toughen them up and overcome their squeamishness and two years ago, amid much fanfare, it launched a five-year "eat roo" campaign. There were specialist recipe books (invaluable if you fancied a seared kangaroo salad, smoked fillet of kangaroo with brioche and pear chutney, or maybe a nice bowl of kangaroo tail soup). There were also new products (kangaroo microwave meals, kangaroo kebabs, kangaroo burgers) and a huge drive in supermarkets. Many now have whole sections dedicated to kangaroo meat - steaks, mince, readymade microwave meals, barbecue packs, kanga-bangers, you name it - nestled between the beef and chicken.
There was even a competition to come up with a new name that wouldn't put diners off their dinner - a sort of equivalent to pork for pig and venison for new deer. Sadly, this not a great success - after 2,700 entries from 41 countries, "australus" was chosen, but was dismissed by restaurateurs as "silly" and "pathetic" and was too similar to a brand of cosmetics (called Australis) to catch on.
It's enough to put a spring in your step - if you can just forget for a moment that you're eating poor Skippy.
Source: www.dailymail.co.uk
Monday, September 1, 2008
Australia Wants USA Workers
Australia is actively marketing the region as a desireable immigration destination for skilled workers from the United States.
There is record unemployment in America's industrial states due to manufacturing plants shutting down or laying off workers. In response, Peter Beattie, former Queensland premier and now Queensland's trade commissioner who is who based in Los Angelas, issued press releases stating that "Queensland wants you!" to various media outlets in the affected states.
Queensland and the rest of Australia has a particular need for skilled workers -- especially in the manufacturing, mining, and engineering sectors. Labor shortages are an acute problem in Australia, prompting immigration authorities to increase its skilled immigration quotas for the current financial year.
Australia's lack of a language barrier and Queensland's focus on family, education, and work rights and the sunny climate makesfor an attractive destination for US workers from the northwest US states.
However, Australia is not only looking to America to fill its skills shortages. The country has a highly successful skilled immigration program that brings skilled workers to Australia from all over the world.
Source: Workpermit.com
There is record unemployment in America's industrial states due to manufacturing plants shutting down or laying off workers. In response, Peter Beattie, former Queensland premier and now Queensland's trade commissioner who is who based in Los Angelas, issued press releases stating that "Queensland wants you!" to various media outlets in the affected states.
Queensland and the rest of Australia has a particular need for skilled workers -- especially in the manufacturing, mining, and engineering sectors. Labor shortages are an acute problem in Australia, prompting immigration authorities to increase its skilled immigration quotas for the current financial year.
Australia's lack of a language barrier and Queensland's focus on family, education, and work rights and the sunny climate makesfor an attractive destination for US workers from the northwest US states.
However, Australia is not only looking to America to fill its skills shortages. The country has a highly successful skilled immigration program that brings skilled workers to Australia from all over the world.
Source: Workpermit.com
Man Drought Down Under
An analysis of new census figures has shown that Australia is suffering from an unprecedented "man drought".
The statistics have revealed that there are almost 100,000 more females than males in Australia. The problem is worse in the coastal cities, where women have moved seeking better jobs and lifestyles, while many men have gone overseas.
Thirty years ago Australia was with flush with men thanks to immigration policies that favoured males. That position has been reversed because thousands of Australian men in their 20s and early 30s have gone overseas either to travel or to work.
Demographer Bernard Salt says the exodus of young men to foreign countries is leaving its mark. "If you go into the United Arab Emirates census you'll find there is around 12,000 Australians living in Dubai, mostly male, mostly in the 25 to 34-year age group.
But the situation outside of the larger towns and cities is very different.
Vast numbers of women have abandoned the countryside seeking better jobs or education in metropolitan areas. They have left behind communities overloaded with younger males. In the town of Glenden in the northern state of Queensland there is one single female for every 23 men.
Source: Phil Mercer - BBC News Sydney.
The statistics have revealed that there are almost 100,000 more females than males in Australia. The problem is worse in the coastal cities, where women have moved seeking better jobs and lifestyles, while many men have gone overseas.
Thirty years ago Australia was with flush with men thanks to immigration policies that favoured males. That position has been reversed because thousands of Australian men in their 20s and early 30s have gone overseas either to travel or to work.
Demographer Bernard Salt says the exodus of young men to foreign countries is leaving its mark. "If you go into the United Arab Emirates census you'll find there is around 12,000 Australians living in Dubai, mostly male, mostly in the 25 to 34-year age group.
But the situation outside of the larger towns and cities is very different.
Vast numbers of women have abandoned the countryside seeking better jobs or education in metropolitan areas. They have left behind communities overloaded with younger males. In the town of Glenden in the northern state of Queensland there is one single female for every 23 men.
Source: Phil Mercer - BBC News Sydney.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Thursday, August 21, 2008
International Students Come to Australia for a Reason
Recent government amendments to Australian immigration programs have resulted in more foreign students being able to join the Australian educational system than ever before. Creating some of the best opportunities in the world for international students.
2007 saw around 455,000 international student enroll into Australian Universities. To put this into perspective that is a 30% increase over the previous five years.
People believe it is the Australian hands-on approach to learning, in-class discussion and freedom of individual thought that is attracting international student to study in Australia. Also that Australian institutions are smaller and more active allowing learning easier for students.
The shifting attitude of the Australian community to foreign skilled workers and international students, along with the increased demand for skilled labour in the workforce, has also created a wealth of employment opportunities.
Companies such as Amex, Westpac and KPMG are now realigning their recruitment strategies to attract more foreign students with specific skills and are offering more part-time roles, graduate positions and internships in their Australian and international offices.
"Employers who are involved with the program are so impressed by the skills and abilities of the [international] students that they take on more students," said Monique Gunn of Workers Solutions.
2007 saw around 455,000 international student enroll into Australian Universities. To put this into perspective that is a 30% increase over the previous five years.
People believe it is the Australian hands-on approach to learning, in-class discussion and freedom of individual thought that is attracting international student to study in Australia. Also that Australian institutions are smaller and more active allowing learning easier for students.
The shifting attitude of the Australian community to foreign skilled workers and international students, along with the increased demand for skilled labour in the workforce, has also created a wealth of employment opportunities.
Companies such as Amex, Westpac and KPMG are now realigning their recruitment strategies to attract more foreign students with specific skills and are offering more part-time roles, graduate positions and internships in their Australian and international offices.
"Employers who are involved with the program are so impressed by the skills and abilities of the [international] students that they take on more students," said Monique Gunn of Workers Solutions.
457 Visa Process Speeding Up!
More and more people are applying to work Down Under via the 457 Visa. This has however resulted in the need for a more efficient and quicker visa processing service.
The Australian government has shifted their immigration focus away from the need for permanent immigration to favouring the temporary worker instead. This is in order not to hinder the job opportunities of locals.
Three new centres have been established in order to cope with the rise in 457 and other temporary visa applications and the increase in demand of Australian companies seeking foreign talent.
As immigration minister Chris Evans says, "Earlier this year, I directed the department to clear a backlog of about 13 000 temporary skilled migration visa applications on hand since March, many of which were outside the acceptable standards of processing."
Such a demand for temporary workers has also resulted in employers and recruitment agents calling for the easing of 457 restrictions in order for them to cope with their needs and the constant demand in sectors such as accountancy and finance.
Australia is suffering from major occupational shortages; therefore much effort has gone into retaining local talent and attracting foreign skills. Australia's high employment rate, together with the need to retain the current economic boom has therefore resulted in the government turning to foreigners coming to the country on a temporary basis.
Immigration department data released last month shows that 110,570 visas were granted to temporary skilled workers and their dependents in 2007-08, up from 87,310 in 2006-07.
Senator Evans noted that accountancy was the top occupation for the permanent skilled migration program - averaging 9,000 to 10,000 places each year for the past three years.
Source: Global Visas, Simon Wallace - 20/08/2008
The Australian government has shifted their immigration focus away from the need for permanent immigration to favouring the temporary worker instead. This is in order not to hinder the job opportunities of locals.
Three new centres have been established in order to cope with the rise in 457 and other temporary visa applications and the increase in demand of Australian companies seeking foreign talent.
As immigration minister Chris Evans says, "Earlier this year, I directed the department to clear a backlog of about 13 000 temporary skilled migration visa applications on hand since March, many of which were outside the acceptable standards of processing."
Such a demand for temporary workers has also resulted in employers and recruitment agents calling for the easing of 457 restrictions in order for them to cope with their needs and the constant demand in sectors such as accountancy and finance.
Australia is suffering from major occupational shortages; therefore much effort has gone into retaining local talent and attracting foreign skills. Australia's high employment rate, together with the need to retain the current economic boom has therefore resulted in the government turning to foreigners coming to the country on a temporary basis.
Immigration department data released last month shows that 110,570 visas were granted to temporary skilled workers and their dependents in 2007-08, up from 87,310 in 2006-07.
Senator Evans noted that accountancy was the top occupation for the permanent skilled migration program - averaging 9,000 to 10,000 places each year for the past three years.
Source: Global Visas, Simon Wallace - 20/08/2008
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
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