Living and Working in Australia

Consistently ranked near the top in worldwide quality of life indexes, Australia is a popular choice for finance professionals from all over the world as a location to live and work. The services sector, including financial and business services, constitute nearly 70% of Australia’s GDP and employment opportunities in these fields are excellent.

If you are considering moving to Australia and would like more information about opportunities there, Morgan McKinley can help you. We are experts in global professional recruitment and we can not only advise you before you depart for Australia, but can also provide support when you arrive via our Sydney office.

Living in Australia – fast facts

• The currency is the Australian dollar.
• Immigration plays an important role in Australian society. Almost 25% of the population were born overseas.
• Australia is rich in natural resources and is the largest net exporter of coal worldwide.
• Australia is divided into six states and two territories and has three time zones.
• The average Australian working week consists of 37 hours.

Visa and tax requirements in Australia

There are two types of visa you can apply for. A Working Holiday Visa enables you to work in Australia for up to 12 months, but can be extended if you seek sponsorship from your employer. There are conditions, including financial and age requirements, to obtaining this visa. A Skilled Migration Visa is granted to those wishing to move to Australia permanently and take on various skill categories.

You will also need an Australian Taxfile Number, this ensures you are not taxed on the maximum bracket of 48.5% on your wages. You can apply for a TFN from your nearest Australian Taxation Office once in the country, or before you depart, by doing so online at www.ato.gov.au.

You can find more information about visa requirements online through the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship, at www.immi.gov.au. You can also contact the Australian Embassy.

For more information on working in Australia, read Living & Working in Australia.