Visa and Sponsorship FAQ'sWorking in Australia can be challenging and extremely rewarding. Apart from finding employment, you will need some key information on such things as: Sponsorship FAQ'sHow long will I be sponsored for?The initial sponsorship is usually for two years with an option of extending. Do I need to sign a contract and what does this involve?You will be required to sign an initial Employment Contract of 24 months duration, which will commence on the day of arrival in Australia. You will not be able to work for another organisation while under our international sponsorship and will be in breach of contract it you work elsewhere. When am I eligible to start work?You will be eligible to commence work as soon as you arrive in Australia. We usually allow two days for orientation following a couple of rest days. You should be able to commence work five days after arrival. Can the sponsorship be extended?An extension of sponsorship may be available if your performance over the 24-month period was satisfactory. This would be subject to being able to obtain further sponsorship from the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). What about obtaining a permanent position?Some clients may offer permanent positions and this would be arranged through us. If this occurred, the client would be required to take over your sponsorship. What happens if I wish to break the contract?You may terminate the contract at any time by advising us in writing, giving us 28 days notice. Once the contract is terminated, sponsorship will cease and you must depart Australia. Salary InformationWhat are the current salaries in Australia?Your salary will generally depend on the level of qualifications and expertise. Our Recruitment Consultants will discuss this with you well in advance of your decision to mobilise. How often will I get paid?You will generally be paid on a weekly basis. Net payment is by electronic funds transfer into your (Australian) bank account within two days of receipt of your approved timesheet. The only instance where a payday may vary will be due to the occurrence of a public holiday. What will be the automatic adjustments to my salary?If you are deemed a 'Resident' for taxation purposes, you will be required to pay a Medicare levy of 1.5% of your salary. This is regardless of whether or not your country has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Australia (and hence whether or not you are entitled to free health care) however if you are not from a country with a reciprocal healthcare agreement you are able to claim back this levy at the end of each financial year. Countries that currently have a reciprocal health care agreement with Australia are:
The Medicare Levy will be deducted from your salary and is not refundable upon leaving Australia. If you are from other countries other than those listed above, you are required to maintain an insurance policy for hospital and medical expenses. The cost of this will be approximately AUD$35 per week which will be paid to you as an allowance. We pay an amount equal to 9% of your pay into an approved superannuation fund. This is compulsory under Australian legislation. Temporary residents can access their superannuation (subject to withholding tax) when they permanently leave Australia. Working ConditionsWorking HoursYou will be expected to be available for at least a 40-hour week (5 days at 8 hours Monday through to Friday). Extra hours may be available (and expected) but will be dependent on the assignment. Office hours in Australia are generally from 8:30am to 5pm, however shift work may differ substantially. Professional Indemnity InsuranceWe have Professional Indemnity Insurance in place to cover liability arising as a result of employee negligence. Health CareAm I entitled to free heath care in Australia?If you are a citizen of the UK, New Zealand, Ireland, Finland, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands or Sweden you are entitled to free health care in the public health system, however you may incur costs for medications. All other nationalities are not entitled to free health care in Australia and will be paid an allowance for private medical insurance. TaxationWill I be required to lodge a taxation return in Australia?Yes. As an individual, you will be required to lodge a taxation return following the end of the financial year, which is 30th June. The Australian Taxation Office will provide a taxation pack with instructions on how to complete your return. Due to the complex nature of the Australian Taxation system, we suggest that you seek advice regarding your taxation within Australia. What will I be taxed?Taxation will depend on your residency status as deemed by the Australian Taxation Office. It may be possible for us to look at packaging your salary to allow you to pay for certain items with 'before tax' dollars (subject to your eligibility). This is done by utilising what is known as Living Away from Home Allowance (LAFHA).
Further InformationIf you require further information, or assistance with applying for a Visa, Work Permit or Sponsorship, contact us via email at scientificjobs@techstaff.com.au We look forward to assisting you. |
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