Working in Sydney
Expats working in Sydney will find themselves in the seat of the nation’s most economically productive state. New South Wales alone produced more goods and services than many neighbouring Asian countries in 2011, and the city’s metropolitan regional economy was cited as being on par with the entire nation of Thailand.
Furthermore, government statistics estimated that just over 50 percent of Australia’s top 500 companies (both regional headquarters and multinationals) were based in the state, the majority of which were located in Sydney.
Needless to say, expats looking for a job in one of Australia’s urban centres would do well to make their way to the city. Those in financial or insurance services, in particular, will find plenty of opportunity to join one of the lucrative firms in the area; these disciplines alone were responsible for one-fifth of the overall city GDP in 2011.
Alternatively, expats with skills in the retail trade, healthcare, social assistance or manufacturing sectors will also find large-scale industries that command growing levels of employment.
Average income in Sydney tends to be the highest in the nation, but expats should also note that large outlays are absolutely necessary in order to cover the increasing cost of living. Sydney was recently ranked as a city that was more expensive than both London and Beijing (Mercer Cost of Living Survey 2011).
Apart from just the nuts and bolts of the matter though, expats working in Sydney will find that they can maintain an upwardly mobile and successful career while balancing a rich home life. The local workplace practises many family-friendly policies, making it easier for expats with children to enjoy flexible working hours and work-from-home schemes.
Expatriates who have professional skills and are relocating to Sydney through an overseas posting will be eligible to apply for a visa under the Employer Sponsored Workers Section.
Expatriates looking to relocate to Sydney without sponsorship can apply for a Skilled Visa, provided they meet the general requirements.
As an expatriate, you will need to get a tax file number (TFN) before starting work. This documentation can be obtained from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
Employers and employees also have to contribute to a pension fund known as a superannuation scheme, as well as pay a levy that goes to Medicare, the national health insurance scheme.
