Living in Perth
Situated on a coastal plain Perth remains a great attraction to those that love the outdoors. Within WA you can swim with whale sharks, walk amongst ancient trees and fields of wildflowers, taste award winning wines and delicious local produce, explore gorges and wilderness areas and meet laid back, friendly people.
The big variety of landscapes and the climate in Western Australia means there is always plenty of sunshine, making it a perfect year-round destination. It is a land of spectacular diversity where the deep reds of ancient interior rock formations contrast with the sparkling blue of the Indian and Southern Oceans and the lush greenery of the stunning southern regions.
Accommodation Choices
Shared Accommodation can offer you a reasonable level of independence you require at a reasonable cost. Sharing the apartment with one or more adults, you’ll have your own bedroom but will share household responsibilities (like cleaning and laundry). You provide your own linen and food and usually pay extra for services such as electricity and telephone.
Rental Accommodation provides you with total independence and privacy. By signing a legal contract with a landlord or real estate agency, you can rent an apartment or house - choosing from furnished or unfurnished (although unfurnished is more usual). You will be solely responsible for the cost of electricity, gas, water, telephone and groceries. Most real estate agencies require a bond equivalent to 4 weeks rent in addition to 2 weeks rent paid in advance and a letting fee which usually equates to 1 weeks rent.
Homestay is where students choose to live with an Australian family. You are provided with a bedroom and can use the family’s home at leisure. However, there are a number of rules that you will need to familiarise yourself with and more information about this can be provided upon request.
Employment Opportunities
Western Australia is facing a critical labour shortage, due to its booming economy. There has never been a better time to be a building industry tradesman in WA. Qualified bricklayers, concreters, roof tilers and solid plasterers can expect to earn $80,000 - $100,000 per year.
However, work is plentiful and well-paid, so even during your trade course you can bring in good earnings from your part-time work. Once you have successfully completed your course, your earning potential is high.
As a qualified tradesman, you have a lot of flexibility to choose a lifestyle that suits you. If you want to work hard and get ahead quickly, there is plenty of work to be had in WA. However, if you want a more relaxed lifestyle, work finishes mid afternoon, and you have plenty of time for yourself or your family.
Check out the good news about employment in the building trades in W.A. at:
Education
School is compulsory for all children aged between five and seventeen years. These ages may vary slightly in some states. The government provides public schools. Churches and other groups provide private schooling. You will need to check with the Department of Education of WA for their criteria and assessment of their fees in a public school. Fees are also payable for private schooling.
Note: Students holding temporary visas may be required to pay full school fees. Check with individual schools for details.
Prior to course commencement Silver Trowel Staff will provide an Orientation Program that is designed to provide information concerning the course you are enrolling in. Silver Trowel Staff remain available for any concerns that you may have with regard to study or education information. Relocation Unit staff maintain an office at the premises of Silver Trowel and are available to discuss and provide assistance in all areas of your welfare including your accommodation needs, health cover. Students with Visa enquiries will be directed to the Dept. of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (previously DEST)www.dewr.gov.au and Dept. of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) www.immi.gov.au