There is more than one reason why Australia has become known internationally as the ‘Lucky Country’. Famous for its beaches, temperate climate and healthy lifestyle, Australia is also home to some of the most liveable cities in the world. In the 2010 most liveable cities index, The Economist placed four Australian cities – Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Adelaide – among the top 10.

For Korean business people and investors, Australia remains a desirable migration destination because of its geographic proximity, natural beauty, political stability, business potential and predictable legal environment.

There are, of course, a host of visa and migration options available. However, in planning your future in Australia it is important to consider recent changes to immigration and legislation policy in Australia and how these may affect you.

“Famous for its beaches, temperate climate and healthy lifestyle, Australia is also home to some of the most liveable cities in the world”

In recent years, Australia’s branding as the ‘Lucky Country’ has taken on a new significance as Australia’s economy weathered the Global Financial Crisis better than any other Western country. This is in no small part due to Australia’s complementary economic relationship with Asia.

Successive Australian governments have reaffirmed a commitment to the Business Skills Program, which provides permanent migration pathways to investors and business owners. Korea is consistently one of the top-10 source countries for new migrants to Australia. In 2009/10, more than 4300 permanent migration visas were granted to applicants from Korea.

Unfortunately, this growing interest in Australia has also resulted in a corresponding growth in the number of inexperienced and unethical visa agents, both in Australia and overseas. In selecting a professional migration agent, it is important to use someone well-versed in migration law, experienced with the type of visa that is being applied for and registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA).

One of Australia’s leading consultancies, Hamilton Watts International Migration Services places a premium on experience and professional service. With more than 20 years in the migration services industry their consultants include former senior Department of Immigration officers and managers, with experience across operational, policy and secretariat areas, including overseas postings as Principal Migration Officers.

Managing Director Laurie Duncan says the company prides itself on their specialised expertise in immigration. “Over the life of our company we have been responsible for more than 12,000 successful visa applications,” says Duncan. “Our experience provides us with a level of knowledge and know-how unmatched in the migration field.”

For more information on Hamilton Watts International Migration Services, contact Hamilton Watts or visit their website.

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