Expert: Mick Maurer - 12/9/2007

Question
Hi Mick, I am a single 32 year old male from the U.S.  What is the best way for me to obtain a working visa and or gain citizenship in Australia?  I have a high-school diploma and 5 years of framing/carpentry experience. For the last 5 years I have been a blackjack dealer at a casino.  If I was to obtain a visa, I would look for work in a casino in Australia.  I am not a wealthy man but I have no dependants.  I guess my main question is does Australia want me and if so what is by best line to become a citizen.  Thanks for your response in advance.   Joey

Answer
Joey:
Sorry for the bad news but unless you have money or a critical skill, Australia does not want you.  They are very concerned about people becoming dependent on the state for health care, etc.  If you were a citizen of one of the commonwealth countries it is a little easier but that does not help you.  The best way to get there is to find a US company that has operations in Australia and get them to hire you but they usually hire local people for the unskilled jobs.  For more information go to www.immigration.au.

Mick Maurer