Published on: 29 April 2019
Last Updated on: 15 September 2022
Emigrating to Australia can be exciting and daunting at the same time. There are a lot of horror stories about emigrating out there, but if you know the right steps to take you could avoid some of the major issues. Of course, if you are nervous about your move, it is recommended that you hire a solicitor or registered migration agent to help you.
Determine The Visa You Need:
When emigrating from the UK, you need to determine the visa you are going to need. Emigration to Australia is run on a score-based system with various factors influencing your score.
If you are moving without a job offer from an Australian company, you will need to get an independent immigrating visa. To qualify for this visa you will need to be under the age of 45, have an education that matches the list of skilled occupations, provide the professional experience of this and have a firm knowledge of the English language. Preference is given to people with Australian education or those in occupations that are in demand in the country.
If you have family in Australia, you can emigrate through the sponsorship program. When this program is used, the score you need to emigrate will be lowered. Sponsorship will not provide you with a permanent right to live in the country. You will need to get a temporary visa for 3 years followed by a permanent visa for 2 years.
If you have a job offer from an Australian company, you will be emigrating through company sponsorship. You will need to meet many of the same criteria as an independent visa applicant, but it will generally be easier to get this visa. If the company is based outside of the major cities, requirements will generally be less stringent.
Allow Enough Time For The Visa Application:
Emigration visas take time to be processed and it is recommended that you apply for this at least 18 months before your planned moving date. There are some visas that can take up to 2 years to be granted and you need to be aware of this.
Prepare Everything For The Move:
While you wait for your visa, you should prepare everything for the move. Clear out everything in your house that you will not want to take with you. Shipping your possessions to Australia can be expensive and will have to be done by ship. The less you have to send, the easier and cheaper it will be.
If you have children, you need to tell their school about your planned move. This is important because you will need transcripts. Additionally, the school year in Australia runs from January to December and the 6-month difference will need to be planned for.
Something that you might want to consider doing before you leave the UK is opening an Australian bank account. This is something that you can take care of once you are in the country but doing this beforehand can make life a bit easier. There are a number of banks that allow you to do this and they each have their own requirements.
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When parents decide to start their journey of parenthood, they hope that they will get and bring up a perfectly healthy child. However, many are the times when genetic defects, birth complications, injuries, and other problems get in the way, and differently gifted children are born. Not many people take the time needed to understand people with disabilities, and even fewer people are willing to go out of their way to offer them support. If you have family or friends with special needs, here are a few ways in which you can make them feel your love and support.
1. Talk to them:
Not many people know this but whether it is at work, school, at home and in other social setups, the productivity of people with disabilities and those close to them depends a lot on the attitude of the general community towards them. If the community around a disabled person has formed a negative attitude and barriers to their inclusion, they end up withdrawing and doubting their capabilities. On the other hand, when they are made to feel included and accepted they blossomed.
Parents of children who have disabilities admit that they like it when a stranger walks up to them in a park and shows genuine interest to learn about their child’s condition. What people appreciate the most are people who take time to ask specific questions. For instance, ask how the child’s physical therapy is going as opposed to asking something general or offering that supportive smiles. At times you will find that people with disabilities need a listening ear, and they appreciate it when you take time and pay attention to details about their lives.
2. Be aware of personal space:
People with disabilities often use mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes and other items. What most people do not understand is that most view these aides as part of their personal space. When interacting with disabled people, you always have to respect their personal space. If for instance, you want to assist them in pushing their wheelchair, do not just grab and start pushing at it, ask them if it is okay to help them move from one point to the other, you can push the chair when they agree.
The same applies to when you feel they need you to support them in standing up, sitting down or other movements. You can start by saying something like, “Here, let me help you,” and then wait for their consent. If they feel that you are patronizing them or treating them like they are completely helpless, they will push back and reject your help.
3. Be thoughtful:
There is nothing that whispers support to a disabled person more than knowing that you thought about them before you made the plans that you have made. It means that if for instance, you planned a meeting, you made sure that the room was accessible via wheelchair and there are ramps and other relevant accessibility and support features. It is also important to always inform them about all the plans which you have made for the meetings and other get-together arrangements so they can prepare well in advance.
4. Treat them normally:
One of the most difficult corners to navigate when dealing with people who have disabilities is learning how to interact with them without making them feel abnormal. Most people think that being sensitive to these people is about hiding the achievement of their normal kids and clapping when the disabled kid does something that is simple and normal. When interacting with disabled people, do not minimize yourself or your child’s achievements. Learn that the disabled kid might not do things like regular kids, but they still get things done, eventually. Treat them like just any other kid, and they will respond positively to this.
5. Do not try too much:
Another mistake people make when interacting with disabled people is the need to know what to say and what to do at all times. The truth is that disabled people are just like everyone else. It is okay to have a slip of the tongue when interacting with them. It is alright to listen to them when they are telling you about their complications and tell them that you honestly do not know what to say. If you have no idea how to help them when they are at their weakest, it is still okay to sit with them and listen. Your presence is reassuring enough for them.
6. Go an extra mile in the extreme seasons:
Disabled people tend to struggle a lot more than everyone else in. They have to cope with inaccessible sidewalks, flare-ups which are triggered by the low temperatures, chronic pain and other issues that result from being stuck at home too long. These are the things you can do to ease their discomfort during this season:
Take food to them-it is possible that they will not access grocery stores and farmers markets
Visit them and spend the time to end the feeling of loneliness and depression.
Send them a message and genuinely ask how they are faring
Help them around the house and help them shovel and salt their driveways.
7. Support their dreams:
There is nothing that says love to a disabled person than when you genuinely support their work. People with disability wake up in the morning because they believe they can rise against the odds and make a difference. The least that you can do to make their world a little easier to manage is to support their dreams and their work. When they tell you they are having a talent show, be present and cheer them on. Buy their art, shop from their outlets and all other small gestures which will make them feel appreciated.
These are just a few of the things that you could do to help people with disabilities. In case you interact with them and realize they may need counseling from professionals, you can reach out to Regional & Rural Toowoomba Psychologists. They are well equipped to offer the support needed to make the lives of people with disabilities simple.
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You can either reduce or increase your stress on the moving day, depending on the service you pick.
Here’s what we mean. If a person has all the funds in the world, they can afford to get every aspect of their move taken care of. This certainly will reduce the stress they will face.
If a person is on a tight budget, they will likely face more stress. Because they will have to handle a lot of things that they could easily have outsourced.
Since most folks do not have all the money in the world, it is important for them to understand how moving companies arrive at their fees.
Having this information may be helpful in helping them plan their move a lot better to both reduce the cost to them as well as the stress they will face.
Major Cost Determinants
So, what are the factors that determine how much a person will pay when moving? There are a lot of different factors that can influence the cost, as we can see here, but we will only focus on the main ones.
Distance
This is one cost that most people can understand. A long-distance move will most certainly cost way more than a local move.
Therefore, the further your destination is from your point of origin, the more you can expect to pay, and this is regardless of whatever method you choose for the move.
Many moving companies determine the distance costs by considering different variables. It is important that you find out the exact distance and communicate the same to the moving company.
Credible and reputable companies like H2H Movers are not going to haggle about the prices if the variations in distances are marginal in nature.
Stuff To Move!
What you are moving to will also affect your cost.
First, consider the quantity, size, and weight of the different items you need to move.
This will determine the size of the vehicle required and how much you will pay.
Consideration will also be given to the cost of the items to be moved. There are some items that will have to be handled by specialists. Some of these include expensive artworks and antiques. Bringing in expert handlers will certainly cost you more money.
Present Location and Destination
Where you are taking off from and where you are headed will also affect your cost. While your present location may not be as impactful on your cost as the destination, both play a part.
If, for example, your present location is not easily accessible, the company will consider this. The same applies to your destination.
Simple things like the absence of a functioning lift in a high-rise building will attract some additional charges as movers will be forced to use the stairs.
There’s also the issue of the operational centers of the company you choose to work with. If a company has operational centers in both your take-off city and your destination, chances are that your cost will be lower.
The reason is simple. A company that operates from both bases can easily get another moving job for the van that took your stuff there.
On the other hand, a company that does not operate from your destination will have to return to base empty, an expense that will likely be added to you.
Moving Option
The choice you make about how you intend to move will be the major determinant of what you will pay, as this will influence all other costs. You can check out a list of moving options here: https://www.thespruce.com/best-way-to-move-your-stuff-2436686.
A full-service move will cost you more in monetary terms than a self-move.
Services Offered
Within the option to use a moving company, you have individual services that can add to your cost. Some of the services that moving companies will offer include:
Extended insurance.
Packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking.
Disassembly and reassembly of furniture.
Storage space.
Cleaning services.
These are just a few examples of services that can be offered. How many of these will you pay?
Timing
Many folks are not aware of this. When you schedule your move, it can also affect your cost.
Moving companies have periods regarded as peak periods and those regarded as off-peak periods. Scheduling a move during a peak period automatically means a higher cost to you.
Weekends, holidays, and summer are regarded as peak periods, while weekdays, fall, and winter are off-peak periods.
By understanding some of these factors, you can then think of how to work around them to get and enjoy lower rates. Let’s now briefly look at how you can lower your moving costs.
How to Lower Your Costs
We understand that moving could be costly, so here is how you can save a few bucks.
Determine Your Budget
Getting this sorted out right from the start can be helpful. Determine how much you are willing to spend so you can ensure that all your expenses fall within this budget.
Compare Moving Methods
Look at the different moving options and decide which will fit into your budget. You can find some examples above. You can also calculate moving costs online on sites like 9Kilo Moving.
They will help you compare quotes from different companies. This will make it easier for you to choose an appropriate moving method.
Schedule Your Move for Off-peak Periods
Remember what we said above about peak and off-peak periods. Schedule your move for an off-peak period.
Start Packing Early
Get all your stuff sorted out very early. This ensures that your movers do not have to spend unnecessary time.
Time is money (This is, of course, if you have chosen to work with movers). If you are handling it yourself, things will be easier and less stressful for you.
Look for Free Packing Boxes
Getting free packing boxes and other materials will mean you won’t have to buy or rent them. This, of course, is another avenue through which some savings can be made.
Pack Only What You Really Need
Saving money on moving can be a challenge when you are just shifting to a brand-new city for your new job. This is why you need all the advice you can get to make the move a little better.
Moving too Quickly ? (..For a Job)
Sometimes, you must relocate too fast. Especially when it comes to landing a new job.
Moving quickly for a job can feel stressful, but if you prepare yourself correctly and follow the right steps, moving in haste doesn’t have to be a crazy, chaotic mess.
Here’s how to handle a rapid move for job purposes without losing your mind.
1. Make a To-Do List and Stick with It
First things first—prioritize!
Create a checklist of everything you need to do, from finding a new place to live to scheduling the move.
Try to break down the tasks by days and tackle the most important ones first. Since time is of the essence, focus on the essentials: securing housing, transferring your job documents, and notifying your current landlord or utility companies.
You’ll also want to gather any important documents related to your job, like offer letters, employment contracts, and references, so they’re easily accessible during the move.
If you are moving countries, then password & work visa are the two important items you should always clutch.
2. Downsize and Declutter
One of the easiest ways to ensure a fast and efficient move is by hiring professionals.
If you’re in a time crunch, your best bet is to hire a full-service moving company to handle all aspects of your move.
They will have the experience, equipment, and manpower to pack, load, transport, and unload your belongings quickly and safely.
Albeit it will be a little too costly, think of it as a one-time investment which can secure you from the haphazard of moving.
If your budget allows for it, hiring professional movers who are experienced in fast relocations can be a game changer.
They’ll pack up, load up, and unload everything far more quickly than you ever could, leaving you with more time to take care of the million other things that need your attention.
Many moving companies even offer quick emergency services specifically for those needing an instant relocation.
Keep in mind that if you do decide to hire pros, you’ll want to book them as soon as possible so they don’t get booked out on your target move date.
3. Let the Right People and Places Know
Don’t forget to update your address and let important people and organizations know about your big move.
This includes your bank, insurance provider, and any subscriptions you may have.
You should also reach out to friends and family members—simply to give them a clue or to see if they can possibly assist with the move. Just because you’re moving in a hurry does not mean you need to go do it alone. If assistance is offered, take it!
Final Thoughts
Relocating can be overwhelming, but it’s not impossible. With some preparation and the right tools at your disposal, you can make sure your fast move goes smoothly.
Be sure to give yourself enough time to get everything done, downsize if necessary, and consider hiring professional movers to help ease some of the stress of moving.
However, you do it, just try to stay organized — and keep calm while doing so. Losing your head won't bring any successful outcome!
Lastly, moving to a new place could always be an exciting experience, so embrace it without worrying about where any of your belongings are packed!
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If you have kids, you know how expensive it can be to buy them new clothes, toys, books, and other items. Kids grow fast, and their tastes and preferences change often. Buying everything new can put a strain on your budget and create a lot of waste.
That's why many parents opt for hand-me-downs and second-hand finds for their kids. Hand-me-downs are items that are passed down from older siblings, relatives, or friends. Second-hand finds are items that are bought or acquired from thrift stores, garage sales, online platforms, or other sources.
Keep on reading to learn more…
How to Make the Most Out of Hand-Me-Downs?
In the era of fast fashion and quickly outgrown children's clothes, buying everything new can get very expensive. Luckily, there are plenty of ways for savvy parents to cut costs by making use of hand-me-downs and second-hand items. Read on for tips on how to source, care for, and refresh these gems for your little ones.
Here are some of the tips that you can use to make the most of the hand-me-downs:
Sort and Store
One of the first things you must do is sort and store your hand-me-downs and second-hand finds properly. This will help you keep track of what you have, what you need, and what you can pass on to others.
Sort your items by size, season, and category. For example, you can have separate bins or boxes for winter clothes, summer clothes, shoes, accessories, toys, books, etc. Label them clearly and keep them in a dry and clean place.
Store your items in a way that preserves their quality and prevents damage. For example, you can use vacuum-sealed bags, plastic containers, or cedar chests to protect your items from dust, moisture, insects, and mold. You can also use hangers, dividers, or organizers to keep your items neat and tidy.
Check your items regularly and get rid of anything that is stained, torn, worn out, or outdated. You can donate, sell, or recycle your unwanted items or use them for crafts or other purposes.
Mix and Match
Another thing you need to do is to mix and match your hand-me-downs and second-hand finds with your kids' existing wardrobe and preferences. This will help you create some fun and stylish outfits for your kids and make them feel comfortable and confident in their clothes. You should try to mix and match:
Colors, patterns, and textures. For instance, you can pair a solid-colored shirt with a floral dress or a plaid skirt with a denim jacket. You can also mix and match different fabrics, such as cotton, wool, silk, or leather. This will add some variety and interest to your kids' outfits.
Styles and trends. For example, you can combine a vintage sweater with a modern pair of jeans, or a classic dress with a trendy pair of sneakers. You can also mix and match different genres, such as casual, formal, sporty, or bohemian. This will give your kids some personality and flair in their outfits.
Accessories and details. For example, you can add a belt, a scarf, a hat, or a necklace to your kids' outfits. You can also add some buttons, patches, stickers, or pins to your kids' clothes. This will give your kids some fun and creative touches in their outfits.
Customize and Personalize
The last thing you must do is customize and personalize your hand-me-downs and second-hand finds for your kids. This will help you make your items fit better, look better, and feel better for your kids. It will also help you express your kids' individuality and uniqueness.
Customize your items to fit your kids' size and shape. For example, you can hem, alter, or resize your items to make them fit your kids better. You can also add some elastic, buttons, or snaps to your items to make them more adjustable and comfortable.
Customize your items to suit your kids' style and taste. For example, you can dye, bleach, or paint your items to change their color or pattern. You can also cut, rip, or distress your items to give them some edge or character.
Personalize your items to reflect your kids' interests and hobbies. For example, you can embroider, applique, or print your items with your kids' names, initials, or monograms. You can also decorate your items with your kids' favorite characters, animals, or symbols.
Sourcing Quality Second-hand Pieces
You can uncover great used pieces from friends and family, charity shops, and online marketplaces. When accepting offers of hand-me-downs, don't feel you need to take everything you're given. Politely decline items that are overly worn or stained, and only keep pieces that are still in good condition.
For second-hand shopping, hit up charity shops in more affluent neighbourhoods where higher quality kit is often donated. Check items thoroughly for flaws and be selective in your purchases. Online, sites like eBay, Depop and Vinted offer everything from babygrows to bikes being sold on by other parents, helping you make the most of your budget or fostering allowance.
Caring for Hand-Me-Downs
To maximise the longevity of hand-me-downs and second-hand items, properly launder and care for them before passing them on to your little one. Check clothing labels and wash items according to fabric type. Mend any small holes, broken zippers or loose buttons.
For items like bikes or baby gear, inspect them thoroughly and replace any worn parts. Give everything a thorough cleaning to remove grime and make sure pieces are fresh for their new owner.
Refreshing & Repurposing Finds
Sometimes second-hand stuff just looks, well, second-hand. Luckily there are inexpensive ways to give things new life. For clothes, accessories and soft toys, a spot clean followed by a wash in Oxiclean or similar can freshen up fabrics.
Embellish with ribbons, embroidered patches or appliqués to add decorative flair. Turn that dull vest into a one-of-a-kind piece your child will love. Repurpose old pieces too - vintage babygrows make adorable doll clothes, and adult t-shirts can be made into dresses.
Making Second-hand Finds Feel Special
Hand-me-downs and pre-loved items often come with a history. Share what you know about an item’s origins with your little one - they’ll love having their own “special story” attached to their clothes and toys.
Help them personalize pieces by adding custom touches like initials or fun fabric paint designs. And display their second-hand treasures proudly by letting them select special books or toys for their rooms. Soon these pre-used gems will hold pride of place in your child’s heart.
Additional Tips
Check items’ safety before passing to little ones - no small broken parts, frayed edges etc.
Store off-season clothing rotated with your child’s growth
Mix second-hand pieces with new ones in your child’s wardrobe
Pass pieces along to younger friends/family members when outgrown
Sourcing and caring for pre-loved items takes a bit more effort than just popping out for new gear. But with some time and creative vision, you can kit out your kids in great finds without breaking the bank. And by giving their clothes and toys a history, you’ll add an extra layer of love.
Bottom Line
Hand-me-downs and second-hand finds can be a great way to save money, reduce waste, and give your kids some unique and quality items. However, they can also pose some challenges, such as finding the right size, style, and condition for your kids. By following these tips and tricks, you can make the most of hand-me-downs and second-hand finds for your kids.
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