US RN and family wanting to move to Australia

[Restless NC RN]

Hi! I am a seasoned 9 yr Bachelor Degree RN with a hubby (paramedic) and 3 small children. It has been our dream to move to Australia and are finally ready to begin the process. My main questions are:

Would it be easier to use a travel agency to move us over and then when the contract runs out seek permanent employment or do the hospitals there pay for relocation even if it is from out of the country?

Do agencies provide private housing for families?

Are there any agencies that would hire a paramedic from the US?

Also, any information that is family relocation oriented would be greatly appreciated !

Thanks so very much and hope to see you guys soon !

Jen

[Restless NC RN]

Ohhh...one more ? Does anyone have suggestions of which agencies are the best to work ?

[ANnot4me]

Jen, as an experienced nurse with a BN, immigration will not be that difficult. Australia is huge and registration is by state/territory: NSW, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Western Australia and Victoria. Jobs are not as easy to get in the cities as they once were. Also, different region, different union and different pay. There is so much to consider.

If you are serious, I would start by going to the immigration website and giving it a good read. Permanent residency is the best option and can be done before you get there should you qualify. The next step would be the Australian Nursing Council and the nursing board of your chosen state.