DaffyDuck Posted February 8, 2014 Report Share Posted February 8, 2014 (edited) My husband and I've received our 189 visa grants in Jan this year and have booked our tickets for mid April heading to Sydney. The closer the time gets the more insecure I am becoming regarding our financial situation and lack of jobs when we land there. I am terrified..! I know Sydney is one of (if not thee) most expensive cities in the world and after selling our cars and gathering our pennies, we will most likely only have AUD$14000- $15000 in our bank account when we arrive to see us through starting from scratch. We only have the first 2 weeks of accommodation booked via airbnb and we thought once we are there we'll look out for alternative options, whether it be camping or finding another cheap airbnb or flatshare spot until we secure jobs and can commit to securing an apartment lease.Hubby is an architect (6 years experience) and I am a graphic designer (9 years experience). I am worried that $14000 will only carry us for 2-3 months max before we are out of cash and this obviously puts a lot of pressure on us to secure jobs in that time. I don't mind working at the till at Coles if pushing comes to shove, but what do you guys think are our chances to make it? Should we rather stay on and work an extra few months or do you think we will make it just fine? I am so stressed out about this. Hubby's company that he worked for here retrenched ALL their staff in Dec (close to 30 people). I am now the only income we have and cost of living in Cape Town isn't cheap either. I don't know, I just want to be there already and our tickets ARE booked, but I need some genuine input please. It feels like we're in this alone and we don't really have experience or great knowledge of what to expect. Are we crazy to go over with so little cash and no jobs? How can we make our dollars stretch further that side? Will we find jobs? I feel a mini panic attack coming on... Edited February 8, 2014 by DaffyDuck 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JPLJNR Posted February 8, 2014 Report Share Posted February 8, 2014 Hi DaffyDuckI know this is not an answer to your question , but this is some encouragement that was written by HadEnoughOfJuju in reply to another post. Sorry I am not too clever with forums(never been on them much) so I couldn`t paste a link to the original post so I just pasted the reply.Hopefully it helps for your mini panic attack,This is in reply to:finding a jobStarted by rudiheigan, Feb 03 2014 01:01 PM HadEnoughofJujuCitizenHosts3,721 postsGender:MaleLocation:Peregian Springs, Sunshine Coast, QLDInterests:SCUBA, Sci-Fi, Mountain Biking, SAAustralia.org, blogging and hugging agents.Landed:Mar 2013RSA Location:PretoriaLanguage:English/AfrikaansPosted 03 February 2014 - 02:52 PMHEY rudiheigan, there is no doubt that this is a scary and tough process. Packing up, selling everything and moving to another country without knowing what really awaits you on the other side is a daunting task.We did exactly that. We had no idea where we were going to live after the end of month one in the holiday accommodation, we didn't know which school our child would end up in and scariest of all was that we did not have jobs to come to.We broke all the rules our parents taught us as well as the common sense one of going where the work is. We came to the Sunny Coast where work is scarce and the people don't give up the jobs they have so finding work here was a challenge.We defied all the odds and are now extremely happy we did what we did but it could have just as as easily gone the wrong way too. Faith, perseverance and sheer determination are what you are going to need to get through the tough times.Emmigrating from your home country takes guts and strength that few people have and even those of us who thought we had what it takes were horribly mistaken at how tough this was going to be and how it would affect us.Was is difficult? Oh hell yes, did it bring us to our knees emotionally? Without a doubt, BUT this was the best thing we could have ever done for our family and I don't regret a single day. If we had to do it over again I would do it in a heartbeat and I'm not just saying that, I truly would.There is so much uncertainty in immigration but there are juat as many rewards if your mindset is right and you are willing to do whatever it takes to make it work. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chzaau Posted February 8, 2014 Report Share Posted February 8, 2014 From what I could gather you have no kids. If that is the case yes you could make it work and yes you could strech it, it all depends how much sacrifice you guys are willing to make... I.e say live in the bad part of Sydney for cheaper, avoid purchasing a car etc. As you get up and running things will improve. Where there is will there is a way, it will be hard and harder then you thought but if you guys are a strong team then you'll roll with the punches and come out tough kookies a lot wiser and smarter...Good luck. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
shannonc4 Posted February 8, 2014 Report Share Posted February 8, 2014 Hi DD,My husband and I are off to Sydney too and I have been stressing over the same scenario. We only have $14000 to go over with, though our first months accommodation has already been taken care of. It is just the 2 of us and we have been told by many folk on the forum that we should just come. We are willing to start from scratch, working in restaurants or packing shelves and are determined to make it work.Just know that you are not alone; you can and will do it Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HansaPlease Posted February 8, 2014 Report Share Posted February 8, 2014 It's a lot more than we came with, and we managed best of luck! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TooMuchLawlessness Posted February 8, 2014 Report Share Posted February 8, 2014 be positive and open moinded.job is somewhere for at least one of you too.just take the plunge and close your eyes,you will be amazed positively.i mean open minded... 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DaffyDuck Posted February 8, 2014 Author Report Share Posted February 8, 2014 Hey JPLJNR, thanks for sharing that post by HEOJJ. It does help, encouragement always goes a long way even if it doesn't take away the fears. Chzaau you're right, we don't have any kids. We've been postponing starting a family since we decided to start the visa application process. I honestly take my hat of to people who manage to do it with kids! Shannonc4 I am SO GLAD we're not alone in this and our scenarios and destinations are the same. We must stay in contact! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mistermoose Posted February 8, 2014 Report Share Posted February 8, 2014 (edited) Daffy, is it not possible to apply for jobs first and delaying going over until you have some interviews lined up?Either way, it seems many others have done it with less, so am sure you guys will make it work. Good luck Edited February 8, 2014 by mistermoose Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
shannonc4 Posted February 8, 2014 Report Share Posted February 8, 2014 Shannonc4 I am SO GLAD we're not alone in this and our scenarios and destinations are the same. We must stay in contact!Definitely! Where about are you guys staying in Sydney? We also booked through airbnb; I did so much research and found that renting a furnished apartment through them worked out much cheaper than a hostel or caravan park.Sorry Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DaffyDuck Posted February 8, 2014 Author Report Share Posted February 8, 2014 Hey Shannon, will PM you. Mistermoose tomorrow we finish off hubby's portfolio for easy viewing online and mine is already on my website, then we just need to update our cv's and will start applying for jobs on seek etc to hopefully line up interviews for when we land. I am sticking out feelers wherever I can to network. Really holding thumbs we can line up SOMETHING, even if it's just temporary work. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rozellem Posted February 8, 2014 Report Share Posted February 8, 2014 We are in Sydney, and I would say its completely possible. Rather underspend than overspend till you have jobs. Lay off buying a car till employed, you dont need it in Sydney anyway. Unless you move to the Hills, which I wont recommend for a young couple anyway. Just a thought.....Since your husband is currently unemployed, why doesn't he come out earlier and start looking for a job. If he comes by himself, he can keep expenses to a minimum and might have something by the time you arrive. Its easier to house share or even stay in a hostel if its just one person. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bronwyn&Co Posted February 8, 2014 Report Share Posted February 8, 2014 (edited) I'd say you will make it if you don't have children. Airbnb is good, just look for cheap nights or look at hostels. Eat frugally, try and stick to a strict budget. I would also look for the 'Coles' type job at the same time as looking for the real/ career job, ie on day 1. Otherwise you waste a month and next thing it's 2 months. And then it's a worry. If you know what I mean. See it as an adventure. Edited February 8, 2014 by Bronwyn&Co 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AndreaL Posted February 9, 2014 Report Share Posted February 9, 2014 We came with 2 kids and $5000, however as we were on a 457 hubby started work straight away earning dollars.As there are just the two of you I think you can live incredibly frugally, the important thing is getting that first job, no matter what it is, at least you are earning and can then have breathing space to look for something you like.It is hard to try and get interviews from RSA but you have to start getting into that networking and applying frame of mind.Good luck, face it all a a team and just give it all you've got. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HarryVR Posted February 9, 2014 Report Share Posted February 9, 2014 I agree Daffy Duck, you guys should be fine if you stick to a strict budget and prepared to start A job, regardless of what it is, while you are searching for your ideal job. Good luck and I know you guys will be so happy here in Australia. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bams Posted February 9, 2014 Report Share Posted February 9, 2014 DaffyDuck, thank you for the post. With us it is a little different as we have a daughter aged 7 and a little cash to bring with, so I fully understand how you must be feeling.I think getting the Visa (although stressful at time and expensive) was the easy part. It was a step by step guide telling you what to do when. Now with the wonderful grant letter in hand, all the decisions and timing is your own. There is no step by step guide any more. This to me in itself is scary.Hubby and I are going through the same thoughts, emotions and worries, but we have decided to bite the bullet and just do it!!! We cant say what is awaiting us, but we also wont know if we don't get our buds over there.Stay strong and keep the faith. I am thinking of you guys and praying for you.Jer 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you." 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DaffyDuck Posted February 9, 2014 Author Report Share Posted February 9, 2014 I guess there's no sure way going about it. We have what we have and if we stay longer on one salary it might take us forever to build up savings that might only carry us a month further in Aus. On top of that there's the risk of the Rand weakening even more. I am also very unhappy in my job at the moment. I took it only for the money that we needed for the visa, it pays well but I work very long and unpaid overtime. Often even till midnight on ridiculous deadlines without getting a cent extra. It's extremely frustrating and angers me, but it's all coming down to perseverance for the cause of getting to Aus. I guess I am just scared that we won't even find a job packing shelves. I have read about people who could not even get basic types of jobs like this to pay the bills. Obviously first choice is to secure an architect or graphic design position. We have thought about hubby going over first, but this does not sit well with our hearts. We want to be able to do this together and be there for each other through thick and thin. I guess this is the biggest leap of faith of our lives... 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chzaau Posted February 9, 2014 Report Share Posted February 9, 2014 Nothing ventured nothing gained. You may never work again in your current job areas either. No kids you got the world as your oyster scenario, go for it, for all you know your start in oz and end up in USA. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SurferMan Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 (edited) You should be fine, if you have a tight budget. It will also help strengthen family ties/bond. Edited February 10, 2014 by SurferMan Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ArnoW Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 I think this is the biggest leap of faith all of us has ever made or will ever make. It sure is not easy and the stress and uncertainty is hell. But in my heart I am sure we are doing the right thing. Just thinking of going for walks along the beach or a bicycle ride without fear is just bliss. Hang in there! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DaffyDuck Posted February 10, 2014 Author Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 Agree Arno. Can't wait! I'm tired looking over my shoulder for the criminal waiting to attack me and my husband again and threaten our lives. Not sure if that paranoid awareness will ever go away. We're so conditioned in SA. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
vaughanroe Posted February 11, 2014 Report Share Posted February 11, 2014 We moved over with $12 000 and a baby of 9 months. Granted my wife had a job to come to and we had a rental sorted when we landed. We did however have to buy a car once we got here so kiss $5000 cheers and we still paid our rent.It is tough or it is an adventure, the choice of circumstance really is your alone. (think: the difference between a victim and a survivor)Anything is posible in this great country and no its not all roses but as someone once told me you need a bit of manure to grow the good stuff.In 5 years my family (now 2 kids) has come along way and not a day gone by that we have second guesed our move.I wish you all the best and I know its stressful but have faith... all things work out well in the end, and if its not well, then its not yet the end. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gordonza Posted February 11, 2014 Report Share Posted February 11, 2014 A friend of mine went over on a 457, two weeks accomodation on the company and $500 in his pocket... he had to negotiate with the bank to advance him enough to pay for his first months rent... His wife moved over a few months later and they are now very happy in Oz.I say just go for it... get out of SA and stop moving backwards... look forward to walking through all those doors that have now opened up over there. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
B007 Posted February 11, 2014 Report Share Posted February 11, 2014 All I can say to you Go for it and best of Luck 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DaffyDuck Posted February 11, 2014 Author Report Share Posted February 11, 2014 Thanks so much for all your replies. I cannot express how grateful I am for this online community! So this morning I woke up and had such peace and boldness to take the plunge and decided to just resign. I figured, no point in delaying and being unsure, it's better I'm upfront with the company and honor them by giving 6 weeks notice so they have enough time to replace my position. All was good until I sent that email to my bosses asking to meet. Click, sent... Mini freakout, am I sure??! but then composed myself and got hold of my courage again. I am SO relieved. It went so well! After the initial disappointment of me resigning, they were actually excited and happy for me and even offered to ask their mates in Aus who are in the advertising industry if they have any openings or opportunities for me and said they'd be honored to give me a good reference letter too. I was blown away... I was so nervous about resigning, but then it felt right. Just goes to show that our fears and insecurities are sometimes so out of proportion to our reality. I'm feeling hopeful that all will work out. Definitely an adventure to tackle with both hands. This train is leaving. Still a long way to go, but taking it one leap of faith at a time. 5 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bronwyn&Co Posted February 11, 2014 Report Share Posted February 11, 2014 (edited) Well done Daffy! what a relief for you. I was going to suggest that when you arrive you could try & spend only $100 per day. It will be very tight but if you spend say $60 on accommodation & eat a lot of sandwiches & pasta for $20 & spend the rest on public transport and phone calls, it might be do-able for a while. I may be way off but I would say that is your bare minimum! I don't think you could stick it out for very long. But it buys you several months. Maybe others can give their ideas too. Edited February 11, 2014 by Bronwyn&Co 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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