What can an employer do to assist a skilled migrant with settlement?

The experience of relocating to a regional area in a new country will be made easier if skilled migrants are provided with information and access to services prior to arrival. Some of the questions a skilled migrant might ask a prospective employer include:

• What type of housing is available and what will it cost?
• Where is a good location, suburb or town to live?
• Where can my children attend school?
• What type of transport is available?
• Are English language classes available for my partner?

Linking a skilled migrant to a range of web sites will allow them to research the region and engage in informed choices prior to arrival. The City of Greater Geelong has made information available on this website that will provide accurate details about the region, housing types, schools and associated Local Government services. Material will include maps and will allow people from outside the region to research the lifestyle that Geelong offers new residents.

A range of services are available that provide professional assistance to families relocating to the area. The level of service and associated costs vary depending on individual requirements. Services might include:

• Airport collection
• Temporary accommodation during the first days or week of arrival
• Assistance in securing a rental property
• Advice on school enrollment
• Referrals to English language classes
• Introductions to the local multicultural network

Business may pay a consultant to deliver a settlement service or choose to provide the service themselves. Alternatively the skilled migrant may want to undertake their own research and make individual choices about settlement. The benefit of offering a settlement service is that it introduces a degree of certainty for the skilled migrant and their family.

Collecting a welcome pack:
Following arrival in the Geelong region skilled migrants are invited to collect a welcome pack from Level 2, 131 Myers Street Geelong. Welcome packs contain maps, calendars and information that links a new arrival with information about business, community organisations and Local Government services.