Hi there.

We are just in the process of applying for visas, so had lots of questions that needed answering.

As far as jobs go, I looked at the Australian Yellow Pages for the companies that operate in that area and then e-mailed them to ask if there was much call for people with my husbands experience. One of them even offered him a job subject to interview! It cant hurt and it gives you a good idea of the areas to aim for.

Again with housing, I just trawled through Aussie real estate and used Google Earth to get an idea of the area, obviously you cant tell what the people are like but it gives you a clue as to where things are, i.e. schools, beaches etc.

Not sure about your other questions but no doubt somebody else here will offer advice.

Good luck and hope this helps a little.