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Sports in Queensland

Australia is sports mad and Sport is an important part of the culture of Queensland; whether you are into rugby union, soccer, basketball or beach volleyball, everyone in Queensland is either watching it, playing it or talking about it.

The state of Queensland is represented in all of Australia's national sporting competitions and is also host to a number of domestic and international sporting events. The most popular winter and summer team sports are Rugby league, Rugby union and cricket, respectively.

The annual rugby league State of Origin series is a major event in the Queensland sporting calendar, with the Queensland Maroons in 2010 winning a record fifth series in a row. The Brisbane Broncos are the state's most successful team of any sport, having won 3 premierships in the NRL rugby league era and 6 in total during their 23 year existence.

 

Major professional teams include:

• Australian Football: Brisbane Lions, Gold Coast Suns
• Basketball: Townsville Crocodiles, Cairns Taipans and the Gold Coast Blaze
• Cricket: Queensland Bulls
• Football (soccer): Brisbane Roar, North Queensland Fury(no longer in the A-League) and Gold Coast United
• Netball: Queensland Firebirds
• Rugby League:
  • Representative: Queensland Maroons
  • Clubs: Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans and the North Queensland Cowboys
  • State Competition: Queensland Cup
• Rugby Union: Queensland Reds

 

Events include:

• Gold Coast Indy 300
• State of Origin
• Queensland 400
• Quicksilver Pro and Roxy Pro

Relocation Orientation

BGC Contracting use Relocation Specialists to assist with your orientation when you arrive into Australia. This service includes the following:

• Pre-arrival communication & support
• Information/welcome pack on arrival
• Orientation to help select area/discuss schooling/housing etc
• House & school search once area selected – (accompanied)
• Settling in service – includes connecting utilities, local area information, orientation to neighbourhood, recreational activities, networking and cultural groups & local council information

 

Information Pack Contents

• Local street directory & city map
• Real Estate Information Booklets for buying and renting
• Schooling Information – public and private schooling
• Lonely Planet / Shopping / Restaurant Guides
• Road Rules/ Safety Guides
• Public Transport maps
• Relocation Specialists Information Booklet which includes:
• Real estate information, schooling information, transport, medical etc
• Local events booklet & other local or tourist information

 

Pre-Arrival Communication

To ensure that the Relocation Specialists are fully prepared for your arrival, a thorough pre departure service is included. An Account Manager will introduce themselves to the you when BGC Contracting has authorised them to do so. This may be either by email or phone depending upon requirements and location.

• Relocation and Education Questionnaires are forwarded to you to complete.
• Needs are then discussed with you to manage your expectations and to answer any additional questions you may have until your arrival

 

Relocation Specialists will be able to assist you with the following:

• Grocery shopping
• Current maps of the area (including attractions)
• Assisting you to find a suitable rental property
• Answering any general queries you may have
• Obtaining your TFN (tax file number)

 

Superannuation in Australia

Superannuation is the money you and your employer contribute during your working life to fund your retirement. In the UK people talk about “pensions” whereas in Australia the terms “super” or “superannuation” are used.

To encourage you to save for retirement the Australian government provide tax incentives. In effect super is charged at much lower rate than most other investments and therefore is considered by most to be the primary method of saving for retirement

 

Choosing a superannuation fund

If you are employed you can normally select from either an employer superannuation fund or elect to have your contributions paid to a fund chosen by yourself.

If you’re eligible to choose a fund, your employer should give you a form within 28 days of when you start work. The Standard choice form sets out your options for choosing a superannuation fund.

Many (not all) employer superannuation funds provide better value to employees because they tend to have lower fees than private funds. However, in addition to the charges paid to super fund providers, one should also be aware of the fund performance i.e. how well the find performs is just as important as the charging structure.

Contributions

Contributions to superannuation can come from a variety of sources; your employer, you, your spouse and the government. By law, employers must contribute a minimum of 9% of your salary to your super. This is known as the Superannuation Guarantee (SG). Relying on the superannuation guarantee alone to provide funds for retirement is not recommended and you should consider topping up this amount with personal contributions.

As well as personal contributions there are other tax efficient ways to boost your superannuation fund including paying spouse contributions and taking advantage of the Government co-contribution scheme.

For more information please visit … Expats Financial - Superannuation

Currently at BGC,  superannuation is capped at the statutory superannuation limit (currently $15,199.00).

 

BGC’s list of Superannuation Funds:

• AMP Superannuation Funds
• Australian Super
• AXA/National Mutual Superannuation P/L
• BT Superannuation Fund
• Builders Union Superannuation Fund (CBus)
• Colonial Superannuation Funds
• Host-Plus Hospitality Superannuation
• Industry Superannuation Fund
• MLC Superannuation Funds
• MTAA Superannuation Funds
• Matrix Superannuation
• Mercantile Mutual Superannuation Funds
• Plan B Superannuation Fund
• Prudential Select Superannuation
• Rest Superannuation Fund
• Summit Superannuation Plan
• Sun Superannuation
• Suncorp-Metway Easy Superannuation Fund
• Superwrap
• TWU Superannuation Fund
• Tower Life Australia Ltd
• West Scheme Superannuation

 

All Bank Superannuation Funds

• ANZ Superannuation Funds
• Commonwealth Superannuation Funds
• ING Superannuation Funds
• National Superannuation Funds
• Westpac Superannuation Funds

 

Self Managed Funds

These are funds that are managed by the individual.

Comparing Funds

To compare Superannuation Funds go to the Australian Super - Comparison Tool BGC have a mechanism in place that allows their employees to ‘Salary Sacrifice’ an agreed amount of their salary towards their superannuation fund (voluntary contribution). This can help boost your super and afford financial peace of mind for those twilight years.

To compare Superannuation Funds go to the Australian Super - Comparison Tool
BGC have a mechanism in place that allows their employees to ‘Salary Sacrifice’ an agreed amount of their salary towards their superannuation fund (voluntary contribution). This can help boost your super and afford financial peace of mind for those twilight years.

Medical Insurance

As you are on a 457 visa, you are not entitled to join Medicare, the government funded health system.

BGC Contracting strongly recommend that you and your family look into joining private health insurance so that you will receive coverage for a number of health services. As a temporary resident in Australia, most of the major insurance companies may charge you higher insurance premiums, BGC Contracting have joined with Ace Insurance to provide coverage to our employees on 457 visas at more competitive rates

Please note that once you obtain your Permanent Residency, you will be covered by Medicare and will no longer be covered by ACE Insurance. If you wish to continue with private health insurance, you will need to source another insurance company than ACE Insurance. iSelect are a website where you can choose and compare provide health funds

You will find the more recognised health insurance providers have superior facilities in place (i.e. having special discounts with specific providers to online claiming etc.) Another area to consider when sourcing your own private health care is waiting periods, most of which are between 6 -12 months for specific treatments. Ace Insurance may have competitive rates but if you ever decide to change to one of the better known health insurers (i.e. HBF, Medibank Private etc) your waiting periods may start all over again as it is not a recognised health insurer.

Australian Slang

A

Aggro - abbreviation for aggravated, aggressive, aggression.
Ankle biter - a small or young child.
Arvo - afternoon.
Av-a-go-yer-mug - a phrase used to encourage someone to put more effort into something.
Aussie - an Australian.

B

Bangers - sausages.
Barney - an argument, fight.
Beano / Beanfeast - a festivity, celebration.
Beanie - a small close fitting knitted cap often with a pom pom on top.
Big smoke - the city.
Billabong - a waterhole.
Billy - a container, usually makeshift, for boiling water or tea
Bloke - a man.
Bludger - a lazy person who evades responsibilities, often applied to one who collects the dole and doesn't try to find work.
Blue - to fight, a dispute; depressed in spirits; a mistake; .
Bluey - a nickname for a red-headed person; a breed of Australian work dog.
Bonza - excellent, attractive, pleasing.
Bottlo - a Bottle shop or Liquor store.
Bush telegraph / bush wire - unofficial communication network by which rumours are spread.
Bushwhacker - one who lives in the bush.
Bushwacked - extremely fatigued or exhausted.
Bush week - a fictitious week when country people come to town; a time of year when stupid things happen.
Bushytailed - full of health and good spirits.
Bust - to apprehend for an illegal activity; to go bankrupt; a police raid.
Butt - the buttocks, bottom.

C

Cakehole - mouth.
Can-do - capable and obliging.
Centralia - the inland region of Australia.
Champers - champagne.
Chinwag - a chat, conversation.
Chook - a chicken.
Cobber - a mate, friend.
Cockeyed - twisted or slanted to one side; foolish, absurd.
Codger - a bloke, fellow, especially elderly and a little odd.
Compo - compensation for injury; workers compensation.
Corker - something striking or astonishing; something very good of its kind.
Crapper - toilet.
Creepy-crawley - an insect.
Crook - sick, disabled, bad inferior; a thief; to get angry.
Crown Jewels - the testicles.
Cut up - to cause distress to; to criticise severley.

D

Dag - a person with little or no dress sense, uncouth.
Date Roll - a roll of toilet paper.
Digger - an Australian soldier, especially one who served in World War I.
Ding - a dent or damaged section of a car, bike, surfboard, etc.
Dinkum / dinki-di - true, honest, genuine.
Down the road - term indicating distance but no particular distance, it could be a few hundred metres but may be a few hundred miles.
Drongo - slow-witted or stupid person.
Dunny - an outside toilet, lavatory.

E

Earbash - to talk incessantly, someone who talks too much.

F

Fair dinkum - real, genuine, true.
Few sandwiches short of a picnic - slow witted, not all together.
Footy - rugby league.
Fridge - the refrigerator.
Full as a boot - intoxicated.
Full of it - someone is full of it if they are a liar.

G

G'day, gidday - a greeting meaning good day.
Gee-whiz - an expression indicating astonishment.
Get stuffed - go away.
Get the sh*ts - to become angry, upset or short tempered.
Gnarly - difficult, awkward; terrific, excellent.
Go a meal or drink - could eat a meal or have a drink.
Go for broke - to risk all ones capital.
Greenie - deprecatory term for an environmentalist.
Grog / booze - alcohol. beer, spirits.
Grommet - an idiot; a young surfer
Grouse - very good.
Grub - food.

H

Hack it - to tolerate something or to keep up.
Hair of the dog - an alcoholic drink taken to relieve a hangover.
Half your luck - an expression often indicating envy of one's goodwill can also be a congratulatory remark or best wishes blessing.
Hard yacka - hard work.
Hassle - to give problems, complications or aggravations.
Homestead - main residence on a sheep or cattle station (ranch or farm).
Hooroo - goodbye.

I

In the sh*t - in serious trouble.

J

Jingoes - exclamation of surprise.
Joe Blake - snake (rhyming slang).
John - toilet.
Jumbuck - a sheep.

K

Kick in - contribute money to something.
Knock off - to steal something; a counterfeit product.

L

Lag - to inform on someone.
Lair - flashily dressed young man of brash or vulgar behaviour.
Larrikin - a lout, a mischievous young chap.
Laughing gear - mouth.
Loo - toilet.

M

Mad as a cut snake - crazy.
Mate - usually a friend or acquaintance but anyone can be a mate.
Middy - a middle-sized (285ml) glass of beer.
Mug - a fool, one easily duped.

N

Nong - a fool, idiot.
Noah / noah's ark - a shark (rhyming slang).

O

Ocker - the uncultivated Australian workingman; boorish, uncouth.
Ol' cheese - mother.
Ol' man - father.
Oldies - parents.
On a good lurk - on to a good thing.
On ya mate - usually means well done but often used sarcastically.
Open slather - free-for-all, anything goes.
Oz - Australia.

P

Piker - someone who doesn't want to do something especially within a group.
Pissed - drunk.
Pissed off - disgruntled, fed up.
Plonk - any alcoholic liquor, especially cheap wine.
Poddy-dodger - a cattle rustler, one who steals unbranded calves.
Pollie / polly - a politician.
Prawn - a shrimp.
Pub - a hotel, short for public house. Usually taken to mean the bar or drinking area in a hotel.

R

Rack off - go away, get lost.
Rag - a newspaper
Ratbag - rascal, rogue.
Ripper / rip snorter - great, terrific.
Roo - short for kangaroo.

S

Sandshoes - casual footwear, joggers.
Sanga - a sandwich or sausage.
Schooner - a large-sized (425ml) glass of beer.
Scrub up - dress up.
Seppo / Septic tank - an American (rhyming slang for yank).
Servo - a petrol / service / gas station.
Sheila - girl, woman.
She'll be apples - all is well (rhyming slang).
Shout - buy or pay for; a round of drinks in the pub.
Skite - boast, brag.
Slab - a carton of 24 beer cans.
Slugo's - mens brief style bathers.
Smoko - a break from work to indulge in chit-chat and a cigarette
Spine bashing - resting, loafing.
Spit the dummy - get very upset about something.
Sport - used as a term of address usually between males like mate.
Squib - to behave in a cowardly manner or to back down.
Stickybeak - to pry or meddle; one who pries or meddles.
Strine - Australian English.
Struth - an exclamation expressing surprise or verification.
Stubby - a small bottle of beer.
Sunnies - a pair of sunglasses.
Swag - a large number or unspecified number.

T

Ta / tar - thanks.
Tee up - to organise something.
Thingy / thingo / thingummyjig - anything that doesn't have a precise name.
Tightarse - someone who won’t buy a drink or wont part with money.
Tinnie - a can of beer.
True blue - genuine.
Tucker - food.

U

Uee ('you-ee') - a U turn.
Up a gum tree - in difficulties, stranded.
Up sh*t creek - in trouble (often without a paddle indicating serious trouble).
Ute - small truck, short for utility truck.

V

VB - Victoria Bitter, a beer.

W

Walkabout - a period of wandering, usually in reference to Aborigines.
Walloper - one who thrashes someone.
Wally - someone who keeps making mistakes.
Wanker - a person who is full of themself, egotistical.
Waxxy / wax head - a surfer.
Westie - someone from Sydney's western suburbs, often used derogatorily to mean uneducated and/or uncultured. Also someone who acts like a westie.
What-da-ya-know - an expression of surprise; a friendly phrase used to open a conversation.
Wombat - a simple minded person.

X

XXXX - a Queensland beer brand (pronounced four ex).

Y

Yarn - a story.
Yobbo - loutish, surly youth.
Yonks - a long period of time.

Australian Quarantine

Please refer to the following link on what you can take into Australia
For more information please visit the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service website

 

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Australian Taxation System

 

What is a tax file number?

A tax file number or TFN is a nine-digit number issued by the Australian Tax Office to identify your tax records. It's one of your most important forms of identification. It's yours for life and keeping it secure is a good defence against identity theft.

 

Why do I need a TFN (Tax File Number) ?

When you start a job, you provide your TFN to your employer so they can take the right amount of tax from your pay. If you don't, your employer must take tax from your pay at the highest rate.

 

What do I need to apply online?

• A valid passport
• A work visa authorised by DIAC.

 

Who can apply for a tax file number online?

You can apply for a tax file number (TFN) online only if you are currently in Australia and you have:

• a valid permanent migrant visa, or
• a valid visa with work rights, or
• a valid overseas student visa, or
• a valid visa allowing you to stay in Australia indefinitely.

Only one TFN will ever be issued to you. Once you have a TFN , you don't need to re-apply for one if your circumstances change, for example, if you change your name, have investments or claim government benefits.

If you need more information, visit the nearest Tax Office shopfront site or phone 13 28 61. If you do not speak English you should contact our translating and interpreting service (TIS) on 13 14 50. People with a hearing or speech impairment can contact the Telephone Typewriter Service (TTY) on 1300 130 478.

 

More Information:

General Australian tax file number Information
Why do you need an Australian tax file number?
How to apply for an Australian tax file number?
Who can ask for your Australian tax file number?
How to find out your Australian tax file number
Further Australian tax file number Information
Identity theft and your Australian tax file number
Information about retirement benefits (superannuation) you accumulate when working in Australia
How to access your retirement benefits (superannuation) when you leave Australia
Permanent migrants or temporary visitors to Australia - online tax file number (TFN) application or enquiry

Working Visa Loans

If you need to obtain a loan on a 457 Visa, you can to speak to your nominated Bank who will advise on any documentation your will need and how to proceed.

How much can you borrow if you are on a 457 Visa?

The amount that you can borrow depends on your situation, your employment history, your marital status and your nominated Bank or Financial Lender, for example:

• 80% of the property value: Anyone that is in Australia on a work visa can borrow 80% with select banks that are happy to work with foreign citizens living in Australia.
• 90% of the property value: Mortgage loans for up to 90% of the property value are available if you have saved part of the deposit yourself in either a savings account, term deposit or shares. These funds can be in Australia or overseas. You must also have been in your job for at least 12 months.
• 95% of the property value: Home loans for up to 95% are only available if you are married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident.

Visa & Citizenship

The 457 visa is the most commonly used program for Australian or overseas employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers to work in Australia temporarily. The full title of this subclass of visa is Temporary Business (Long Stay) - Standard Business Sponsorship (Subclass 457).

The Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s website can provide details on the Temporary Business (Long Stay) - Standard Business Sponsorship (Subclass 457) Visa and Citizenship as well as Living in Australia

BGC Contracting will engage Hart Immigration for all Immigration services.

 

Requirements

Holders of this visa may be employed for a period of between one day and four years and may bring any eligible family members, including same-sex partners, who have unrestricted work and study rights in Australia. Holders of the Subclass 457 visa have no limit on the number of times they travel in and out of Australia.

Employers must be approved by the Australian government as an eligible employer. Employees must obtain a new visa and sponsorship if they wish to move to another sponsor.

Employees must also meet minimum levels of qualifications and English language skills, in addition to character and health requirements.

Whilst the employer can nominate a person for the particular position they are trying to fill, it is the Department of Immigration and Citizenship that assess and determine whether the criteria for visa grant have been met.

 

Conversion to permanent residency

457 visa holders can convert to Australian permanent residency status. It is common for 457 visa holders to apply for a permanent Australia residents visa with a view to permanently settle in Australia and become Australian citizens.

There has been a recent increase in the number of grants of permanent residence visas to people who last held a Subclass 457 visa.

BGC Contracting will support a sponsorship for permanency on a case by case basis and with Executive member approval (including all costs associated with the application). Human Resources will coordinate the visa application including the requirements needed to obtain this visa.

Australian Banks

The banking system in Australia operates efficiently and has a good reputation. All banks have large customer service departments and policies that aim to deal with customer queries and complaints quickly.

If you wish to open a bank account in Australia you will find that this is a fairly straightforward process and there are many banks to choose from. As an expat you will need to produce a certified copy of your passport, proof of your address in Australia and bank statements which cover the previous three months. If you have been in the country for some time then you may have to go through the ‘100 point system’ which proves your identity. This means that you get a certain number of points for different types of documentation. A birth certificate, passport or citizenship certificate can earn you 70 points while a photo ID can earn another 40 points. Other acceptable pieces of ID that can earn different points amounts include Medicare cards and utility bills. A full list of documentation which can be accepted will be available from the bank.

When you choose a bank you will find that both local banks and international banks are happy to open accounts for expats. Most will be able to help you to open an account before you arrive in the country but you will need to make enquiries about this as some would prefer you to be in the country when you open the account.

 

Accounts

Accounts available range from standard current accounts for everyday banking to savings accounts that can only be accessed a few times a year in order to achieve the highest rates of interest. If you need to apply for a loan or a credit card most banks will want to be able to check your credit rating, although there are some banks which have special services for expats and will take into consideration the credit rating that you have in your own country. You will be required to complete forms or go through an application with a customer service advisor at the bank. You will need to provide proof of income for both credit cards and loans.

Local banks that you could consider include the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. This bank can help you to set up an account before you move to the country. There are more than 1000 branches in Australia and the services offered include telephone and internet banking. There is multilingual customer service staff and it can take as little at 48 hours to open an account. Alternatively you can opt for the Westpac bank, which has dedicated teams to help those who are moving to Australia from another country. Westpac offer a range of services to expats including a credit card, no monthly fee for accounts for the first 6 months and a range of accounts to suit your needs. Those who need a mortgage can make an application to Westpac and there is help to transfer your UK pension to an Australian one.

 

Other Banks

There are many other banks to choose from and you may want to consider other local banks such as Bank of Queensland, National Australia Bank and St George Bank Limited. In addition there are many international banks including Bank of China, Bank of Cyprus, Deutsche Bank, HSBC, Barclays, Credit Suisse and HBOS.

 

Banking Hours

Banking hours are usually between 9.30 am and 4 pm from Monday to Thursday, although most banks will open until 5 pm on a Friday. In the cities you may find that some branches are open on a Saturday morning.

 

Credit/Debit Cards

The use of debit cards is popular in Australia and supermarkets and petrol stations offer a ‘cashback’ facility when you purchase goods, so that you can withdraw money without the need to go to an ATM. Some outlets operate simply to take payments for goods and do not operate a cashback facility. ATMs are widely used throughout the country and these can be found in all shopping areas, at all banks and at other locations including petrol stations. Some banks may charge you if you withdraw cash from ATMs of another bank although most machines will accept cards issued in another country.

For more information please visit…  Expat Focus - Australian Banking

 

'Big Four' Banks

In Australia, the 'Big Four' refers to the four largest banks by market share, who between them hold 85% of the home loan markets the country. These are:

• National Australia Bank
• Commonwealth Bank (formerly government owned)
• Westpac
• Australia and New Zealand Banking Group

 

Queensland specific Banks

Bank of Queensland
Suncorp Metway

Obtaining a loan whilst on a Visa

If you need to obtain a loan on a 457 Visa, you can to speak to your nominated Bank who will advise on any documentation your will need and how to proceed.

How much can you borrow if you are on a 457 Visa?

The amount that you can borrow depends on your situation, your employment history, your marital status and your nominated Bank or Financial Lender, for example: 80% of the property value: Anyone that is in Australia on a work visa can borrow 80% with select banks that are happy to work with foreign citizens living in Australia. 90% of the property value: Mortgage loans for up to 90% of the property value are available if you have saved part of the deposit yourself in either a savings account, term deposit or shares. These funds can be in Australia or overseas. You must also have been in your job for at least 12 months. 95% of the property value: Home loans for up to 95% are only available if you are married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident.

 

List of National and International Banks operating in Australia can be found here.

Cost of Living in Queensland

Queensland's economy has enjoyed a boom in the tourism and mining industries over the past 20 years. A sizeable influx of interstate and overseas migrants, large amounts of federal government investment, increased mining of vast mineral deposits and an expanding aerospace sector have contributed to the state's economic growth. The 2008-09 saw the expansion slow to just 0.8% the state's worst performance in 18 years.

Between 1992 and 2002, the growth in the Gross State Product of Queensland outperformed that of all the other states and territories. In that period Queensland's GSP grew 5.0% each year, while growth in Australia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rose on average 3.9% each year. Queensland's contribution to the Australian GDP increased by 10.4% in that period, one of only three states to do so.

In 2003 Brisbane had the lowest cost of living of all Australia's capital cities. In late 2005 Brisbane was the third most expensive capital for housing after Sydney and Canberra and just ahead of Melbourne by $15,000. By 2008, Queensland had the least affordable housing of any state or territory.

Primary industries include: bananas, pineapples, peanuts, a wide variety of other tropical and temperate fruit and vegetables, grain crops, wineries, cattle raising, cotton, sugar cane, wool and a mining industry including bauxite, coal, silver, lead, zinc, gold, and copper. Secondary industries are mostly further processing of the above-mentioned primary produce. For example, bauxite is shipped by sea from Weipa and converted to alumina at Gladstone. There is also copper refining and the refining of sugar cane to sugar at a number of mills along the eastern coastline. Major tertiary industries are the retail trade and tourism.

For more information, please visit the Cost of Living Calculator

Rental Accommodation

BGC Contracting use Relocation Specialists to assist with orientation when you arrive into Australia. A Consultant will make contact with you prior to your arrival and will be able to assist you with finding a suitable rental property.

You can search through houses for sale and rent on RealEstate.com.au

You may be required to provide a written reference letter from a current landlord, if you are not able to obtain this, BGC Contracting will be able to assist in providing a confirmation of employment letter for you.

 

Buying a Car

It's often said that a car is the second biggest purchase you will make after a home, so finding the right car at the right price is imperative.

 

Finding you Car Online

You can search through thousands of new and used cars for sale on the following websites:

• CarSales.com.au
• CarPoint.com.au
• Drive.com.au

 

To ensure you are paying the right price for your Car

Knowing the value of the car you wish to purchase makes good financial sense so check out the following website for more information.

The Red Book website lets you check the value of a used car before you buy.

 

Novated Lease

At the completion of your three month probationary period at BGC Contracting, you are able to sacrifice future earnings towards a novated lease. This is a personal benefit that you can access by using your pre-tax base salary only. This benefit is separate from company allocated vehicles. An employee in receipt of a company vehicle as part of their package may access this benefit; however, they can not trade off the value of the company vehicle towards this lease. We recommend that you consider consulting a Financial Advisor prior to entering into a novated lease.

For further details, please speak with Human Resources.

Driver's Licence

On arrival in Queensland you will need to apply for a Queensland car or motorbike drivers licence. Here are some tips to help you get you on the road and driving in Queensland.

 

Requirements for transferring your Overseas drivers licence to a Queensland Drivers Licence:

When applying for a Queensland Drivers Licence and you hold an overseas drivers licence (held within the past five years) other than a learner licence and are:

• from New Zealand or any Prescribed Countries, you will not be required to complete a written road rules test or a practical driving test
• from any other country - you will need to pass a written road rules test and a practical driving test to be eligible for a Queensland driver licence

 

To apply for a Queensland driver licence for the same class as your foreign driver licence, you will need to:

• complete the Driver Licence Application/Renewal Form (F3000)
• show your foreign driver licence and a recognised English translation (if required)
• show your supporting evidence of identity including Queensland residency documents
• declare that you are medically fit to drive the class of motor vehicle
• pay the licence fee
• For more information visit the Getting a Queensland licence (for overseas licence holders)

 

How do I learn about the road rules?

To learn about the Queensland road rules and generally driving in Queensland:

• download the Your keys to driving in Queensland publication
• visit our Queensland Road Rules page

 

When driving on a road in Queensland under your valid foreign driver licence you must:

• only drive the class of motor vehicle authorised on that licence
• comply with the conditions (if any) of your licence
• show your licence to a police officer when asked to do so

 

Alternative to a Passport

A Queensland drivers licence will assist in providing a proof of Identity which will save you carrying your Passport around with you.

Getting Around

Most Queenslanders have a car and drive everywhere unless you are in the main cities such as Brisbane, where commuters can catch a train, bus or ferry.  There are buses and trains to most to Northern Queensland and most regional destinations throughout Australia, see the links and information below for more information on destinations and timetables...

Queensland is served by a number of National Highways and, particularly in South East Queensland, high quality motorways such as the M1.

Rail services are provided by Queensland Rail and Pacific National, predominantly along the coamajor ports including the Port of Brisbane and subsidiary ports at Gladstone and Townsville.

 

Airports

Brisbane Airport is the main international and domestic gateway serving the state. Gold Coast Airport and Cairns International Airport are the two next most prominent airports, both with scheduled international flights. Other regional airports, with scheduled domestic flights, include Great Barrier Reef Airport, Hervey Bay Airport, Mackay Airport, Mount Isa Airport, Proserpine / Whitsunday Coast Airport, Rockhampton Airport, Sunshine Coast Airport and Townsville Airport.

 

Public Transport

South East Queensland is governed by an integrated public transport system, TransLink, which provides bus, rail and ferry services. Regional bus and long-distance rail services are also provided throughout the State. Local bus services are also available in most regional centres.

BGC Contracting

With a current annual turnover of almost $600 million and over 1,600 employees, BGC Contracting Pty Ltd is a leading Australian mining and civil construction contractor.

BGC Contracting's two operational business units (Mining and Civil) deliver a wide range of mining and construction services across the resources, oil and gas, government infrastructure, building and manufacturing sectors.

With offices in Perth and Brisbane and depots in key regional areas, the company has extensive experience on major mining and civil construction projects nationwide.

BGC Contracting is part of BGC (Australia) Pty Ltd, a privately Australian owned and diversified industrial group with an annual turnover in excess of $3.0 billion. The BGC Group is one of Australia's largest privately owned companies, which presently employs more than 4,000 people.

 

At BGC Contracting, our Values shape our culture and guide our behaviour and decision making. Our Values are:

Accountability
We are responsible for what we do

Commitment
We do what we say we are going to do

Communication
We respect others and communicate openly, honestly and clearly

Continuous Improvement
We challenge the status quo and implement change for the good

Enjoyable Workplace
We are people of integrity who mix hard work with a supportive, fun environment

Sense of Pride
We are proud of what we do and who we are

Teamwork
We work in teams to deliver the best solutions

 

Testimonials

"When we were looking to move to Australia, BGC Contracting provided us with the ideal opportunity through excellent career advancement and family friendly relocation. With professional visa application assistance, an easy-going employment process and friendly meet-and-greet hospitality all the unknowns in immigrating were easily overcome."
Thanks to that "We are living the dream, Mate".

- The Grobler family (Australian since 2009)

Current Projects

For a list of up-to-date information on Current Projects please visit the BGC Website via the link below.  

Recruitment Process

We are looking for experienced and capable people who have the right attitude to live in our culture and make a difference in our Projects. In exchange, you will receive:

• numerous challenging opportunities across a diversity of projects
• relocation and settlement support for you and your family
• attractive and competitive salary package
• membership to a high performing and strong team culture

 

There has never been a better time to come and enjoy what Australia can offer you!

Please see Current Vacancies to apply to become part of the team. You must have, or be eligible to obtain (with our support as agreed), the appropriate visa for the position you are applying for.

 

Employment Process

Our Employment Process will ensure that appropriately skilled and experienced employees are selected according to our project and position requirements.  All candidates shall successfully pass all stages of our employment process prior to being considered for an offer of employment being made.

 

Working in Australia at BGC Contracting, you will receive the following entitlements:

 

Leave

You are entitled to a variety of leave as an employee for various circumstances, specifically:

• Annual Leave
• Personal Leave (Sick/Carer’s leave)
• Compassionate Leave
• Leave Without Pay
• Community Service Leave
• Parental Leave
• Jury and Witness Duty Leave
• Defence Force Leave

 

Flexible Working Arrangements

Under some circumstances, you are able to request for flexible working arrangements.

 

Remuneration

You will be entitled to a review of your salary/wage as specified in either your Employee Collective Agreement or your Letter of Offer.

 

Benefits

Journey Accident Insurance
You are covered for lost time off work due to an injury gained in a journey between your home and workplace for purposes of work.

Salary Sacrifice - Superannuation
You are able to use your pre-tax salary to make extra contributions towards Superannuation.

Salary Sacrifice - Novated Lease
You are able to use your pre-tax salary to make extra contributions towards a vehicle under a novated lease program.

Service Awards
BGC Contracting recognises and celebrates the contributions and service milestones achieved by our employees.

Assistance Program
You, and your partner and dependent children can access free professional counselling to help resolve personal and work related problem.

Income Protection
If you are a member of the BGC Default Superannuation plan, Spectrum Super, you may be able to access a monthly income benefit that is payable if you are temporarily unable to work due to a non-work related injury, illness or accident.

Clothing
You will be issued with standard site specific clothing items, with replacement(s) on a fair wear-and-tear basis.

Working in Remote Regions Allowance
Depending on personal circumstances you may be entitled to an allowance for working in remote regions.

Relocation Expense Reimbursement
You may be entitled to certain benefits if you are offered a staff position transfer to another location within Australia.

Relocation Household Goods Insurance
If you are relocating your household goods as part of a transfer to another location, you are entitled to insurance to cover these goods.

Vehicles
Certain positions are entitled to a vehicle.

Travel
You are entitled to certain benefits if you are required to undertake temporary business travel as part of your position.

BGC Australia Offers
You may be entitled to offers from other BGC companies.

So whether you are seeking a lifestyle of beautiful landscapes, friendly people and attractive climates, or you would like to come and see firsthand, what it is like to work in a company that is truly Australia... take a leap. Come and see what we have to offer!

Tourism

Tourism is Queensland's leading tertiary industry with millions of interstate and overseas visitors flocking to the Sunshine State each year. The industry generates $4.0 billion annually, accounting for 4.5% of Queensland's GSP. Queensland is a state of many landscapes that range from sunny tropical coastal areas, lush rainforests to dry inland areas.

The main tourist destinations of Queensland include, Brisbane, Far North Queensland including Cairns, Port Douglas and the Daintree Rainforest, Gold Coast, the Great Barrier Reef, Hervey Bay and nearby Fraser Island, North Queensland including Townsville and Magnetic Island, North Stradbroke Island and South Stradbroke Island, the Sunshine Coast and the Whitsundays known for Airlie Beach, Whitehaven Beach, Hamilton Island and Daydream Island.

The Gold Coast of Queensland is also sometimes referred to as "Australia's Theme Park Capital", with five major amusement parks. These are Dreamworld, Movie World, Sea World, Wet 'n' Wild and WhiteWater World.

There are also wildlife parks in Queensland, including:

Gold Coast

• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary at Currumbin
• David Fleay Wildlife Park at Burleigh Heads

Sunshine Coast

• UnderWater World at Mooloolaba
• Australia Zoo near Beerwah/Glass House Mountains, home of Steve Irwin until his death in 2006.

Brisbane

• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary at Fig Tree Pocket
• Brisbane Forest Park at The Gap

North of Brisbane

• Alma Park Zoo at Dakabin
• Kumbartcho Wildlife Sanctuary (originally Bunya Park Wildlife Sanctuary)

See also: Tourism in Brisbane

Frequently Asked Questions

How much will I be paid each pay?

BGC Contracting pays all employees on a fortnightly basis (2 weeks in arrears).
Please use the Pay Calculator to provide you with an estimate guide of your fortnightly salary.

 
What happens when I land in Australia?

Please refer to the 'When you Arrive' icon for further information.

 
Does BGC have any preference to which moving companies to use?

BGC's preferred relocation agent is Allied Pickfords.
You will need to obtain an additional two (2) quotes which can be from any other relocation company. Some other popular relocation companies are:

• Grace Removals
• Wridgways
• Kent

 
Will my goods be covered by insurance in the Relocation?

Yes, this will be through BGC Contracting (ACE Insurance).

 
What Visa will I come to Australia on?

• Temporary Business (Long Stay) - Standard Business Sponsorship (Subclass 457) Visa
• Working Holiday Visa

 
What are the school terms in Queensland?

Queensland School Terms

 
What is a Public Holiday and when will we receive this in Queensland?

Queensland Public Holidays

 

Primary School

In Queensland, primary school includes Preparatory (Prep) to Year 7. Sometimes this is abbreviated to P-7. There are thousands of primary schools throughout Queensland.

 

Find a school

The Education Department has a school directory. Search for a Queensland state school or non-state school. You can also use the search tools on the Independent Schools Queensland website. Many private schools have very long waiting lists so it’s best to contact the schools directly to find out their enrolment policy and estimated waiting list. If you are trying to choose between schools, you may like to review the MySchool website to compare results for schools around Australia.

 

Enrolment

In Queensland, every child is guaranteed enrolment at their local state primary school (sometimes called public schools). There are no fees to attend but there are costs for uniforms, books, excursions and other contributions. Most state primary schools in Brisbane don’t reach their enrolment limits and will accept any student. If you choose to send your child to a state primary school that has reached its enrolment limit, there will be an enrolment management plan in place. Generally, you will need to live within the ‘catchment’ area (the area immediately surrounding the school as defined by Education Queensland) or place your name on the waiting list. Each school with an enforced enrolment limit will have an enrolment policy that you can read.

 

Prep and Year 1

In 2007 Prep year replaced preschool in all Queensland state schools. Most private primary schools also offer Prep year. The Preparatory year (or Prep year) is not compulsory. It runs five days per week and children are part of the primary school environment. To go to Prep children need to turn five by June 30 of the year they attend. Still confused? Look at the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about prep on the Education Queensland website. Take a look at the information from Education Queensland to understand when your child can start school, based on birth date.

 

School holidays and more

Put the school holiday dates for 2010 to 2013 into your diary. And make sure you come back to read our regular school holidays feature for ideas of things to do with the kids. Read general information about school hours, enrolment requirements and outside school hours care in Brisbane. Details differ from school to school, so if you have specific questions always give the school a call. They will be able to answer your questions and will have information about school hours, before and after-school care arrangements, uniforms and P&C issues.

 

High School

High schools (sometimes called secondary schools) offer education in Years 8 to 12 (normally these are Grades 8 to 12).

 

Find a high school

The Education Department has a school directory. Search for a Queensland state high school or non-state school (including independent, private or religious high schools). Or use the search tools on the Independent Schools Queensland website to find a high school.

 

School holidays

Years 10, 11 and 12 will finish the final term of the year earlier than other grades. Check with the school for dates, or check the Education Queensland holidays and term dates information.

 

Senior high school

All Year 10 students have the opportunity to develop Senior Education and Training (SET) plans and register with the Queensland Studies Authority (QSA). One option is to finish Year 12 and get a student education profile. This profile includes:

• A senior certificate (showing results from subjects)
• The QCS (Queensland Core Skills) test result
• A Tertiary Entrance Statement, including an OP (Overall Position) and FP (Field Position)

An OP is needed for entry to university or other tertiary study. You can get more information about how an OP is calculated and answers to other frequently asked questions about OPs from the Queensland Studies Authority website. If a student doesn’t want an OP, they can study VET subjects (vocational educational and training subjects). They also have the option of doing a school based apprenticeship or traineeship. Confused about all the options and terms? The Education Queensland FAQs about senior schooling may help.

 

Leaving school

As of 2006, the school leaving age is 16 or when a student completes Year 10 (whichever comes first). They then must take part in some form of education or training for two years after they have completed Year 10, or be working in paid employment for at least 25 hours a week. For more information check out the Education Queensland’s information on the senior phase of learning.

 

Schools of Excellence

Some state high schools offer Schools of Excellence. These give students the chance to study a skill (for example, dance, aviation or sport) to a professional level as well as studying their regular subjects.

 

Other types of schools

Albert Park Flexi School - offers a new way of finishing high school. It provides academic, social, emotional and physical support to young people who are unable to attend a mainstream high school. To attend the Flexi School, you will need to be:

• aged between 14 years, 9 months and 19 years, and
• have difficulty attending a mainstream high school

There are many reasons why you may not be able to attend a mainstream high school. Examples include: exclusion, school/family difficulties, substance abuse, absense from school for a long time because of illness, pregnancy, moving, or you may have special needs. Flexi School students can achieve a Year 10 Certificate or Senior Certificate and Overall Position (OP). If you’re an adult and want to improve or continue with your education, TAFE and Adult and Community Education (ACE) courses could be just what you’re looking for.

 

Terms of Use

Terms and Conditions

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF USE CAREFULLY BEFORE USING THIS WEBSITE. All users of this site agree that access to and use of this site is subject to the following terms and conditions and other applicable law. If you do not agree to these terms and conditions, please do not use this site.

 

Contents of Website for “information only”

While we have made every effort to ensure that information is free from error, the website provides general information only, and cannot deal with all of your personal circumstances. It is not a replacement for proper advice from relevant professionals (including accountants, lawyers and migration agents). BGC Contracting Pty Ltd (BGC) does not warrant the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of material on this website. All information is subject to change without notice.

BGC recommends that you seek independent advice tailored to your own circumstances before acting upon material on this web site or third party material.

 

Copyright

The entire content included in this site, including but not limited to text, graphics or code is copyrighted as a collective work under the Australian and other copyright laws, and is the property of BGC. Individual works included in the collective work may be subject to copyright held by others. Permission is granted to electronically copy and print hard copy portions of this site for the sole purpose of considering the matters set out therein. You may display and, subject to any expressly stated restrictions or limitations relating to specific material, download or print portions of the material from the different areas of the site solely for your own non-commercial use. Any other use, including but not limited to the reproduction, distribution, display or transmission of the content of this site is strictly prohibited, unless authorised by BGC. You further agree not to change or delete any proprietary notices from materials downloaded from the site.

 

Trademarks

All trademarks, service marks and trade names of BGC and other members of the BGC Group of companies used in the site are trademarks or registered trademarks of BGC or the BGC Group of companies.

 

Warranty Disclaimer

This site and the materials and products on this site are provided "as is" and without warranties of any kind, whether express or implied. To the fullest extent permissible pursuant to applicable law, BGC disclaims all warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement. BGC does not represent or warrant that the functions contained in the site will be uninterrupted or error-free, that the defects will be corrected, or that this site or the server that makes the site available are free of viruses or other harmful components. BGC does not make any warrantees or representations regarding the use of the materials in this site in terms of their correctness, accuracy, adequacy, usefulness, timeliness, reliability or otherwise. Any non-excludable liability is limited to the re-provision of the services provided on the web-site. Some states or countries do not permit limitations or exclusions on warranties, so the above limitations may not apply to you.

 

Limitation of Liability

BGC shall not be liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site, even if BGC has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Applicable law may not allow the limitation of exclusion of liability or incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.

 

Term; Termination

These terms and conditions are applicable to you upon you accessing the site. BGC may cease to provide all or any part of the material set out on the web-site without notice at any time, for any reason. The provisions of these terms shall survive any termination.

 

Miscellaneous

Your use of this site shall be governed in all respects by the laws of the state of Western Australia, Australia, without regard to choice of law provisions. You agree that jurisdiction over and venue in any legal proceeding directly or indirectly arising out of or relating to this site shall be in the state or federal courts located in Perth, Western Australia. Any cause of action or claim you may have with respect to the site must be commenced within one (1) year after the claim or cause of action arises. BGC's failure to insist upon or enforce strict performance of any provision of these terms and conditions shall not be construed as a waiver of any provision or right. Neither the course of conduct between the parties nor trade practice shall act to modify any of these terms and conditions.

 

Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless BGC, its officers, directors, employees, agents, licensors and suppliers from and against all losses, expenses, damages and costs, including reasonable solicitors' fees, resulting from any use of the site by you.

 

Third-Party Links

In an attempt to provide increased value to our visitors, BGC may link to sites operated by third parties. However, even if the third party is affiliated with BGC, BGC has no control over these linked sites. The links to these sites are only for your convenience and therefore you access them at your own risk, and the content of those sites is wholly the responsibility of the owners of those sites, and BGC is not liable in any way for any such content. Nonetheless, BGC seeks to protect the integrity of its web site and the links placed upon it and therefore requests any feedback on not only its own site, but for sites it links to as well (including if a specific link does not work).