The Down Under Centre Migrating to Australia Podcast

Welcome to the DUC Migrating to Australia Podcast!

On this episode, Wes is joined by Sean Malone. Sean is Team Leader for Migrant Attraction and Connection in the South Australian Government. We last spoke to Sean on the Podcast last year in May.

Sean discusses the latest developments in migration policy, the importance of skilled migration, and South Australia's lifestyle benefits.

Wes and Sean explore how recent ministerial directions impact visa processing and the opportunities for skilled workers in South Australia.

Key topics:

• Impact of Ministerial Direction 121 and 122 on migration.
• The importance of skilled workers in construction, healthcare, and education.
• South Australia's lifestyle benefits and cost of living.
• The role of English proficiency in visa eligibility.
• Upcoming migration events and roadshows in the UK and Southeast Asia.

Record date: 28/9/26

https://www.downundercentre.com/

Welcome to the DUC Migrating to Australia Podcast!

On this episode, Wes Zandt is joined by Sam Sleep.  Sam (Electrician) lives in Perth and works FIFO in WA.

Sam is growing his social media presence, specifically around FIFO, and helps others with advice, what to expect, and how to do it.

Key Topics:

• Skills assessment process
• Visa application timeline and tips for onshore applicants
• Working in FIFO roles: pay, shifts, and lifestyle
• Life on Australian mining camps: facilities, food, and health
• Mount Everest expedition planning and altitude training
• Building a property business across multiple countries
• The impact of Australian lifestyle on personal growth
• Networking and guidance in the migration process
• Advice for UK tradies wanting to move to Australia
• Balancing work, travel, and personal development

You can find Sam on the socials:

YouTube: youtube.com/@samsleepyt

Instagram: instagram.com/samsleep_

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sam-sleep-24b9282b2

FIFO Guidebook: fifoguidebook.vercel.app

Start here with The DUC: https://www.downundercentre.com/

G'Day and thanks for listening!

In this episode, Kasper shares his journey with Wes.

From Denmark to Australia (NSW), navigating visas (186 Employer Sponsored), skills assessments, and life as a Carpenter.

Kasper discusses the Skills Assessment, including the Skills Assessment portal, as well as life in Australia.

Record date: 8/9/26

Information about the Carpenter Skills Assessment: https://www.downundercentre.com/carpenter-skills-assessment-australia_s8

Employer Sponsored Visas: https://www.downundercentre.com/employer-sponsored-visas-australia

Welcome to the DUC Migrating to Australia Podcast!

On this episode, Wes is joined by Leanne, Beth, and Jude (9). 

They were granted 190 visas in February 2024 and moved in January 2025. They settled on the Bellarine Peninsula in Victoria and got a rental and jobs.

They have now moved out of their rental and plan to travel around Australia to see where they want to put roots down. They have recently been taking advantage of the great house-sitting apps, and they are 4 sits in, travelling in a caravan, with lots planned for the remainder of 2026.

Record date: 24/8/26

Start here for help with Visas: https://www.downundercentre.com/australian-visas

Free visa points calculator: https://www.downundercentre.com/free-visa-points-calculator

G'day and thanks for listening!

On this episode, Wes Zandt is joined by Katie and Tom. They live in the UK, and Tom was offered Employer Sponsorship three weeks ago!

Tom completed his Skills Assessment through the DUC as a Diesel Motor Mechanic. Katie is a Digital Learning Advisor.

They are heading to Perth.

Record date: 17/8/26

Start here: https://www.downundercentre.com/

G'Day and thanks for listening to the Podcast - be sure to subscribe for new episodes!

In this episode, Lisa Chambers chats with James and Chelsey about their journey from the UK to Australia, exploring life in Canberra, work, lifestyle, and relocation tips.

James and Chelsey moved from the UK on a Working Holiday Visa; they then obtained an Employer Sponsored Visa and are now starting the process of applying for permanent residency.

Also, did we really say Parliament House is like something out of the Teletubbies?! Enjoy the episode!

Find out about the visas The Down Under Centre can help you with here: https://www.downundercentre.com/australian-visas

Thanks for tuning in!

On this episode, Wes is joined by Andrew Nash.

We last recorded an episode with Andrew in March last year (2025). At that point,  Andrew had received a State Nomination for Queensland in February 2025.

Fast forward to now, and the 190 Visa has been granted. He and his family are getting ready to leave the UK next month.

Andy shares his journey since we last spoke, including planning, selling their home, and managing family and work transitions. He also discusses the emotions that come with the final stages of relocation.

Record date 28/7/26

Find out how The Down Under Centre can help you with your move to Australia: https://www.downundercentre.com/

In this episode, Lisa Chambers chats with Bree Back (DUC Relocation Agent - Sydney) about Sydney, the local lifestyle, and how the DUC relocation services help clients find rental homes.

Discover insights into living in Sydney, the housing market, and practical tips for newcomers.

Information about the DUC Home Search Service can be found here: https://relocation.downundercentre.com/need-assistance-finding-a-rental/

If you would like to come on an episode of this podcast, please email Lisa Chambers: [email protected]

In this episode, Lisa Chambers hosts Barbara Graff and Jess Aumonier, Brisbane-based DUC Relocation Agents.

They discuss the Brisbane lifestyle, weather, and the DUC Home Search process.

They share personal migration stories, insights into Brisbane neighborhoods, and tips for securing a home in Brisbane.

Find out more about the DUC Home Search Service here: https://relocation.downundercentre.com/need-assistance-finding-a-rental/

Things to do, places to see in QLD here: https://relocation.downundercentre.com/things-to-do-places-to-see-ql/

G'Day and thanks for tuning in!

On this episode, Wes Zandt is joined by Harriet Taylor.  Harriet moved to Perth with her family in November 2025.

She is a Business Mentor and Coach, and Adam (Husband) is a Lift Mechanic. Harriet has also just written her first book!

They used the DUC for the Skills Assessment and are waiting for their 190 visas to process (here on a 482 visa).

Record date: 16/6/26

Find Harriet's book on Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1764638107

Or Amazon Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/1764638107

Start your journey with The Down Under Centre: https://www.downundercentre.com/