Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Do I need to sit an English test?

Yes. As of July 1st 2009, all overseas trained nurses are required to sit a Basic English language proficiency test. You must achieve an overall score of 7.0 or more with a minimum score of 7.0 in all categories. Plexus can provide English Language training for our candidates. Further details of the test can be found at IELTS. If you have any concerns about the testing process then please talk to one of our consultants. We are here to help.

Q2. Is there an upper age limit for healthcare workers coming to work temporarily in Australia?

No. If your qualifications are suitable you will be able to work in Australia on a temporary basis at any age.

Q3. Is the cost of living in Australia less than in, say the UK?

In some aspects life in Australia is much cheaper than in the UK. Petrol prices are significantly less as is the cost of meat, wine and sporting events. House prices are high in the capital cities here but rental properties can always be found to suit any budget. For more information see our Cost of Living Table.

Q4. Do I need private health insurance while I am living/working in Australia?

This is compulsory now for all 457 visa holders. There are, however, significant tax incentives to taking out health insurance so generally these equate to the cost of the insurance so you will not be "out of pocket". Australia has reciprocal agreements with several European countries (see Medicare for further details) but there are exemptions. There is a choice of specific policies for visitors to Australia, which you can review by following these links:

Medibank Private
MBF
Australian Unity
AusHealth

Q5. What are schools like in Australia and will I be able to enroll my children at any point in the school year?

State schooling here is very similar to that in European countries. Children begin school at age 5 and the Australian system is well resourced and of a high standard. There is much less pressure put on children here than in the UK with the emphasis being on producing active and resourceful lifelong learners rather than attaining a specified standard.

State schools must accept any child who lives in that particular school's zone irrespective of whether they are "full" or not so you will always be able to get them in, although class sizes have been capped at 22 in primary schools. If you have children discuss their needs with your recruitment consultant so we can ensure that the placement is right for them.

Q6. Do I need to have an interview with my employers before they accept me for my post?

You will be interviewed by one of our consultants prior to us matching you with a post. This allows us to get a good understanding of your skills and requirements and so should streamline the process for you. Your prospective employers may well wish to interview you and Plexus will arrange this for you usually via phone, video or tele-conferencing. Plexus also offers interview preparation documentation and 1:1 coaching to ensure you are fully prepared for your interview.

Q7. How will my personal details be used and protected?

Plexus Medical Recruitment prides itself on the high standards of privacy and data protection we achieve. You can view full details of our relevant policies by following these links Privacy / Data Collection. All of our computers and computer held files are password protected and only Plexus staff has access to written information. If you would like to further discuss the use or protection of your information please contact Gillian Emond

Q8. Who decides on which post I am put forward for?

You do. Plexus Medical Recruitment will ask for detailed information from you that allow us to find a job that we think will suit all your requirements. If that post is not what you are looking for then we will be happy to repeat our search until we successfully find a post that suits you. We also spend time discussing alternative locations with you at interview to ensure you have a full understanding of the range of options available.

Q9. I have been offered a job and accepted, what happens next?

You will talk with our Registered Migration Agent who will discuss with you your options of Visa and assist you throughout that process. We will also discuss with you your accommodation needs and make sure we have something in place for your arrival. Once you are given the go ahead to book flights you will just need to let us know those details and we will arrange a limo pick up at the airport and book your hotel/apartment so you can rest assured you will be well looked after once you arrive.

When relocating overseas (to Australia or New Zealand) you will need the services of a reliable International Moving company. For further information CLICK HERE.

Please contact us if you have a question that has not been answered here. Our recruitment consultants will be happy to answer any question that you have.