Choosing to study in Canada or Australia is an important decision. Whether it’s to get an international degree or take a holiday, these two countries offer various benefits.
Economic Strength
Despite their population, culture, institutions, and political similarities, Australia and Canada are also quite different economically. They are two of the most resource-rich and resource-dependent countries in the world. While both countries are resource-dependent, they also have a diversified economic structure that allows them to export commodities and trade with each other.
The main exports of Canada are motor vehicles, machinery, and industrial equipment. However, the country is also a significant source of natural gas, ranked as the third largest natural resource on the planet. The main exports of Australia are tobacco, fruits, and wood pulp. The country’s main export partners are the United States, Japan, Korea, and China.
Historically, labor market efficiency has been one of the weakest aspects of the Australian economy. However, this has vastly improved over the past decade. This has allowed the economy to expand at an above-average rate. In addition, labor force participation is relatively high. However, wages need to rise sustainably in the face of higher prices. The Bank of Canada has been more aggressive in its fight against inflation, and the policy rate is now a whopping 2.5%. This has helped the economy to generate over 1 million jobs since May 2014.
Both countries are members of the G20 group. Both countries share a federal system of government. Both have a bicameral parliament and are considered relatively open commodity-exporting countries. They have participated in the TPP negotiations and the Chinese-led Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). They have signed trade deals with both Korea and China.
Canada’s government debt-to-GDP ratio is much lower than Australia’s. Canada has the lowest net debt-to-G7 ratio among the G7 nations. The Canadian economy is projected to develop at a typical yearly pace of 1.9% in 2020. The Bank of Canada’s policy rate is expected to be 3.5% by the end of the year. The country’s nominal GDP is estimated to be around US$1.8 trillion. Inflation is projected to remain above the Bank of Canada’s target range of 1-3 percent.
Both countries have a well-educated workforce and a strong economy. The service sector accounts for over 70 percent of the Canadian economy, and the banking framework is one of the soundest on the planet. While the Australian economy is experiencing a decline in employment, it has had some impressive growth recently. The joblessness rate is at an eight-year low, and there are indications that the housing market is beginning to slow down.
Both countries are open to trade and immigration. While both are prone to ups and downs, they are both relatively free economies. The economy of Australia is currently ranked 18th in the world in terms of GDP. Similarly, the economy of Canada is ranked 13th.
Post Study Work Options
Choosing between the two countries for a post-study work visa is crucial. In Australia, students have the advantage of gaining new skills and experiencing a different culture. Aside from this, the country is home to beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and wildlife. These are some reasons Australia remains a top choice for international students. In any case, there are a couple of things that you should know before deciding.
If you’re a graduate of an Australian university, you might be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. This permits you to live and work in Australia for four years. To fit the bill for this visa, you should have completed a recognized course and received a degree. Depending on your study program, you can stay in the country for six years. Aside from this, you’ll also be able to bring your family along.
You can also apply for a Post-Graduation Work Visa through the Australia Immigration website. You’ll need to provide a digital copy of your documents and pay an application fee. Once you’ve submitted your visa application, the Home Affairs department will give you a decision. Your visa status affects your hiring decisions and your ability to find a job in the future.
In addition to a post-study work visa, you’ll need to apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa. This is designed to attract highly skilled individuals and help them gain work experience in the country. You’ll have the option to remain in the country for up to two to four years after you graduate, allowing you to explore the country and gain work experience. You’ll be able to extend your Post-Graduation Work Visa by applying for an EAD or OPT. Alternatively, you can apply for an open work visa to allow your spouse to join you in the country. Applicants holding a Post-Graduation Work Visa can improve their English language skills through ELICOS.
To get a Post-Study Work Visa, you must be under 50. You’ll need to prove your eligibility by providing a current passport page, a national ID card, a completion letter from your education provider, and proof of your English language proficiency. You’ll also need to prove that you can maintain your health insurance. You’ll need to provide attested copies of your course transcripts and English language proficiency test results. You’ll also need to provide proof of your name change.
You’ll need to choose between the two major post-study work streams: The Graduate Work Stream and the Post Study Work Stream. The former is aimed at graduates studying in Australia for at least one year and having degrees from an Australian college or university. The latter is for worldwide understudies who have recently moved on from an Australian university and are seeking work experience.
Family Oriented Housing
Having lived in Vancouver and Brisbane for several years, I’ve seen firsthand how densely packed our inner cities are. I’ve also seen the media coverage of families who like to live close to the town center. This is no different for Aboriginal Australians disproportionately affected by homelessness. In some cases, lower-income households are forced to live on the city’s periphery due to the lack of affordable housing.
The Wonder Mia project is a pilot initiative to provide long-term accommodation to Aboriginal families in Perth. The project aims to demonstrate how a socially and culturally inclusive design can work for the disadvantaged. It incorporates features such as a yarning session with the family Elders, a case worker, and data-driven metrics. The result is a more stable, long-term living environment for Robby and his family.
Finding affordable, practical, family-friendly condos for parents with young children takes work. You’ll be lucky to get a one-bedroom unit. The Wonder Mia project is one of many models of this type. The aptly named H&W Development Corporation builds larger suites for families with kids. Typical suites are about 800 square feet, which is a decent size for a condominium.