Country Profile

Australia, an island surrounded by the indian and pacific oceans, was discovered as a british convict colony in 1788. the world's smallest continent, australia encompasses 7,617,930 square kilometers landmass on the indo-australian plate. It has six states, two major mainland territories and other minor territories. Australia has a prosperous mixed economy with a per capita income $37,500. Mining, chemicals and steel constitutes the major part of australia's industrial sector. Coal, gold, meat and wool are exported from australia to worldwide nations. The human development index for australia is 0.962, which place the country on 3rd rank out of 177 countries.

Snapshot

Economic Overview

• Western-style capitalist economy.
• Rising domestic economy.
• Vast agricultural country, largest exporters of wool, meat and cotton.
• The principal industry is of food processing followed by service industry.
• Growing ties with China plays an important role.

International Trade
Major Export Items
Wool, Meat, Cotton, Coal, Gold, Alumina, Iron Ore, Wheat, Machinery and Transport Equipment.

Main Destinations of Exports
Japan, China, US, South Korea, New Zealand, India, UK.

Major Import Items
Machinery and Transport Equipment, Computers and Office Machines, Telecommunication Equipment and Parts, Crude Oil and Petroleum Products.

Main Origins of Imports
US, China, Japan, Germany, Singapore, UK.

Contacts of Trade Ministries/ Associations

Business Visa Rules
Business Visa is issued to the following categories:

• Executives, managers and specialists employed by a company operating in Australia.
• Personnel from foreign companies which are seeking to establish a branch there or participate in joint ventures. They are also available to employees fulfilling a contract awarded to a foreign company.
• Independent executives seeking to join an existing business, or establish their own in Australia. In order to qualify for a temporary business visa in this category, you must have personal net assets of at least $250,000, and a genuine commitment (either as owner or part owner) to a business which is of benefit to Australia.
• Personnel sponsored by an Australian business.

Note :- The processing time varies depending on the person's circumstances. 3 to 6 months is the estimated time taken. Sponsored applications are given priority. Established business in visa may take 5 to 10 months.

Business Hours
Office Business Hourss are generally from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm and Monday to Friday.

Public Holidays