Most UK Skilled and Business Migrants Going to WA
The number of skilled migrants arriving in Western Australia has more than doubled in the past 10 years according to statistics released by the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenouus Affairs (DIMIA).

Western Australia has become the most popular destination for UK skilled migrants. Last financial year 5120 arrived in the State, with New South Wales the next in line with around 4500 arrivals.

George Etrelezis managing director of the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) said there was a similar trend in business migrants coming to Western Australia from the UK.

"In the 12 months from January to December 2004 the SBDC approved 356 State sponsorships for business migrants and their families with around one third of these coming from the UK - Western Australia is now also the most popular destination for UK business migrants coming to Australia."

The SBDC led a Western Australian delegation to the UK in March to participate jointly with the State's European Office in London in their fifth Emigrate Expo.

Mr. Etrelezis said the success of the Western Australian stand at the Expo and other events with the State's UK office would have had a significant influence on UK skilled and business migrants continuing to choose WA as their new home.

"Western Australia with a strong economy, low unemployment rate and growth industries together with one of the best lifestyles in the world is seen as the State of opportunity by both skilled and business migrants. Another attraction is that the Western Australian Government through the SBDC and the UK European Office assists and supports business migrants relocate to the State," said Mr. Etrelezis.

"Our total service package not only provides State sponsorship support and information and guidance on business skills visas but also assists with the establishment and development of business once migrants arrive in the state."

"The Business Migration Program is one of Western Australias key investment attaction initiatives and the UK market is currently delivering the best overall results," Mr. Etrelezis said.

For further information on business migration to Western Australia go to:

www.businessmigration.sbcd.com.au