Australian Oil and Gas Projects Overview 2011

Of the 75 projects listed as advanced by the Australian Bureau of Agriculture and Resources Economics (ABARE), 41 are in the energy sector.  An advanced project is one which has already commenced construction or has been approved to commence construction.

Of the 75 projects across the total Australian Resource Sector, 67 are already under construction (with 30 of these still underway this year and in 2012) and eight are still to start, but will do so within the next three years.

In addition, there are 286 less advanced projects identified by ABARE which cite an operational date, but not a construction start date – but most are slated to commence production in the period 2012 to 2020.

Together the total number of new jobs anticipated for the combined sectors for the period 2011 to 2015 includes 45,000 in construction, 61,500 in mining operations and 3,200 in oil and gas operations.

Currently there are only a few projects underway in states like New South Wales, Northern Territory and South Australia, but this looks to dramatically change going forward.  The locations where some projects are currently drawing labour from – or anticipate drawing labour from – may change once increased opportunities present in home locations for employees and candidates.

The National Resource Skills Taskforce analysis released in 2010 shows: 

• Construction jobs on new projects could peak at 45,000 in 2012 and 2013, with strong jobs growth for technicians and tradespeople, and machinery operators and drivers.
• In LNG operations, pending the number of LNG trains constructed by 2015, employment could increase by around 3,200 (eg if four new trains are sanctioned and operating in Queensland and six in Western Australia).  There will be strong jobs growth for drillers (Queensland only), operators, electrical trades and mechanical technicians.
• Replacement demand in gas operations could be around 2,000 persons per annum, including approximately 500 retirements.

The report cites emerging shortages at present—mainly engineers and other professional staff with more than five years experience.

At the time of release, the report claimed there was a significant number of unemployed tradespeople.  However, the Taskforce expects labour market tightening will result in skills shortages by late 2011 to early 2012, particularly in Western Australia and some regions of Queensland. As a result, the resources sector could be 36,000 tradespeople short by 2015.

Each year, we provide an update on major mining, oil and gas projects which are already under construction, or are considered to have a strong likelihood of being approved.  The list is not exhaustive, but does provide those working in the industry, or considering working in the industry, with an insight into career opportunities - where they are located and timeframes.

Unless otherwise stated, all dollar figures in the blogs are in Australian dollars.  All information has been attained and extensively researched from current public sources and is true and correct to our best knowledge at this time

Australian Mining Projects Overview 2011

With 61,500 new operational jobs expected in the mining sector alone by 2015, as well as tens of thousands more in the construction stages (according to estimates released in the National Resources Sector Employment Taskforce report in July 2010), the industry is facing a skills shortage that far exceeds that experienced in the five years preceding 2008.

There are currently 75 advanced projects listed by the Australian Bureau of Agriculture and Resources Economics (ABARE).  Of the 75, 67 are already under construction (with 30 of these still underway in 2011 and 2012) and eight are still to start, but will do so within the next three years.  41 projects are in the energy sector (predominantly coal seam gas/liquefied natural gas), 28 are in mining (predominantly coal and iron ore) and six in mineral processing.

The 286 less advanced projects identified by ABARE cite an operational commencement date, but not a construction start date – but most are slated to commence production in the period 2012 to 2020.

Currently there are only a few projects underway in states like New South Wales, Northern Territory and South Australia, but this looks to dramatically change going forward.  The locations where some projects are currently drawing labour from – or anticipate drawing labour from – may change once increased opportunities present in home locations for employees and candidates.

National Resource Skills Taskforce analysis of 2010 shows: 

• Construction jobs on new projects could peak at 45,000 in 2012 and 2013, with strong jobs growth for technicians and tradespeople, and machinery operators and drivers.
• Employment growth in mining operations is expected to be 4.9 per cent per annum over the next five years, creating around 61,500 new jobs by 2015 due to increased production, driven by demand from Asia.  There will be strong demand for professionals in addition to the skills in point one.
• In addition, further vacancies will occur in mining and gas operations as around 10 per cent of employees leave the sector each year through retirement or transition to other sectors.  Replacement demand in mining operations could be around 16,000 persons per annum, including approximately 3,000 retirements.

The report cites emerging shortages at present—mainly engineers and other professional staff with more than five years experience.

At the time of release, the report claimed there was a significant number of unemployed tradespeople.  However, the Taskforce expects labour market tightening will result in skills shortages by late 2011 to early 2012, particularly in Western Australia and some regions of Queensland. As a result, the resources sector could be 36,000 tradespeople short by 2015.

Each year, we provide an update on major mining, oil and gas projects which are already under construction, or are considered to have a strong likelihood of being approved.  The list is nowhere near exhaustive, but does provide those working in the industry, or considering working in the industry, with an insight into career opportunities - where they are located and timeframes.

What is interesting to note since our update in 2010, is the number of projects that have not met their original cited construction commencement timeframes.  In some cases, projects have been delayed by 12 to 24 months.  Recently Woodside attracted criticism for the delay on its Pluto Project in the north west of Western Australia, but the number of projects identified as part of our review that have fallen well short of their original specified dates, seem to indicate this is a consistent theme.

Disappointingly, six projects The Resource Channel identified as ‘major’ in our last review are not included in this review simply because of the lack of recent information available to the public and in particular the job market.  If we can level criticism at the industry, it is entirely in this space – how can we lament the looming skills shortage when we make it so difficult of those working in the industry or those looking to enter to source the information they need?

Unless otherwise stated, all dollar figures in the blogs are in Australian dollars.  All information has been attained and extensively researched from current public sources and is true and correct to our best knowledge at this time

Living in Western Australia

Living in Western Australia

Western Australia - the ultimate lifestyle destination - offers white sandy beaches, minimal traffic congestion, with more sunny days than any other Australian state and an average yearly temperature of 28 degrees. Whether it's taking a relaxing weekend trip to the Swan Valley or longer trips to the remote regions, an adventurous 4WD tour, sand-dunes or swimming with the whale-sharks on the pristine Ningaloo reef, you're almost guaranteed there will be a blue sky overhead.

More than just an enviable climate and laid-back Aussie lifestyle, Perth offers one of the most buoyant markets in Australia and is the focal point for Resource & Mining, Energy, Oil & Gas and Construction projects. With financial investment of over $125bn on projects in 2010/11 our established business are seeing unlimited growth prospects.

WA offers its residents a unique and unparalleled way of life that is the envy of those who don't live here.

This amazing region offers:

• Relaxed and friendly lifestyle
• Strong sense of community evident in Kimberley towns
• Rich and diverse cultural heritage
• Rewarding work environments or work experiences
• Pristine environment with little or no pollution
• Fantastic recreational experiences on offer including camping, fishing and four-wheel driving

Perth

Perth is a cosmopolitan city of approx 2 million people that is renowned for its easy-going atmosphere and outdoors lifestyle. It offers all the conveniences of a modern capital city while retaining the friendly lifestyle, more often associated with a smaller town. The CBD sits on the banks of the Swan River and is just 15 minutes from world famous white-sand beaches. A 2 hour drive can see you spending the weekend in the world-famous Margaret River wine region, enjoying fine food, internationally-acclaimed wine and some of Australia's best surfing. Perth is a strikingly vibrant city that lies in Western Australia - the only place where you can dive with the world's largest fish - the whale shark, walk amongst the tree tops of ancient trees, sleep under a canopy of stars in the outback, or explore the gorges and wilderness areas.

JobContax currently has a number of Construction and Engineering opportunities based in Western Australia. All jobs come with employer approved 457 visas.

Click the following link to check out the positions:

Jobs in Australia

Gorgon Project Jobs

457 Visa Australia

457 Visa

Working with both individuals and corporate clients, JobContax has extensive experience dealing with the 457 visa. Our Australian partners are able to use their local knowlegde, offering fast and friendly services tailored specifically to your needs. Relocation is a big step and is important to get right first time, every time. You need expert advice and support throughout your case - from applying for the 457 visa to employer sponsorship requirements. JobContax can do it all. The Subclass 457 Visa program allows employers to sponsor overseas workers, enabling them to work in Australia on a temporary basis. It is designed for people who initially wish to work for up to 4 years in Australia. The visa is the most commonly used program for employers to sponsor overseas workers in Australia. This program allows applicants to work for up to four years for a sponsoring employer and is restricted to people seeking to be employed in skilled occupations.

Duration

The Subclass 457 visa allows for individuals to work in Australia for a period of between one day and four years. This is one of the more flexible types of Australia visas.

Eligibility

Employers
An employer must be approved as an eligible sponsor before an Australian 457 visa is granted. To achieve approval, an employer must meet a range of criteria set by the Australian Government. Requirements include a demonstrated commitment to employing local labour and a commitment to the training of Australian citizens and permanent residents.

Employees
Employees must be sponsored by an eligible employer to fill a nominated position. A full listing of eligible nominated occupations can be found in the Employer Nomination Scheme List. Employees must have skills, qualifications, experience and an employment background which match those required for the position, as well as demonstrated English language proficiency. Certain character and health requirements must also be met.

Applying for a 457 visa

There are three stages in the processing of the 457 visa: sponsorship, nomination and visa application.

Before individuals can apply for a 457 visa, they must first ensure the sponsoring employer is an approved sponsor. All of JobContax's Australian partners are approved ECPM contarctors.

Employers must submit an application to be a sponsor and are required to meet all eligibility requirements.

The employer must then nominate the position to be filled, along with details of the skills required for the position, the rate of pay and the name of the prospective overseas employee.

The employee then applies for a visa to work in Australia. To lodge a visa application the sponsorship and nomination must have been lodged with or prior to the visa application.

JobContax have helped numerous numerous construction and engineering professionals through the process. Once the employer decides to sponsor someone, the process only takes a couple of months.

Be sure to check out JobContax's current Australian 457 visa approved jobs.

Gorgon Project Job Interviews | London Aug 26/27 | Dublin Aug 28/29/30

Construction and Engineering Jobs in Australia

JobContax in association with our Australian partners are currently recruiting for a number of large civils projects in Australia. We are currently looking for Project Engineers and Construction Supervisors to work on the $43 Billion  Gorgon LNG Project. The Australian contractor is flying over to conduct interviews in London on August 26/27 and in Dublin on August 28-30. Visit our Gorgon Project Jobs page for full job details.

All roles come with excellent packages including relocation costs and employer sponsored family Australian 457 visas. These positions represent a fantastic opportunity to progress your career and gain large project experience. For more information on Australian 457 Visas and the Gorgon Project click the links below:

Gorgon LNG Project information         

 Australian 457 Visa information

To be considered for interview, apply through our website, www.jobcontax.com, for the job or jobs which you feel you are qualified for and one of our consultants will contact you and explain the interview process in detail.

Contact Details

Website: www.jobcontax.com
   E-Mail:  info@jobcontax.com
   Skype:   JobContax
   Phone: 353-1-7978720

        

What is an Australian 457 Visa?

All JobContax Jobs come with Australian 457 Visas

All jobs in Australia on www.JobContax.com come with 457 visa attached.  Due to the shortage of experienced skilled Construction and Engineering professionals in Australia, suitable foreign national are being offered 4 year working visas (457) by employers. The 457 visa entitles the bearer and their family to live and work in Australia.

The 457 visa is the most commonly used program for Australian or overseas employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers to work in Australia temporarily. The full title of this subclass of visa isTemporary Business (Long Stay) - Standard Business Sponsorship (Subclass 457).

Requirements

Employers must be approved by the Australian government as an eligible employer. Employees must obtain a new visa and sponsorship if they wish to move to another sponsor.Holders of this visa may be employed for a period of between one day and four years and may bring any eligible family members, including same-sex partners, who have unrestricted work and study rights in Australia. Holders of the Subclass 457 visa have no limit on the number of times they travel in and out of Australia.

Employees must also meet minimum levels of qualifications and English language skills, in addition to character and health requirements. Whilst the employer can nominate a person for the particular position they are trying to fill, it is the Department of Immigration and Citizenship that assess and determine whether the criteria for visa grant have been met.

Conversion to permanent residency

457 visa holders can convert to Australian permanent residency status. It is common for 457 visa holders to apply for a permanent Australia residents visa with a view to permanently settle in Australia and become Australian citizens. There has been a recent increase in the number of grants of permanent residence visas to people who last held a Subclass 457 visa.  However there is Australian parliamentary concern regarding overseas agents falsely marketing permanent residency to Australia.

 

Australia - Skilled Migration Programme Overview

Australia’s skilled migration program is being updated as a result of government plans to attract the best migrants into the country. On July 1st the Australian government introduced the first stage of their new immigration program and it could mean significant changes for people who are interested in relocating to Australia. The changes, which represent a move away from the previous migration Occupations in Demand list to a new skilled occupation list is, according to Australia's Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC), “designed to select the best and brightest skilled migrants" and attract people into the country who have the skills that Australia needs to improve their economic outlook. "The target groups are engineering, medical profession, nursing, scientist etc," said assistant secretary of Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship Peter Speldewinde.

One prominent change in the migration program rules includes the inclusion of higher points for English language skills. However, this has received a great deal of criticism from many organizations, which claim that the DIAC is discriminating against candidates from none-English speaking countries. In addition changes in the skilled occupation list and English speaking requirements, the age limit on skill migration has also been increased: "The age limit for unsponsored applicants is being raised from 45 to 50 if they have the required qualifications and experience," Peter Speldewinde, assistant secretary, labour market branch, Australian department of immigration and citizenship, announced recently. Other changes to the rules include the recognition of degrees from colleges and universities outside Australia.

An expression of interest model that is similar to that in use in New Zealand will be implemented July 1st 2012 and interested applicants will be able to complete a self-assessment online followed by a formal expression of interest. Once this has been completed the candidates will wait to receive an invitation to apply if suitable vacancies arise for their skill sets. "The EOIs will be held on a register and people on that register will be ranked according to what point they score. Australian government would periodically issue advertisement about the job offers and those with high scores on the points test would be invited," Speldewinde said. However, speaking to UK newspaper The Telegraph, Catherine Burnett, a spokesperson for the migration consultancy Migration Matters, criticized this system: “Currently under the General Skilled Migration System, if you meet the legislative criteria you are entitled to the grant of a visa. With an expression of interest scheme, this removes that impartiality and also removes any possibility of appealing if your expression of interest is not selected.

“This is certainly politically expedient for a government under pressure from several directions regarding immigration, but whether this is ultimately of any benefit to Australia is a complex issue.” The Australian government is currently planning on admitting 126,000 people under the Skilled Migration Programme over the next year with this figure representing approximately two thirds of the overall migrant intake.

Australian immigration to favour Irish nationals

Changes to Australian immigration on 1 July 2011 will favor Europe's fastest growing emigrant group: the Irish.

Australia's points based immigration system, the General Skilled Migration programme, will see changes that will mean more points for applicants with good English language skills.

Immigrating to Australia will be easier for highly skilled Irish workers, especially for those with experience in medicine, engineering, accounting, and construction.

The Irish are no stranger to Australia's shores: tens of thousands of visas were issued to Irish nationals last year, with that number expected to increase due to rising unemployment in Ireland.

In addition, many parts of Australia will see the need for increases in skilled migration, particularly disaster-struck Queensland. Businesses are desperate to attract foreign workers to assist with the reconstruction efforts after the recent floods.

Australian firms are also set to start a number of natural resource projects in the mining sector, and mining firms are keen to hire as many overseas workers as possible.

Australia is a great destination for people looking to live and work abroad. If you are interested in immigration to Australia, workpermit.com can help. Fill out a free assessment form and one of our representatives will contact you shortly, or give us a call at one of our offices.

Courtesy of  www.workpermit.com

Browse Basin Overview

The Browse LNG project will be the largest LNG export facility in Western Australia's north-west coast.
The total value of the project is around $20bn and will be the largest project awarded in Australia.

Contax Recruitment currently have a number of positions to fill for the project. Check out their website for more details.

The facility, which will be located 425km north-west of Broome, will help in the distribution of gas from three gas fields – Torosa (discovered 1971), Brecknock (discovered 1979) and Calliance fields (discovered 2000), comprising the Browse gas fields of the Browse Basin (water depths of 35m to 700m). These fields were estimated to have reserves of 13.3 trillion cubic feet of dry gas and 360 million barrels of condensate as of 31 December 2009, with a field life of 40 years.

The Browse LNG project comprises the East and West Browse joint ventures operated by Woodside Energy. Although planning has been underway since 2006, the final decision about where to build the 10mtpa LNG facility was made in February 2010. The James Price Point, 60km north of Broome in Western Australia, was selected as the project location.

The facility is expected to be online 2013–15. In February 2010, the project entered its design phase. The contract for the design phase was awarded to Bechtel Oil, Gas and Chemical, Bechtel Australia and Kellogg Brown & Root. During this phase the major design parameters will be determined, which will allow the optimal development of the gas fields offshore and facilities onshore at the Browse LNG Precinct. The design phase will be followed by the project's front end engineering and design in 2011 and the final investment decision will be made by mid-2012.

The shareholders in the Browse LNG project include Woodside with 50%, BHP Billiton, BP, Chevron and Shell.

Read full article http://www.hydrocarbons-technology.com/projects/browse/

Australian immigration to favour Irish nationals

Changes to Australian immigration on 1 July 2011 will favor Europe's fastest growing emigrant group: the Irish.

Australia's points based immigration system, the General Skilled Migration programme, will see changes that will mean more points for applicants with good English language skills.

Immigrating to Australia will be easier for highly skilled Irish workers, especially for those with experience in medicine, engineering, accounting, and construction.

The Irish are no stranger to Australia's shores: tens of thousands of visas were issued to Irish nationals last year, with that number expected to increase due to rising unemployment in Ireland.

In addition, many parts of Australia will see the need for increases in skilled migration, particularly disaster-struck Queensland. Businesses are desperate to attract foreign workers to assist with the reconstruction efforts after the recent floods.

Australian firms are also set to start a number of natural resource projects in the mining sector, and mining firms are keen to hire as many overseas workers as possible.

Australia is a great destination for people looking to live and work abroad. If you are interested in immigration to Australia, workpermit.com can help. Fill out a free assessment form and one of our representatives will contact you shortly, or give us a call at one of our offices.

Courtesy of  www.workpermit.com