Mark's Story
In 2001 Mark decided to move his family to Australia. He was particularly concerned about the deteriorating family security position in South Africa. Mark decided that he wanted to move to Brisbane as he had other family members that were already living there.
Mark applied for a job with Dialog. After a series of telephone interviews, Dialog offered Mark a job and offered to sponsor his application for temporary residence in Australia.
Mark faced the challenge of bringing two young children to a new country, with new schools and leaving old friends behind. Mark believes that this was the most difficult aspect of his move. He told me:
"My wife and I settled in very well, although we still do miss our family back in South Africa. Our kids arrived at the ages of 11 and 13. We found that our 13 year old took a little longer to settle in and find a group of friends. Through sports he made some very good friends, which he still sees regularly. The first two years are potentially the most difficult. If you make it through two years, you will be here for life. Australian private school standards were very similar at the time (2001). Both private and public health services are of a higher standard here in Australia. Weather in Queensland is a mix between Gauteng (Johannesburg) and Natal (Durban). Plenty of opportunities for a braai (barbeque). Cars are less expensive, but housing is about four times the price. Almost zero culture shock. One has to get used to the different food products, you just have to try a few until you find the ones you like. Fortunately we did not have to go out and find new friends as we had a large family contingent over here."I asked Mark what he liked most about living here
"There are many more leisure activities available year round in Queensland than there were in Johannesburg. Here, there are countless places to camp on and along the beaches. Water activities in the ocean are only a few minutes away, fishing, boating, surfing.
The rainforests are spectacular. The free barbeque facilities are great. Winters here are pretty mild, which enables more outdoor activities throughout the year."
Mark was keen to offer some tips to those who are considering taking that big step:
"What are you waiting for?
Just remember, when you eventually arrive here, do what you can to fit in and you will have a great life here. Australians don't owe you anything, so accept the few differences and life will be better than you could have imagined.
At an exchange rate of around R6.40 to the $1.00, bring as many of your household items that you can. Setting up a home, paying in South African Rand when you first arrive can be a very costly exercise."
Finally, I asked Mark how he felt about Dialog as an employer. Mark replied:
"Dialog has offered a good stable employment opportunity. Mentors and other Dialog employees have been great at providing guidance and assistance when required. However I miss my 13th cheque in December. Every South African will initially miss this as it normally funded the Christmas vacation."
Mark is still working for Dialog nine years after arriving in Australia. He is considered to be one of our best business analysts, and is an excellent project manager.
To share in Mark's experience and become a Dialog person please visit our Vacancies page.