What to discuss at the first meeting
Identify the proposed occupation, sponsorship or business pathway and current status. Requirements and available pathways should be checked at the time of advice.
Ask which tasks belong to the applicant, sponsor and adviser and how their interests are managed.
Working with a firm in Western District & Wimmera
Warrnambool, Hamilton, Horsham and Portland represent different parts of the Western District and Wimmera. For farming, business or property work, describe the transaction and ownership rather than assuming a general regional practice offers every service.
For skilled & business visas, ask which parts of the work the firm handles itself and whether it has relevant VIC experience. Let the lawyer know if a property, employer, other party or existing proceeding is outside Western District & Wimmera. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.
How the engagement may progress
Gather identity documents, visa records, decision letters and application history. Confirm who will give the advice and their scope of work.
Ask which requirements and evidence need assessment, including translations or reports. No provider can guarantee the application outcome.
Agree who receives correspondence and tracks requests. Keep a complete copy of lodged material and understand what you approve before submission.
Fees and the scope of work
Separate professional fees from government charges, translations and other expenses. Preparing an application does not necessarily include a review or court proceeding.
Ask for a written scope identifying the work you are authorising, the person responsible and when costs will be reviewed. If you only want advice on one step, say so before the firm begins wider work.
Dates to raise at first contact
Provide expiry dates and the entire decision letter immediately. Review rights and dates depend on the particular decision and circumstances.