[Bushlander]

Hi there. I'm after a bit of advice on what sort of jobs are on offer in Darwin at the moment. Hubby and I are considering relocating there from Brisbane as there's simply no work down here. We are in earthmoving and have our own truck/bobcat/excavator and was wondering if there's a call for earthmoving in Darwin. People I've spoken to have said that there's jobs everywhere, but I guess we're looking for something specific, being earthmoving/excavation work.

Am also doing my due diligence regarding what suburbs to live in. Have narrowed it down to Durack, Karama and Anula. We have a 6yo DD who is in Year 1 in QLD and a 4yo who will start school next year. Not overly concerned about the school they go to - more concerned about living in a family friendly, safe suburb.

Anybody with any advice would be much appreciated.

[malibu71]

I have lived in katherine, Darwin and Alice Springs - none of them have a shortage of work.

Look for contracts to bid on especially in he outlying communities, it will be easier to get work when you are up there just because people like to see the people they deal with.

If you are a good operator and turn up to do the work as promised for not exorbitant prices you should be fine. They reward hard workers - work hard play hard up there...

But great lifestyle, the rents are hugely expensive but as a contractor you can work as hard as you need to bringing in the funds as opposed to being on a fixed wage.

If you have your own equipment that is a big plus as well as you may be able to contract to other companies who just need the equipment - there are lots of small operators up there who take on huge jobs.

Good luck - wish we were back there!