What are the visa & residency requirements in Australia?

"In order to visit, work, and/or reside in Australia, visitors need to obtain a visa. Depending on the purpose of the traveller’s visit - such as working, studying, retiring or joining family already in Australia - different types of visas can be applied for. Generally, a visa application will include documenting a valid passport, completing an application form and submitting supporting documents, such as proof of identity, a CV, and a letter of offer from an employer if relevant. Travellers may also need to provide evidence of payment of visa fees. To apply for a permanent residency visa in Australia, applicants must demonstrate that they meet certain criteria. They must have been granted an eligible visa and should have met their associated visa conditions. Additionally, they will need to meet health requirements, as well as a character test, and provide police checks from any country where they have lived for 12 months or more. Documentation such as identity documents, qualifications, evidence of English language ability, employment history and particulars of any family members who will accompany the applicant must also be provided. If the visa application is successful, permanent residency is then granted, and the applicant is able to make Australia their permanent or long-term home," remarked another expat who made the move to Australia.