What is the process for bringing my Thai GF to live in Australia?

[AussieInBkk]

Good afternoon gents, 

 

I am a 28 year old Aussie, currently studying for a bachelor's degree at a university in Bangkok.

I have been here for about 18 months. I was teaching at a private school (through an agency) for the first 12 months but then the agency shut down and I began my studies at university.

 

I met my gf on Facebook dating and we've been dating for about 9 months now. She's also 28 years old, has a degree in computer science, and works for a digital content creation company. 

We don't live together as she still lives with her parents and younger siblings, and her parents are unaware of my existence (her Thai ex tried to kill her years ago so her parents are very protective now and she is waiting for the right time to introduce me to them). 

 

I'm getting very restless about living off my savings while being in Thailand. I have consulted with my university and can complete the remainder of my degree online through their partner university.

Thus I have begun to make a plan to return to Australia sometime next year. I grew up doing adventurous outdoor activities, camping, and four-wheel driving, and being stuck in the concrete jungle now is getting a bit tiring. Thailand has a lot of wonderful countryside to explore but I don't wanna burn all my savings.

 

I'm a qualified tradesman (automotive technician) and wish to return to Australia and do my mature-aged apprenticeship to become a qualified electrician (residential and commercial/industrial). 

I plan to stay with my mother, pick up any casual job, and continue my studies online, whilst searching for a mature-aged apprenticeship.

I have a good amount of savings and plan to save up additionally and buy a house. 

 

What is the best method of bringing my gf to Australia? Should I get her a visitor visa initially, and then change it within Australia to a long-term visa? I'm happy to be her 'sponsor' for the financial requirement.

Is it necessary to hire a visa agent?

What evidence should I collect of the relationship? We have been taking plenty of photos together thus far. 

 

My gf loves Thailand but as everybody knows there are limited employment opportunities here for foreigners. Once I complete my degree in education, I will be able to teach at an international school however, I much prefer working with my hands and miss talking smack with the boys on trade sites in Australia.

Of course, I still plan to complete my degree online, that way I can return to Thailand and teach in the future, and eventually split my time between Australia and Thailand. 

 

Cheers fellas