Many factors worked against CPV applicants. The Australian dollar, the good old Aussie, suddenly looked very attractive to investors when other countries slashed interest rates almost to nothing. Against sterling for example it rose by over 20% from its low-point in the first quarter. This represented an effective 20% increase in the visa fee, let alone the effect on asset values which were planned to be shifted to Australia. For younger people it is less important because they are more likely to enjoy an income in dollars once they get working - and dollars is what you want to be earning at the moment! For those relying on an overseas pension, the equivalent income in dollars is likely to have been hard hit.

To compound all this, the financial recession put a brake on admittedly over-inflated house values and sent them into reverse. Sales stalled. For many applicants this was intended to be a source of funds for both the visa and the move.

So all in all, a very frustrating year. It's difficult to call 2010, but for those of us "denominated" in sterling, it's likely to be another grind because of the huge debt burden hanging over the UK; a long run-up to a general election with an uncertain outcome is not going to help. If you are already in Oz, or manage to get there this year, you're probably in the right place!