An OT Q for you guys in HK

[MrMow]

Sorry, is offtopic.

But as I don't know any guys in HK...

In short, I've been offered a job in HK as a senior graphic artist (6yrs experience), they are offering $15000HK a month, any clue if this is pretty normal, way under or a good deal?
I have no idea what wages are like in HK.

Thanks guys!!

[cliffywong]

The wage is so so. But if they include living expense and a flat it might be worthwhile.

But then again the wages for graphic designers have really dropped in the past several years. After the dot com bust.

Check out the JOBDB.com or South China Morning Post Classifield - JOB section. Might be able to get some ideas. They are in english also.
Also heres a website that will help also. http://www.recruit.com.hk

Hope this helps,

Cliff

[ayhlai]

Classfied Post web site is here. http://www.classifiedpost.com.hk/jshome.php

If the package does not include flat rental, I think it's a bit low. Expect least HK$5000/month to rent an apartment.

BTW how are your tax calculated when you work overseas?

[MrMow]

Thanks guys, that has helped a lot.
I'm guessing tax would be the same for any local, 15%?
If I do take it, I will be moving there Lock and Stock! (But my Mini will have to stay at home.. )

[u2silly]

nope. we run a progressive tax rate in here
15% (actaually 16% next year), are for the top bracket, ie those earning HK$1.4mn+/year.
At HK$15k/mnth, you will probably be paying ~HK$5000 tax/yr. Check this
Tax

[MrMow]

Well, thanks guys, bit of research, offer sent off, fingers crossed.. lets see how it goes!

Forgetting the fact I speak no Canto.. Can't stand hot weather..

Again, thanks a bunch.

[KarmanS]

Mr. Mow, wish you the best of luck in getting that offer. It's certainly nice to have a change of location for a job once in a while. HK is a great place to be and I am sure you will enjoy your time there comfortably after some minor adjustment. (humid weather, crowded places, etc.)

Cheers.

[yukclee]

Working in Asia is exotic and very different from Melbourne. I lived in Melbourne for 5 years before I returned to HK. You just declare you are overseas and you only pay Hong Kong tax. You live in a smaller space but you have a more active life. Air-conditioning in here will only make you freezing and a lot of people in here don't speak Cantonese. So you have to compare what you have in Melbourne to the opportunities overseas.
I personally think it is a good idea to try working overseas when you are young, single and doesn't have family burden. That's how you know more people and have a better understanding of the world. Europe, US or Asia is all OK. Good luck.
YCLee

[OZChris]

Mr Mow

I spent 2 years working in HK in 1997/8.

HK is certainly a different place to live in comparison to Melbourne. When I was in HK, housing was very expensive, especially for 'Western' accommodation. Certainly, 'local' accommodation was cheaper, but small is the key word. Eating out could also prove to be expensive, depends what you are willing to accept.

The best advise is link up with some Aussies/Brits/expats and leverage their local knowledge.

If you have more questions, I can PM you my mobile number.

Chris

[MrMow]

Cheers CCSMini, hopefully if there is a Vic club started shortly, I'll see you at that!

[cliffywong]

Relatively everything's gotten cheaper in H.K.. Especially housing.

But as YC it's an experience. So hate it some love it, but definitely your view of the world will change after your here.