One of the key contemporary challenges for entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial ventures remains this: that without proper businesss processes and business competencies, opportunities disappear.

Informed commentators often note that the level of competition in markets has led to an emphasis, especially in recent decades, on competition at a deeper level than just products and services.

The deeper level is competition created by innovation in business process and business competency. It's part of improving productivity by working smarter, not harder.

Partner visa applications take up about 25% of Australia's migration intake. There are two types. Firstly, Spouse Visas (for married or de-facto heterosexual couples). Secondly, Interdependency Visas (mainly for gay or lesbian couples).

To apply for a Spouse Visa for a married couple, the marriage has to be recognized under Australian law. It does not have to be conducted in Australia.

The rules for de-facto couples and gay or lesbian couples are very similar. Generally both require the couple to have lived together for 12 months. The 12 month rule and the exceptions to it are discussed in this article.