It's really important to understand that there are *two* sets of requirements you'll need to meet in order to get PR.
The DIMIA requirements for PR are fairly well understood. However DIMIA have specifically put into the rules a requirement for state sponsorship at *permanent* visa stage, and who knows what requirements the states will impose? (they could well all say different things).
This is especially so for the STNI pathway. RSMS doesn't involve the state government to the same degree, but you need a sponsoring employer - not all employers will be interested in doing this.
If a particular state decides not to sponsor SIR holders in the state because they have not found send work, then DIMIA could of course intervene and grant visas anyway, but the persons involved will end up going through a lot of stress and worry - and if DIMIA don't intervene they will have to go home. It would be very bad publicity for the SIR scheme, but that might not be enough to prevent the problem occurring.
Australia is not Canada.
There is no *specific* "settlement fund" requirement currently, however you are expected to bring enough to support yourself without resorting to welfare. Check the Centrelink site, but I would think that for a SIR holder you'll be enbreastled to nothing at all before PR, and many benefits have a 2 year waiting period *after* PR.
Jeremy
-- This is not intended to be legal or professional advice in any jurisdiction
