We went to oz in 2002 and again this year in 2002 the question on criminal convictions on the arrivals form was there, this time i do not remember seeing it. we are now in the process of applying for a 457 as my husband was offered a job! I put no in the criminal convictions box in 2002. Would it make any difference to our application, the conviction is over 30 years ago and would be in the immigration papers we would of course tick the right box.
I am worried about this.

Welcome to the forum Cazza, and look it's likely to be more the nature of the crime committed, even thirty years ago and not so much the fib in 2002 and overlooking it this year that could make the difference.

You can put it down to luck that a check was not made or did not reveal an old conviction - maybe it's not on computer records when you applied for a tourist visa, most being online and granted almost automatically on information submitted.

A character check for a 457 visa may also not go so deep but that is not a reason to submit false info and you say you'll be ticking the yes box anyway.

Have a look under the Character links and it takes you to a page which referes to convictions resulting in 12 months in jail and that kind of stuff, and even if the conviction was past the limits referred to, a clean sheet for 30years and now being married could see it not being a problem.

If ever asked why there was no admission in 2002 or 2008, was it just because of forgetfulness (in 2002), 30 years being a long time ago, wasn't it!, not that I'd put words in your mouth.

The irony being in the good old days, even stealing a loaf of bread was enough to not even need an invite!

Thank you for your help, we have an agent working for us, but we want to apply for the 175 i think in two years we are 50 years old and lucky to get a sponsor for my husband as a painter and decoratorm. Will they still accept us after i didnt tell them i have been awake all night worrying that i could have messed it up. My conviction i cannot remember very well i am not even sure of the date of it i only know i got 6 months suspended and a fine cant remember how much though. So anyway will say i forgot. I thought i had messed up big time.

The conviction aside and it could be that you would not even get asked why an arrivals card had been filled in errantly but the more significant issue that will prevent you from getting a 175 visa and just about any other than a 457 or another tourist visa will be unfortunately your age!

Professionals and other Skilled Migrants - Workers - Visas & Immigration indicates it in top paragraph and you will see the requirement to be under 45 as you have a look under most visa headings and certainly in the eligibility section of visas.