Your Guide to Moving to Australia

Thinking about moving to Australia? With its laid back lifestyle, beautiful beaches and friendly residents, it’s easy to see why thousands of U.S. citizens make the move to the “land down under” every year. According to World Population Review, Australia is currently home to over 25 million people and is the 55 th largest country in the world in terms of population. However, even with its fast-growing population, the country remains one of the least densely populated countries in the world – leaving ample room for residents to breathe. Newcomers will also find plenty to see and do outdoors. From the drop-dead gorgeous national parks to a multitude of cultural attractions, Australia is truly an adventurer’s paradise – no matter one’s age. Whether you’re a student looking to study abroad or a senior looking for a warm spot to retire, here’s your easy guide to moving to Australia.

A quick guide to moving to Australia

Cost of living

Though living in Australia isn’t cheap, residents will tell you that the high quality of life is well worth the extra expense. According to Moon, a reputable travel guide, life outside of major cities, such as Sydney and Melbourne, are “relatively affordable.” However, the country is still considered to be expensive for many newcomers and tourists. According to Expatisan.com, the overall cost of living in Australia is more expensive than in 77 percent of countries in the world.

Moon also claims that the average cost of living per household is around $2,200 a week. According to the guide, “this estimate includes home loans or rent at an average $600 a week, followed by food and eating out at $400, and insurance and other financial services at $200.” Add utility bills to the mix, and the average Australian household needs to make around $100,000 a year to live, according to Moon. Of course, keep in mind that the cost of living varies widely depending on the city in which an Australian lives. Those who live in large, urban areas can expect to pay more than those residing in small towns or rural areas.

Housing

As expected, home prices vary depending on location. In Australia’s larger cities, rental rates and home prices are higher. According to Moon, home loans and rental rates average around $600 a week in Australia. In Sydney, Australia’s most expensive and populous city, the median home price is a whopping $1,142,212, according to the Domain House Price Report. In Melbourne, the country’s second most populous city, home prices are slightly more affordable with a median price of $901,951. In Brisbane, Australia’s third most populous city, the median home price is just $577,664. According to Expatisan.com, the average monthly rent in Sydney for a furnished 900 square foot rental in a normal part of town is $1,755. In Melbourne, the average monthly rent for the same type of rental is $1,309 a month. In Brisbane, the average monthly rent is $1,102 for 900 square foot rental.

Safety

Australia is considered to be a very safe country. The U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory states that visitors should exercise normal precautions while in the country, assigning Australia a level one risk. However, the current travel advisory does urge those visiting areas affected by bushfires to exercise increased caution.

Weather

The warm, balmy weather and easily accessible beaches are just two reasons why newcomers flock to Australia every year. Given its location in the Southern Hemisphere, Australia’s seasons are always the opposite of the seasons in North America and Europe. According to Go Study Australia, most of the country experiences four distinct seasons, “with the tropical north experiencing a wet and dry season.” Summer takes place from December to March, fall takes place from March to May, winter takes place from June to August and spring takes place from September to November. The average temperature in the summer hovers around 84 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average temperature in the winter is around 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Quality of life

There’s no doubt about it – residents of Australia enjoy an exceptionally high quality of life. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranked the Commonwealth of Australia as having the fifth best quality of life in the world, when compared to other countries. The reasons for its high ranking include a stable economy, strong job market, safe surroundings, politically stable environment, family-friendly atmosphere, highly rated public education system and well-run public health system. While the country, in general, boasts a high quality of life, its cities also continue to top “best of” lists. Just recently, Melbourne was named the “happiest city in the world” by Time Out.

Healthcare

Newcomers will find excellent healthcare options in Australia. According to the Australian government, the healthcare system provides both private and public healthcare services. Free or low-cost services are provided by Medicare and the public hospital system. Several of the best hospitals in Australia include St. Vincent’s Hospital, The Alfred, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, and Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospitals. For more information on Australia’s healthcare services, check here.

Immigration requirements

Planning to move to Australia? If so, you’ll need a visa in order to enter the country. According to Go Study Australia, there are several different types of visas available depending on your nationality of origin, age and intent. Two popular options – the Student Visa and the Working Holiday Visa – are available to students and young people looking to temporarily move to Australia for a short period of time. Work visas are also available to those who meet certain skill qualifications. To become a permanent resident of Australia, newcomers will need to seek either a family-stream permanent visa, a work-stream permanent visa or a business or investor-stream permanent visa. Check here for more information.

5 cities to consider when moving to Australia

When moving to Australia, we recommend considering the 5 most populous cities in the country.

Sydney

Melbourne

Brisbane

Perth

Adelaide

Ready to move Australia?

While international moves are certainly stressful, figuring out how you’re going to move abroad doesn’t have to be. In fact, thanks to our network of reputable and reliable international movers, finding the right company to handle your relocation is a cinch. We vet all movers for key certifications, capabilities, and insurance. Our movers are also licensed and bonded with the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). In addition, all moving companies based outside of the U.S. must be in good standing with FIDI, the largest global alliance of professional international moving and relocation companies, in order to remain under their banner as an Accredited International Mover. Of course, before hiring an international moving company, we also recommend reviewing a mover’s history with the American Moving and Storage Association, the Household Goods Forwarder Association and the Better Business Bureau. Best of luck and happy moving!