Moving to Australia is an exciting adventure, but it’s also a big decision—especially for families like yours.
You’re not just relocating yourself; you’re uprooting your kids, your routines, and possibly even your pets for the move to The Land Down Under. To make the transition smoother, here’s what you need to know before packing your bags. Read on.
Understand What are the Different Australian Visa Requirements
Before you book your flights, make sure you have the right visa on hand.
Australia offers different options, like skilled migration visas, family visas, or student visas. Each type of visa has its own rules, processing times, and visa application process costs.
Check the official Australian immigration regulations to know what are the different guidelines for each visa type and how they fit in with your whole family.
If you’re unsure about the whole thing, consult a registered migration agent. Aside from helping with your family’s visa application, they can help you dispel any misconceptions about immigration and what are the benefits of living in Australia.
Research the Cost of Living
Australia isn’t cheap, especially in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Housing, groceries, and childcare costs can add up quickly.
Before you move, research the following: rent or property prices to find a liveable city for your family, school fees (visa rules apply), health and medical costs (depending on visa and health insurance rules), transportation (public transport vs. owning a car), and so on.
Having a budget will help you avoid putting your whole family in financial stress later on.
Choose the Right Location for Your Family
Australia is a huge country. Every city or area has a different vibe.
Pick a city or region where you want to move your family depending on the vibe you are all looking for.
The top picks are Sydney and Melbourne. Both are known for their bustling city life but living costs are high. Meanwhile, other top Aussie cities include Brisbane and Perth (more affordable and great for outdoor families) and Adelaide and Canberra (smaller cities with excellent schools).
If you and your family want to escape the busy cityscape, Australia’s regional areas are a must-try. They have lower costs and tight-knit communities. Nonetheless, there are fewer job opportunities for you and your spouse.
Remember to visit neighbourhoods, check school zones, and consider commute times before settling down.
Know How the School System Works
If you have kids, education is a top priority. Australia has public schools (free for citizens/permanent residents, but some fees apply), private schools (more expensive, with varying curricula), and independent schools (some have religious affiliations).
The school year runs from late January to December with breaks in between, so plan your move accordingly. Do keep in mind that some schools have long waitlists; hence, you need to apply your kids early.
Get Familiar with Healthcare
Australia’s healthcare system is excellent, but you’ll need to enrol. If you’re on a temporary visa, you might need private health insurance. Key things to know:
- Public healthcare covers essential care in public healthcare institutions;
- Private insurance helps with dental, optical, and faster specialist access;
- Pharmacies are easy to find, but some prescriptions aren’t subsidised by insurers;
- Certain visa options have certain healthcare requirements; and many more.
Register for government healthcare as soon as you arrive to avoid gaps in coverage.
Prepare for the Job Market
If you’re moving without a job lined up, research industries are in demand. Some fields (like healthcare, engineering, and technology) have more opportunities than others.
Remember to do the following: update your resume to match Australian standards, use job sites to look for employment, and do networking—many jobs come through referrals.
If you need local certifications, check requirements early—some professions require Australian accreditation before being allowed legal employment.
Adjust to the Australian Lifestyle
Australians are laid-back, love the outdoors, and value work-life balance. Here’s what to expect:
- The weather varies—from tropical north to chilly southern winters. Be prepared for the change.
- Beach culture is huge—having sunscreen is a must!
- BBQs, sports, and festivals are big parts of social life.
Embrace the casual vibe, and don’t be surprised if strangers greet you with a casual smile.
Plan Your First Few Weeks
The first month can be overwhelming. Make it easier by: opening a bank account for easy financial management, getting a local phone card for calls and data, finding temporary housing before committing to a lease, and applying for the proper tax identification if you plan to work.
Having the basics sorted will help you settle in faster.
Stay Connected to Home (But Be Open to New Friends)
Homesickness is normal, especially for kids. Stay in touch with family back home via video calls.
Nonetheless, also encourage your family to get settled in their new country. Ask your family to join local clubs or sports teams, attend community events, and connect with other expat families.
Building a support network makes Australia feel like home sooner.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Australia is a big step, but with the right preparation, it can be an amazing experience for your family. Research, plan, and stay flexible—you’ll soon adapt to the Aussie way of life.
Ready to start your new chapter? Pack your bags, keep an open mind, and enjoy the journey!
- About the Author
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After spending 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie McNichol made the move to Perth in 2010. As the Co-Founder and Editor of Buggybuddys, she has been able to use her experience and passion for helping families to create a trusted online resource for parents across Perth.
Jennie is the proud mother of two daughters, aged 16 & 14 and is a big advocate of the family-friendly lifestyle that Perth has to offer.
