Moving to Australia

From the dazzling lights and the buzz of big cities to the sweeping isolation of the Outback, Australia is a land of contrasts. Thanks to the country’s vast size and diverse landscapes, you will have plenty to explore in the Land Down Under. Although many expats moving to Australia are often attracted by exciting work opportunities, they often stay for the country’s wonderful quality of life and friendly people.

Living in Australia as an expat

Home to six States and 10 Territories, Australia consistently ranks among the safest and happiest countries for expats to live in. It has long been a destination of choice for expats from all walks of life, including students looking to take advantage of the country’s excellent education. Young professionals and families looking for a better environment to raise their children also love Australia, while pensioners looking to spend their golden years in the sun typically move to Australia.

You’ll likely find yourself spending more time outdoors in Australia, which contributes to the country’s high quality of life. Australia also recently became one of the first countries in the world to make it legal for workers to ignore work communications after hours, a testament to the country’s commitment to work-life balance.

Although living in Australia can be expensive, the country has robust social welfare programmes, which help ease living costs significantly. We recommend negotiating a salary package that will adequately cover your living expenses in Australia.

Adelaide city guide 
Brisbane city guide 
Melbourne city guide 
Perth city guide 
Sydney city guide

Working in Australia

Australia has a robust economy, with lucrative job opportunities for those with the right skill set. There are many opportunities for work in Australia, particularly in mining, engineering, IT, healthcare, and marketing. That said, the government places a high premium on expertise and enforces a strict screening process to find only professionals with the desired skills and experience.

You will likely need a visa to legally work and live in Australia. Depending on your specific skills and how long you’d like to stay, there are many visa categories available.

For more information, see our page on visas and work permits in Australia.

Australian culture

You must understand the local culture in Australia to help ease your transition. Locals value egalitarianism, and anything seen as boastful will not be taken too kindly. Relationships are important to Australians, and the locals’ friendly nature means you’ll receive many barbecue and drink invitations.

Many Australian companies value flexibility and will offer a wonderful work-life balance.

Local culture in Australia 
Business culture in Australia

Accommodation in Australia

Properties in Australia are often large, affording more space to raise a family. Accommodation can be quite expensive, though, and expats frequently rent before buying. Popular Australian expat cities include Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide.

You may be lucky enough to have your employer or a relocation company assist you with finding and renting a home in the country. Have all your documents ready before beginning the house-hunting journey.

Advice on renting accommodation in Australia 
Best places to live in Adelaide 
Best places to live in Melbourne 
Best places to live in Perth 
Best places to live in Sydney 
Best places to live in Brisbane

Cost of Living in Australia

Australia has a high cost of living but an equally high standard of living. Housing is particularly expensive, but this can be circumvented by living in outlying areas and commuting. Fortunately, healthcare and schooling are both fairly affordable.

Salaries in Australia are high, making it easy to live comfortably in the country. Thanks to the diverse natural landscapes, you can also find low-cost or free entertainment activities to do across Australia.

For more information, see the page on Cost of Living in Australia.

Living in Australia with children

Outdoor pursuits drive the Australian lifestyle, which is truly multicultural, especially when it comes to cuisine and traditions. Outdoor entertainment, such as sports, is highly popular and can make for great family outings. The beautiful landscape is also a big attraction, offering expat families the chance to explore nature and learn about a rich new environment.

Healthcare in Australia is excellent, affordable, and accessible. The country has a government-supported public healthcare scheme called Medicare, which is available to all permanent residents and citizens.

Healthcare and medical insurance in Australia

Finding a school in Australia

Government schooling in Australia is government-funded for residents and citizens, but non-resident expats may have to pay tuition fees. Parents can also choose to enrol their children in private, independent or international schools, although the latter can be extremely costly.

If you’re planning to stay in Australia in the short term, an international school may be the best option for your family. These schools offer globally recognised curricula like the International Baccalaureate (IB) or that of a specific country like the US or UK.

Schools and education for expats in Australia 
Education and schools in Perth 
Education and schools in Brisbane 
Education and schools in Sydney 
Education and schools in Melbourne 
Education and schools in Adelaide

Getting around Australia

In terms of getting around, the public transport infrastructure in Australia is world-class, but when it comes to inter-city travel, the sheer distance between cities means flying is preferred. Most Australians own a car, and we’d recommend that expat families follow suit, as it allows more convenience and freedom to explore.

See our page on Getting around in Australia

Climate in Australia

Australia’s inescapable heat and intense climate can be startling. Winters tend to be mild and bearable, but summers often reach scorching temperatures. You should stay hydrated to avoid heatstroke.

Australia’s diverse scenery, sophisticated cities, easygoing people, and a sense that a new beginning is available to anyone with the skills and energy to pursue it all make it an expat destination well worth considering.

Climate charts for Australia

Fast facts

Official name: The Commonwealth of Australia

Population: Over 27 million

Capital city: Canberra

Other cities: Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Adelaide. 

Neighbouring countries: Australia is an island continent that does not share land borders with any countries. That said, New Zealand is located southeast of the Tasman Sea and Indonesia is northwest of Australia. 

Geography: Australia is surrounded by the ocean. Most of its geography is a low plateau with deserts, rangelands, and a fertile plain in the southeast. There are also mountain ranges in the east and southeast.

Political system: Representative democracy and constitutional monarchy

Major religions: Christianity

Main languages: English

Money: The Australian Dollar (AUD) is divided into 100 cents. Opening a bank account in Australia is relatively easy for expats, as many banks offer a wide range of services. 

Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Australia, but service charges range from 10 to 15 percent in most hotels and restaurants.

Time: GMT+11. Australia has six time zones.

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Three-pin, round-prong plugs are used.

Internet domain: .au

International dialling code: +61

Emergency contacts: 000 for police, ambulance, and fire services

Transport and driving: Public transport in Australia's major cities is well-developed but can be limited in rural areas. Driving in the country is on the left side of the road.