Things People Don’t Tell You Before You Move To Australia

Good day, mate! Today I will talk about the land of kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles – Australia! As you dive on this virtual journey through the Land Down Under, prepare to be amused, educated, and possibly even tempted to pack your bags and relocate to this vast and vibrant country/continent. From the bustling metropolis of Sydney to the laid-back vibes of Byron Bay, each corner of Australia has its own unique charm and quirks.

Sydney the opera house and surf

The crown jewel of Australia’s urban landscape. With its iconic Opera House and picturesque harbor, this bustling metropolis is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and lifestyles. English may be the primary language here, but don’t be surprised if you hear a smattering of Mandarin, Arabic, or even the occasional Aussie slang.

Sydney is home to a diverse population, from corporate high-flyers in the Central Business District to free-spirited beach bums in Bondi. Expats from all corners of the globe flock to Sydney for job opportunities in finance, technology, and creative industries. Plus, with its vibrant dining scene and world-class entertainment options, there’s never a dull moment in the Harbour City.

But beware mate – Sydney’s sky-high rent prices and cost of living can leave your wallet feeling as empty as a kangaroo belly. And don’t even get me started on the traffic – navigating the city’s maze of highways and byways can test even the most patient of souls. But hey, at least the weather’s usually top-notch, (Sometimes they do have crazy bushfires and floods. I do have relatives staying in Sydney that often have to pack up and run during times like these. On the plus side, there’s always a beach nearby to escape the hustle and bustle.

Melbourne the cultural capital

If Sydney is Australia’s flashy big brother, then Melbourne is the cool, artsy cousin. Known for its thriving arts scene, eclectic neighborhoods, and obsession with coffee, Melbourne is a haven for creatives, hipsters, and anyone with a penchant for laneway graffiti.

In Melbourne, it’s not just English you’ll hear – with a sizable Italian, Greek, and Vietnamese population, the city’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its people. And let’s not forget the thriving expat communities from all corners of the globe, adding their own flavors to Melbourne’s cultural melting pot.

With its strong job market in industries like healthcare, education, and hospitality, Melbourne offers plenty of opportunities for expats looking to make their mark. And while the rent might not be as high as Sydney’s, it’s still a think-twice decision if your budget is low.

Brisbane Sunny with a hint of Cyclone now and then

Welcome to the Sunshine State, where the weather’s warm, the people are friendly, and the beer is always cold. Brisbane, with its laid-back vibe and riverside charm, is the perfect blend of city slicker sophistication and small-town hospitality.

English is the majority spoken language here, but don’t be surprised if you catch a whiff of the local slang – from “g’day” to “strewth,” Brisbane locals have a way with words that’s as colorful as a rainbow dress.

Expats flock to Brisbane for its booming job market in sectors like construction, mining, and tourism. And with its affordable cost of living and abundance of outdoor activities, it’s no wonder this river city is a magnet for adventurers and sun-seekers alike.

Sure, Brisbane might not have the glitz and glamour of Sydney, and its always a risk during cyclone season but what it lacks in flash, it more than makes up for in charm. Plus, where else can you spend your weekends exploring pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and world-class wineries, all within a stone’s throw of the city center?

Perth the desert that meets the ocean

The city where the desert meets the sea, and the locals are as laid-back as a koala in a eucalyptus tree. I know that rhymed but I couldn’t help myself. Nestled on the shores of the Indian Ocean, Perth is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, beach bums, and anyone who appreciates a good sunset.

English may be the official language here, but with a large immigrant population from places like the UK, South Africa, and Asia, you’ll hear a cocktail of accents as diverse as the city itself.

Expats are drawn to Perth for its booming mining industry, as well as its growing tech and healthcare sectors. And with its relatively affordable cost of living and abundance of job opportunities, it’s no wonder Perth consistently ranks as one of the most livable cities in the world.

Let me still warn you though Perth is known for its remote location to its scorching summer temperatures, living in the world’s most isolated city has its challenges. But hey, at least you’ll never be far from a cold beer and a stunning beach view and if you are looking for space, this is the place to be.

Darwin not the person but the place

Crocs outnumber the people here. Welcome to the wild frontier of Australia – Darwin, where the crocodiles are big, the beer is cold, and the locals are as tough as old boots. Located on the rugged coast of the Northern Territory, Darwin is a city like no other – a melting pot of Indigenous cultures, Asian influences, and Aussie vibes.

English may be the official language here, but with a large Aboriginal population and a strong presence of Southeast Asian immigrants, you’ll hear a variety of languages and dialects spoken on the streets of Darwin.

Expats come to Darwin for its unique job opportunities in industries like mining, agriculture, and defense. And with its affordable cost of living and laid-back lifestyle, it’s a tempting destination for adventurous souls looking to escape the rat race.

But living in the Top End isn’t all beer and Barbies – from the sweltering heat to the occasional cyclone, Darwinites learn to take life as it comes and roll with the punches. But hey, where else can you watch a spectacular sunset over the Timor Sea while sipping a cold beer at the local pub?

Now let’s talk universal for a while covering healthcare and visas

• Healthcare in Australia

First things first, Australia boasts a universal healthcare system known as Medicare. This means that all citizens and permanent residents are entitled to subsidized medical treatment and free access to public hospitals. Crickey!

• Public vs. Private

In addition to Medicare, as a citizen, you have the option to take out private health insurance for extra perks like choice of doctor and shorter waiting times for elective surgeries. Private health insurance also covers services like dental, optical, and physiotherapy – because let’s face it, nobody wants to be left high and dry with a toothache the size of Uluru!

• Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)

Need a prescription filled? No worries, mate – the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) subsidizes the cost of prescription medications, making them more affordable for Aussies. So whether you need a pack of Band-Aids or a month’s supply of Vegemite, you won’t have to break the bank to stay healthy.

• Hospital Care

In the unlikely event that you need to be hospitalized, Australia’s public hospitals provide top-notch care at no cost to patients with a Medicare card. And don’t worry about getting lost in the system – the healthcare professionals here are as friendly as a koala bear that wants to hug you.

• Preventive Care

Australia places a strong emphasis on preventive care, with initiatives like regular check-ups, immunizations, and health screenings aimed at keeping Aussies in tip-top shape. So whether you’re due for a tetanus shot or a cholesterol check, you can rest assured knowing that the Aussie healthcare system has got your back.

• Emergency Services

In case of emergency, dial triple zero (000) for immediate assistance. Australia’s emergency services are second to none, with highly trained paramedics and state-of-the-art medical facilities ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice. From snake bites to a scene from the movie Jaws, these folks have seen it all.

• Mental Health Support

Last but certainly not least, Australia recognizes the importance of mental health and offers a range of services and support networks for those in need. From counseling and therapy to crisis intervention and support groups, help is always just a phone call away.

Now let’s talk about Visas

• Holiday Visa – Let’s start with the easy one, shall we? The holiday visa is your golden ticket for a short-term Aussie escapade. It’s relatively easy to snag.
• Work-Related Visas – Got a job offer from an Aussie employer? Congratulations, you’re halfway there! Work-related visas come in all shapes and sizes, but if your future boss is willing to nominate you, the Aussie government is more likely to give you the green light.
• Skilled Migration Visas – Are you a master of your craft? If you’re a healthcare pro, a whiz in the kitchen, a coding genius, or an engineering marvel, Australia wants you! The Skilled Migration Visa is like the golden ticket to Wonka’s chocolate factory, but instead of chocolate rivers, you’ll find a land of opportunity and kangaroos. Just don’t get snapped by a crocodile.
• Family-Stream Permanent Residence Visas – Love knows no borders, right? If your better half scored a job in the outback country, you can tag along too! Just make sure to secure one of these visas for a smooth ride through immigration.
• Business or Investment-Stream Permanent Residence Visas – Got deep pockets or a knack for business? These visas are like the VIP pass to Aussie residency, reserved for high-flyers and big spenders. Just be ready to splash some cash – in the millions here, mate.

Citizenship Procedure: –

• Residency Requirement – To be eligible for citizenship, you’ll need to have lived in Australia for at least four years as a permanent resident. But wait, there’s more! Out of those four years, you must have spent at least one year as a permanent resident without leaving the country for more than 90 days.
• Good Character – Now, here’s where things get serious. The Aussie government wants to make sure you’re a fair Aussie at heart, so they’ll assess your character. This means no dodgy business, mate. If you’ve got a criminal record or a history of shady dealings, you might find yourself out in the cold.
• English Proficiency – You will need to prove your English proficiency to become an Aussie citizen. This usually involves passing a basic English test or providing evidence of your English language skills. IELTS is an added bonus for Expats.
• Citizenship Test – You answer questions about Aussie history, culture, and values.

Now, the point system, think of it as the Aussie government’s way of sizing you up. They’ll rate your age, English skills, education, and work experience to see if you’re Aussie material. Aim for at least 60 points to qualify for that Skilled Migration Visa. Oh, and here’s a pro tip, having a partner can boost your score, so it pays to have a mate. IELTS helps too.

Always research more before you make your decision to migrate. Consider international time zones and how they will impact your global business as the time difference can matter. You don’t want to sleep while your European offices are wide awake and vice versa. After you weigh the pros and cons then you can pack your bags and your surfboards and hop on the next flight to the land of beauty. Cheers Mate!