Relocating to Australia can be one of the most exciting yet challenging adventures of your life.
No matter if you’re coming to Australia for professional growth, academic pursuits, or simply a change of pace, the country promises an array of exciting opportunities.
Its lively cities, diverse landscapes, and open-hearted community make it easy to see why so many choose to relocate here.
To help you with the process, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about relocating to Australia—from choosing the best time to move and picking the right visa, to finding the perfect city and housing.
Trust me, I have moved to Australia twice and I want your transition to be as smooth as possible.
The Best Time of the Year to Move to Australia
Timing is everything when relocating to Australia. Australia experiences opposite seasons to the Northern Hemisphere, meaning their summer is from December to February, while winter runs from June to August.
Moving during the off-peak season (April to October) may save you money, especially on flights and accommodation, as well as help you avoid the tourist crowds.
Summers in Australia can be extremely hot, particularly in cities like Brisbane, Perth, and Darwin, where temperatures frequently exceed 35°C (95°F).
If you prefer cooler weather like me, consider moving in autumn or spring, when the climate is mild, making it easier to settle in and explore your new surroundings.
Picking the Right Visa
Choosing the right visa is crucial when relocating to Australia. Australia offers a variety of visa options based on your needs, whether you’re coming for work, study, or to join family.
Here’s a breakdown of common visa types:
Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417 or 462)
Available to citizens of certain countries aged 18-30 (35 for some countries), this visa allows you to work and travel in Australia for up to a year. You can extend it by completing specified work, like farm work or regional work.
Skilled Migration Visa
For individuals with skills that are in high demand in Australia. To apply, you must pass a points test based on age, qualifications, and work experience. This visa allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia permanently.
Student Visa (subclass 500)
For those wishing to study when relocating to Australia. With this visa, you can work up to 40 hours per fortnight while studying full-time.
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482)
For workers with specific skills sponsored by an employer. It allows you to stay and work in Australia for up to four years.
There are more visas: please see Australian Immigration for more.
Make sure to review the visa requirements on the official Australian immigration website to find the best option for your situation.
It’s always advisable to apply early, as visa processing times can vary depending on the visa type and your country of origin and whether you apply onshore or offshore.
Choosing the Right City
Australia’s cities offer diverse lifestyles, so selecting the right city is an important decision.
Whether you’re moving for work, leisure, or a combination of both, here are some of the top cities for those relocating to Australia:
Sydney
Sydney is Australia’s most iconic city, famous for its stunning harbour, world-class beaches, and thriving economy.
While it’s a popular destination for expats, the cost of living in Sydney is high, particularly in terms of rent.
Popular suburbs for newcomers include Bondi and Newtown, offering a unique vibe. Bondi for beach lovers and Newtown for those seeking a vibrant, artsy community.
Melbourne
Known for its coffee culture, arts scene, and unpredictable weather, Melbourne is a more laid-back alternative to Sydney.
It’s a city of laneways, eclectic neighbourhoods, and a buzzing cultural calendar. Rent is slightly more affordable than in Sydney, and areas like Fitzroy and Brunswick are known for their creative, hipster communities.
Melbourne also consistently ranks highly in global liveability indexes, making it a great choice for long-term stays.
Brisbane
With its warm climate and relaxed vibe, Brisbane is a rapidly growing city. Known as the gateway to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, it’s perfect for those seeking an outdoor lifestyle when relocating to Australia.
It’s more affordable than both Sydney and Melbourne, and neighbourhoods like SouthBank and West End offer great access to the city’s thriving arts scene, without the hefty price tags of other major cities.
Perth
Perth, located on Australia’s west coast, is known for its beaches, wine regions, and slower pace of life. It’s more isolated than other cities, but it’s also less crowded and boasts a lower cost of living.
Areas like Fremantle and Subiaco are popular with newcomers for their close-knit communities and excellent amenities.
Adelaide
Smaller but just as charming, Adelaide offers an affordable alternative to Sydney and Melbourne.
Known for its festivals, food, and proximity to wine regions like the Barossa Valley, Adelaide is a great choice for those who want a more peaceful, relaxed lifestyle.
Rent is cheaper, and neighbourhoods like Norwood and Glenelg offer great access to both city and beach living.
Cairns
If you’re seeking adventure and proximity to natural wonders, Cairns is a tropical paradise close to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
It’s ideal for those looking to combine work with travel or enjoy an eco-conscious lifestyle. Cairns is a smaller city, making it easier to meet people and settle in quickly.
Finding a Job
Securing employment is a top priority when relocating to Australia. The country has a robust economy, but the job market can be competitive depending on your field.
Here are some tips for finding a job:
Online Job Boards
Websites like Seek, Indeed, and LinkedIn are popular for job hunting in Australia. For backpackers please check out the backpacker job board and SVEN. But make sure to tailor your resume to Australian standards, highlighting your skills and experience.
Networking
Australians value personal connections when it comes to hiring. Joining expat groups on Facebook or professional networks can help you meet people in your industry and increase your chances of finding a job.
Recruitment Agencies
Many industries rely on recruitment agencies to find candidates. It’s worth registering with a few agencies specialising in your field to get access to job opportunities that may not be advertised publicly. Some of these could be Hays, Randstad or Frontline hospitality.
For those on a Working Holiday Visa, jobs in hospitality, retail, and agriculture are plentiful, especially during the tourist season, check out Workforce Australia for regional work.
However, it’s important to be flexible, as these jobs are often casual or seasonal.
Finding Housing
When you first arrive in Australia, finding temporary accommodation is essential. Hostels are a popular choice for newcomers, offering affordable lodging and the chance to meet fellow travellers.
Here’s a list of some of the best hostels in Australia’s major cities:
Sydney
Bounce Sydney: A modern hostel with great social spaces and proximity to Central Station, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
Mad Monkey Coogee Beach: Located near the famous Coogee Beach, this hostel is perfect for those who want to enjoy Sydney’s coastal lifestyle.
Melbourne
The Nunnery: Situated in the artistic Fitzroy neighbourhood, this boutique hostel is known for its quirky style and welcoming atmosphere.
United Backpackers: Right in the heart of Melbourne, opposite Flinders Street Station, this hostel offers great access to the city’s nightlife and attractions.
Brisbane
Bunk Brisbane: Located in the lively Fortitude Valley, this hostel is famous for its social vibe and party atmosphere.
Brisbane City YHA: A more laid-back option with a rooftop pool and views of the city skyline, perfect for those seeking a more relaxed stay.
Perth
Wickham Retreat Backpackers: A homely and budget-friendly hostel popular with long-term travellers.
Fremantle Prison YHA: Stay in a piece of history with this unique hostel housed in a former prison.
Adelaide
Hostel 109: A small, quiet hostel in the heart of Adelaide, ideal for those looking for a peaceful stay.
Backpack Oz: A fun, family-run hostel that’s great for meeting other travellers and is within walking distance to central Adelaide.
Byron Bay
Wake Up! Byron Bay: A popular spot for beach lovers, this hostel offers beachfront views and a chilled-out atmosphere.
Byron Bay YHA: Centrally located with a relaxed social scene, this hostel is perfect for exploring the laid-back vibes of Byron Bay.
Once you’ve settled in and are ready to find more permanent housing, websites like Domain and Realestate.com.au offer great resources for finding rentals.
Renting is typically the go-to option for new arrivals, but some expats choose to buy property once they’ve settled into Australian life.
Setting Up Your Finances
Setting up a bank account is one of the first things you’ll need to do after relocating to Australia.
Major banks like Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, and Westpac allow you to open accounts online before you even arrive, making the process smooth and easy.
Additionally, it’s crucial to apply for a Tax File Number (TFN), which you’ll need to legally work in Australia. You can apply for a TFN online through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) once you’ve arrived in the country.
The Hardest Part is Often Making Friends But It Doesn’t Have to Be
Making friends in a new country can be challenging, but Australians are generally very friendly and welcoming.
Hostels are a great place to meet other travellers, and many offer social activities to help you connect with people.
Additionally, joining local clubs, sports teams, or taking part in community events can help you build a social network quickly.
I found this was a big problem in Sydney and really found it difficult. I wrote a few blogs about this and tried to give some real advice and clubs for people to make friends as expats in the big cities in Australia.
Expats often find it helpful to join online communities, such as Facebook groups or Meetup.com, where you can meet people with similar interests or backgrounds.
Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, or a smaller town, there’s likely a vibrant expat community to connect with.
Get All the Best Relocating Advice Today
Relocating to Australia is an exciting opportunity, but it’s also a big step.
By staying informed and preparing ahead of time, you’ll be able to ease into your new life smoothly.
From selecting the right visa to choosing the perfect city to match with your lifestyle and securing a job and housing, careful planning at each stage is key to making your move a success.
So, ready to make the move?
Start planning your smooth transition to Australia today with this comprehensive relocation guide!
Check out more tips and guides, like my ultimate moving to Australia guide and my Australia travel guides to get inspiration and tips for the move.
Darren Jonathon is the creator of Average Joe Down Under, a blog sharing the everyday experiences of life in Australia. With a passion for storytelling, Darren is on a mission to help people travel to Australia and assist expats in making their move down under smoother. He covers topics ranging from expat life to exploring Australia’s unique culture, turning his blog into a hub for relatable, real-life experiences.
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