Australia is an extensive country in the southern hemisphere. Its modern history dates back to 1788, when the first British convicts arrived in the country. The nation has made plenty of progress since then and is now one of the richest countries in the world. It is famous for having gone for more than 30 years without a recession. If you are relocating to Australia, use this ‘Moving to Australia from the UK checklist’ to plan your move.

What do I need to move to Australia from the UK?

If you are looking for a fresh start, Australia is an excellent option. A key benefit if you are immigrating to Australia is that it offers beautiful scenery and is one of the best countries for outdoor activities. Some natural wonders in the country include the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, Shark Bay, The Pinnacles, Twelve Apostles, and Fraser Island. Australia also has many national and marine parks.

Although city life can be expensive, Australia has some of the highest salaries in the world. It also offers a very high standard of living. You will also appreciate the railway system in the country, where trains are safe and uncrowded.

Australian culture is very similar to that of the UK, so integration should be seamless. Big cities in Australia are a melting pot of many different ethnic and cultural groups, and you will find an abundance of global themed restaurants.

You will enjoy longer summers when you move to Australia. Winters in the UK are a lot colder than those in Australia. As someone who has lived in the UK, you will find Australian winters pleasant and bearable.

Is moving to Australia from the UK a good idea?

Moving to Australia from the UK is a popular choice. Both countries have relatively similar cultures, so you won’t experience many big surprises. It is also worth noting that Australians have one of the best healthcare systems in the world. The state offers universal healthcare. Schools in the country also have excellent education standards, and your children can either attend public or private schools. It is worth noting that public schools in the country are well-equipped, and private schools are quite affordable.

How much money do you need in the bank to emigrate to Australia?

When immigrating into Australia, you will need to factor in the cost of submitting a visa application, the costs of moving to the country, and the cost of settling down. The costs of submitting a visa application are as follows (in Australian dollars):

The costs of moving to Australia include, amongst others:

  • Airfare
    • Entries to validate your visa
    • Packing, shipping your belongings and storage

The cost of settling in Australia will vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose. You may also want to purchase a car, although public transport systems are good. Furnishing the house is another major expense you need to take into account.

You can use a removals company to pack and transport your household goods from the UK and assist with storage in the UK if necessary. It’s worth bearing in mind that there are many benefits to choosing a removals company which also offers secure storage, rather than using two different companies. If you choose the right removals and storage company:

  1. You won’t need to worry about the logistics – your goods will be packed if needed, collected and stored securely, then returned to you safely, at your convenience.
  2. You will have access to additional services, such as expert wrapping and packing to reduce the risk of damage in transit and storage – and insurance, for that extra peace of mind.
  3. You’ll save time and money … and reduce stress – packing and organising your goods into secure boxes can be time consuming and stressful, especially if you are relocating abroad and already have so much to think about. The right removals company will take care of all the hassle …. and if you choose wisely, they’ll only charge for the space you use. So make sure you do your homework!

Another financial consideration when moving to Australia, is the need money to look after yourself and your family as you prepare to start earning a living in the country.

What do you need to do before moving to Australia?

Before you move to Australia, you should collate the necessary documentation. You will need a visa and a valid passport. If you are planning to start a business as a non-citizen in Australia, you should make sure you research everything that you need for the business. This includes the required papers. You may also want to update your CV if you intend to search for a job in Australia.

You can also open a bank account in Australia to make your settling process smoother. Monitor the exchange rates to find a perfect time to transfer the money and hold the funds in AUD. Our recommended partner for exchange rate reviews and currency transfers – at excellent rates – is Smart Currency Exchange. They are UK-based and authorised by the FCA. Opening an account with Smart only takes a few minutes. Then you’ll be ready to make international money transfers that are easy, fast and safe. Find out more here.

There is also a Customs Form for your Unaccompanied Personal Effects which needs to be completed. It is worth speaking to a specialist International moving firm about the simple customs documentation required when shipping items into Australia.

8-Point Moving to Australia from the UK Checklist

1. Apply for your visa

Many months before you leave for Australia, you will need to apply for a visa. It may be more convenient to work with a visa agent as you apply for this document. There are several visa options you can obtain, and the best one will vary depending on your qualifications and requirements.

2. Update your resume

You will need a source of income in your new country of residence, so it would be wise to update your CV with the latest qualifications, experiences, and references. You may also need to apply for jobs in Australia.

3. Hire a car

You will need to move around in your new residence, and a good way to start is to hire a vehicle. If you already have a UK driving license, you can use it to drive in Australia for a maximum of three months. Make sure you get a local Australian driver’s license within this period.

4. Renew your passport

You will need to renew your UK passport if it is nearing expiry. The fastest way to get a new passport is by using the Online Premium service. With this option, you can attend an emergency passport appointment 2 days after making the application.

5. Collect your medical and financial documents

You also have to collect your medical files and records as you will transfer to a new doctor in Australia. Make sure you collate your financial and tax statements as well.

6. Organise accommodation

You may need temporary accommodation when you arrive in Australia, and you can organise for this living space through before leaving the UK. Once you settle in the country, you can decide if you want to start renting a house or purchasing one by speaking to estate agents in Australia.

7. Apply for Medicare and obtain a tax file number

Medicare in Australia is available to permanent residents of the country. You will have to apply to join the system, and the government will take up to 8 weeks to process it.

8. Get a driver’s license

As noted earlier, you can drive in Australia with a UK driver’s license. However, this is only allowed for up to three months. Make sure you get a local driver’s license before this period is up. You will need to complete a few Australian drivers tests before you get this license.

Conclusion

With its iconic scenery, efficient transport system, excellent education and healthcare systems and more, there are many advantages to moving to Australia.

As one of the UK’s leaders in removals and storage, Doree Bonner International has been moving households and businesses to Australia from the UK for many years. Our state-of-the-art secure storage facilities, offer peace of mind, knowing that you’re in good hands and your move will be a smooth one.

From packing and storage options in the UK, to destination services handled by our overseas agents in Australia, we are here to partner with you at every step of your move journey.

Learn more about our International Moving services here and get a free online quote. Alternatively, please contact a member of our team for advice and information relating to your specific move requirements. We look forward to hearing from you.