Expats Moving to Australia
A Comprehensive Guide on Relocating to Australia
Relocating to a new country poses a lot of challenges. You need to do a lot of research on subjects such as acquiring work and residence visas, housing and shipping costs for your belongings, banking, and taxation, the list goes on.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed with information, as stress and frustration set in. Here at APAC relocation, we provide you with all the essential services you will need to make your transition to your new home a smooth one. We have years of experience under our belt and have highly qualified staff that know the ins and out of moving abroad.
If you’re considering a move to Australia, please note that unless you are from New Zealand, the requirements include acquiring a proper work and residence visa. Things will be relatively smoother if you already have a job offer or an employment contract.
Australia is in perpetual need of highly skilled blue-collar workers. If you have proper qualifications and significant work experience in your field, then you are very much welcome to work in the land Down Under. The same goes for foreigners who have a business that can create job opportunities for locals.
Once granted a visa, expats can begin to enjoy the many benefits of living and working in Australia such as a good work-life balance, great education, and high quality of living.
What You Need to Know About Relocate to Australia
There are certain things you will need to consider before moving to Australia. As any seasoned relocating veteran will tell you, each country has its own set of challenges. Our experts are ready to answer all of your queries and are on standby to give practical advice. Vaccinations are also routine when traveling to Australia, particularly yellow fever vaccination. It is mandatory for people coming from high-risk countries. It is also recommended that you get vaccinations for measles, chicken-pox, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, polio, and the annual flu shot. Medical examinations and special health requirements may be necessary and depend on your age, the type of visa you apply for, and the country you are coming from. Pets entering the country also require proper permits and are categorized according to the group. Group 1 is for cats and dogs that are coming from New Zealand, Cocos Islands, and Norfolk Island. These pets are not required to be issued import permits. Cats and dogs that fall under groups 2 and 3 require proper documentation and import permits. These are cats and dogs that come from certified rabies-free countries and approved countries where rabies is well-controlled, respectively. To learn more read through the relocating section of our Australia guide.
Moving and Shipping Household Goods
You must be aware that bringing your personal belongings to Australia has limitations. Items coming in cannot exceed a total value of 900 AUD (592 USD). Alcohol is limited to 2.25 liters per traveler while only 25 grams of tobacco products can be brought in. Certain agricultural products and homemade food items are prohibited. Items such as clothing, books, sporting equipment, etc., only require a simple Unaccompanied Personal Effects (UPE) statement form, while bigger and more expensive items such as cars, yachts, planes, etc., need an entire Import Declaration Form. Choose wisely on what you decide to bring over to save on importation costs and possible headaches. General Goods
Personal goods include:
▸ Jewelry
▸ Watches
▸ Sporting/gym equipment
▸ Perfumes
▸ Leather goods
▸ Cameras
▸ Electronic equipment
▸ Souvenirs
▸ Gifts
Items coming in must be proven to have been owned and used for at least a year or imported temporarily. Up to 10,000 AUD (6,588 USD) is allowed without any restrictions but anything exceeding this amount must be declared.
Alcohol
Alcohol is limited to 2.25 liters per traveler of 18 years old or older.
Tobacco
Only 25 grams of tobacco products can be brought in by a traveler of 18 years old or older.
Arms and Ammunition
All firearms, weapons, and ammunition must be declared including replicas, BB air guns, electric shock devices for self-defense, and knives. Some of these items will require police authorization and a permit.
Passing Through Customs
Here’s a list of the things you can bring and not bring, along with those that you need to declare:
| Allowed | Not Allowed | Declare |
| Biscuits, bread, cakes, pastries Chocolates and confectionary |
Fresh fruits Pepper spray |
Duty-free items (alcohol and tobacco) Homemade food |
| Coffee (roasted, ground, or instant) | Food from plane or ship | Prescription medication |
| Honey products | ||
| Laser pointers | ||
| Meat items | ||
| Seeds | ||
| Tea |
Australia’s Prohibited and Restricted Items
Some restricted items require a permit to enter Australia. Others are prohibited under all circumstances.
These items include:
▸ Drugs and medicines (unless prescribed and must be declared)
▸ Fruit, vegetables, homemade food, and some seeds (can include some spices)
▸ Firearms and weapons (unless declared with the appropriate permits and authorization)
▸ Pepper spray
▸ Intellectual property
▸ Endangered species of plants or live animals
▸ Counterfeit credit, debit, or charge cards
▸ Electronic fly swatters
▸ Laser pointers
▸ Lighters
In 2019, tobacco (cigarettes, molasses tobacco, and loose-leaf tobacco) was included in Australia’s prohibited imports list. Anything over 25 grams of tobacco per person must be declared and paid its applicable duty. Bringing in more than 1.5kg of smokeless tobacco requires special permission from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
How to Ship Household Items and Belongings?
There are strict regulations regarding shipping Unaccompanied Personal Effects (UPEs). These are the items that will not be travelling with you when you go to Australia.
Items that you may bring via ship or air freight must follow these guidelines:
▸ Items must be personal property.
▸ A comprehensive packing list outlining what is inside each box you are shipping must be accomplished (this list will be reviewed by
Australian customs).
Typically, UPEs include things like:
▸ Clothing
▸ Personal hygiene and grooming products
▸ Furniture and appliances
▸ Sporting/gym equipment
A UPE Statement (B534 Form) is required for such items.
The following are not considered UPEs and will be restrained by the Australian Government:
▸ Motor vehicles and motor vehicle parts(Please get in touch with the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development prior to
importation)
▸ Yachts(will be subject to a 5% duty plus 10% goods and services tax (GST))
▸ Planes/aircrafts
▸ Commercial goods
▸ Bequeathed/inherited goods
▸ Human remains
▸ Goods purchased online
▸ You will need to fill out an Import Declaration (N19) (Form B650) to declare these items
Make It Easy with Our Home-Finding, Moving, Settling-In, and Other Essential Services.
Home Goods Storage
It is good to know that should you require the services of a storage company in Australia, there are many reasonably priced facilities ready to house your belongings. Choosing the right one for your needs and budget requires some research. You may want to consider its location (for easy access) aside from its size and price. Rates will depend on the length of time you plan to rent out plus the storage space.
You may have to personally visit a few facilities before you find the right one for your needs. Make sure to check the facility’s security system and available onsite staff before making a final decision. Your peace of mind depends on it.
Health Requirements for Australian Immigration
All visa applicants may be subject to specific health examinations.
Permanent and Provisional Visa Applicants
| Age | Test Required |
| Under 2 years | Medical examination |
| 2 to under 11 years | Medical examination and TB screening test |
| 11 to under 15 years | Medical examination and chest x-ray |
| 15 or more | Medical examination, chest x-ray, HIV test |
Temporary Visa Applicants
Examinations will depend on:
▸ Visa type
▸ Length of time you plan to stay in Australia
▸ Level of tuberculosis risk your country poses
▸ Any other special circumstances
Those who are planning to stay for more than six months and are 11 years old and above or are coming from high-risk countries will be subject to a medical examination and chest x-ray
Additional Test
Additional tests may be required in the following circumstances:
▸ You are coming from a country with a high risk of TB and will be working in a healthcare or hospital environment
▸ You are pregnant and plan to give birth in Australia
▸ You intend to work as a doctor, paramedic, nurse, or dentist
▸ You plan to work for an Australian childcare center
▸ You are 75 years or older and applying for a Visitor visa rests-Free Process with Our Essential
Moving with Pets
This depends on the country your animal is coming from, as well as the breed. Not all animals are allowed in Australia.
▸ Birds: selected species from New Zealand only
▸ Dogs: from approved countries only
▸ Cats: from approved countries only
▸ Horses: from approved countries only
▸ Rabbits: New Zealand only
The following dogs are banned in Australia and therefore will not be allowed entry under any circumstances:
▸ Dogo Argentino
▸ Fila Brasileiro
▸ Japanese Tosa
▸ American pit bull terrier or pit bull terrier
▸ Perro de Presa Canario or Presa Canario
Domestic/non-domestic hybrids (e.g. dog-wolf crosses) are also prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to:
▸ Czechoslovakian wolfdog or Czechoslovakian Vlcak;
▸ Saarloos wolfdog or Saarloos wolfhound;
▸ Lupo Italiano or Italian wolfdog;
▸ Kunming wolfdog or Kunming dog.
The following domestic/non-domestic hybrid cat breeds cannot be imported into Australia:
▸ Savannah cat, domestic cat (Felis catus) crossed with serval cat (Felis serval)
▸ Safari cat, domestic cat crossed with Geoffroy cat (Oncifelis geoffroyi)
▸ Chausie, domestic cat crossed with Jungle cat (Felis chaus)
▸ Bengal cat, domestic cat crossed with Asian leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis)
Dogs and cats coming from New Zealand, Cocos Islands and Norfolk Island fall under group 1 and do not require an import permit; however, certain conditions may still apply. Dogs and cats coming from approved rabies-free countries (group 2) require an import permit before entering Australia.
Dogs and cats coming from approved countries and territories where rabies is absent or well-controlled (group 3) still require an import permit. If you can’t bear the thought of leaving your furrys behind but come from a non-approved country, there are step-by-step guides you can follow to help you bring your pet Down Under.
An import permit for your pet will cost you 480 AUD (316 USD). A charge of 240 AUD (158 USD) is applied per additional animal.
The Guide to Visa Types and Work Permit Requirements
There are many different visa options available in Australia for all types of professionals. There are specific visas for skilled workers, people participating in specific activities, highly specialized workers, and more. A Business Talent visa is for investors who meet the necessary criteria. Being a working professional is the most common way to get a residence permit (temporary and permanent) in Australia.
Types of Australian Visas
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa
Skilled independent Visa
Skilled Nominated visa
Temporary Skill Shortage visa
Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa
Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa
Temporary Work (International Relations) visa
Distinguished Talent visa
1. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa
Allows skilled workers nominated by their employer to live and work in Australia permanently.
Requirements:
▸ Must have the skills necessary for the job (skills assessment will be required, with some exemptions).
▸ Job must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations.
▸ Must be nominated by an Australian employer.
▸ Must meet health and character
▸ Must have at least Competent English.
▸ Must have at least three years of relevant work experience.
▸ Must be under 45 years of age (with some exemptions).
▸ Must read or have been explained the Life in Australia booklet, and sign the Australian Values Statement.
2. Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa
Allows skilled workers nominated by their employer in regional Australia to live and work in the country permanently.
Requirements:
▸ Must be nominated by an approved Australian employer for a job in regional Australia.
▸ Must be below 45 years of age.
▸ Job must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations.
▸ Must have at least Competent English.
▸ Must have at least three years of relevant work experience.
▸ Must have the skills necessary for the job (skills assessment will be required, with some exemptions).
▸ Must agree to remain employed with the nominating employer in regional Australia for a minimum of 2 years.
▸ Must meet health and character
▸ Must read or have been explained the Life in Australia booklet, and sign the Australian Values Statement.
3. Skilled Independent Visa
Allows invited workers and New Zealand citizens with skills Australia needs to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia.
See more of Skilled Independent Visa.
Requirements:
For invited workers:
▸ Must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency and invited to apply by submitting an expression of
interest (EOI).
▸ Must be below 45 years of age.
▸ Job must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations.
▸ Must have the skills necessary for the job (skills assessment will be required, with some exemptions).
▸ Must satisfy points test with 65 points or more (learn more about Australia’s immigration point system below).
▸ Must have at least Competent English.
▸ Must meet health and character.
▸ Must read or have been explained the Life in Australia booklet, and sign the Australian Values Statement.
For New Zealand citizens:
▸ Must hold a New Zealand Special Category visa.
▸ Must have lived in Australia for at least five years.
▸ Must have started living in Australia on or before February 19, 2016.
▸ Must meet health and character.
▸ Must read or have been explained the Life in Australia booklet, and sign the Australian Values Statement.
4. Skilled Nominated Visa
Allows nominated skilled workers to live and work in Australia as permanent residents. See more of Skilled Nominated Visa.
Requirements:
▸ Job must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations.
▸ Must have the skills necessary for the job (skills assessment will be required, with some exemptions).
▸ Must be invited to apply by submitting an EOI.
▸ Must be below 45 years of age.
▸ Must satisfy points test with 65 points or more.
▸ Must have at least Competent English.
▸ Must meet health and character.
▸ Must read or have been explained the Life in Australia booklet, and sign the Australian Values Statement.
5. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa
The temporary visa enables an employer to sponsor a suitably skilled worker when an Australian is not available
See more of Temporary Skill Shortage Visa.
Requirements:
▸ If applying within Australia, must hold a Bridging visa A, B, or C and comply with previous visa conditions.
▸ Must be nominated by an approved sponsor to fill an occupation on the Short-term Skilled Occupation List
(for the short-term stream) or Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (for the medium-term stream).
▸ Must have worked in your nominated occupation or a related field for at least two years.
▸ Must have the skills necessary for the job (skills assessment will be required, with some exemptions).
▸ Must have adequate health insurance.
▸ Must meet health and character.
▸ Must have at least Competent English.
▸ Must read or have been explained the Life in Australia booklet, and sign the Australian Values Statement.
6. Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa
Temporary visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia. See more of Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa.
Requirements:
▸ Must be nominated by an Australian state, territory government agency, or sponsored by an eligible relative and invited to apply by submitting an expression of interest (EOI).
▸ Must not be over 45 years of age.
▸ Have a suitable skills assessment
▸ Must satisfy a points test with 65 points or more (more about Australia’s immigration point system below).
▸ Must have at least Competent English.
▸ Job must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations.
▸ Must meet health and character.
▸ Must have read or have been explained the Life in Australia booklet, and sign the Australian Values Statement.
Individuals applying through the extended stay pathway will have to have been holders of the Skilled Regional Sponsored visa (subclass 475), Skilled Regional Sponsored visa (subclass 487), Skilled Independent Regional visa (subclass 495), or the Skilled Designated Area Sponsored Provisional visa (subclass 496) when applying. There is no age restriction when applying through this pathway.
7. Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa
The temporary visa that lets you do short-term, highly-specialized work in the country. See more of Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa.
Requirements:
▸ Must have highly specialized skills, knowledge, or experience to support Australian business and do ongoing work (six months
or less).
▸ Must have sufficient funds to support oneself.
▸ Health and character requirements must be met.
8. Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa
Temporary visa to work in particular circumstances that improve Australia’s international relations. See more of Temporary Work (International Relations) visa.
Requirements:
▸ Must provide a letter of support:
▸ Stating that you are engaged in a bilateral agreement between Australia / Australian state or territory government, and another
country (for those applying via the Government Agreement stream).
▸ From the foreign government agency, ministry, mission, international organization, or Australian school or relevant state or territory
education authority (for foreign language teachers) for those applying via the Foreign Government Agency stream.
▸ Or from the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs Trade (DFAT) for those applying via the Domestic Worker
(Diplomatic or Consular) stream.
▸ Must have sufficient funds to support oneself.
▸ Must hold a temporary substantive visa if applying within Australia.
▸ Must meet health and character.
▸ Must have adequate health insurance.
▸ An interview and employment contract may be required for individuals applying through the Domestic Worker (Diplomatic or
Consular) stream.
9. Distinguished Talent Visa
A permanent visa for people who have an internationally recognized record of outstanding achievement in a profession, sport, the arts, or academia and research.
Requirements:
▸ Must be nominated.
▸ The contribution must be of benefit to the Australian community in an economic, social, or cultural way, or raise Australia’s academic,
artistic, or sports standing internationally.
▸ Must have the ability to establish oneself in the country either through work in one’s field or becoming independently established.
▸ Must be internationally recognized with a record of achievement in a profession, sport, the arts, or academia and research.
▸ Must have at least functional English.
▸ Must meet health and character.
▸ Must read or have been explained the Life in Australia booklet, and sign the Australian Values Statement.
Australia Work Visa Costs
All the work visas mentioned above have a uniform cost of 4,045 AUD (2,676 USD) with the exception of the following:
▸ Temporary Skill Shortage visa – 1,265 AUD (891 USD) for short-term stream or 2,645 AUD (1,863 USD) for medium-term stream
▸ Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (extended stay pathway) – 360 AUD (254 USD)
▸ Temporary Work visas – 310 AUD (218 USD) except in limited circumstances
▸ Distinguished Talent visa – 4,110 AUD (2,895 USD)
Work Permit Visa Application Form
The Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website via ImmiAccount offers online visa applications. If your visa requires an official invitation to apply, you can submit an EOI on SkillSelect.
Family Visa
All the outlined visas allow you to bring eligible family members with you through sponsorship or apply for a subsequent entrant visa for them, except for the Domestic Worker (Diplomatic or Consular) stream of the Temporary Work (International Relations) visa.
Australia’s Medical Exam
Visas that require meeting Australia’s health standards may subject an individual to a health examination. Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, this could consist of a medical exam, TB Screening test, chest x-ray, HIV test, hepatitis B and C test, and syphilis test.
Australia’s Immigration Point System
A visa applicant is required to satisfy a points test. Here’s how it works:
Age
▸ At least 18 but less than 25 years old—25 points
▸ At least 25 but less than 33 years old—30 points
▸ At least 33 but less than 40 years old—25 points
▸ At least 40 but less than 45 years old—15 points
English Language Skills
▸ Competent English—0 points
▸ Proficient English—10 points
▸ Superior English—20 points
Overseas Skilled Employment
▸ Less than three years—0 points
▸ At least three but less than five years—5 points
▸ At least five but less than eight years—10 points
▸ At least eight years—15 points
Australian Skilled Employment
▸ Less than a year—0 points
▸ At least one but less than three years—5 points
▸ At least three but less than five years—10 points
▸ At least five but less than eight years—15 points
▸ At least eight years—20 points
Educational Qualifications
▸ Doctorate from an Australian educational institution or another educational institution of recognized standard—20 points
▸ Bachelor’s degree from an Australian educational institution or at least a bachelor qualification from another educational institution
of recognized standard—15 points
▸ Diploma or trade qualification from an Australian educational institution—10 points
▸ Attained a qualification or award recognized by the relevant assessing authority as being suitable for that occupation—10 points
▸ Specialist Education Qualification- Master’s degree by research or a doctorate from an Australian educational institution that
included at least two academic years’ worth of studyin a relevant field—5 points
▸ Australian Study Requirement- Must meet the Australian study requirement—5 points
▸ Professional Year in Australia- Completion of a professional year in the country—5 points
▸ Community Language Credential- Hold a recognized qualification in a credentialled community language—5 points
▸ Study in Regional Australia- At least one degree, diploma, or trade certificate from an Australian educational institution that satisfies
the Australian study requirement obtained while living and studying in an eligible area of regional Australia—5 points
▸ Partner Skills- Spouse or de facto partner must also be an applicant for a visa and meet age, English, and skill criteria—5 points
▸ Nomination or Sponsorship- Invited to apply for a Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa because you were nominated, or are being
sponsored for a Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa by a family member that has been accepted by the Minister—10 points
Self-Employment Visas
There are two streams for Australia’s Business Talent (Permanent) visa for applicants: Significant Business History and Venture Capital Entrepreneur.
The initial is for business owners who want to operate a new or existing business in Australia. The latter is for businessmen who have sourced venture capital funding from a member of the Australian Investment Council (AIC), and are seeking to operate a new or existing business.
Requirements:
For the Significant Business History stream, applicants will need:
▸ A net value of at least 1.5 million AUD (more than a million USD).
▸ An annual business turnover of at least 3 million AUD (more than 2.1 million USD) for at least two of the four fiscal years immediately
prior to being invited to apply.
▸ Total net assets of at least 400,000 AUD (281,551 USD) as the ownership interest in one or more qualifying businesses for at least
two of the four fiscal years immediately prior to being invited to apply.
▸ To be not older than 55 years old. However, exceptions are allowed for proposed businesses that will be of exceptional economic
benefit to the region of its operation.
▸ Applicants for the Venture Capital Entrepreneur Stream will need to have secured at least 1 million AUD (704,000 USD) in funding for
a high-value business concept.
Both streams require you to:
▸ Be nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency before being invited to apply;
▸ Meet the health and character requirements;
▸ Read or have been explained the Life in Australia booklet, and sign the Australian Values Statement;
▸ Have at least functional English.
This type of visa costs 7,855 AUD (5,175 USD).
Steps to apply for a Self-Employment Visa in Australia:
Step 1 – Submit an EOI
Submit an EOI on SkillSelect, after which, you will be nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency and be invited to apply.
Step 2 – Collect your Documents
Gather all the appropriate identity documents and assemble your evidence of venture capital funding, assets, business intentions and activities, as it applies.
Step 3 – Apply for your Visa
Online application forms are found on ImmiAccount. You will find that the official invitation letter comes with specific instructions on how to submit your application.
Step 4 – Wait
You will get a confirmation letter stating that your application and documents have been received. Your application can now be tracked and managed online via ImmiAccount.
Step 5 – Receive your Result
The official decision on your visa application will come in written form. If the results are favorable, it will include your visa grant number, the start date of your visa, along visa conditions, when applicable. Should your application be denied, you will be given a reason as to why and whether you have a right to a review of the decision. Your application fee will not be refunded once your visa application is rejected.
How to Become an Australian Permanent Resident
A permanent residency in Australia allows you to remain in the country indefinitely.
Here are the visas which lead to permanent residency:
▸ Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa
▸ Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) visa
▸ Skilled independent visa
▸ Skilled Nominated visa
▸ Distinguished Talent visa
▸ Business Talent (Permanent) visa
Permanent Resident Benefits
▸ Remain in the country indefinitely.
▸ Work and study in Australia.
▸ Enroll in the country’s national health scheme, Medicare.
▸ Apply for bank loans to buy property.
▸ Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence.
▸ Apply for citizenship, if eligible.
▸ Work in New Zealand.
▸ Travel to and from Australia for as long as one’s travel facility permits.
▸ Attend free English language courses provided by the Adult Migrant English Program.
How to Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit
The application process for a temporary resident permit is the same as applying for one of the many temporary residence visas for professionals. For workers, those can include:
▸ Temporary Skill Shortage visa
▸ Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa
▸ Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa
▸ Temporary Work (International Relations) visa
Family Visa
A Prospective Marriage visa (temporary residence permit) allows you to come to Australia to marry your partner. Afterward, you can apply for a Partner visa which also serves as a permanent residency permit. The Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website has all the information regarding the fiancé visa. It includes a step-by-step guide on everything you need to accomplish before applying as well as a complete list of every single document you are required. The visa application process is discussed in great detail and even offers practical tips on things to do once you have sent in your application.
If you’re seriously considering moving to Australia, you might want to acquire the services of a relocation agency. Whether it’s visa assistance, finding your new home or shipping your belongings, a relocation agency guarantees expert assistance. We’re ready to facilitate your smooth passage to Australia, so ask us how!
Healthcare in Australia
Australia’s healthcare system is a combination of both private and public schemes. Understanding how it works is essential for your smooth transition to Australian life. More than 50% of the population purchase private insurance as the public scheme (Medicare) does not cover everything. Living in the capital or other major cities gives you better access to doctors, should the need arise. Rural areas will obviously have more challenges. If you are a public patient, you will have to be referred by your general practitioner (GP) to see a specialist. Your child will automatically gain citizenship should you ever find yourself giving birth in Australia with at least a permanent residency status. Otherwise, your child will share the same visa status as you (e.g., temporary residence if you are on a Temporary Work visa).
Australia’s healthcare system is known to be among the best in the world. It is a combination of both public and private schemes. Understanding how it works is crucial for your smooth transition to life Down Under. More than 50% of the population purchase private insurance as the public scheme (Medicare) does not offer sufficient coverage. Australia also has a reciprocal Health Care Agreement with eleven countries which entitles the eligible expat from one of these countries to access Medicare.
Australia has over 1,300 hospitals, both public and private, that offer non-residents a wide range of healthcare options. There are over 25,000 doctors in Australia and 24,000 specialists. Falling ill in one of its major cities means instant access to the best doctors and facilities the country has to offer. In contrast, it is routine to travel some distance to see a doctor or specialist if you’re from a rural area.
Healthcare Facts in Australia
▸ Anyone who is a permanent resident has access to the public system.
▸ Half the population has private coverage.
▸ Australia’s healthcare scheme is a universal public healthcare system with private options.
▸ The public scheme guarantees free emergency services and doctor visits.
▸ There are over 5,000 pharmacies in the country
▸ There are 1,300 hospitals (700 public and 600 private).
▸ There are over 25,000 doctors and approximately 24,000 specialists, nationwide.
▸ Indigenous Australians and veterans have access to specific healthcare programs.
▸ There are two national health assistance schemes: Medicare Benefits Scheme and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
In order for eligible expats to avail of public healthcare, they must register within a week of their arrival to receive their Medicare card. They will need to present the following documents:
▸ A passport;
▸ Travel documents;
▸ Permanent visa.
Expats may choose to sign up in person or online and processing can take up to a month.
Does Australia Have Free Public Healthcare?
Yes. As long as you are a permanent resident in the country, you can access the public health system at no or little cost via Medicare. Medicare is also available to expats from these eleven countries because of the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement:
▸ Belgium
▸ Finland
▸ Italy
▸ Malta
▸ Netherlands
▸ New Zealand
▸ Norway
▸ Ireland
▸ Slovenia
▸ Sweden
▸ United Kingdom
Expats from countries outside the list are expected to get private health insurance coverage to ease the burden from the public system.
How Much is Health Insurance?
Depending on the plan you purchase and coverage This depends entirely on the plan you purchase, what is included in your coverage, and the level of coverage. The average cost of health insurance in Australia in 2018 was 166 AUD (110 USD) per month. The average hospital insurance was roughly 2,000 AUD (1,320 USD) per year, and extra policies cost approximately 850 AUD (560 USD) annually. The following outlines the average cost per month, which includes general treatment and hospital insurance, based on level of coverage for 2019.
| Basic | 200 AUD | 131 USD |
| Medium | 300 AUD | 198 USD |
| Top | 400 AUD | 263 USD |
In April 2019, the Australian government also introduced a new tiering system for hospital insurance: basic, bronze, silver, and gold. The average price per month based on a single policy across ten funds in Sydney was as follows:
| Basic | 80 AUD | 52 USD |
| Bronze | 90 AUD | 60 USD |
| Silver | 130 AUD | 86 USD |
| Gold | 170 AUD | 112 USD |
Types of Health Insurance Plans
The following is a list of various policies from different funds across Australia, and their cost per month.
| Plan | AUD | USD |
| HBF’s Ultimate with GapSaver | 624 | 430 |
| Medibank’s Ultra Health Cover | 460-530* | 320-370 |
| Westfund’s Platinum Plus | 490 | 340 |
| Bupa’s Ultimate Health Cover | 460-470* | 320 |
| com.au’s High 85 | 460 | 320 |
HBF, Medicare, and Westfund are among Australia’s most expensive providers, while the cheapest three combined come from AHM health insurance in the Northern Territory. Other affordable health insurance plans include the cheapest extras policy in the Northern Territory from HCF for 6 AUD (4 USD) a month, followed by the second cheapest from Mildura at 11 AUD (8 USD) per month, available across Australia. The most expensive policy in the country is from GU Health at 155 AUD (107 USD) a month.ir cost per month.
How to Get Health Insurance in Australia
To obtain health insurance, you should contact your chosen company once you have compared and settled on the right coverage for you and your family. Once you sign up, be aware that you will be subject to a waiting period before you can claim any of your benefits or receive particular treatment. For pre-existing conditions or pregnancy, you may need to wait up to twelve months.
How to Find a Doctor or Dentist
All the information you need to know on how to find a doctor or dentist, even specialists in Australia can be found in this section. To help get you started, you can search on the Australian Doctors Directory. This guide lists specialists, doctors, and even services across all states. It lets you search by state, and the type of dentist (denture specialist, orthodontist, cosmetic dentistry, etc.) and service you need.
How to Find a Family Doctor
In Australia, family doctors are referred to as general practitioners (GPs). You will have no problem finding a doctor in major Australian cities and capitals. If you happen to be an expat in a rural area, you might have to travel some distance to get to one. Unlike in some countries, it is not necessary to be registered with a specific doctor in Australia—you can see any doctor either as a public or private patient.
To see a GP, you must have an appointment. This is usually made a couple of days in advance. If it is urgent, you may be seen immediately, but whenever possible, it is best to make an appointment at least a day before.
How to Find Specialists
Public patients must be referred to specialist doctors by a GP. Private patients can make appointments directly with specialists, although most insurance companies still prefer you to be referred. If not from their doctor, private patients may also get recommendations for specialists from friends, family, work colleagues, or through their research.
Average Wait Time to See a Doctor in Australia
Even with an appointment, doctor’s offices are usually packed full so it may be well past your appointment time before you are finally seen. Medicare patients must also be prepared to wait a long time to see specialist doctors as there are long waiting lists.
For example, for a hip replacement, half of the population across the country waits more than a month for the procedure, and 10% of patients wait more than six months. In Australia’s smallest state, Tasmania, 10% of patients wait approximately one year for an elective procedure. This is without counting the time it takes to get on the waitlist.
For specialist dental procedures such as root canals, fillings, and extractions, 9% of the population in New South Wales and roughly 25% in South Australia wait more than a year for public services. In other states, here are the percentages of people who waited more than a year for public dental services:
▸ Western Australia—16%
▸ Queensland—16%
▸ Tasmania—17%
▸ Victoria—17%
Giving Birth in Australia
If you are from any of the countries mentioned prior, your healthcare costs will be supported by the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement through Medicare. This could mean free or subsidized treatments. Having a baby in Australia is quite expensive so it would be wise to avail of private insurance. Cost of Having a Baby in Australia If you don’t have health insurance be prepared to shell out the following amounts as part of your birth expenses.
| Reason for Visit | AUD | USD |
| Prenatal doctor visit and care | 75-150 per visit | 50-100 |
| Prenatal ultrasound | 60-280 | 40-190 |
| C-section | 14,000 | 9,700 |
| Regular birth | 9,000 | 6,220 |
| Homebirth and delivery with a midwife | 3,000-5,000 | 2,070-3,450 |
Public hospitals would definitely be cost-efficient. Do expect to stay in the hospital between four to 48 hours. Mothers who give birth via C-section will need to stay between three to four days.
Banking & Taxes
Non-residents won’t have a difficult time opening a bank account in Australia. All four of the major banks offer non-resident bank and migrant bank accounts for expats. They are: National Australia Bank, Australia and New Zealand Banking Group, Westpac, and Commonwealth Bank. Understanding and navigating a country’s tax system is an integral part of any expat’s relocation itinerary. The government has introduced many new tax laws to better help workers, the self-employed, and small to medium-sized businesses. Among them, a tax relief for singles (up to 1,080 AUD (745 USD) and dual-income families (up to 2,160 AUD (1,489 USD)).
If you are opening a bank account in Australia within the first six months of your stay, then all the identification you’ll ever need is a passport. The taxes that you will have to remit while living Down Under requires a bit more study. For example, Australia does have double tax agreements with more than 40 jurisdictions, so make sure that you understand it well to avoid getting taxed twice in Australia and in your home country.
So, if you want to do away with the headache, do get an expert relocation firm that can provide you with the right information.
Bank in Australia
Here’s a list of the most common bank accounts in Australia:
▸ Everyday Transaction Accounts – For daily transactions such as withdrawals and deposits.
▸ Savings Accounts – Same functions as Everyday Transaction Accounts but with higher interest rates
▸ Credit Card Accounts – Access funds that are not immediately available
▸ Foreign Currency Accounts – Especially helpful if you are still getting paid for work in another country
▸ Joint Accounts – Good to open if you want to share access with your spouse or business partner
▸ Term Deposits: Your funds are locked in for a specific period with higher interest rates
Below is a list of bank accounts that will issue credit cards to non-residents of Australia:
▸ HSBC
▸ Commonwealth Bank (CommBank)
▸ National Australia Bank (NAB)
▸ Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ Bank)
The four biggest banks in Australia are:
▸ NAB
▸ CommBank
▸ ANZ Bank
Best Online Banks:
▸ ING
▸ ME Bank
▸ UBank
▸ RaboDirect
▸ Easy Street
▸ e-Finding, Moving, Settling-In, and Other Essential Services.
The tax system comprises both direct and indirect taxes
Some examples of these are ▸ Excise ▸ Sales ▸ Estate ▸ Property ▸ Income Your employer will automatically subtract your income tax from your pay and remit it to the government. Here’s a table of what your taxes could look like: For Resident:
| Tax Bracket (AUD) | Tax Bracket (USD) | Income Tax Percentage |
| 0–18,200 | 0–12,513 | 0 |
| 18,201–37,000 | 12,514–25,438 | 19 |
| 37,001–90,000 | 25,439–61,877 | 32.5 |
| 90,001–180,000 | 61,877–123,755 | 37 |
| 180,001 and over | 123,735 and over | 45 |
For Non-Residents
| Tax Bracket (AUD) | Tax Bracket (USD) | Income Tax Percentage |
| 0–90,000 | 0–61,877 | 32.5 |
| 90,001–180,000 | 61,877–123,755 | 37 |
| 180,001 | 123,735 and over | 45 |
Everything You Need to Know About Finding a New Home
The housing market in Australia is quite competitive. Whether renting or buying, preparing all the necessary documents beforehand helps you seal that deal a lot quicker. With buying property, however, you must also seek approval from the Foreign Review Board, so it’s best to include that in your relocating timeline.
Housing in the bigger cities can get expensive. Avoid the mistake of booking a transient rental while you seek a more permanent home. Forget stressing over available storage space for your belongings while you house-hunt. If you are planning on staying long-term and are bringing a considerable amount of your belongings, then checking online for property listings before leaving is the way to go. Why not hire a relocation agency to help you zero in on your ideal home faster? Our experienced staff can recommend a home that is suited to your budget and needs even before you fly out to Australia.
Renting a House or Apartment
Expats who are looking to rent property in Australia must first become familiar with the country’s 100-point check system. It is a government-mandated identification system that many landlords and real estate agents use. To put it simply, you must acquire a total of 100 points in Australian or state-issued documents to prove your identity:
| Primary documents | Points |
| Birth certificate | 50 |
| Driver’s license | 60 |
| Passport | 50 |
| Secondary documents | Points |
| Certificate of Australian citizenship | 40 |
| Change of name certificate | 40 |
| Australian visa | 40 |
| Marriage certificate | 40 |
| Medicare card | 40 |
Rent in Australia
The average rent in Australia is 436 AUD (287 USD) per week. We have listed Australia’s rent cost per week across its main cities for comparison.
| Sydney | 580 AUD | 381 USD |
| Canberra | 560 AUD | 368 USD |
| Melbourne | 455 AUD | 300 USD |
| Brisbane | 440 AUD | 300 USD |
| Perth | 385 AUD | 253 USD |
| Adelaide | 390 AUD | 257 USD |
| Hobart | 450 AUD | 296 USD |
| Darwin | 460 AUD | 303 USD |
The Rental Process
An agent or landlord will ask for the following documents prior to renting:
▸ Proof of identity (must satisfy 100-point check)
▸ Proof of income / bank statements for the last three months
▸ References such as an employer
▸ Employment details
▸ Prior rental agreements
▸ Down payment (shall be refunded, should you fail to secure the property)
A standard lease lasts 12 months. Make sure to ask the landlord everything you need to know before signing an agreement. For example, some landlords will not permit household pets or even newly-born infants in their property, so it’s best to go over these concerns with the owner or your agent beforehand.
The landlord is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of their property to ensure that it is safe and habitable. Should the tenant assume maintenance costs for whatever reason, he/she may then bill the landlord afterwards. The bill cannot be deducted from the rent.
In rare cases where you need to terminate a contract early, you may be allowed to find someone to take over your lease for the remaining period- if you have a saintly landlord. Otherwise, you are required by law to pay the rent until the end of the lease period.
You cannot be evicted by your landlord through illegal means such as removing your belongings, changing locks, or cutting off services. Likewise, you cannot be legally evicted from your place with an eviction order. You can only be evicted if you are in breach of contract (e.g. damaging the property, failure to pay rent, etc.).
Beware of the many little details included in a contract that you may have missed in your excitement to move. Make sure to read the fine print to avoid possible headaches in the future, such as penalties for late payments.
Choose your utility provider well, keeping in mind that you have less options the farther you live from the major cities. Feel free to compare their rates and be wary of too-good-to-be-true offers. They often come with hidden charges or hefty fines for late payments.
Educaion in Australia
Expect nothing less but first-class education standards from the land Down Under. In fact, the United Nation’s Education Index ranks Australia as the second in the world. High-quality education begins in the primary level and ensures that the children lead successful and fulfilling lives. The top-rated schools in Australia can be found in NSW and Victoria.
School tuition varies and depends on whether you enroll your children in a public or private school. Although considered quite expensive, private schools guarantee that your children are getting quality education. Private schooling can cost up to 10,000 AUD (6,582 USD) a year, while a government-run school will only cost a few hundred dollars annually. Education in Australia encompasses the sectors of early childhood education and primary education, followed by secondary education, tertiary education and adult education.
Grade Levels and Corresponding Age
The corresponding grade levels in terms of age may slightly vary from state to state, but you may use the guide below to give you a general idea.
| Grade Level Age
Kindergarten 3-5 Prep/pre-primary 5-6
Primary School Grade/Year Level Age Grade 1 6-7 Grade 2 7-8 Grade 3 8-9 Grade 4 9-1 |
Grade 5 10-11
Grade 6 11-12 Secondary School Grade/Year Level Age Grade 7 12-13 Grade 8 13-14 Grade 9 14-15 Grade 10 15-16 Grade 11 16-17 Grade 12 17-18 |
Education in Australia is compulsory between the ages of five or six and fifteen, sixteen, or seventeen, depending on the state. Once your child has completed compulsory education (primary and secondary) and you are willing to let them pursue higher education, the options for further studies are wide, as well as pricey. Public schools are more or less free for Australian citizens and permanent residents. Private schools, however, may cost up to 10,000 AUD (6582 USD) annually. International schools on the other hand can get costly but is the best option for expat families who frequently travel.
International Schools
Premium pricing aside, International schools are also known for its culturally permissive and tolerant environment. Australia has plenty of options for international schools whether for primary, secondary, or even university education.
Here are some of the best International Schools in Australia:
▸ Leonard’s College
▸ The Hutchins School
▸ German International School of Sydney
▸ Australian International Academy
The main difference between public and private schools include:
▸ Ownership and Tuition
▸ Private schools are also called independent schools, as they are owned and operated by a non-government entity
▸ Public schools are run and funded by the government.
Private schools are more expensive than public schools and can cost more than 10,000 AUD (6,840 USD) per year.
Public school tuition fees are usually no more than a few hundred dollars annually.
▸ Both schools may require uniforms.
▸ Facilities may be better in private schools including libraries, laboratory facilities, sporting and gym facilities, classroom quality,
and music and art rooms.
▸ Private schools tend to have a lower student-teacher ratio while public schools cannot turn away students.
▸ Admission requirements for private schools are more rigorous and demanding compared to public schools.
Required documents for a public school can be as simple as providing
▸ Proof of address
▸ Proof of your child’s age
▸ The current level of education
On the other hand, private schools will additionally require:
▸ An interview
▸ Entrance exam
Religion is not part of any public school’s curriculum and strictly follows government guidelines, while private schools enjoy more leeway in terms of subjects being taught inside its walls.
Daycare and Kindergarten
Some of the most common options for childcare in Australia are:
▸ Home-based care when a friend, babysitter, relative, or nanny cares for your child in your home.
▸ Center-based care—includes preschools/kindergartens (see below), long day care, and occasional care.
▸ Family daycare—when an approved carer looks after your child in the carer’s home.
▸ Outside school hours care—center-based daycare for parents who need childcare before or after school and school holidays.
▸ Childcare is mainly intended for children under five years old.
The words “preschool” or “kindergarten” are used interchangeably in Australia.
Childcare and school costs vary depending on the state. Below are some approximate costs.
▸ Live-in nanny (hourly)
17-25 AUD (12-17 USD)
▸ Live-out nanny (hourly)
17-35 AUD (12-15 USD)
▸ Daycare (daily fee)
70-190 AUD (50-130 USD)
▸ Preschool/kindergarten (per day)
45-80 AUD (30-55 USD)
▸ Babysitter (hourly)
15-35 AUD (10-25 USD)
Some of Australia’s best primary and secondary schools
Top Primary Schools
▸ Sydney Grammar School
▸ Aloysius’ College
▸ Bajool State School
▸ Presbyterian Ladies’ College
▸ Haileybury College
Top Secondary Schools
▸ James Ruse Agricultural High School
▸ North Sydney Boys High School
▸ Baulkham Hills High School
▸ Sydney Girls High School
▸ Sydney Boys High School
Primary School in Australia
This usually begins at age 11 or 12 and focuses on basic skills such are reading, math and developing social skills. Eventually, a foreign language will be introduced.
A typical schedule for a kid in primary school can be as follows:
▸ 9:00–11:00—classes
▸ 11:00–11:30—recess
▸ 11:30–13:30—classes
▸ 13:30–14:30—lunch
▸ 14:30–15:30—classes
Secondary School in Australia
This is more specialized compared to primary school and includes English, mathematics, science, geography, civics, economics, humanities, business, citizenship, technology, language, and the arts.
A typical schedule for a student in secondary school can be as follows:
▸ 8:30–10:15—classes
▸ 10:15–10:45—recess
▸ 10:45–12:20—classes
▸ 12:20–13:20—lunch
▸ 13:20–15:00—classes
International Schools
If you’re an expat who moves around a lot, it is highly recommended that you enroll your child in an international school.
Below is a list of some of the international schools you will find in the country:
Top International Schools in Sydney
▸ International Grammar School
▸ International French School of Sydney
▸ The German International School
▸ Sydney Chinese School
▸ Sydney Japanese International School
Top International Schools in Melbourne
▸ Wesley College
▸ Sophia Mundi Steiner School
▸ Carey Baptist Grammar School
▸ Sacred Heart College
▸ Haileybury
Top International Schools in Brisbane
▸ Cairns State High School
▸ Indooroopilly State High School
▸ Mountain Creek State High School
▸ Queensland Academy
▸ Somerset College
Top International Schools in Perth
▸ The Japanese School
▸ International School of Western Australia
▸ Treetops Montessori School
▸ Scotch College
▸ Helena College
Top International Schools in Adelaide
▸ Adelaide International School
▸ Glenunga International High School
▸ Mercedes College
▸ Loreto College
▸ Our Saviour Lutheran School
Top International Schools in Gold Coast
▸ Gold Coast International College
▸ Shafston International College
Top International Schools in Newcastle
▸ Newcastle Grammar School
▸ Medowie Christian School
Top International Schools in Canberra
▸ Telopea Park School (French school)
▸ Melba Copland Secondary School
▸ Narrabundah College
▸ Red Hill Primary School
▸ North Ainslie Primary School
International School Tuition Fees
Here are the annual tuition fees for some of the schools mentioned above:
▸ Telopea Park School—approximately 250–350 AUD (169–237 USD)
▸ International French School of Sydney—10,145–17,882 AUD (6,861–12,095 USD)
▸ Glenunga International High School—630–690 AUD (426–467 USD) for residents and 10,000 AUD (6,764 USD) for expat students
Australia is known for its many universities for tertiary education. Below are recommended top universities based on their faculty and alumni:
▸ Accounting and finance—UNSW
▸ Architecture—University of Sydney
▸ Art and Design—RMIT University
▸ Biological Sciences—University of Melbourne
▸ Business and management studies—University of Melbourne
▸ Computer science and information systems—University of Melbourne
▸ English language and literature—University of Melbourne
▸ Hospitality and leisure management—Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School (BMIHMS)
▸ Mathematics—ANU
▸ Modern languages—University of Melbourne
▸ Politics and international studies—ANU
▸ Psychology—University of Melbourne
▸ Sociology—ANU
▸ Statistics and operational research—University of Melbourne
If you are in need of a Language school, here’s a useful list according to city:
Sydney
▸ Lloyds International College
▸ Embassy English
▸ OHC Sydney
▸ Kaplan International
▸ Sydney College of English
Melbourne
▸ Discover English
▸ OHC Melbourne
▸ Kaplan International
▸ Melbourne City College Australia
▸ Ashton College
Brisbane
▸ Language Studies International
▸ OHC Brisbane
▸ Kaplan International
▸ International House Brisbane
▸ ILSC
Perth
▸ Language Links Education and Training College
▸ Kaplan International
▸ Lexis English
▸ Australian Technical College Western Australia
Adelaide
▸ Kaplan International
▸ English Language Center at the University of Adelaide
▸ School of Languages
▸ Vocational Language Learning Centre
▸ English College of Adelaide
Gold Coast
▸ OHC Gold Coast
▸ Australian International College of Language
▸ The Language Academy
▸ Envirotech Education
▸ Embassy English
Newcastle
▸ ANITS
▸ Hunter Valley Language School
Canberra
▸ Navitas English Canberra
Language school fees are around 300 AUD (200 USD) weekly for English language studies but depend on the length of the course and the school of your choice.
Working
There is a big demand in Australia for qualified and highly skilled expats, especially in the IT field. The average salary in the country amounts to 1,605 AUD (1,057 USD) per week for a full-time worker, but highly-skilled, specialist workers earn well over this median. There is also a shortage of blue-collar workers such as builders and electricians. It is a possible gateway for workers who are considering self-employment or are wishing to start their own business in Australia. Whichever the case, the expat will need to familiarize himself with Australian business culture.
If you don’t have a residency permit in Australia and are not from New Zealand, then you first need to acquire a work permit before you even consider starting a career in the land Down Under.
Eligibility for Working in Australia
Like many things nowadays, the answer is online. So, if you are looking for a job in Australia, the top two rated sites are:
Seek
AustralianJobSearch
If you also happen to be in the fields of Education, Healthcare, Maintenance, or the Public Sector, you might be able to find a job a bit more quickly as these are the most in-demand jobs in Australia.
Australian-style English
Yes, there is such a thing. So make sure that your CVs and cover letters are prepared, Aussie-style. CVs in Australia for one, can be up to four pages and still be acceptable. A shorter one is expected from fresh graduates.
Tips for Creating an Australian CV
No need to include a photo
Don’t include your marital status and age
Make sure to start with your current or most recent job and include your employment dates, what you did, and a list of achievements
Your education history also follows the same as your employment history
Contact information for references are also not required in a CV
Minimum Wage and Average Salary
The national minimum wage, in Australia, is at 19 AUD (13 USD) per hour, while the average weekly salary for a full-time worker is at 1,605 AUD (1,087 USD) per week.
Top jobs in Australia and their monthly wage
| Position | AUD | USD |
| IT systems architect | 140,000 | 94,810 |
| IT manager | 125,000 | 84,660 |
| IT security architect | 124,000 | 83,970 |
| Cloud engineers | 112,000 | 75,840 |
| Data scientist | 100,000 | 67,720 |
| Python developer | 100,000 | 67,720 |
| IT consultants | 80,000 | 54,170 |
| Project managers | 80,000 | 54,170 |
| Telecoms technician | 80,000 | 54,170 |
| DevOps engineer | 70,000 | 47,400 |
Other Jobs and Their Annual Salaries
| Position | AUD | USD |
| Teacher | 74,824 | 50,770 |
| Accountant | 64,663 | 43,870 |
| Nurse | 74,824 | 50,770 |
| Software engineer | 77,143 | 52,340 |
| Architect | 81,503 | 55,300 |
| Marketing manager | 78,270 | 53,110 |
| Product manager | 83,546 | 56,890 |
| Web developer | 60,958 | 41,360 |
| UX designer | 72,737 | 49,350 |
Some of the best self-employed jobs in Australia are blue-collar work as there is a high demand for these services. For this visa, you would need to prove that you can indeed help the economy by generating jobs. Here’s a list of the top Self-Employed jobs in Australia: ▸ Plumbers ▸ Construction workers ▸ Electricians ▸ Glaziers ▸ Landscapers ▸ Pool and spa maintenance and installers ▸ Security Other self-employed jobs whose demand is growing steadily are: ▸ Customer service assistant ▸ Online sales representative ▸ Virtual assistant ▸ Childcare worker ▸ Data entry jobs ▸ Freelance content writer ▸ Dog groomer ▸ Makeup artist or beauty therapist ▸ Social media manager ▸ Translator ▸ Online tutor ▸ Graphic designer ▸ Software developer ▸ Transcriptionist ▸ Bookkeeper Transparency is the key to the business culture in Australia, and building rapport isn’t always necessary to engage in business. Here’s a list of a few tips you need to keep in mind though: ▸ New ideas are very welcome and do expect your boss to actively seek your opinion ▸ Be modest ▸ Don’t be too aggressive when selling ▸ Be direct but friendly with what you want to say ▸ Use of first names is the norm, even if you just met someone ▸ Company decisions may take some time
Social Security and Benefits
Make sure you get a Tax File Number when working in Australia. The TFN is a nine-digit number that is yours for life. Having one means that you pay the correct tax, can access government benefits, and even work on your taxes online.
So how do you get one? If you are a foreigner, then you will be asked to present proof of your identity. It will be sent to your Australian address, 30 days after filing.
Social Security Benefits in Australia are worth a mention. Centrelink manages its disbursement and you will have to get in touch with them if you would like to claim any of the following:
▸ Age pension—for people of retirement age, which is 65 years and above
▸ Carer allowance and payment—for carers of people with disabilities
▸ Disability support pension—for people who cannot work for two years due to a disability
▸ Sickness allowance—for employed workers who no longer have left but are suffering from an illness for less than two years
▸ Double orphan pension—for people raising orphans
▸ New start allowance—for people looking for work
▸ Special benefit—for people going through financial hardship and cannot support themselves
▸ Income support—support payment to help with living costs
▸ Pharmaceutical allowance—helps cover the cost of prescription medicines
▸ Telephone allowance—for eligible people receiving pension payments
▸ Widow allowance—payment for widowed, divorced, or separated women over a certain age
▸ Farm household allowance—payment for farming families going through financial hardships
▸ Bereavement allowance—short-term payment if you have recently lost your partner
Ready to Move to Australia?
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Maternity and Paternity Leave
Leaves for Mothers and Fathers are included in the Parental Leave Pay Scheme which entitles employees to paid leave after the birth or adoption of a child.
To avail of it you must be:
▸ Be the primary caregiver of the child
▸ Individually earned less than 150,000 AUD (102,071 USD) in the previous financial year
▸ Be on leave and not working while receiving Parental Leave Pay
▸ Meet the work test(unless you get an exemption)
▸ Worked for ten of the 13 months before the birth or adoption of the child
▸ Worked a total of 330 hours (approximately one day per week) in those ten months
Maternity and Paternity Benefits in Australia
Mothers who have just given birth are entitled to 18 weeks of paid leave at the national minimum wage. Working fathers and partners (including same-sex partners) receive two weeks of paid leave according to the national minimum wage.
While the cost of living in Australia is generally high, you can opt to move to a city that is more economical like Adelaide or Brisbane. A single person is expected to spend between 400 and 600 AUD (270 and 405 USD) weekly.
Estimated monthly expenses in other major Australian cities
Sydney—1,371 AUD (926 USD)
Melbourne—1,280 AUD (864 USD)
Canberra—1,256 AUD (848 USD)
Perth—1,246 AUD (841 USD)
Brisbane—1,218 AUD (822 USD)
Newcastle—1,213 AUD (819 USD)
Gold Coast—1,183 AUD (799 USD)
Hobart—1,181 AUD (798 USD)
Adelaide—1,101 AUD (744 USD)
The average weekly expenditures on food
Bread—7 AUD (5 USD)
Rice—1 AUD (1 USD)
Meat—27 AUD (18 USD)
Eggs—2 AUD (1 USD)
Dairy products—14 AUD (9 USD)
Fruit—14 AUD (9 USD)
Vegetables—16 AUD (11 USD)
Condiments—25 AUD (17 USD)
Utility Costs
We’ve calculated it based on the number of people in the home. Here’s what you can expect to spend on electricity for an entire year:
1—1,323 AUD (894 USD)
2—1,695 AUD (1,145 USD)
3—2,090 AUD (1,412 USD)
4—2,088 AUD (1,411 USD)
5—2,604 AUD (1,759 USD)
6—2,516 AUD (1,699 USD)
Weekly rent rates
Sydney—582 AUD (406 USD)
Canberra—559 AUD (390 USD)
Melbourne—454 AUD (317 USD)
Brisbane—436 AUD (304 USD)
Perth—385 AUD (269 USD)
Adelaide—386 AUD (269 USD)
Hobart—453 AUD (316 USD)
Darwin—458 AUD (320 USD)
Holidays in Australia
Here’s a list of Public Holidays for 2020:
New Year’s Day—January 1
Australia Day—January 28
Good Friday—April 10
Easter Monday—April 13
Anzac Day—April 25
Christmas Day—December 25
Boxing Day—December 26
Main Embassies
Most immigrants in Australia come from the following countries: China, India, New Zealand, Philippines, Vietnam, South Africa, Italy, Malaysia, and Scotland. If you are wondering where their embassies are, feel free to click below:
▸ British High Commission Canberra
▸ Embassy of the People’s Republic of China
▸ High Commission of India
▸ New Zealand High Commission
▸ Philippine Embassy of Canberra
▸ Vietnamese Embassy in Australia
▸ South African High Commission
▸ Ambasciata d’Italia Canberra
▸ Malaysian High Commission
▸ United Kingdom High Commission in Canberra
Australians appreciate modesty and a good sense of humor. They like to be described as a classless society that values realness, humility, and genuineness, and dislike arrogance and pretentiousness. So don’t be surprised if Australians like poking fun at themselves- it’s quite the norm.
Australians are also known to be easy-going and never formal. They prefer calling people by their first names and are casual about greetings as well. They are rarely formal. However, affecting an exaggerated Australian accent could offend. The topics to avoid are sex, religion, race, a person’s age or weight.
Gift-Exchanging Etiquette
Australians often exchange presents on major holidays such as Christmas and birthdays.
Dinner Etiquette
It is expected that you bring some booze, chocolate or any small item to show appreciation for your host, and don’t forget to help them clean up after. Any food that is not consumed, must be left behind. When dining out, show respect and politeness to everyone, including the wait staff. Australians put a premium on everyone being equal. Don’t leave food on your plate and remember that tipping is optional rather than the norm.
Australian culture values
▸ Friendship
▸ Egalitarianism
▸ authenticity
▸ Optimism
▸ Humility
▸ Informality
▸ Easy-going
▸ Common sense
▸ Humor
Driving in Australia
Because of the unique geographical features of Australia, renting a vehicle is necessary, as some parts of the country can only be accessed by car. Depending on where you are, the minimum age requirement to drive alone is between 16 and 18.
If you are from any of the countries below, simply exchange your license for an Australian one:
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The ease of securing a license depends a lot on your age. If you are from any of the countries below but are below 25 years old, you need to take a road and knowledge test. Being over 25 means you can just exchange your foreign license for an Australian one.
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Renting a Car
If you are staying in Australia for less than three months, then rentals are the way to go. Anything more and you might want to consider buying your own vehicle.
Here’s what you need to rent a car in Australia.
▸ A valid driver’s license
▸ IDP (if necessary)
▸ Passport for ID
▸ Credit card
You will need to be 21 and over to rent a car. If you are between 21 and 24, you may need to pay an additional fee as a “young driver”. You may also have fewer vehicles to choose from.
Renting vehicles in Australia is cheaper in larger towns than in smaller ones. Prices start at 25 AUD (17 USD) and go as high as 150 AUD (101 USD) per day.
Here’s a quick guide to pricing:
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Public Transportation in Australia
The public transportation system in Australia is efficient and well-maintained. Safety is a priority, so don’t be surprised if you see uniformed or plainclothes security personnel during your commute. Cost of Public Transportation in Australia ▸ Bus ticket—3 AUD (2 USD) ▸ Bus 24-hour ticket—8 AUD (5 USD) ▸ Tram—2 AUD (1 USD) ▸ Train ticket—2 AUD (1 USD) ▸ Taxi—2 to 3 AUD (1–2 USD) starting price; 1 AUD (1 USD) for each kilometer The following is a list of sample airline fares between popular cities in Australia: Qantas Airline:
|
Routes |
One-Way
(AUD/USD) |
Round-Trip
(AUD/USD) |
| Sydney—Melbourne | 89/60 | 178/120 |
| Sydney—Perth | 236/160 | 471/319 |
| Sydney—Cairns | 190/129 | 380/257 |
| Melbourne—Perth | 226/153 | 451/305 |
| Melbourne—Cairns | 206/139 | 453/307 |
Tiger Airline Rates (Budget)
|
Routes |
One-Way
(AUD/USD) |
Round-Trip
(AUD/USD) |
| Sydney—Melbourne | 64/43 | 155/105 |
| Sydney—Perth | 170/115 | 330/223 |
| Sydney—Cairns | 120/81 | 240/162 |
| Melbourne—Perth | 179/121 | 350/237 |
| Melbourne—Cairns | 119/81 | 230/156 |
The country’s busiest airports are ▸ Sydney Airport ▸ Melbourne Airport ▸ Brisbane Airport ▸ Perth Airport ▸ Adelaide Airport ▸ Gold Coast Airport ▸ Cairns Airport ▸ Canberra Airport ▸ Hobart International Airport ▸ Darwin Airport
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