There is a plethora of justification in contemplating a move to a different nation. It doesn't matter if you're moving to a new country because of work, school, love, or retirement; prior to making the big move and beginning a new life there, you should educate yourself as much as possible about the place you'll be calling home. The standard of living in Australia is famously high, and the country is home to some incredible beaches and vibrant urban centres. But what are the genuine advantages and disadvantages of living in Australia? Continue reading to find out.
Pros Of Living In Australia
There are a lot of positive aspects associated with deciding to make Australia your new home, which is one of the main reasons why Australia is such a popular place for people to move to from all over the world. There are the obvious benefits, such as the stunning beaches, the warm and welcoming people, the breathtaking natural scenery, and the abundance of sunshine. English is widely spoken in Australia, making life simpler for immigrants from the United Kingdom, the United States, and other countries whose native language is not English. However, what other aspects need to be taken into account?
Sporting Frenzy
There are a lot of people who think of Melbourne as the sporting capital of the world. It's no secret that the city has a passion for sports. Because Australian Rules Football, also known as AFL, is so popular in Melbourne, the city itself is home to 18 different AFL teams. Additionally, during the month of January, the city plays host to the annual Australian Open. Additionally, Melbourne was the first city in Australia to ever host the Olympic Games.
Attractions And Things To Do
In Melbourne, there is a diverse range of opportunities for outdoor activities, ranging from the water to the bush. The city is also known for its rich cultural history and is home to a number of museums and art galleries, among other cultural institutions. In addition, Melbourne is well-known for its vibrant nightlife, which serves as a host city for major international music and cultural acts and showcases a wide variety of local talent at festivals and shows throughout the year.
Café Culture
The cultural diversity of Melbourne is reflected in the city's palate, and as a result, the city is home to a variety of cuisines that will make your mouth water with their irresistible aromas and flavours. Coffee is another popular beverage in Melbourne, and the locals prefer to drink it at cool, hipster-style cafes. The city of Melbourne places a high value on both its food and its coffee, and as a result, its menus are frequently updated to reflect the most cutting-edge culinary developments.
Aussies Are A Welcoming Bunch
The people of Australia are known all over the world for being outgoing and friendly, and they extend the same hand of friendship to the foreign residents living among them. In the same vein, newcomers will find friendly faces and open arms in the Land Down Under.
Education Is Top-Tier
All residents of Australia are eligible for free education up to and including the 12th grade, and textbooks are typically provided. The public school system in Australia is ranked fourth in the world by US News and World Report, placing it higher than the school systems in the United States, France, and even Switzerland. Private schools in Australia can be quite expensive (an annual tuition can cost anywhere from A$23,000 to A$37,000), but you can rest assured that your child will receive an education that is among the best available anywhere in the world.
The Economy Is Booming
The country of Australia possesses a robust service sector and the world's fifth-highest GDP per capita. Because of the robust state of the economy in the Land Down Under, there is no shortage of work opportunities. This indicates that obtaining a work visa to work in Australia may be easier than you initially anticipated.
Australian Healthcare Is Universal And High Quality
Medicare, the public healthcare system that is funded by taxes in Australia, provides coverage for each and every one of the country's citizens. However, the Medicare system ensures that no one will be forced to pay out of pocket for necessary medical care. High earners are encouraged to purchase private health insurance, but everyone else will have the protection of Medicare. Even though people with incomes above a certain threshold are required to purchase private health insurance or pay an additional tax, the cost of private insurance is surprisingly low — approximately $2,000 Australian dollars per year for an individual. In addition, Australia has a sizable number of hospitals, both public and private.
When you have lived in Australia as a permanent resident for five years, applying for citizenship is much simpler than it is in most other countries. You might be in luck if you were born in Australia to an Australian parent or if you are already a permanent resident of the country. To begin, you will be required to provide evidence that you have been a resident of Australia for the past four years and that you have an excellent command of the English language. After that, you will have to take a citizenship exam and pay the associated fees, which range from $40 to $285.
Cons Of Living In Australia
Obviously, there is no location that is flawless. There are negative aspects to Australia as well, and they are not limited to its truly terrifying native animals.
The Weather
The city's climate is consistently cited as one of the features residents dislike the most. Despite its reputation for having all four seasons in a single day, Melbourne is not considered to have the best climate among the capital cities of Australia. Because of the unpredictability of the weather in Melbourne, you should be prepared for cloudy and wet conditions to replace the sunshine and warmth that you are currently enjoying at the beach within a few hours.
It's Not Cheap
Although Sydney is the most expensive city in Australia, other major cities in the country are not far behind. The cost of renting a home in Melbourne is also very close to the top of the list for most expensive in the world. Property prices in Melbourne are consistently ranked among the most expensive in the world.
Remote Location
Despite the fact that it is the second-largest city in Australia after Sydney, Melbourne is still quite isolated from the rest of the world. Sydney is the most populous city in Australia. However, because of Melbourne's closer proximity to Europe, residents of that city can anticipate paying a higher price for their flights there compared to those of Perth.
Beaches
If you plan to spend your time in Australia soaking up the rays of the sun and lounging on the sand, you might want to rethink your decision to settle in Melbourne. Beaches can be found in the vicinity of Melbourne. On the other hand, those located further north along the country's eastern coast are regarded as being of a higher quality. Get in touch with our friendly Grace Mobility Specialists as soon as you are prepared to relocate to the city that is known for its cafes, culture, and ever-changing climates. When it comes to developing and delivering effective relocation programmes, our consultative approach prioritises striking a balance between all of the components of the employee mobility equation.
The Cost Of Living Is High
The United States and the United Kingdom both have a significantly higher cost of living than Australia does (21st and 23rd, respectively), which places Australia at the 12th most expensive place to live in the world. The costs of housing and groceries, in particular, are generally higher in Australia than they are in a significant number of other places around the world. In addition, Australia has one of the most overheated housing markets in the world right now, with steeply rising housing prices, particularly in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. This is particularly true in major cities like these.
Getting A Work Visa Is Difficult And Time-Consuming
It is well known that Australia has stringent immigration laws. Because there are so many different ways to participate in the work visa programme, acquiring the legal authorisation to do so in Australia can be a challenging and time-consuming endeavour. The specific steps that you will need to take in order to obtain a visa are going to change depending on the type of work that you do, how long you intend to stay in Australia, and a number of other aspects that go into determining which kind of visa you will need to apply for. Thankfully, the website of the Australian government provides detailed information about the various types of visas as well as the requirements for each.
Mortgages Are Hard To Get, Especially For Foreigners
In Australia, obtaining a mortgage is a difficult process for anyone, but non-Australians should be prepared for even stricter requirements. To begin, you will be required to submit an application for approval to the Foreign Investment Review Board. The next step is to locate a financial institution that will provide mortgages to foreign investors. Unfortunately, many of Australia's largest financial institutions do not provide this service. Rates of interest of up to eight percent and a maximum loan-to-value ratio of approximately seventy percent are typical for borrowers who are not residents of Australia. A significant initial payment required of most people. As an expat, you will likely face many obstacles on your path to property ownership in Australia.
The Country Can Feel Isolated
Because of its size, Australia's major cities are not in close proximity to one another. Ex-pats, particularly those who come from the United States and the United Kingdom, can experience a profound sense of alienation from the family and friends they left behind as a result of Australia's geographic isolation from other parts of the world. The time zone differences and physical distance between the two countries can exacerbate this feeling.
Best Places To Live In Australia
The cities of Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney are considered to be Australia's seven premier destinations. We have determined the optimal location for you based on the factors that are most important to you, such as the climate, the culture, and the job opportunities. Check out the table that we've provided below for more information.
Adelaide
Best for Food and Drink
The city of Adelaide, which serves as the capital of South Australia, is gaining in popularity as a result of its welcoming atmosphere and reasonably priced real estate. As a direct consequence of this, job opportunities are plentiful, and Adelaide attracts a minimum of 5,000 skilled migrants each year to fill open positions, particularly in the fields of education, healthcare, and manufacturing.
The city of Adelaide is very well-liked by families who have relocated from other countries; the majority of these families choose to settle in the verdant suburbs of Belair and Banksia Park. There is a diverse cultural scene for you to take part in and enjoy, including art festivals, great restaurants, and live music. Relax on the stunning beaches of Adelaide, or take a trip to the nearby Barossa Valley vineyards to try some of the delicious local food and wine.
Brisbane
Best for Rural Escapes
Living in Australia's third-largest city, Brisbane, is like experiencing all the energy of a major metropolis at a fraction of the price of the country's two most populous cities, Sydney and Melbourne. Brisbane's city centre may be full of shiny skyscrapers, but the city's positioning makes it easy to access nearby parks and forests. The people of Brisbane are a sporty bunch, and they take full advantage of their city's gorgeous river by jogging and sailing along its shores. The Gold Coast and the Great Barrier Reef, two of the most popular tourist destinations in the "Sunshine State," are easily reached by car.
Most of Brisbane's job openings can be found in the hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism sectors. The city has a healthy economy. The suburbs of Brisbane, away from the city proper, are known for their relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. Suburbs like Paddington are popular among foreign nationals because of their accessibility to the city centre, while quieter areas like Morayfield are prefered by families.
Pros
- Fast-growing economy, especially in health and hospitality
- Close to some of Australia's rural paradises, like the Gold Coast
- Warm climate all year round
Cons
- Car parking is the most expensive of any Australian city
- Expensive housing in its inner suburbs - more affordable about 10km out
Canberra
Best for: Families
Canberra, deep within Australia, serves as the nation's capital and is known for its sophisticated atmosphere, which comes to life whenever Parliament meets there. In spite of being the nation's capital, Canberra is home to fewer than 400,000 people, giving it a quaint, small-town feel despite its many wide, tree-lined boulevards. Canberra has managed to maintain its small-town charm despite its status as the nation's capital. It's estimated that the median home price in this area is $70,500 (or $100,000) less than the median price across the country of $480,000 ($340,000). Even though it may come as a surprise to some, California has some of the most reasonably priced real estate in the nation.
When the weather is nice in the summer, locals of Canberra like to spend time on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin enjoying picnics, bike rides, fishing, and sailing. Although the city's restaurant and bar scene is second to none, there are no outdoor activities available in the surrounding hills and bushland. The city is home to the National Gallery of Australia, among other cultural landmarks.
Hobart
Best for Property Affordability
Hobart, which is steeped in history, is the second oldest city in Australia and can be found on the banks of the Derwent River in the country's southern region. People who like it when it's not as hot are drawn to the city because even in the summer, the average high temperature is only 68 degrees Fahrenheit, and the atmosphere is very laid back. Hobart's desirable riverside suburbs are popular with families as well as retirees, and the city's real estate market offers a wide range of options, from the most expensive to the most affordable homes. Recent research has determined that Kingston, a suburb located in Australia, is the nation's best location for raising a family.
There is a possibility that Hobart's labour market is not expanding at a rapid rate. Nevertheless, it does offer secure and reliable employment opportunities, particularly for skilled expats in the construction, viticulture, and engineering industries. Consequently, on the weekends, you have the option of participating in the bustling arts scene in the city, ascending the heights of the magnificent Mt. Wellington, or travelling to Sandy Bay to unwind on the beach.
Sydney
Best for Job Opportunities
Sydney is the best city in Australia, in our opinion as foreign residents. Sydney has nearly 5 million residents, making it Australia's most populous city, and it is also home to some of Australia's most famous landmarks. Get a glimpse of the opera house on a harbour tour, or hang out with local surfers at Bondi Beach, widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful. There is a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs in the central district of Sydney, which attracts young expats. Conversely, many people choose to raise their families in the city's outskirts. Western Sydney is very popular with expat Americans, while the Northern Beaches Area is great for families.
No one can deny that Sydney's international status contributes to the city's high cost of living. If you're looking for a place to live, know that the prices are on par with New York's, making this one of the most expensive housing markets in the world. Despite this, Sydney's thriving economy provides ample job opportunities, especially in the fields of the arts, technology, and finance.
Pros
- The unemployment rate is below the national average
- Easy access to over 100 beaches, including Bondi and Manly Beach
- Public transport is among the most affordable in the world
Cons
- Cost of living is more expensive than other Australian cities, especially for housing
- Traffic is bad, especially in the summer
Conclusion
Australia is a country with a well-known high standard of living, as well as some incredible beaches and thriving urban centres. Since English is so widely spoken in Australia, it's easier for people from the United Kingdom, the United States, and other countries where English is not the native language to settle down and make a new life there. There are many delicious cuisines to try in Melbourne, each with its own distinct aroma and flavour. The government provides free education to all residents through the 12th grade. One of the world's best public school systems can be found in the Land Down Under.
Everyone in Australia has access to quality healthcare without having to worry about how to pay for it. Private medical insurance only costs about AU$2,000 per year for an individual, which is a significant savings. Melbourne has some of the world's most expensive home prices. Melbourne is well-known for its diverse cultural offerings, as well as its unpredictable weather. As Australia's second-largest city, it lags behind Sydney in terms of international connections.
Current rankings place Australia as the 12th most expensive country in which to live in the world. While trying to purchase a home in Australia as a foreign national, you will likely encounter numerous challenges. People from the United States and the United Kingdom who move abroad often feel very alone. Among the best places to visit in Australia are Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney. Popularity in Adelaide is on the rise due to the city's warm welcome and affordable housing.
Visitors flock to the "Sunshine State" to explore its many attractions, including the Gold Coast and Great Barrier Reef. Hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism account for the vast majority of open positions in Brisbane's economy. Fewer than 400,000 people call Canberra home; this helps contribute to the city's charming, laid-back vibe. Canberra's median house price is $100,500 lower than the national median price of $480,000 ($340,000). Sydney, with its nearly 5 million residents, is by far Australia's largest and most populous urban area.
Western Sydney is a favourite among American expats, while the Northern Beaches is a good place to raise a family. There is a lower than normal rate of unemployment, and the cost of using public transportation is among the lowest in the world.
Content Summary
- Advantages of Australian Life
- One of the primary reasons why Australia is so popular with people from all over the world is because of the many advantages of making Australia your new home.
- There is no dearth of employment possibilities in Australia due to the booming economy.
- This indicates that obtaining a work visa to work in Australia may be easier than you initially anticipated.
- When you have lived in Australia as a permanent resident for five years, applying for citizenship is much simpler than it is in most other countries.
- Beaches can be found in the vicinity of Melbourne.
- There is a high cost of living.
- The United States (21st) and the United Kingdom (23rd) both have a much higher cost of living than Australia (12th), so Australia is the 12th most expensive place to live in the world.
- Australian prices are generally higher than those in many other countries, especially when it comes to housing and food.
- Furthermore, with housing prices soaring in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, Australia has one of the most overheated housing markets in the world right now.
- Several factors, including your intended length of stay in Australia, the type of work you plan to do there, and others, will determine the specific visa you will need to apply for and the steps you will need to take to obtain it.
- Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is growing in popularity thanks to its friendly locals and low housing costs.
- Canberra has managed to maintain its small-town charm despite its status as the nation's capital.
- As international residents, we can confidently say that Sydney is Australia's finest metropolis.
- The high cost of living in Sydney is a direct result of the city's prominence on the global stage.
- So, if you're ready to make a move, the next step is to fill out this quick form.
FAQs About Living In Melbourne
The Worst Things About Living in Melbourne
- Missing family & friends. This is a personal one, but moving away from my family & friends was tough.
- Melbourne's weather. Compared to most other Australian cities, the weather in Melbourne is terrible!
- Melbourne has archaic smoking laws.
- I work from home.
Awesome Reasons to Live in Melbourne
- Melbourne is one of the most liveable cities in the world.
- Melbourne is home to world-class research facilities.
- Melbourne's laneway culture is rich, vivid and exciting.
- The coffee is incredible.
- It's Australia's 'cultural capital
- The community is hugely diverse.
But just like anything (except this turtle eating a strawberry), the city also has its drawbacks.
Pro: It's the sporting capital of the world.
Con: The weather kind of sucks.
Pro: There's always plenty to do.
Con: It's expensive.
Pro: There's a day trip for every weekend.
Richmond – inner suburb.
Southbank – inner suburb.
Melbourne is known for its abundance of entertainment, unique nightlife, gorgeous scenery, and stunning architecture.