Living in Australia

Children in Australia develop a natural affinity for the outdoors and the ocean

Australia is a landslide chart-topper in the British exodus, with more than 30,000 Britons a year moving permanently to its sunny shores. These days, more than twice as many people are heading Down Under than to Spain or France, proving that distance is no obstacle to a better new life.

And why? I mean, apart from the year-round sunshine and beaches and laid-back lifestyle and of course the fact that everyone speaks English…

Well, living in Australia is just great, both as a place to work and live. The economy is relatively strong and not as exposed as the credit-happy UK and US.

Though traditionally lower, average Australian salaries of those living Down Under are now catching up to the UK, with average fulltime pay packets holding £530 a week. You’ll find this will go a lot further too, as even a modest income when living in Australia can buy you regular weekends away, dinners out and theatre or concert tickets, fresher and cheaper groceries, you can run a car and live in a great home, to boot – most Austalians have houses rather than flats. And you don’t need to carry a brolly every day.

Working conditions are good, with slightly lower taxation rates across the board. There’s no council tax, no inheritance tax, no TV licence fees, and no road tax. You’ll get four to six weeks holiday leave a year, to make the most of Australia’s amazing landscapes and sunshine. Trade unions continue to look after certain industries, and all workers have statutory employment rights including maternity and sick pay.

Living in Australia is good…

…but many people would put up with a much less attractive working life to avail themselves of the lifestyle that Australia offers. Almost everyone living in Australia is situated near the coast, so the thousands of miles of sparkling ocean and golden sand beaches are part of everyday life and culture in a way that we just cannot imagine in the UK.

Children grow up outdoors, being active in the sunshine. Swimming and sport are central to school life. When you combine the fantastic, healthy environment for children with the high standard of schooling and higher education and excellent healthcare, it’s a very attractive prospect for families. Overall, children living in Australia have a better life.

Sydney city workers

Professionals are benefiting too. Some find that UK experience can stand them in good stead Down Under, though this is less the case than it was a few years ago, as skilled Brits clamour for jobs. Life in Australia is technologically up-to-date, with all the same broadband, satellite TV, software, iPods and mobile phone options that we’re now used to using every day.

Life is rarely perfect. But once you’ve settled in Australia, it’s hard to imagine anywhere more so.

Find out more about life in Australia including education, healthcare, setting-up and state benefits…

Questions? Join our vibrant and growing community where you can ask a question, chat and discuss all things Australian!

Read up on the latest news on living in Australia.

Check out our features on emigrating to Australia.