One of the most important things to know before moving to Australia is that it isn’t all snakes, great white sharks and kangaroos. Beyond the wildlife it is known for, Australia is home to vibrant cities waiting to be explored.
For anyone intending to move, here are 9 things to know before moving to Australia.
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9 Things to Know Before Moving to Australia
1. Australia Has an Enormous Land Mass
Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world, with a land area of over 7.6 million square kilometers. It is also the driest inhabited continent on Earth, with a warm desert climate covering most of the interior.
However, its coast has a more temperate climate, with mild winters and warm summers. This is why 90% of Australians live on the coast, where the major cities are located.
Despite its large size, with its population being just over 25 million people, Australian cities are spacious and uncrowded. These cities have wide roads and buildings that cover more ground.
2. Elevated Living Costs Alongside High Monthly Income
One of the things to know before moving to Australia is that this beautiful country is one of the most expensive countries to live in the world, with a cost of living index that is higher than most other developed countries. This is due to a number of factors, including high taxes and high wages.
In Australia, housing expenses represent a significant portion of the cost of living. For instance, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Sydney exceeds $2,000, while the average house price surpasses $1.2 million.
According to the Mercer Cost of Living Survey 2023, Sydney is the fifth most expensive city in the world, and Melbourne is the tenth most expensive city. A meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $50 per person, and a pint of beer can cost up to $15. Groceries are also more expensive in Australia than in many other countries. Other costs of living in that are higher than average include transportation, utilities, and healthcare.
Public transportation cost can be high, and car prices are also very expensive. Utilities such as electricity and gas are also more expensive in than in many other countries. Despite the high cost of living, Australia is a popular destination for immigrants and expats.
3. Free Healthcare for Citizens
Australia has a universal healthcare system called Medicare, which provides subsidized medical services to Australian citizens and permanent residents. However Medicare does not cover all healthcare costs as there are a number of services that are not subsidized or are only partially subsidized.
One of the most significant expenses not covered by Medicare is dental care. Dental services in Australia come with a hefty price tag, with routine procedures costing hundreds of dollars. This is attributed to the shortage of dentists and the country’s high cost of living.
Even though Medicare does not cover all healthcare costs, it is still a very important program that provides affordable healthcare to millions. However, keep in mind that you may have to pay significantly more for some procedures.
4. Solid Education System
Australia is a world-class education destination, with six universities ranked in the top 100 in the world. The country is the third most popular destination for international students, after the US and UK, with over 831,000 foreign students studying in the country each year.
Australian schools offer a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum, and teachers are highly qualified and experienced. Schools have a strong focus on literacy and numeracy, as well as critical thinking and problem-solving skills. With its education system ranked 12th in the world, the country boasts of a literacy rate of 99% and a numeracy rate of 96%.
Australia also extends its commitment to providing high-quality education to foreign nationals by awarding Australian scholarship.
5. Kangaroos Are Dangerous
Kangaroos cause more deaths in Australia than even great white sharks, but not from direct attack. It’s mostly on the highways that these incidents occur. In a 16-year period between 2001 and 2017, fatal shark attacks were 27 in that time frame. On the other hand, between 2001 and 2010, kangaroos caused the deaths of 18 people. Attacks from spiders, snakes, and great white sharks have become few and far between.
6. Amazing Cuisine
Australia is a multicultural country, with people from all over the world calling it home. This diversity is reflected in the country’s cuisine, which is a fusion of flavors from all over the globe.
Some of the most popular Australian delicacies include:
- Barramundi
- Emu
- Bush tucker
- Pies
- Lamingtons
- Pavlova
7. Fascinating Wildlife Population
One of the most important things to know before moving to Australia, is that it is home to some of the most unique and fascinating wildlife populations in the world. Around 80% of animals in Australia are found nowhere else on Earth. So effectively, if you visit Australia, you have the chance to see animals that you can’t see anywhere else in the world.
Other unique animals found here include:
- Echidnas and platypuses
- Wombats
- Tasmanian devils
- Dingos
8. Cricket is the king of all sports
The most popular sport in the country is cricket. Interestingly the Australian Football League (AFL) is the most popular sporting competition, but cricket is the most popular sport overall.
The Australian cricket team has won the Cricket World Cup record seven times. Natives are passionate about cricket, and the sport is played at all levels, from recreational to professional. The country’s cricket team is one of the most successful in the world, and it is regularly ranked among the top teams in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Test rankings.
9. Employment Opportunities in Australia
Australia boasts a dynamic and diverse job market, offering a wide array of opportunities across various industries and sectors. Before making the move, it’s essential to research the job market in your field of expertise to gain insights into demand, salary expectations, and potential employers.
Consider factors such as skill shortages, visa requirements, and industry trends that may impact your job search and career prospects. Keep in mind that certain industries, such as healthcare, engineering, information technology, and trades, often experience high demand for skilled professionals.
Familiarize yourself with Australia’s employment laws, workplace culture, and professional standards to adapt seamlessly to the local work environment. Be proactive in updating your resume, enhancing your skills, and preparing for interviews to increase your chances of securing employment opportunities.
Consider leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and attending networking events to expand your professional network and gain valuable insights into the job market. By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate the Australian job market effectively and embark on a successful career journey in your chosen field.
Here is an article on how you can relocate to Australia in 35 days
