Your ultimate guide to moving to Australia from the UK

Every year, thousands of Brits dream of swapping the grey skies of the UK for the sun-soaked beaches, outdoor lifestyle and laid-back culture of Australia. In fact, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, over 1.2 million people living in Australia today were born in the UK, making it one of the most popular destinations for British expats. 

If you're considering moving to Australia from the UK, you're not alone. But how do you actually do it? Whether you're wondering how to move to Australia for work, study, or a fresh start, this guide will take you through everything you need to know. 

1. Visa options for Brits moving to Australia

One of the biggest questions people ask when planning their move to Australia is, "How can I move to Australia?" Thankfully, there are several visa options available, depending on your circumstances:

• Skilled Work Visa (Subclass 189/190/491)  - If you have skills in demand in Australia, you may qualify for a skilled visa, which could lead to permanent residency.
• Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 482/186) - If you secure a job with an Australian employer willing to sponsor you, this could be your ticket to a new life down under. 
• Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) - Ideal for young Brits aged 18 - 35 who want to explore Australia while working to fund their travels.
• Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) - If you have an Australian partner, you may be eligible for a visa based on your relationship. 
• Student Visa (Subclass 500) - Studying to Australia can be a great way to experience life there and potentially transition to another visa type later.

Understanding which visa suits your situation is a crucial first step in your move to Australia from the UK.

2. Cost of moving from the UK to Australia

Moving to Australia isn't cheap, but with good planning, it's manageable. Here's a rough breakdown of some of the key costs:

• Visa application fees - These can range from £200 for a working holiday visa to over £3,000 for a skilled migration visa.
• Flights - A one-way ticket from London to Sydney costs anywhere from £500 to £1,500, depending on the season.
• Shipping belongings - If you're planning to take furniture or large items, costs can start at around £2,000 - £5,000 for a full container.
• Temporary accommodation - It's recommended to have at least £3,000 - £5,000 to cover initial living expenses while you find a place to settle. 

Planning your budget is essential, as Australia has a higher cost of living than the UK, particularly in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.

3. Finding a place to live in Australia

Australia offers a wide variety of living options, from bustling city apartments to relaxed coastal homes. Popular destinations for Brits moving to Australia include:

Sydney

Perfect for individuals who are looking for a fast-paced urban environment, enjoy stunning beaches and seek diverse career opportunities. Perfect for professionals and young families looking for great schools. 

Melbourne

Known for its arts, culture and cafe scene. A fantastic choice for creatives, students and professionals in industries like finance and technology.

Brisbane

A sunny and affordable alternative to Sydney. Ideal for families who want a relaxed lifestyle with access to excellent schools and outdoor activities.

Perth

A more relaxed and spacious city with beautiful beaches. A great choice for those who love nature, mining industry professionals and families wanting a quieter life.

Adelaide

One of Australia's most affordable capital cities with a high quality of life. Perfect for retirees and young professionals looking for affordability and culture.

Gold Coast

If you love surfing, beach life and a lively tourism-driven economy, this is a top spot for entrepreneurs, hospitality workers and families looking for a laid-back lifestyle.

Canberra

Australia's capital is a fantastic choice for government employees, academics and those looking for a quiet, well-planned city with excellent job opportunities.

Hobart (Tasmania)

If you want a slower pace of life, stunning nature and a lower cost of living, Hobart is perfect for retirees and remote workers.

Sunshine Coast

An up-and-coming location for families and professionals seeking affordability, fantastic schools and great beaches without the business of Brisbane.

Before you move, research rental prices and job opportunities in your preferred city to ensure it suits your lifestyle and budget.

4. Jobs for Brits in Australia

If you're moving to Australia from the UK for work, the job market is strong in many sectors, particularly:

• Healthcare
• IT and technology
• Construction and trades
• Engineering
• Education

Websites like Seek, Indeed and LinkedIn are great places to start your job hunt before you arrive.

5. Healthcare and banking in Australia 

• Healthcare: Australia has a world-class healthcare system. As a British citizen, you can access Medicare through the reciprocal healthcare agreement, but private health insurance is also recommended.
• Banking: Setting up an Australian bank account before you arrive can make things much easier. Major banks like Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, NAB and ANZ all offer migrant-friendly account options.

6. Shipping your belongings

When moving from the UK to Australia, you'll need to decide what to take with you. Many Brits choose to ship furniture, vehicles or sentimental items, but this requires planning due to customs regulations.

This is where a trusted international moving company like Pickfords can help. With decades of experience in helping Brits move to Australia, Pickfords offers tailored shipping solutions, expert advice and seamless transportation of your belongings. 

Final thoughts: Is moving to Australia worth it?

For many Brits, making the move to Australia is life-changing. With a fantastic climate, a strong economy and an unbeatable lifestyle, it's no wonder thousands of people take the leap each year. While the process can be daunting, with proper planning, it can be a smooth and rewarding journey.

If you're serious about moving to Australia, start researching your visa options, budget for your move and consider reaching out to Pickfords to handle the logistics.