Thinking about emigrating to Australia? Australia is one of the most sought-after places for expats across the world, with Brits making up 1.1 million of its total population.
Moving abroad can be a daunting prospect, especially when your new home is on the other side of the world. At Bishop’s Move, we have a dedicated International Removals team and a great deal of experience in global relocations. Our 170+ years of experience in facilitating overseas moves means you will receive nothing short of a professional and efficient move.
From Brisbane and Sydney to Melbourne and Canberra, there are many fantastic places to choose from for your new home. Here’s a guide to everything you’ll need to know before heading down under.
Moving to Australia?
How to Move to Australia from the UK
Moving overseas requires thoughtful planning and organisation. Here are some key steps you’ll need to take when moving to Australia.
1. Research your employment options
Australia’s robust job market is highly attractive to corporate professionals. There are many fields that require skilled workers, and the process of obtaining a job is much the same in Australia as in the UK. Industries like healthcare, tourism, mining, and state administration are top employers.
In order to work, you’ll need to make sure your visa pathway is secured correctly. There are multiple working visas that Brits can acquire to live there. You’ll also need to make sure you have secured a TFN, or Tax File Number, which is similar to the UK’s NI number. You can find out how to apply for one on their website.
2. Secure accommodation
Choosing a place to live is an important consideration when moving overseas. Many people moving to Australia seek out rental accommodation initially, as the process is much simpler than buying, especially when you’re coordinating the immigration process. Serviced apartments can be ideal for this, giving you a quick start and helping you to settle in.
Australian cities come with their unique perks, so you can’t go wrong no matter which one you choose. It might be helpful to create a table with your priorities and how each city can contribute to it. Here are some popular expat locations in Australia.
3. Acquire the right visa
To legally move to Australia, you must have a valid visa. Australian visas are typically classified into two types: Family visas include the chilTo legally move to Australia, you must have a valid visa. The first step is identifying which visa is right for you. Whether you have family in Oz or you’re looking to settle on your own, study or work temporarily in the country, there are many different types of visas.
Australian visas are typically classified into two types.
Family visas include the child, dependent child visa, parent, partner, and prospective marriage visas.
Working visas include the global talent, skilled worker, business, and temporary worker visas, as well as the employer nominee scheme.
Most Australian visas are based on a skills points system, and you must be under the age of 50 to apply. However, there are visas for those who wish to retire to the country. Working holidays are also available for individuals keen to spend up to a year living and working in Australia, but you must be between 18 and 31 years of age.
You can find everything you need to know about visas, including which one is right for you, costs, and how much time you should allow for your application, on the Australian Government’s website.
If you find the process overwhelming, it might be worth contacting a MARA-registered Migration Agent who can guide you through the process with their expertise.
4. Prepare to move
Once you’ve sorted the above, it’s time to act on your overseas packing list. It goes without saying that despite packing tips and tricks, you cannot possibly fit everything into your suitcase. Partner with a trusted moving company for your move to Australia and make sure you get removals insurance.
If you are planning to move with household objects or a vehicle, these will be subject to physical examination by the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service (AQIS). Note that all items require a thorough clean before being packed, and may still require professional cleaning at the destination. See below for further details about customs for items entering Australia with you.
Household Effects
Duty-free entry is granted provided that goods have been owned and used abroad for 12 months or more preceding the owner’s arrival into the country.
Required documentation from the client:
Australian customs form (B534).
Photocopy of passport photo and visa page (some ports require a full copy of each page).
Motor Vehicles
All motorised vehicles, including cars, motorbikes, motorised caravans, sit-on lawn-mowers and quad bikes must obtain prior import approval. All motor vehicles are subject to duty and GST, which is calculated on the value and age of the vehicle.
If you’re moving to Australia from the UK, you need to inform the HMRC about your move. This is to make sure your tax and pension are in order. The UK government’s website provides more information on this.
Should I Emigrate To Australia?
Your decision to move to the other side of the world should not be taken lightly. There are many things to consider when sizing up any move. Here is a bit of an overview of what life could be like for you down under.
Culture in Australia
While being so far away, Australia has an incredibly close relationship with the UK, which includes its way of life. You’ll find settling into your new home much easier with so much shared with your life back in Britain.
The large island has always been a melting pot of cultures, with immigrants from all across the globe making up a large percentage of the 25 million-strong population. In fact, more than 1.1 million Britons already call Australia home, so you’re almost guaranteed to find people with shared values.
With a laid-back culture that revolves around spending time with friends and family, there’s not a lot to dislike about the culture. Sports and exercise also play a large role in life down under, so there’s plenty of opportunity to get involved wherever you are. Learn more about how life in the UK compares to Australia.
Healthcare in Australia
Healthcare should always be a concern when moving abroad. The public healthcare system in Australia is called Medicare and is renowned for being of great quality. For Brits hoping to move abroad, you’ll be happy to know that the UK and Australia have reciprocal healthcare agreements, meaning that you’ll be able to access the public healthcare system for free.
Note that many Australians choose to opt for private healthcare for a higher level of coverage and care, which might be available through a working position based in the country.
Am I Allowed to Move Back to the UK From Australia?
If you’re a British citizen with a valid passport, you should have no issues moving back to the UK from Australia. However, you shouldn’t expect to pick up where you left off immediately as it can take time to reinstate essential services. You might need to make travel arrangements for any non-UK family members, as they might require a visa and health insurance.
Moving to Australia with Bishop’s Move
Our bespoke moving services have been created based on years of international moving experience because Bishop’s Move knows exactly what a smooth process involves. We’ve got everything under control, and you won’t need to worry about leaving your move in the hands of our capable removal teams. Start planning your move with our Australia removals services today and call us on 0800 107 8422.
FIND YOUR BISHOP'S MOVE
FIND YOUR BISHOP'S MOVE 
