Thinking about moving to Australia from the UK? You aren’t alone. Australia is one of the most sought-after places for expats across the world, with Brits making up 1.2 million of its total population.
From Brisbane and Sydney to Melbourne and Canberra, there are many fantastic places to choose from when starting your new life in Australia. However, 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.
Moving to Australia?
How to Move to Australia from the UK
Moving to Australia from the UK is a life-changing decision. Whether you’re chasing sunshine, job opportunities, or a new start with family, relocating requires thoughtful planning and organisation.
It’s not just about choosing where to live; you’ll need to obtain the right visa, find reliable shipping, and understand how to settle in smoothly. Here’s our guide to everything you need to know when planning a move to Australia from the UK.
1. Acquire the right visa
To legally move to Australia from the UK, you must have a valid visa. The first step is identifying which visa is right for you and your circumstances. 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.
2. Research your employment options
Australia’s robust job market is highly attractive to UK 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. Skill shortages are currently being experienced across a number of sectors, including healthcare, education, IT, and construction.
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.
3. 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 smoothly.
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 them. Here are some popular expat locations in Australia.
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. This applies to personal goods only.
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 an overview of what life could be like for you if you move to Australia from the UK.
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 26 million-strong population. In fact, more than 1.2 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. It is important to note that this agreement covers essential and emergency medical care only, and GP visits, prescriptions, and procedures come at a cost.
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
With decades of international moving experience, Bishop’s Move has perfected the art of moving overseas. Our bespoke services are designed to make your move to Australia as smooth and stress-free as possible. From packing and shipping to customs support and delivery, our expert teams handle every aspect with care and precision. Start planning your move with our Australia removals services today and call us on 0800 107 8422.
Ready to start moving?
Moving to Australia FAQs
Moving to Australia is very achievable, but requires lots of careful planning, the right visa, and a detailed understanding of what life in Australia will be like. Provided you meet the eligibility criteria for a visa, particularly if you’re moving for work or family, and you have the right support in place, then the process can be straightforward.
Moving to Australia without a job is possible, but it can be more challenging. Most Australian visa categories are points-based or linked to employment, so if you don’t have a job offer, you’ll typically need to meet other criteria. Some visa options that will potentially allow you to move to Australia without a job offer include the Skilled Independent visa, the Working Holiday Visa, and the Partner or Spouse visa.
As with any relocation overseas, a move to Australia requires detailed financial planning. The exact amount of money you’ll need depends on your visa type, lifestyle, and the location you choose. Costs to consider include visa application fees, financial requirements (if this is a condition of your visa), initial living costs, and shipping and moving expenses. Having a minimum of £10,000 – £20,000 is advised by most emigration guides, but you should carefully consider this before making your final decision.
Finding housing before you arrive in Australia can be daunting, but it is highly recommended to ensure a smooth transition. By using reliable resources, you can secure temporary accommodation or even line up a long-term rental depending on your situation.
Temporary housing is often the preferred choice as it allows you to view properties in person before making a longer-term decision. Options include serviced apartments, hotels/hostels, Airbnb, Stayz, or a short-term house rental.
Australia has some of the strictest customs regulations in the world, aimed at protecting its unique environment and agriculture. If you’re moving from the UK, it is important to know which items are restricted or prohibited in order to avoid fines, delays, or having your belongings seized.
Banned items include illegal drugs and narcotics, weapons, explosives and firearms, counterfeit goods, live seeds, bulbs, soil, and plants, and material that violates Australian law.
Restricted items that may be allowed with approval include food items, wooden furniture, and pet items such as bedding, which may require inspection.
Why customer choose Bishop’s Move
Hear from customers who trusted Bishop’s Move to make their moves smooth, secure and stress-free.
★★★★★★★★★★
“Excellent service”
Really good service from Bishopsmove. Well organised and efficient service from the office. But best service came from our removal guys, Chris and Taylor. They were clearly experienced and efficient, but also pleasant, friendly and thoughtful throughout. They understood and provided suggestions that helped to make the moving experience go smoothly, with less stress. Thanks guys, hopefully see you to unpack!
Carol & Steve H.
Home Removals Customer
Exeter Move
★★★★★★★★★★
“Great to work with”
Jack and the team were excellent! All very friendly and polite and took great care of our delicate items, always asking extra questions before assuming. We were having items packed for storage but also moved to temporary living. They were very careful to protect everything and helped get it all into the right places. Will be requesting the team again when we are ready to move back into our house.
Dayna S.
Storage Solutions Customer
UK Storage
★★★★★★★★★★
“Very professional, informative, and proactive.”
I move a lot. This move was a big one from Isle of Wight to California. Bishops move helped coordinate every detail. Their international team was very professional, informative, and proactive. They kept me updated every step of the way. My things took 3 months to arrive and I needed 2 months of storage at the last minute. Bishop’s took care of everything. I couldn’t ask for a better experience. I will definitely use them in future. I highly recommend them for an all inclusive moving experience.
Tiffanie
International Removals Customer
California Move
★★★★★★★★★★
“Super Service”
The removal team took over and started packing right away. The stress lifted off me and I was amazed at how efficient and quick they packed, labelled and stacked my possessions. Everyone was reassuring and helped put me at ease. Thoroughly recommend.
Yvonne D.
Home Removals Customer
Edinburgh Move
★★★★★★★★★★
“Would 100% recommend.”
Used Bishops Move as we had struggled to find a local firm at short notice. It was a very long day for them and took two lorry loads.. But the team were absolutely lovely and professional and despite the delay whilst waiting for the completion to come through, ensured that we were unpacked as quickly as possible at the other end. It was a solid effort by the team who were absolute powerhouses and everything was carefully handled, and not a single breakage or damage to anything.
Adele C.
Home Removals Customer
Carlisle Move
★★★★★★★★★★
“A very stress free move”
The process with Bishops Move was efficient, friendly and completly stress free. Moving is often an anxious time and I very quickly realised the removal and packing of my furniture was one thing that I did not have to worry about. Their charges are also very compeptive. My furniture is now in storage (which is not the first time with Bishops Move) and Im confident that it is safe and secure. I thoroughly recommend Bishops Move!
