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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. From Brisbane and Sydney to Melbourne and Canberra, there are many fantastic places to choose from for your new home.

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.

Here's a guide to everything you'll need to know before heading down under.

Moving to Australia?

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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. 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.

2. Secure accommodation

Choosing a place to live is an important consideration when moving overseas. 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 child, dependent child visa, parent, partner, and prospective marriage visas, whereas Working visas include the global talent, skilled worker, business, and temporary worker visas as well as the employer nominee scheme. 

Depending on your circumstances, you must apply for the right visa. Your age, job experience, skills, and more will all be taken into consideration with a points system, assigning points to elements that Australia’s economy finds valuable. Learn more about entry requirements and application procedures for Australian visas on their official site. 

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.

5. Notify the HMRC

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.

Rocky cliffs and a beach in Australia

 

Red-coloured sunset over Sydney harbour, with the iconic opera house

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?

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.

Sunset over Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park in Australia.

Moving 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, call us on 0800 107 8422.