Moving to Australia

Australia Overview

Australia, the only country that is also a continent, is known for its high quality of life (ranking 11th internationally), advanced economy, and stunning landscapes. Over 30% of Australia’s population is born overseas, contributing to its diverse and inclusive society. The country’s strong immigrant communities provide newcomers with various opportunities to integrate and succeed both personally and professionally. However, living costs can be significant, particularly in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Sydney exceeds A$3,000(€2,000+) per month. Despite this, Australia's outdoor lifestyle, rich culture, and well-established social support systems make it one of the top destinations for relocation.

💡 How to Get Internet Immediately After Landing in Australia

Having internet immediately after landing in Australia makes your first 24–72 hours much easier. Booking a ride with Uber, navigating the city, staying connected with family and friends, and setting up essential services like banking all require reliable internet access. Many travelers choose an Australia eSIM to get online right away without searching for Wi-Fi or a SIM store at the airport.

If you’re wondering how to get internet in Australia airport, setting up a prepaid eSIM Australia plan before departure can be a practical short-term option. Services like Sim Local offer travel-friendly plans that activate instantly and work as soon as you land, with options ranging from data-only packages to plans that include calls and texts. Once you’ve settled in and completed your local paperwork, switch to a local SIM plan.

Interesting facts

  • Australia has over 10,000 beaches—more than any other country.
  • Over 80% of Australia's animals are found nowhere else, including kangaroos, koalas, and the platypus.
  • The country has rather poor internet, with an average broadband speed of around 54 Mbps.

Capital

  • Canberra

Currency

  • Australian Dollar (A$, AUD)

Population

  • Approximately 27.1 million

Languages

  • Although there is no official language in Australia, English is recognized as the national language.

Largest cities by population

  • Sydney (4.6 million)
  • Melbourne (4.2 million)
  • Brisbane (2.2 million)

Best universities

  • University of Melbourne
  • University of Sydney
  • University of New South Wales (ranked 13th, 18th and 19th in the world respectively)

Quality of life

  • 7.1/10

Crime rate

  • 49/100 (moderate)

Visas & Immigration in Australia

Australia offers various visa options for work, study, and long-term residency, with specific programs for skilled workers, students, and family reunification. Citizens of certain countries may need a visa to enter, with applications typically submitted online or through Australian embassies. Australia also has pathways for permanent residency, such as the Skilled Migration program, which can lead to citizenship. The country is known for its structured immigration system, particularly attracting skilled professionals and investors.

Types of visas

  • Visitor Visas
  • Working and Skilled Visas
  • Family and Partner Visas
  • Refugee and Humanitarian Visas

Taxes in Australia

Australia has a progressive tax system, where higher-income earners pay a higher percentage in taxes. In addition to federal income tax, Australians pay a Medicare levy, which helps fund the country's public healthcare system. Goods and services tax (GST) is applied to most purchases at a standard rate. Depending on the state, residents may also pay land and property taxes. Australia's tax revenue supports a range of services, including healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social security benefits, contributing to the country’s strong social welfare system and high quality of life.

Types of taxes

  • Income tax
  • Goods and services tax (GST)
  • Capital gains tax (CGT)
  • Payroll tax
  • Land tax
  • Environmental taxes and levies

Tax year

  • July 1st to June 30th of the following year

Income tax rates

  • Progressive, ranging from 0% to 45% depending on income levels

Cost of Living in Australia

The cost of living in Australia varies significantly by city and region, with major urban centers like Sydney and Canberra typically being the most expensive.

Housing is often the largest expense, particularly in Sydney, where rent and property prices are among the highest in the world.

Groceries, dining out, and transportation can also be costly, though prices vary depending on the location and lifestyle choices.

Public transportation is generally efficient in major cities, with reasonable fares, while car ownership can add to expenses due to fuel prices and insurance. For instance, to legally drive in New South Wales, you must also have Compulsory Third Party (CTP) Green Slip coverage, which adds to the total cost of car registration.

Utilities, including electricity and water, tend to be higher than in many other countries.

Healthcare in Australia is of high quality, with a mix of public and private options available, and the public healthcare system, Medicare, helps offset many medical costs for residents.

Most expensive cities

  • Canberra
  • Sydney
  • Adelaide

Most affordable cities

  • Townsville
  • Bendigo
  • Ballarat

Average rent

  • Around A$2,225 per month for a one-bedroom city center apartment

Average monthly expenses (excluding rent)

  • A$1,654 for a single person, A$5,851 for a family of four

International Companies Hiring in Australia

Australia is home to a wide range of international companies that actively hire across various industries, making it a prime destination for global talent. Major companies like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and IBM have established significant operations in cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, particularly in the tech sector. In finance, multinational firms like HSBC and Citibank provide opportunities in banking and financial services, while BHP and Rio Tinto, two global mining giants, dominate the natural resources sector. These companies often seek skilled professionals in technology, engineering, finance, and management, offering a dynamic and diverse job market for both locals and expats.

Jobs in Australia

Australia has a strong job market with opportunities across a wide range of industries, including technology, healthcare, finance, education, and mining. English is the primary language in the workplace, making English-speaking jobs widely available, particularly in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. However, with Australia's increasing focus on international trade and tourism, there is also a growing demand for multilingual professionals, especially in roles related to customer service, sales, and global business operations.

Top job sectors

  • Healthcare
  • IT
  • Finance

Top high-demand jobs

  • Healthcare specialists
  • Software engineers
  • Financial dealers

Working hours

  • Maximum 38 hours per week

Probation period

  • Typically from 3 to 6 months

Paid time off

  • Minimum 4 weeks per year

Public holidays

  • 8 or more depending on a specific location

Unemployment rate

  • 4.2%

Common employee benefits

  • Life and disability insurance, paid relocation service, visa sponsorship, healthcare, parental leave

Salaries in Australia

Salaries in Australia are generally high compared to global standards, reflecting the country's robust economy and strong demand for skilled labor. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne typically offer the highest salaries, particularly in sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, and professional services. The mining and resources sector also contributes to high wage levels, especially in cities like Perth. While salaries vary widely depending on the industry and experience level, Australia’s comprehensive minimum wage laws ensure a baseline income for all workers.

Average salary

  • A$100,000 (around €64,516) per year before taxes

Minimum wage

  • A$24.10 per hour

Highest-paying jobs

  • IT Project Manager: A$115,404
  • Marketing Manager: A$85,805
  • Software Engineer: A$85,455
  • Customer Support: A$59,906
  • UX Designer: A$78,189

Cities with the highest average salaries

  • Sydney
  • Melbourne
  • Perth

Relocation Companies in Australia

Relocation companies in Australia offer a wide range of services to help individuals and families make a smooth transition, whether moving from abroad or within the country. These companies assist with essential tasks like visa applications, finding housing, enrolling in schools, and setting up utilities, as well as providing guidance on local customs and regulations. Many also specialize in corporate relocations, offering tailored services for businesses relocating employees.

Top relocation companies in Australia:

  • Seven Seas Worldwide
  • Santa Fe Relocation
  • Harmony Relocation Network
  • Australian Relocation Managers
  • Opal Relocations

Healthcare & Insurance in Australia

Australia has a well-regarded healthcare system that combines public and private options. The public system, known as Medicare, provides universal healthcare coverage to all citizens and permanent residents, funded primarily through taxes, including the Medicare levy. Medicare covers most essential medical services such as doctor visits, hospital treatments, and some specialist care, often at little or no cost. For services not fully covered, like dental care, vision care, and certain elective procedures, many Australians choose to purchase private health insurance, which also helps to reduce waiting times for non-urgent treatments and provides access to private hospitals.

Types of health Insurance

  • Public health insurance (Medicare)
  • Private Health Insurance
  • Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC)
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Cities in Australia

Australia’s major cities each offer unique benefits for those considering relocation. Sydney is a hub for finance, technology, and international business, making it ideal for professionals. Melbourne is known for its rich cultural scene, high quality of life, and thriving creative industries, appealing to families and young professionals alike. Brisbane, with its warmer climate and growing job market, is attractive for those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle while still having access to opportunities in sectors like healthcare and education. Perth, located on the west coast, offers a strong mining and resources industry, along with a laid-back, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. Each city provides excellent public services, healthcare, and education, making Australia a top choice for relocation.