Thinking of swapping the UK for a new life under the Australian sun? You are in good company, Australia remains the number-one destination for British families relocating abroad, drawn by the climate, the schools, the space and the lifestyle.
The good news is that the right visa takes your whole family with you on a single application. This guide sets out the visa options for UK families, what the move actually costs, and the practical steps from skills assessment to touchdown in Australia.
“The right visa takes your whole family, partner and children included, on a single application.”
Most British families move to Australia on one of three types of visa, and in each case your partner and dependent children are included as secondary applicants on the same application.
If you work in an occupation on Australia’s skilled lists, the points-tested skilled visas are the most common family route. The Skilled Independent visa (189), Skilled Nominated visa (190) and Skilled Work Regional visa (491) each require a positive skills assessment and a points score. The pass mark is 65 points, but in practice most occupations need 80 or more to receive an invitation, and the main applicant generally needs to be under 45.
If you secure a job offer from an approved Australian employer, the Skills in Demand visa (482) provides a sponsored route with support during the transition and a clear pathway to permanent residence through the subclass 186. This is often the fastest option for families with an in-demand skill set.
If you have a partner or close family member who is already an Australian citizen or permanent resident, a partner or family-stream visa may be the right route. These are powerful but processing can be lengthy, so plan well ahead.
Budgeting realistically is half the battle. As a guide, a UK family should plan for:
All told, most families budget somewhere between £5,000 and £20,000+ for the whole move, depending on visa type, shipping and family size.
Permanent residents have access to Australia’s public schools and to Medicare, the public healthcare system. Many families also choose private schooling, so it is worth researching school catchments before deciding where to live. Processing times for the visa itself currently run from around seven months for a Skilled Independent visa to eighteen months or more for a partner visa, so the earlier you start, the smoother the move.
We have helped British families emigrate to Australia for nearly three decades and will guide you from choosing the right visa through to your skills assessment, the application and the practicalities of the move. We win cases others can’t, and we sequence every step so nothing is left to chance.
Complete our free, no-obligation eligibility assessment below and we will send you our e-brochure. Even if a particular route is not right for you, a short conversation is the surest way to confirm your family’s options.
This article is general information about Australian migration and is not personal migration, legal, financial or tax advice. Visa rules, fees and processing times change frequently, always check the latest position with the Department of Home Affairs and obtain advice tailored to your circumstances.
The first step in international relocation is determining what to bring. Shipping large volumes overseas can be expensive and complicated due to strict customs regulations. Expert advice from international moving companies is invaluable here. They can guide on practical items to ship, customs duties, prohibited items, and offer tips for efficient packing and transportation. Moreover, considering the compatibility of electrical appliances and the spatial constraints in your new home is crucial.
Finding a new home in a foreign country requires thorough research into various neighbourhoods. Factors such as safety, proximity to essential services, community dynamics, and local amenities are key considerations. Utilizing tools like the OECD’s “Better Life Index” can offer insights into different regions. Initially, renting can be a flexible option, allowing you to explore the area and local housing market before committing to buying a property. Local real estate agents and expatriate communities can provide invaluable insights.
For families with children, education is a paramount concern. It’s essential to understand the local education system, curriculum, and the language of instruction. The OECD’s “Education at a Glance” offers a detailed look at educational standards across the globe. Exploring international schools can be a strategic choice, especially for maintaining curriculum continuity or for specific language needs. School visits and discussions with other expatriate parents are vital in making an informed decision.
Understanding the job market in your new country is critical. The World Bank’s “World Development Report” provides a global perspective on economic trends and employment opportunities. Proactive networking, engaging with professional groups, and understanding legal employment requirements, such as work permits and professional licensing, are essential steps.
Healthcare is a major consideration, especially for those with ongoing medical needs. Familiarizing yourself with the healthcare system and insurance options in your new country is imperative. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) can offer a comprehensive understanding of global healthcare systems. Knowing how to access emergency services and registering with a local healthcare provider are critical steps in this process.
Adjusting to a new culture and community is both challenging and rewarding. The United Nations’ “International Migration Report” provides insights into the experiences of expatriates and cultural adaptation. Joining local groups, participating in community activities, and learning the local language are effective ways to integrate and build a new social network.
Relocating to a new country involves navigating a different legal and financial landscape. The International Monetary Fund’s country reports can offer valuable economic contexts. Setting up a local bank account, understanding tax laws, and being aware of legal requirements are crucial. Consulting with financial advisors experienced in expatriate finances can offer significant advantages.
Establishing a balanced and enjoyable lifestyle is an important aspect of settling into a new country. The United Nations’ “World Happiness Report” provides insights into the general well-being in various countries. Engaging in local arts, culture, and sports can enhance the expatriate experience and contribute significantly to mental health and happiness.
Being prepared for emergencies is essential. Resources such as the U.S. Department of State’s “Country Specific Information” offer valuable safety guidelines. Familiarizing yourself with local emergency numbers, nearest medical facilities, and natural disaster preparedness protocols is vital.
Setting long-term goals, such as obtaining permanent residency or citizenship, can provide stability and a sense of belonging. The United Nations’ “International Migration Report” discusses various aspects of adapting to life in a new country, both legally and socially. Planning for these long-term objectives can help guide your decisions regarding investments, children’s education, and other commitments.
Begin preparations at least six months in advance. This allows for thorough research, decision-making, and obtaining competitive quotes from moving companies. Avoid peak seasons, like the summer, to capitalise on lower shipping rates.
Turn the move into a positive experience for your kids. Engage them in packing their belongings and discussing the new opportunities awaiting them. Their involvement can transform anxiety into anticipation.
Shipping costs are based on the volume or weight of what you’re moving. Rigorously declutter to reduce these costs. Remember, it might be cheaper to replace certain items once you have lived in your new home for a little while.
Your new home will differ in layout and size compared to your current residence. Measure your furniture and consider whether it is appropriate for the climate and lifestyle. Homes in warmer climates are often open-plan. Make the most of the new space with some new (or new to you) furniture.
Opt for a company experienced in international moves, offering comprehensive insurance coverage. Discuss packing materials and ensure they comply with Australian standards to avoid issues during customs clearance. There are a number of local removal firms, but international shipping companies will have a better understanding and not have to rely on sub-contractors.
Go beyond basic insurance options. It may be an idea to invest in ‘All Risk’ insurance for individual item coverage, providing better protection for your belongings during transit.
Familiarise yourself with the often strict quarantine laws. Ensure items like outdoor equipment are thoroughly cleaned to remove soil and seeds to avoid additional cleaning fees or disposal by customs.
Assess whether importing your car is cost-effective. The expenses involved in taxes, duties, and modifications to meet Australian standards can be high. Often, buying a new car on arrival is more practical.
Incorporate all potential costs into your budget, including customs duties, taxes, quarantine fees, and delivery charges from the port to your new home.
Storage is also best avoided and a great reason to declutter before you go. If you’re going to rent a property on arrival storage costs can rack up quickly. Have a quote for storage before you pack and go.
Use a shipping company that provides tracking services. This not only offers peace of mind but also assists in scheduling your activities around the arrival of your goods.
Consider moving companies that offer additional settling-in services like utility setup and local registrations. These services can significantly ease your transition.
Connect with expat communities for support and advice. Their experience can be invaluable in easing into your life. It is also a great way to make friends quickly. However, it is equally important to meet local people with local knowledge.
Comparing life in Australia to the United Kingdom.
Australian primary classes carry fewer children than English ones. Class size figures are published by the education department in each country.
| Measure | Australia | England |
|---|---|---|
| Average primary school class size | 23.3 students | 26.1 students |
Sources: NSW Department of Education; Department for Education Australian source
Australian families have most of the childcare fee met for them. Both schemes are described by the responsible government department in each country.
| Measure | Australia | United Kingdom |
|---|---|---|
| Subsidy for the first child | Up to 90% of the fee | A 20% top up |
| Rate for a younger second child | Up to 95% of the fee | A 20% top up |
Sources: Department of Education; GOV.UK Australian source
Ceduna collects more sunshine, sees half the wet days and runs warmer through the year than Clacton. The national weather service in each country publishes these averages from decades of station records.
| Measure | Ceduna | Clacton |
|---|---|---|
| Sunshine per day | 8.3 hours | 5.2 hours |
| Days of rain a year | 55.9 | 102.0 |
| Mid winter daytime high | 17.5 °C | 7.8 °C |
Sources: Bureau of Meteorology; Met Office Australian source