Living in Australia: Everything You Need to Know as a Foreigner
Australia had more than 7.6 million migrants living in the country by 2021. If you’ve always dreamt of living in Australia, you might be finally ready to make a move and join this population.
You’ll be in for a treat. This beautiful country has so much to offer, from its stunning beaches and natural wonders to its vibrant cities and friendly locals. But before you pack your bags and head Down Under, there are a few things you need to know about living in Australia.
Whether you’re planning on moving to Australia permanently or just spending a year or two there, it would be best if you were well prepared for your new life. Read on to learn everything you need to know about living in Australia as a foreigner.
The Lifestyle in Australia Is Top-Notch
The lifestyle in Australia is very relaxed, and people generally enjoy a good work-life balance. Even though the country is quite large, most Australians live in coastal cities where they can enjoy the outdoors.
Beaches are a big part of Australian culture, and locals love to spend their weekends relaxing at the beach, surfing, or swimming. If you’re not into water sports, don’t worry — there are plenty of other outdoor activities to enjoy in Australia.
Hiking, cycling, and bushwalking are all popular pastimes. While you’re at it, brace yourself to see a lot of koalas, wallabies, and kangaroos. So, if you’re moving to Australia, be prepared to spend a lot of time outdoors and socializing!
The Cost of Living in Australia Is High
The cost of living in Australia will largely depend on the city you choose to live in. The most expensive cities are Sydney and Melbourne, while the cheaper options include Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide.
Generally speaking, the cost of living in Australia isn’t cheap. The high quality of life you’ll get in this country will come at a price.
However, salaries are also relatively high, so it balances out. The average annual salary in Australia is about $63,000. Some of the biggest expenses you’ll face include housing, food, and transportation.
Housing in Australia
Anyone who’s tried to rent or buy a property in Australia will tell you that it’s not cheap. The high cost of housing is one of the biggest complaints about living in this country.
According to the latest figures, the average house price in Australia is now just under $900,000. And if you’re looking to rent, you’re not going to find any relief either. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Sydney is over $2,000 per month.
As a foreigner, these costs might be too high. You might have to live in overcrowded conditions. Alternatively, you might have to move to cheaper areas further away from your work or major towns.
It’s Easy to Get Australian Citizenship
If you’re planning on moving to Australia permanently, you’ll be happy to know that it’s relatively easy to obtain Australian citizenship. You’ll need to meet a few requirements, including being over the age of 18. You should also have lived in Australia for at least four years.
Most importantly, you have to pass a citizenship test. You can ensure that you pass the test with flying colors by taking online practice tests. Check out https://www.citizenshipaustralian.com/ and start getting ready for your Australian citizenship test.
Australia Is an Isolated Country
Due to its geographical position, Australia acts as a continent and a country on its own. You won’t find any formal land-based borders because the country doesn’t share land boundaries with any other country.
The lack of close neighbors causes some isolation. You might also experience isolation because Australian cities are far from each other. The distance causes time zone differences that you have to manage.
The vastness of the country and the isolation might take some getting used to. But once you do, you’ll find that Australia offers a unique and remote living experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Australia Has a High-Quality Healthcare System
One of the biggest concerns for anyone moving to a new country is healthcare. After all, you want to make sure that you’ll be able to get the treatment you need if you ever get sick or injured.
Fortunately, Australia has an excellent healthcare system that is among one of the best in the world. All Australian citizens and permanent residents are eligible for free or subsidized healthcare through Medicare.
This universal healthcare system covers various medical services, from GP visits to hospitalizations. If you’re planning on moving to Australia, apply for a Medicare card as soon as possible.
Australians Are Warm and Welcoming
If you’re worried about moving to a new country and not knowing anyone, don’t be. Australians are known for being some of the friendliest and most welcoming people in the world.
You’ll find that Australians are quick to strike up a conversation, even with strangers. They’re also happy to help out if they see someone in need.
So, if you’re feeling lonely after moving to Australia, don’t worry. Just head to your local pub or café and start chatting with the people around you. You’ll make friends in no time.
The Weather Is Incredible
One of the best things about living in Australia is the weather. The country experiences warm weather all year round, with an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius.
Of course, the temperature varies depending on which part of Australia you’re in. For instance, it’s usually hotter in the north than in the south.
But no matter where you are in Australia, you can enjoy the outdoors all year round. So, if you love spending time in the sun, you’ll enjoy living in Australia.
Fulfill Your Dream of Living in Australia
Living in Australia is a fantastic experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime. The country has a lot to offer, from its unique lifestyle to its high-quality healthcare system.
If you’re planning on moving to Australia, keep these things in mind. They’ll help you have a smooth and enjoyable transition into your new life Down Under.
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