Moving to Australia with Kids: What Families Need to Know Before the Big Move

*Collaborative Post

Choosing to relocate to a new country is always a huge decision, especially when children are involved. And if that country is Australia, then probably, doubly so.

Families from all over the world, including the UK, other parts of Europe, Asia, and, of course, New Zealand, are drawn to “The Lucky Country”. Primarily, this is because of its sunny climate, laid-back lifestyle, and excellent opportunities for work and kids. 

But before you pack your bags and jet off to the land Down Under, there are a few important things every family should know.

This guide covers everything from visas and determining where to live to schooling and everyday life in Australia. By the end of it, you should have a clearer picture of what to expect and how to prepare your family for the adventure ahead.

Why Families Choose Australia

It’s easy to see why Australia is a popular choice for families who want to relocate overseas. To start with, it’s full of wide open spaces, has plenty of safe cities, and a strong overriding focus on community.

In addition, parents are often attracted to the work opportunities, better work/life balance, and the outdoor lifestyle it provides. Kids also tend to love the beaches, parks, and endless options for play. So, overall, the country ticks a lot of boxes.

Australia is even known for being one of the most family-friendly countries in the world. In fact, from prams on public transport to family discounts at attractions, you could say that Australia has been built with children in mind.

Australian Visa Requirements for Families

The first thing you’ll need to do if you want to move to Australia is to secure the right visa. 

There are specific Australian visa requirements for families that you will need to explore. Indeed, several pathways might be open to you, depending on your circumstances. These include skilled migration visas, family reunion visas, and sponsored work visas, which are among the most common.

When applying for a visa, you must provide documents like passports, birth certificates, and medical checks for each family member. Be mindful that processing times can vary. So it’s best to start the process as early as possible. Many families choose to enlist the help of a migration agent when submitting their application.

Cost of Living in Australia with Children

Australia offers an incredible lifestyle. But the cost of living here can be slightly higher than you are used to. The prices of housing, groceries, and transport can all quickly add up, especially in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne.

Likewise, education and childcare options in Australia can also be dear, although some government subsidies can help. Generally speaking, families spend more on rent and school fees in capital cities than they do in regional areas.

When you have been given the green light to move to Australia, one of the first things you’ll want to organise is an Australian bank account with Westpac. Having a local account will make it easier to pay your bills, receive salaries, and budget for everyday expenses.

To get an idea of the costs involved, it’s a good idea to prepare a simple budget before moving. Rent, groceries, petrol, and social activities for you and the kids should be something you factor in. It’s also worth allowing extra for health insurance or private schooling if you intend to fund those.

Family-Friendly Suburbs in Australia

Where you live can make or break your experience in Australia, because if you base yourself in a big city, you could get overwhelmed. Similarly, if you decided to start in a more remote area, you might feel isolated.

Most expats look for family-friendly suburbs in Australia with parks, good schools, and easy access to shops and amenities like hospitals and doctors.

In Sydney, for instance, suburbs like Lane Cove and Wahroonga fit this bill nicely, while in Melbourne, areas like Camberwell and Glen Waverley are quite popular. The likes of Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide also have fantastic, safe neighbourhoods with plenty of family-friendly amenities.

Overall, the right suburb will depend on your budget and how close it is to your work. For this reason, it’s best to balance the lifestyle perks of living there with the practicalities of public transport and commute times.

Finding the Best Schools in Australia for Expat Kids

Overall, in Australia, the standard of schooling is pretty good. Within the education system, you can choose between public, private, and international schools. Public schools are free for permanent residents, while private schools are ones you’ll need to pay for if you want your children to attend them. International schools may suit children who aren’t fluent in English yet.

Like in other countries such as the UK, School enrolment often depends on your address. Therefore, finding a place to live and choosing a school are decisions that usually go hand in hand. For this reason, researching suburbs and their catchment areas is a very important step in planning your move to Australia.

Healthcare System

Another key factor to consider is the healthcare system for families in Australia. Permanent residents have access to Medicare, which covers many essential services like GP visits and hospital care. Most parents also look into dental care and children’s vaccinations, which are part of the standard health schedule. 

That said, you may also want to consider private health insurance to provide you with more options and shorter waiting times for certain treatments.

Adjusting to Australia

Aside from the logistics of relocating to Australia, you will also need to settle into your new surroundings. In particular, you should embrace Australian culture.

Good ways to do this are to join community groups or local sports clubs. That way, you instantly meet a diverse range of people.

These activities are great for making friends and building confidence. Similarly, for parents, getting involved in school events or local networks can make the transition smoother, too.

It’s worth remembering that Australia has some amazing sights, landmarks, and attractions. So, when the opportunity presents, why not experience its theme parks, museums, and areas of outstanding natural beauty? 

You may even want to check out these amazing whale-watching spots, too. They make for an unforgettable family outing.

*This is a collaborative post. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.