You’ve heard about the amazing Aussie weather and laid-back lifestyle, and want a piece of it! Moving to a new country is an exciting, life-changing adventure. And in this case, relocating from the UK to Australia offers incredible, unique experiences. Get ready to embark on a wild ride and find out what you’re in for.
Aussie Lifestyle
The Australian way of life is easygoing and casual. We don’t take things too seriously - more often, you'll find a work-to-live mentality rather than live-to-work. Spending time outdoors is a favourite pastime of many; the weather means camping is comfortable year-round in most parts of the continent, the incredible landscapes motivate Australians to hike or mountain bike ride along thousands of kilometres of trails, and the ocean allows great surfing, swimming, paddling, and fishing opportunities. We like to entertain friends with a BBQ outdoors at home or in a park. The Australian way of life attracts many Brits to our shores and keeps them from returning to the motherland.
Weather
Australia’s weather is pleasant, with warm, sunny days for a large part of the year and a mild winter. Even during winter, large parts of Australia enjoy cool but sunny days to break up the wet ones. It’s part of the reason why our washing line, the Hills Hoist, is one of our most recognised icons. In some states, if you’re willing to change your washing day you can avoid the rain and go without a tumble dryer.
You might be seeking the sun, but beware, some parts can get very hot. If you don’t think you’ll survive a run of over 35-degree days in summer, do your research before you set up stumps and call a place home. Living close to the coast not only gives you quick access to a swim but also helps cool the place down on a hot afternoon. Of course, the magnitude of this wide brown land means the weather varies greatly depending on your location. Even within the same state, the weather can be very different from the north to the south.
If you’re afraid that you’ll miss the snow, don’t worry, we have winter wonderlands located a short distance from the capitals of Melbourne and Hobart and a little further out of Sydney. So pack your snow gear if you’re looking to enjoy trips to the snowfield.
Check out the minimum and maximum temperatures of the months in each capital city here.
Sporting Enthusiasm
Just like the Brits, Australians love sport. We love nothing more than beating the Poms at cricket and cheering for our favourite AFL team.
Some Australians head to a stadium whenever they get the chance to watch a professional game. The national game of the Australian Football League (AFL) can sell out a stadium in winter. Rugby, soccer, and cricket are other favourite professional sporting codes. Plenty of kids and some adults spend their weekends playing amateur sports at local ovals and sports complexes.
Many Australians like to get outdoors for a walk along the coast or through the bush or a ride on their bike. Staying fit and spending time outdoors is easy when the weather is favourable.
Cultural Exchange and Diversity
Australia is one of the most multicultural countries in the world. Our 2022 population of approximately 26 million people was made of 18.3 million residents born in Australia and 7.7 million born overseas. You’ll be in good company when you get here with the English-born group of migrants being the largest.
Migrants have helped populate and grow the country’s wealth. Most Australians are welcoming of new arrivals with 86% of Australians supporting action to tackle racism. Most new migrants feel a strong sense of belonging in Australia and say that feeling deepens with time.
Australians love to travel and know what it’s like to be in a new country where you don’t know anyone. It’s a rite of passage for many young Australians to explore the world before they settle down.
Australian Food Fare
Australians are spoiled for choice when it comes to fresh produce. We produce most of our fruit, vegetables and meat right here, so it reaches the consumer faster with fewer food miles than in countries that need to import large quantities of their food. Our clean environment and water mean our food is considered some of the safest in the world. We also enjoy our world-class wine and beer.
With such high multiculturalism, we can choose from different cuisines for a meal. Our proximity to Asia means there’s no shortage of Thai, Chinese, and other Asian restaurants. Fish and chips on the beach are a favourite summertime takeaway meal. But not all eating out is casual, as there are plenty of fine dining options in incredible locations.
Eating choices at home are often dictated by the weather. In summer, families fire up the BBQ and eat outside - meat and salads are a firm favourite meal for many Aussies during this time of the year. During winter, many Australians eat more English foods, such as roasts and stews.
Exploring the Natural Wonders
Australia’s landscape is vibrant and varied. Our world-famous landmarks include Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef, 12 Apostles, Bungle Bungles, and numerous national parks dotted around the country. Some of the natural wonders are located within a short drive of a city, while others are in the outback. Our temperate weather in most parts of the country means it’s pleasant to travel throughout the year. Many Australians and visitors alike aspire to tackle the Big Lap. Driving around the country towing a caravan and enjoying the diverse landscapes and quaint country towns is a common bucket list item.
While they certainly aren’t natural, Australia has some iconic big things that attract thousands of visitors each year. The big pineapple, potato, koala, sheep, prawn, lobster, and rocking horse are just some of the icons on a long list to tick off on your travels.
Creating New Connections
Australians are a friendly bunch. They’re used to working and socialising with people who have emigrated from all over the world. If you’re keen to meet new people, you can talk to other parents at school, join a local club, get a job in a large organisation, play a team sport, or join a walking group. The options are endless! If you would like to meet other Brits who have emigrated, do a little research online and find the suburban pockets with more English immigrants. Australia also has British-themed pubs where you’re sure to meet your fellow countrymen and women.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I live and work in Australia with a British passport?
British citizens aged between 18 and 30 can apply for a Working Holiday Visa to enter Australia for up to 12 months and work in the country. A Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) is required. Once over the age of 30, you will need a type of visa to suit the work you intend to do while in Australia.
How much does it cost to move from the UK to Australia?
Emigrating halfway around the world might not be particularly cheap, but it pays to do your research. Work out the quantity of personal items you want to take with you and get shipping quotes.
Have a rough idea of where you want to live and look at available housing options. You won't want to be stuck paying a small fortune for a hotel room because you couldn't find a rental property. If you have school-aged children, look at the schools in the area where you’re looking to rent. If you want to send your child to a public school to save on private school fees, there are strict school boundaries in most areas of the country.
Do I need health insurance?
Australia and the UK have reciprocal healthcare agreements that cover medically necessary healthcare for visitors. You'll qualify for treatment in a public hospital, medically necessary out-of-hospital care, and some discounted medications. However, to claim a rebate on healthcare costs that aren’t considered medically necessary, you will need an Overseas Visitors health insurance policy.
If you’re coming to Australia on a working visa, you’ll need working visa health insurance coverage. All of HIF’s Working Visa policies are Department of Home Affairs compliant.
Do UK citizens need a visa to live in Australia?
Yes, to emigrate from the UK to Australia, there are certain criteria to meet to get your visa. The main reasons English people can emigrate to Australia are through a work visa, family visa, and investment/business development visa.
How do I become a permanent Australian resident?
You may apply for Australian citizenship after you have been a permanent resident for a qualifying period. The most common permanent visas are for skilled work and family visas.
From tea to Tim Tams, the transition offers a unique perspective, enabling individuals to appreciate the beauty and diversity of their new home. Moving to Australia becomes a transformative experience that adds rich layers to one's life story.