If you are planning a move from Canada to Australia, there’s a lot that needs to be done. From hiring professional movers to changing your address, the list never ends. Australia is the world’s sixth-largest country by total area. It has a population of over 26 million and is a monarchy of the British Empire. It is one of the world’s hottest and driest places with the least fertile soil.
If you are looking to move from Canada to Australia, this article will provide you with an essential checklist of everything you need to know about moving to Australia from Canada!
Moving from Canada to Australia: Everything to know and do
What to know before your move from Canada to Australia
1. First steps before moving to Australia
Visa Requirements
As a Canadian looking to apply for a visa to Australia, you have a few options. But the essential requirements for applying include:
- You must be under the age of 45 when applying.
- A basic level of understanding and speaking ability of the English language.
- If you are applying for a skill visa, you must nominate a skill set/occupation that coincides with your qualification.
- You must undergo the skill assessment test and pass.
- You must also pass the health assessment test. This means that you and/or your family must be of sound health to acquire a residence in Australia.
- Character assessment. As odd as it may sound, your character will be assessed as well and must fit specific criteria for you to pass.
As for the document, you need your visa which is valid for at least the next three months and the approved application for relocation, all the necessary personal documents, and proof of identity.
As for the visas, there are several you can apply for and the government will determine which one suits you best. It includes: Working Visa (all the above-stated requirements must be met for a work visa, can be valid up to 5 years), Partner and family visa (must be sponsored by nominator/sponsor which in this case is the applicant) or a Work and holiday visa (for aged 18-30, valid for up to a year). Find out other visas that are listed by the Australian Government.
If you have a pet along, you will need to have them assessed as well. There are three groups and you must determine which group your pet falls into.
- Group 1 pets are from New Zealand, Cocos Island, and Norfolk Island and don’t require any permit.
- Groups 2 and 3 (which your pet will belong to) are pets from countries that are rabies-free or have strict control over it. They not only require import permits but have to undergo blood tests to determine if they carry any diseases or pathogens that may spread to other animals.
To learn more on the subject, visit the Australian Government page.
Finding a job
In September 2023, Australia’s unemployment rate was 3.6%. This means over the last year employment increased by 2.8%.
Australia has a high demand in many sectors including barista, cleaner, pharmacy assistant, warehouse worker, customer service representative, chef, cabinet maker, security guard, painter, early childhood teacher, to name a few.
When finding a job in Australia, you can use employment vacancies and internet job postings like Indeed and LinkedIn.
Indeed (Oct 2023) & Australian Bureau of Statistics (September 2023)
Getting there
The most practical way from getting to Canada to Australia would be flying. Australia is surrounded by water therefore, flying is the most convenient way to get there.
You can book your flight to get there, for example through its major airport, Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport. Be sure to arrive in Australia two or three days before your move-in date so you have time to take care of last-minute tasks.
Oversea Moving Company
Consider the following requirements when looking for movers:
- Damage Insurance: Does the mover you have selected provide damage insurance in case things don’t go according to plan? Those movers, who are licensed, have a proper insurance policy that states the extent of damage covered in case of an accident or mishap. As these things are quite common in overseas transportation of luggage, you should have a close look at their insurance policy so you have all ends covered from your side.
- Experience: It is advised to only opt for movers who have years of experience backing their claims of safely transporting your belongings overseas. Do a little background search and go over customer reviews on different review websites. If a company seems new but has good reviews backing their claims, chances are, they were already in the moving business and have expanded it to overseas moving; as it is no easy or overnight task.
- Mode of transportation: Usually, the mode of transporting luggage overseas is by air, but sea is also a viable option used by many movers.
Must dos before your arrival
You may find it exciting and challenging to move to Australia. You will be more prepared for your new life if you are aware of these things beforehand.
- Find an overseas moving company. You can find a number of international moving companies that can move your belongings from Canada to Australia.
- Apartment Hunting: Plan ahead by researching and scheduling apartment visits before your arrival. This proactive approach will help streamline your housing search process and ensure a smoother transition.
- If you have a car you would like to bring to Australia, make sure to do what is necessary for car shipping as well as auto insurance.
Car Shipping to Australia
It is best to travel light and move on from your previous car as the cost can be very high when shipping a car overseas. You must also consider the possibility of being unable to find spare parts and other essential components in case your car ever breaks down. Plus, you can buy a new one when you get to Australia or use the money in another way that suits you well.
But in case you have a vintage or special car that holds real value to you, simply contact your chosen international moving company or an independent car shipping agency for guidance.
2. Upon your arrival in Australia
Must dos right upon your arrival
- Have your valid documents ready to be displayed any time you need to. Registering with the Canadian Embassy and local council is also a good idea. Be sure to contact your employer and let them know you have arrived as they may be able to answer some of your questions.
- Get familiar with your neighborhood, and make sure to take note of the important emergency numbers.
- Locate the essential facilities like the nearest hospital, police station, and fire department for your safety and in case of emergency.
- Prepare yourself by becoming familiar with the lifestyle and the seasons as Australia has opposing seasons, unlike Canada.
- Consider getting to know the Australian lingo and expressions to use with locals and your new neighbors!
Healthcare
Healthcare in Australia is covered by both, public and private sectors. It is a hybrid system in which people benefit from the public healthcare system called Medicare while also purchasing private medical insurance.
Newly immigrants are advised to stick with Medicare treatment unless they require special treatment, for which their general physician can recommend them to a specialist. Find out more on how to enroll and what is covered with Medicare.
Setting up your cell phone
If you are moving to Australia, it is best to transfer your phone number to an Australian cell phone provider to avoid high fees. The major cell phone providers in Australia are Telstra, Optus and Vodafone, to name a few.
Keep in mind, you will not have the same Canadian phone number as the area code in Australia is 61.
Getting a driver’s license
Anyone who has a permanent visa or who is a permanent resident may drive on their overseas licence for a maximum of three months after arriving in Australia. After the three months are up, an Australian drivers licence must be issued.
Keep in mind you may need to pass a knowledge or driving test, depending on your licence. Drivers over 75 years old will be required to undergo a medical review. You can find out more information at the NSW Service Government.
Setting up a bank account
Opening a bank account as a fresh immigrant is quite simple and easy. One of the four top banks allows for flexible banking options for those who are new to the country. The top four banks of Australia include: National Australia bank, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Westpac Banking Corporation and Australia and New Zealand Banking Group.
Most importantly, to set up a bank account, you must provide two proofs of identity like your passport and birth certificate, as well as a proof of address for example from a utility bill.
3. Best places to live in Australia
Moving to Australia means deciding where you want to live and considering your priorities. We’ve listed the best places to live in Australia!
|
Neighborhood |
Characteristics |
|
Melbourne |
Sporting capital of the world |
|
Sydney |
Best for young professionals looking for career growth |
|
Brisbane |
Perfect blend of city lifestyle and nature |
|
Gold Coast |
World renown beaches |
|
Adelaide |
Best for raising a family |
Setting up home services
It is not difficult to apply and obtain basic utilities such as gas, water, and electricity. Tenants are usually contacted by the authorities or they can apply by sending in an application. Some popular utility companies of Australia include: Momentum energy, Red energy, AGL, Commander and Next Energy Australia.
As for the internet, like in Canada, you must choose an internet provider that best suits your needs and budget. In Australia, some of the major internet providers are Any, Aussie broadband, Belong, Dodo, iiNet, iPrimus and Optus.
Should you rent or buy?
As of October 2023, the median cost of buying a property in Australia is $740,668; as of October 2023, the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment outside of the city center is $1,717.42.
Trusted websites such as Realestate.com, and Domain are often used to find available apartment listings and property or engage with real estate agents for assistance.
4. Cost of living in Australia
|
Category |
Monthly cost |
|
1 bed apt rent outside city center |
$1,717.42 |
|
Groceries Numbeo’s grocery list (103.78 x 4) |
$415.12 |
|
Utilities Electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage |
$307.56 |
|
Internet with 60 Mbps |
$81.08 |
|
Transit pass |
$157.10 |
|
Entertainment Meal, taxi, movie |
$111.60 |
|
Gym membership |
$73.97 |
|
Total |
$2,864.85 |
*prices are in CAD
5. The weather in Australia
Australia has a wide range of temperatures, with summer temperatures ranging from 5.7°C to 30.8°C depending on the city you live in. According to Australia.com, in Melbourne, the winter temperature averages between 6.5°C to 14°C.
It is important to remember that unlike Canada, Australia’s seasons are at opposite times. December to February is the summer, March to May is fall, June to August is winter time and September to November is spring.
6. What to do as a local in Australia
Residents of Australia take pleasure in spending their weekends exploring the outdoors. Australia is known for its natural beauty including beaches, national parks and camping grounds.
Australia is also known for its wildlife. Be prepared to encounter a variety of animals and insects that we do not have in Canada, especially if you decide to take a hike in Tasmania.
If you are looking to have fun on your weekends off work, Australians love volunteering to help their community grow. This most includes being involved in taking care of nature and wildlife. You can find out more at Volunteering Australia.
7. Fun facts about Australia
- Fun Fact #1: Australia is referred to as “The Land Down Under” because it’s located in the southern hemisphere.
- Fun Fact #2: Australia is home to some of the most unique and diverse wildlife on the planet like kangaroos, koalas, and wombats.
- Fun Fact #3: The Sydney Opera House is one of the most iconic buildings in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
Conclusion
Moving from Canada to Australia is an exciting experience that promises a unique experience! It offers an appealing lifestyle, making it attractive to individuals, young professionals, and families alike. Australia has several family-friendly neighborhoods and communities to offer to its new residents.
Are you planning to move soon? Find the best removalists in Sydney, Australia.
