Are you planning a move to Australia soon? If so, there are a few things you should consider before making the move to the Land Down Under. No two people have the same experience living in or visiting Australia as it’s a varied and intriguing land full of things to see and do.
You can surf and ski on the same day, and the weather and wildlife are colorful and just slightly dangerous at times. Keep reading for some more things you should consider before moving to Australia.
-
Australia Has High Wages (but There’s a Caveat)
Australia respects its workforce and upholds one of the highest minimum wages in the world. Of course, it also has a high cost of living to go with it. So, if you plan on working while you’re there, it’s worth Googling “tax calculator Australia” to see how your income will stack up once the cost of living and taxes are taken into account. You may be pleased to discover that low-income workers pay lower taxes than those in other developed countries across the globe.
-
Australia is HUGE!
If you plan to see the entire country, you’re going to need a good amount of time and energy as Australia is huge. Measuring more than three million square miles, this amazing country rivals the size of Europe.
-
Australian Weather Varies
Many people are of the mind that Australian weather is the same across the country: hot. The reality is, it varies from the north to the south, with some parts experiencing enough snowfall to ski on!
When it’s hot and summery in the south, for instance, the north usually experiences a wet season. You may encounter anything from cyclones (aka hurricanes) and monsoons to droughts and bushfires. If you visit Melbourne, you can experience all four seasons in one day!
-
The Aussie Sun Is Brutal
Australian residents have more than just hot temperatures to worry about in summer. The ozone layer above Australia is thin, making the sun’s rays extra powerful. If you’re moving to Australia, you should practice the country’s “Slip, Slop, Slap” mentality anytime you step outside. Slip on a shirt, slop on some sunscreen, and slap on a hat to stay protected.
-
Bushfires Are Common
Don’t forget to buy a good quality rake with you when you move to Australia as you’ll want to remove as much natural debris from around your home as possible. This helps protect you from bushfires that are common in the region.
Whether caused by lightning strikes or arson, Australia’s dry rural areas see more than 50,000 bushfires a year. These fires can be devastating, leaving death and destruction in their wake.
-
Australia Has a Good Healthcare System
When you become a permanent resident of Australia, you become eligible for Medicare, which is free for everyone. This free healthcare ensures you always have coverage. Of course, you can also purchase private health insurance to skip wait times and enjoy other benefits.
-
Smoking in Australia is an Expensive Habit
If you’re planning a move to Australia, you may want to consider kicking your smoking habit before you go. The Australian government has instituted one of the highest tobacco duties in the world. A pack of cigarettes can cost you anywhere from $20-$40 in the Outback. Yikes!
While this article isn’t all-encompassing, it should give you a better understanding of the Aussie way of life. To ensure you’re fully prepared for your move to this exciting country, do as much research as you can before you move.
