Living in Australia: the ultimate expat guide

Before arriving in Australia, you’ll need a valid visa. The Department of Home Affairs manages all applications, which are submitted online. Preparation is key: have your personal documents ready, apply online where possible, and follow official guidance to navigate the process smoothly.

Australia has a range of visas for people visiting or moving to the country, including:

1. Tourist and visitor visas
2. Working holiday visas for young travelers
3. Student visas
4. Skilled worker visas
5. Partner and parent visas
6. Humanitarian visas for those seeking protection

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Australia’s job market remains strong, with particular demand for skilled workers in:

1. Health care and aged care
2. Engineering and construction
3. IT and digital services
4. Mining, energy, and skilled trades

Australia has a vibrant and growing startup ecosystem, attracting entrepreneurs and investors across a range of industries and creating opportunities for innovation-driven businesses. Starting a business in Australia is relatively straightforward, and entrepreneurial expats benefit from:

1. A dynamic economy
2. Transparent procedures and processes
3. A business-friendly environment
4. Access to the Asia-Pacific market

Key employment figures

Data correct as of October 2025

Sources: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Fair Work Ombudsman

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Australia is one of the world’s top destinations for international students. Universities in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane regularly appear in global rankings, and a degree from an Australian university can provide access to strong career pathways, both locally and internationally.

Top universities in Australia include:

1. Australian National University (ANU) – Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
2. University of Melbourne – Melbourne, Victoria
3. University of Sydney – Sydney, New South Wales
4. University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) – Sydney, New South Wales
5. University of Queensland (UQ) – Brisbane, Queensland
6. Monash University – Melbourne, Victoria
7. University of Western Australia (UWA) – Perth, Western Australia

International students require a student visa to be able to study in the country, and Australia’s international student population is comprised of students from a range of countries, including:

1. China
2. India
3. Nepal
4. Vietnam
5. Philippines
6. Colombia
7. Bangladesh
8. Indonesia

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Opening a bank account in Australia is an essential first step for expats and can be done before arrival or once you’re in the country. Major banks like ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, NAB, and Westpac offer simple online applications that require identification and, eventually, an Australian address and Tax File Number. With convenient ATMs and online banking, managing money in Australia is straightforward.

And if you’re an expat working in Australia, it’s essential to understand the tax system. Australia has a progressive income tax system, so higher earnings are taxed at higher rates. Most people file their tax returns between July and October each year. And if you work in Australia, you’ll need a Tax File Number (TFN), and all income earned in the country must be declared. Depending on your visa and length of stay, you may be treated as a resident or non-resident for tax purposes, which affects how much tax you pay.

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Australia’s public health care system, Medicare, covers most basic medical services. However, not all expatriates are eligible, and access depends on your visa type and nationality. In such cases, private health insurance is required and is strongly recommended even for those eligible for Medicare, as it provides faster access to specialists and additional services. Preventive care, including vaccinations and screenings, is widely available and actively promoted by health authorities.

In Australia, emergency care in public hospitals can be fast, but non-urgent treatments and elective surgeries can involve long wait times. Private hospitals usually offer quicker access, especially for those with private health insurance, but Australia’s health system is under significant strain. Many Australians use a mix of public and private care to avoid delays.

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Australia offers high-quality education that’s accessible to expat children, making it relatively easy for families to settle in. Children of Australian citizens and permanent residents can attend public schools for free, though extra costs like uniforms, books, and excursions usually apply. Expat children on temporary or international visas must generally pay school fees, whether in public or private schools; however, rules and fees vary from state to state or territory.

For families preferring alternatives, there are also private, Catholic, and international schools, some offering curricula in languages besides English. International schools are popular with expats in Australia and are usually concentrated in the major cities.

Curriculum options: Many schools offer the IB program from primary through to secondary education, while others provide additional curricula to suit different educational backgrounds.

Language support: Many international schools provide English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for non-native speakers.

Facilities: International schools often feature modern classrooms, sports facilities, arts programs, and extracurricular activities, supporting a well-rounded education.

Fees: tuition can be high, reflecting private school costs, but they are designed to meet the needs of global families.

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Renting in Australia comes with a few key things to know: most rentals are unfurnished, so you’ll usually need to provide your own furniture, lease agreements typically run for six to 12 months, with options to renew, and rental costs vary widely depending on the city and proximity to the CBD.

Types of rental housing in Australia

1. Apartments/units: common in cities; range from studios to multi-bedroom units.
2. Houses/detached homes: popular in suburban areas; offer more space and gardens, ideal for families.
3. Townhouses/duplexes: a middle-ground option with more space than an apartment but less maintenance than a whole house.
4. Shared accommodation/flat shares: renting a room in a house or apartment with others; good for singles or students.
5. Serviced apartments: fully furnished, utilities included, often with cleaning services; ideal for short-term or corporate stays.
6. Student housing/on-campus residences: managed by universities or private providers, tailored for international students.

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Australia enforces strict customs and biosecurity rules, so understanding what you can and cannot bring is the first step in planning your move. Certain foods, plants, and products made from animals or plants may be restricted or require permits. Failing to comply can result in fines or confiscation, so it’s essential to check the rules through the Australian Border Force before you pack.

Once you’ve confirmed what can enter the country, preparing your relocation carefully will make the transition smoother. Your visa type—whether for work, study, or family—determines the duration of your stay and what paperwork you’ll need. Hiring a reputable international relocation company can help manage packing, shipping, and customs procedures, while keeping a detailed inventory and arranging insurance ensures your belongings arrive safely. With proper planning, compliance, and professional support, your move to Australia can be efficient and stress-free.

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Australia offers expats a wealth of opportunities to enjoy an active and adventurous lifestyle. With its stunning coastline, expansive national parks, and diverse landscapes, there is always something to explore. From surfing on world-famous beaches to snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, water sports are a major part of Australian life. Inland, hiking trails, cycling routes, and scenic drives provide endless options for outdoor enthusiasts. Joining local sports clubs for rugby, cricket, or Australian rules footy is also a popular way to meet people and integrate into the community.

Popular leisure activities in Australia beyond outdoor adventure include:

1. Visiting museums, galleries, and cultural centers showcasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art
2. Attending live music concerts, theatre performances, and city festivals
3. Enjoying wine tasting tours and local breweries
4. Exploring food markets and sampling diverse international cuisines
5. Shopping at boutiques, markets, and large retail centers
6. Taking part in community events and multicultural celebrations

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The Australian lifestyle is relaxed, and there is a strong focus on outdoor fun, whether you’re at the beach or exploring one of the many national parks or urban green spaces. Aussie social life is informal, and expats often find integration easier than in many other countries, thanks to Australia’s cultural diversity and openness. Work culture is considered informal, yet professional, and Aussies value their work-life balance. Australia is also regarded as safe compared to other places in the world.

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The cost of living in Australia varies significantly depending on where you live. Sydney and Melbourne are the most expensive, while smaller cities and regional towns are more affordable. Housing, transport, and groceries make up the largest share of expenses.

Source: Numbeo