Moving to Australia: A Comprehensive Guide

Moving to Australia is an ambitious project that attracts thousands of people every year. Whether for work, studies, or a complete lifestyle change, the country offers plenty of advantages. However, relocating to Australia—be it Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, or Sydney—requires careful planning, precise administrative procedures, and well-managed logistics.

This guide walks you through the key steps to prepare for your move to Australia and ensure a smooth and successful relocation experience.

Why Move to Australia?

Australia is renowned for its high quality of life, pleasant climate, and dynamic job market. With a stable economy and strong growth in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and engineering, the country attracts many international professionals.

Beyond job opportunities, Australia offers an exceptional living environment with modern infrastructure, preserved natural surroundings, and an efficient healthcare system.

With its multicultural population, Australia stands out as a particularly welcoming country where expatriates can easily integrate. Its education system (schools and universities) is also globally recognized for the quality of its teaching.

How to Move to Australia?

The journey to become an expat in Australia is not something that can be done on a whim. The country enforces strict entry requirements and a rigorous immigration process. Below are the eligibility criteria and formalities to complete.

Who Can Relocate to Australia?

Welcoming many expatriates each year, Australia follows a selective immigration policy. Here are some of the main criteria to be eligible for an Australian visa:

• Holding a qualification or professional experience in an in-demand sector (such as healthcare, construction, technology, or engineering). The list of occupations in demand is regularly updated by the Australian government (Skilled Occupation List).
• Being sponsored by an Australian employer or a family member residing in the country.
• Being accepted into an Australian university to pursue studies.
• Having sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay.

Each visa type has its own specific eligibility criteria — including age limits, qualifications, and language proficiency. In some cases, a points test is required to assess the applicant’s ability to integrate economically into the country.

Certain visa categories, such as tourist visas, do not allow you to work in Australia. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right visa according to your relocation goals.

What Are the Requirements for Moving to Australia?

 Visa Options

To move to Australia, you will need a visa. Several types of visas are available depending on the expatriate’s situation. Here are the most common ones:

• Working Holiday Visa (WHV): Designed for young people aged 18 to 35 who wish to travel and work in Australia for one year, renewable under certain conditions.
• Student Visa: Allows you to study in Australia and work part-time during your studies and full-time during school holidays.
• Temporary Skilled Work Visa: Granted to qualified workers sponsored by an Australian company for a period of 2 to 4 years.
• Permanent Residency Visa: Available through the General Skilled Migration Program, this visa is granted to skilled workers who meet the points test requirements and wish to settle in Australia for an extended period.
• Business Innovation and Investment Visa: Intended for entrepreneurs and investors, this visa requires proof of capital and job creation in Australia.

Visa applications are submitted online via the Department of Home Affairs website. Processing times vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the application and the type of visa requested. It is therefore recommended to start the process well in advance of your planned departure date.

The Tax File Number (TFN)

Anyone wishing to work in Australia must also obtain a Tax File Number (TFN). This nine-digit tax identification number is issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Obtaining a TFN is a free process and takes up to 1 month.

To apply for a TFN, you will need to provide:

• Your passport
• A phone number
• A postal address in Australia (including temporary addresses)

If you are already employed before receiving your TFN, you will first be issued a temporary reference number. A formal TFN will then be allocated, which you must provide to your employer.

How to Prepare to Move to Australia?

In addition to obtaining a visa and TFN, preparing a move to Australia involves several other administrative steps. Here are the main formalities to expect:

Get an International Driving Permit

If you plan to drive in Australia, you will need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) or have your home country driving license officially translated.

The application for an IDP is free and can be completed at your local licensing authority or online, provided you submit the following documents:

• A photocopy of your ID
• Two recent passport-sized photos that meet official standards
• A photocopy of your valid driving license from your home country
• Proof of address dated within the last 3 months
• The official application form, usually available online on the government website of your home country

After three months, certain Australian states require expatriates to convert their national license into an Australian license, which may involve a theoretical and/or practical test depending on the state.

Cancel Your Current Contracts

Before moving to Australia, you will also need to cancel or transfer several services and subscriptions:

• Telephone and internet: cancel or suspend your mobile and internet subscription if you do not wish to keep an active number from the country you are leaving;
• Utilities (electricity, water, gas): Contact your service providers to close or transfer your accounts.
• Insurance (home, vehicle, health insurance, etc.): check the terms for cancellation or adjustment of your policies based on your new situation abroad.

Notify Your Local Authorities

Several steps are essential to notify authorities of your departure, including:

• Notifying the tax authorities of your change of address: moving abroad can alter your tax status. Make sure to inform your tax office and check whether you remain liable for the taxes of your previous residing country.
• Notifying social security: you will need to inform your health insurance provider and, if needed, consider international health insurance coverage.
• Registering with the consulate: although optional, joining expat programs, such as the register of French citizens living abroad if you are French, simplifies administrative procedures abroad and can allow you to vote from Australia.

Take Out an Appropriate Health Insurance Policy

The Australian healthcare system is based on Medicare, a public coverage program available only to permanent residents and citizens of certain countries with reciprocal agreements with Australia. Check whether or not you home country is not part of these agreements and take out private health insurance before moving to Australia if needed.

International health coverage allows you to cover medical consultations, hospitalizations, dental care, and other medical expenses, which can be very high in Australia. Some visas even require proof of insurance before arrival, particularly for students and temporary workers.

For more information and advice on the key steps to move abroad, we invite you to consult our dedicated guide.

How to Ship Your Belongings to Australia?

Australian Customs Formalities

Australia enforces strict regulations on the importation of goods. Any luggage shipping to Australia must be accompanied by a detailed inventory listing the contents of each box, their value, and their destination, and must be declared to the Australian Border Force. Certain items, depending on their nature and value, may be subject to the Goods and Services Tax (GST).

However, if you are moving to Australia permanently, you may be eligible for a GST exemption on your personal belongings, provided you can demonstrate that they have been in your possession for at least 12 months.

Sea or Air Transport: Which One to Choose?

To ship your personal belongings to Australia, you have two main options: sea freight and air freight. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, transit time, and logistics.

Sea Freight: Economical but Slow

Sea freight is the most common solution to move to Australia. It allows you to transport a large volume of belongings at a more cost-effective rate than air freight. However, this option requires significant planning, as transit typically takes 6 to 8 weeks, not including customs clearance and any quarantine procedures.

Costs vary depending on the volume shipped and the final destination, but for a T4-sized household, the average cost ranges between €6,000 and €10,000.

Air Freight: Faster but More Expensive

If you need to receive your belongings quickly, air freight can be an attractive alternative. However, this option is significantly more expensive and is therefore recommended only for small volumes (around ten boxes maximum).

For air transport, there are generally two options:

• Airport drop-off and collection: Less expensive but less convenient, as you will need to arrange transportation between the airport and your residence.
• Door-to-door delivery: More convenient but costlier, this option allows your belongings to be delivered directly to your new Australian address.

If your budget is limited, excess baggage on your flight can be an additional solution, though costs rise quickly beyond 5 to 10 kg. In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate additional allowance with the airline, depending on flight availability.

To sum up

Sea freight is the most suitable solution for a complete move, provided you plan ahead. Air freight is a good option for essential items or if you have an urgent need. In all cases, it is recommended to request several quotes from companies specializing in international removals in order to compare prices and services offered.

Shipping Furniture and Vehicles to Australia

When relocating to Australia, deciding which belongings to take is a crucial consideration. While some everyday items can be purchased locally, others—such as valuable furniture or a personal vehicle—require careful planning regarding cost, transportation, and compliance with Australian regulations.

What Items Should You Take to Australia?

Shipping furniture to Australia requires careful consideration based on its value and usefulness.

It is generally not recommended to bring large household appliances, as the voltage difference (240 V – 50 Hz) may damage them. Only small appliances should be brought, and it is essential to carry compatible adapters for Australian outlets (Type I) to ensure they function properly.

For furniture, it is advisable to limit the number of items transported. Their weight and volume significantly increase moving costs, particularly for sea freight. Only pieces with high sentimental or financial value are worth shipping. For other items, it is often more cost-effective to sell them before departure and purchase new furniture locally.

Finally, children’s toys and personal items are important anchors during such a life change. It is recommended to allow children to bring their favorite toys, as models available in Australia may differ.

Restricted Items

Australia enforces strict biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction of invasive species and diseases. Certain items, such as untreated wooden furniture, agricultural products, and some camping equipment, may be subject to quarantine or destruction if they do not meet health standards.

An inspection by the biosecurity authority may be required upon arrival, potentially incurring additional fees if specific treatments are needed.

Items subject to heightened controls include:

• Food products: Items containing animal products (eggs, milk, meat), fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as seeds and nuts are either prohibited or subject to thorough inspection.
• Wooden objects: Sculptures, furniture, and other untreated wooden items may require inspection to ensure they are free from insects or pests.
• Footwear: Soles containing soil must be cleaned, or they may undergo mandatory disinfection by customs or, in some cases, destruction.
• Plants and seeds: Subject to very strict restrictions and require specific permits.
• Outdoor equipment: Tents, hiking boots, bicycles, and camping or fishing gear must be thoroughly cleaned before import to avoid contamination by soil or microorganisms.
• Pets: Dogs and cats imported into Australia must undergo mandatory quarantine to prevent health risks.

Additionally, the following items are subject to restrictions, customs permits, and special procedures:

• Firearms and ammunition
• Batteries and cells
• Cultural goods
• Alcoholic beverages
• Generators
• Pornographic material
• Animal products
• Tobacco products

Prohibited Items

Here is a non-exhaustive list of items prohibited for transport or subject to hazardous materials regulations:

• Acids
  Aerosols
• Microbial and etiological agents
• Matches
• Explosive items
• Gas cylinders
• Lighters
• Counterfeit goods
• Petrol
• Mercury
• Perfumes
• Paints
• Corrosive products
• Flammable products
• Household chemicals
• Radioactive materials
• Toxic substances
• Narcotics and psychotropic drugs
• Varnishes and solvents

Before moving, make sure to check with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry regarding items that are prohibited or regulated for import.

Importing a Vehicle into Australia

Importing a vehicle into Australia is subject to strict regulations. Before arranging shipment, it is essential to obtain a Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) from the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development. Without this approval, entry of the vehicle into Australia is prohibited and may result in storage fees or even vehicle destruction at your expense.

The import process involves several administrative steps and significant costs, including:

• Customs declaration with the Australian authorities
• Payment of import duties, Goods and Services Tax (GST), and Luxury Car Tax (LCT) if applicable
• Compliance with Australian safety and emissions standards

Once in Australia, the vehicle must undergo a quarantine inspection before being registered in the state where it will be used.

Overall import costs can be very high, especially for vehicles not compliant with local standards that require technical modifications before circulation. In many cases, it may be more practical and cost-effective to purchase a vehicle locally rather than import your own.

Moving to Australia with Pets

Bringing your pet with you to Australia involves specific procedures and requirements that must be completed in advance.

Air Transport

Transporting animals to Australia is done exclusively in the cargo hold, in a pressurized and temperature-controlled section dedicated to pets. Key points to remember include:

• The animal must travel in an IATA-approved crate.
• No toys or accessories are allowed inside the crate.
• The minimum age for travel is 3 months.
• Only certain airlines are authorized to transport animals to Australia.

Since space is limited, it is essential to book transport several months in advance. To ensure a smooth journey, it is often recommended to use a specialized international pet transport company.

Mandatory Quarantine

Upon arrival in Australia, your pet must undergo mandatory quarantine at a facility located in Melbourne. This quarantine lasts 10 days, during which the animal is monitored for any potential diseases. Quarantine fees are the responsibility of the owner and vary depending on the duration and care required.

Restrictions and Banned Breeds

Not all dog and cat breeds are allowed in Australia. Prohibited breeds include, among others: Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Japanese, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Perro de Presa Canario.

Before beginning any procedures, make sure to check import conditions with the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

How to Prepare Your Pet for the Trip?

Before traveling to Australia, you must gather several documents and comply with precise health requirements:

• Pet passport issued by an accredited veterinarian
• Mandatory identification: Your pet must be microchipped (tattoos are not accepted in Australia)
• Rabies vaccination administered within 21 days prior to departure
• Rabies antibody titre dated between 6 months and 2 years before transport
• Internal parasite treatment
• Certificate of good health issued by a veterinarian shortly before departure
• Animal import permit, accompanied by a document called Veterinary Certificate for Cats (Annex A) or Veterinary Certificate for Dogs (Annex A)

Requirements vary depending on the country of origin and the species of the animal. Some pets, such as rabbits or birds, can only be imported under very strict conditions.

How Much Does It Cost to Move to Australia?

The budget for moving to Australia depends on several key factors, including:

• Volume of belongings: The more personal belongings you bring, the higher the cost.
• Distance between your origin city and destination: A move from Europe involves over 16,000 km of sea or air transport.
• Additional services: Packing, temporary storage, customs formalities, and insurance all impact the final cost.

Here is an estimated price range for sea freight in a container, based on the origin city and type of residence:

Origin City → Destination	3-Bedroom House	Apartment
Paris → Melbourne	€8,000 – €11,000	€3,500 – €5,000
Paris → Sydney	€8,000 – €10,000	€3,500 – €5,000
Bordeaux → Sydney	€8,500 – €11,000	€3,500 – €5,000
Marseille → Sydney	€8,000 – €10,500	€3,300 – €4,500

These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the service provider and chosen options (groupage, full container, packing services, etc.).

What You Should Know Before Moving to Australia

Relocating to Australia requires careful preparation. From the cost of living and finding housing to opening a bank account and handling administrative tasks, here is some useful information and tips to help ensure a smooth transition.

Cost of Living in Australia

Australia’s official currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD).

The cost of living can be relatively high, particularly in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. However, salaries are generally higher as well, which can help balance expenses.

The main costs include food, housing, and services such as internet and phone. For example, city-center rent typically ranges from AUD 1,500 to 3,000 per month, while an internet subscription usually costs between AUD 50 and 150.

Finding Accommodation in Australia

Renting a home in Australia works differently than in many other countries. Leases usually range from 6 months to 3 years, with a standard notice period of 21 days for termination. A security deposit of 4–6 weeks’ rent is commonly required.

Due to high demand in major cities, it is recommended to start your housing search early using online platforms. Shared housing (roommates) is also a popular option and can help reduce costs.

Opening a Bank Account in Australia

To open a bank account in Australia, you will need to provide documents that total 100 points of identification. This may include a passport, proof of address, a Tax File Number (TFN), and other official documents.

It is also possible to open a bank account remotely before your arrival with some of the country’s major banks, such as Westpac, ANZ, and Commonwealth Bank.

Additionally, we advise you to plan a sufficient initial budget to cover your first expenses, including housing, transportation, and food, before receiving any local income. The Australian government recommends arriving with a minimum of AUD 5,000 (approximately €3,400) to cover initial costs and ensure a smooth transition.

Challenges and Constraints to Anticipate

Going to Australia to live as an expat is more than just moving to a new country. It also involves adapting to a different environment, complying with local regulations, and navigating practical challenges.

Administrative Complexity

Australia has a complex administrative framework, particularly when it comes to immigration. There are many types of visas, each with strict eligibility criteria. Preparing your application carefully and checking processing times is essential to avoid any unexpected delays. Importing personal belongings, including vehicles or pets, can also be time-consuming and costly, so it is important to plan ahead.

Cultural Adaptation and Lifestyle Differences

Although Australia is a Western country, certain cultural differences may require an adjustment period. Factors such as the cost of living, driving on the left-hand side of the road, and occasionally extreme weather (such as intense heat or bushfires) are important to consider to prepare for your new life in Australia. In addition, the vast distances between cities mean that travel can be longer and more expensive than in many other countries.

Distance and Isolation

Moving to Australia means being more than 16,000 km away from Europe, with a time difference of up to 10 hours depending on the season. This can make staying in touch with family and friends challenging.

Isolation can also be felt in some remote areas, where infrastructure and services are limited. It is important to plan ahead, including finding ways to maintain connections with loved ones and integrating into your new community.

By anticipating these challenges and preparing in advance, your move to Australia can be smoother and more successful.