Many people say that Australia today is like the U.S. 50 years ago: full of enthusiasm and opportunity. With stunning nature, cultural backgrounds and big-city draws in places like Sydney and Melbourne, Australia has been attracting Americans for decades. If you want a fresh start in the sun, moving Down Under can provide it.
Despite the many similarities between American and Aussie culture, there are still a number of noteworthy differences. Like all countries in the southern hemisphere, Australia’s seasons are opposite to those in the U.S. December to February is summer; June to August is winter. Aussies also drive on the opposite side of the road.
Before you wave goodbye to the United States, you should take some time to explore the differences between the countries and understand the challenges that come with international moves.
In this guide, we’ll touch on everything you need to know before you consider moving to Australia from the US. Let’s dive in:
How to Move to Australia from the US
International relocations can be tricky. From navigating customs to sourcing shipment containers to relocating your belongings, there's a ton you need to consider to achieve a hassle-free move to Australia. Here are some moving tips to help you get started:
- Plan Ahead: You'll need at least three to six months to plan an international relocation from the US to Australia successfully.
- Review the Import/Export Laws: There are items you can and cannot bring into Australia. Reviewing the import/export laws will ensure you don't accidentally pack anything that might get your items stuck in customs. Some items you’ll want to avoid bringing include Firearms and ammunition, non-medicinal drugs, wildlife, plants, domestic animals and animal products, food items and vaccines.
- Complete the Paperwork: Before the move, you may need to complete some administrative work. Start in advance to ensure it's done on time and correctly. Some paperwork you’ll need to enter the country includes a valid passport or other acceptable travel document, a valid visa, and a completed and signed Incoming Passenger Card.
- Downsize: If you're planning a permanent relocation, the last thing you want to do is bring all your items with you on the journey. Instead, you'll want to plan to throw away, donate and recycle items you no longer use.
- Hire an International Moving Company: Working with international movers will help you plan your move. Movers can also help you source moving supplies, custom crates and more.
Need help planning? Review our international moving guides and resources for more information on international relocations from the US to Australia.
Benefits of Moving from the US to Australia
From the work-life balance to the cultural diversity, there are many advantages of moving to Australia from the US. To ensure this country is a right fit for you, here’s what you and your family can look forward to:
Pleasant Year-Round Weather
Australia experiences temperate weather for most of the year, but due to its size, the climate varies. The northern states usually experience warm weather much of the time, while the southern states are a bit cooler. The continent as a whole is considered one of the driest on Earth, with an average annual rainfall of less than 24 inches.
Great Education Systems
Like the U.S., children must maintain their schooling until age 16. There are a variety of schools to choose from, such as government-run schools, faith-based institutions and houses of learning based on philosophies. Australia has some of the best school systems in the world, with small class sizes, a 30-student maximum and advanced learning facilities.
Fun Activities
From the Great Barrier Reef to the Sydney Opera House to the wineries, Australia is a world-class hotspot of nature and culture. In the most populated city, Sydney, you’ll find the Sydney Opera House, one of the most iconic buildings in the country, located near the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Make your way to Canberra’s museums and galleries for the most impressive collection of educational and cultural showpieces in the country.
National Parks and Outdoor Attractions
Nature lovers flock to the array of national parks, including Kakadu, Great Sandy and Uluru-Kata Tjuta, which pack a mixture of indigenous flora and fauna along with ancient Aboriginal culture. You can find the largest monolith rock in the world, Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, in the Northern Territory. Thousands of miles north lies Cairns, the main entry point for the Great Barrier Reef, which is famously the longest coral reef in the world. Meanwhile, the Great Ocean Road provides a scenic coastal drive along the southern tip of the country.
Best Cities to Live in Australia
Before moving from the US to Australia, you'll want to take some time to look into the different cities, neighborhoods and suburbs in the country. There are a ton of great places to live, and some are more affordable than others. Some of the top destinations for Americans include:
- Sydney: A vibrant city known for its beaches, tourist attractions and culturally diverse neighborhoods. Sydney is a great option because of its growing job market, pleasant year-round weather and excellent education opportunities for all ages.
- Melbourne: Melbourne is considered one of the most livable cities in Australia. It's a great place for working professionals, young families and retirees. You can look forward to walkable neighborhoods, higher education opportunities and public transportation.
- Brisbane: Turn a popular tourist destination into your next home with a move to Brisbane. This third-most populous city in Australia is known for great weather, pristine beaches and a relatively low cost of living.
- Perth: Perth is an affordable and popular spot for expats. The city is known for its vibrant art scene, growing job market and beautiful beaches.
- Townsville City: Did you know Townsville, Queenstown, sees over 300 days of sunshine a year? This city is a great place to consider moving to, especially if you love spending time outdoors hiking, jogging or walking.
Cost of Moving from the US to Australia
The cost of an international move from the US to Australia will vary depending on where you’re moving to and from. Some costs you'll need to consider if you're working with a budget:
- Travel costs (Flights, hotels, and car rentals)
- Custom and import duties
- Freight costs
- International or local storage costs
- VISA and administrative fees
- Hiring international movers
- Moving supplies and specialty boxes
At North American Van Lines, we have created comprehensive guides and resources you can use to help you plan your international move. We also have PDF downloads of custom guides and an international moving timeline you can use to stay on track.
How to Save on Your International Move
Thankfully, there are ways you can save on your move from Australia to the US. To help you cut costs and save, you'll want to:
- Budget Accordingly: A budget will help you stay on track during the duration of your move.
- Start Early: When planning early, you can lock in better rates for flights, hotels or car rentals. The cost of hiring moves may also be lower.
- Compare Quotes: If you decide to work with an international moving company, you'll want to gather quotes from at least 2-3 companies. Compare the services, coverage and overall cost to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
- Downsize: Downsizing before you move can help you save on freight costs. It can also help you save on moving supplies and boxes.
Request a Quote From North American Van Lines
We've been helping individuals move from the US to Australia for over 90 years. We're here to help you pack and load your belongings effectively. If you’re planning on moving temporarily, we also have storage units for rent in major cities throughout the United States.
Ready to start planning your move? Request a quote online, and we'll create a custom moving plan that meets your international relocation needs. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote!