- Serhat Ahmed
Without experience of having lived abroad, I thought it would be hard to get to know other expats. But not with InterNations.
Planning a move to Australia? This guide breaks down what you need to know — from visas to what day-to-day life actually looks like.
If you’ve already got a job offer, the visa process is usually smooth. And if you’re a skilled worker or entrepreneur, even better — there’s plenty of demand.
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Why you'll love InterNations in Australia
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Visa types & work permit requirements
If you’re a professional expat who may be wondering how to get an Australian visa and work permit: there are several options available. The key is figuring out which visa is best suited for you and your particular situation.
Visa requirements vary depending on the type of work permit, but typically include:
- A competent level of English
- Meeting health and character requirements
- Having an eligible job or profession
If you’re a business owner or investor, you’ll also need to prove you hold sufficient funds, assets, or have a minimum net value to qualify for the prestigious Business Talent visa (subclass 132).
As of 2025, the application fee for this visa is 7,855 AUD (about 5,240 USD) for the main applicant, 3,930 AUD (about 2,620 USD) for each additional applicant aged 18 or over, and 1,960 AUD (about 1,310 USD) for each dependent under 18.
Read our complete guide on Visas & work permits in Australia.
Vaccination & health requirements
The main mandatory vaccine is for yellow fever — provided you’re arriving from a country where yellow fever is a risk. Routine vaccinations are also recommended, including measles, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and the annual flu shot.
Depending on your age, visa type, and country of origin, you may also need to meet specific health requirements and undergo medical exams.
Shipping your household goods & bringing pets
There’s a lot to prepare when moving your belongings to Australia. The country has strict rules about what you can bring duty-free — or at all.
If you’re traveling in person, your personal items must not exceed 900 AUD (around 650 USD) in total value, and they must have been owned and used for at least a year.
Different rules apply for unaccompanied personal effects that you ship by air, sea, or international mail.
If you’re planning to bring pets, requirements depend on where they’re coming from.
- Group 1: No import permit needed for pets from New Zealand, Cocos Islands, or Norfolk Island.
- Groups 2 & 3: Pets from approved rabies-free countries (Group 2) or countries where rabies is absent or well-controlled (Group 3) require an import permit.
Beyond cats and dogs, only rabbits, horses, and some species of birds from selected countries may be brought, and only under strict conditions.
For more details, check out our guide on Relocating to Australia, which goes into more depth on these requirements.
Finding a new home in Australia
Housing in Australian cities is known to be expensive, especially in major cities like Sydney. A one-bedroom apartment in the center costs around 3,350 AUD (~2,230 USD) per month.
If you’re looking for more space, a three-bedroom apartment in the same area can cost about 6,900 AUD (~4,630 USD) per month.
It’s a highly competitive market, so it’s important to understand the process before you start. One essential part of renting is the 100-point check system, a government-adopted method used by landlords and agents to verify your identity. Many will not rent to applicants who don’t meet this requirement.
Once you’ve secured a home, setting up basic utilities like gas, electricity, and water is relatively easy. Phone and internet services are also straightforward to arrange.
Read our complete guide on Housing in Australia
Connect with like-minded expatriates
Discover our welcoming community of expats! You’ll find many ways to network, socialize, and make new friends. Attend online and in-person events that bring global minds together.
Health insurance & the healthcare system in Australia
Australia has a mixed healthcare system — both public and private. The public system, Medicare, covers a wide range of services, but not everything. That’s why over half the population also chooses to get private health insurance or add-ons.
As an expat, you’re only eligible for Medicare if you’re a permanent resident, so you might have to look into private insurance instead. A small number of countries also have a reciprocal health care agreement with Australia, but the details on what is covered by Medicare for their nationals can differ.
If you’re living in a major city, accessing care is usually fast. In rural areas, you may need to travel far to reach a doctor or hospital.
To see a specialist as a public patient, you need a referral from a general practitioner (GP). Private patients can book directly.
Read our complete guide on Insurance & healthcare in Australia
The education system in Australia
If you’re moving with children, understanding how education works in Australia is key. School is compulsory from age 6 to 16. You can choose between public, private, and international schools.
- Public schools are government-funded and offer a good standard of education, though access may be limited for children of temporary visa holders.
- Private and international schools are widely available in cities but tend to have high fees.
Australia is also home to many well-regarded universities, with programs commonly taught in English.
Our complete guide on International schools & education in Australia explains the education system, costs, and enrolment steps in more detail.
Talk to other international parents with young children in Australia
Discover our welcoming community of expats! You’ll find many ways to network, socialize, and make new friends. Attend online and in-person events that bring global minds together.
See all upcoming events for expats in Australia
Our Global Partners
- Serhat Ahmed
Without experience of having lived abroad, I thought it would be hard to get to know other expats. But not with InterNations.
- Lotta Koskinen
When I first attended the Sydney Bar night I was really nervous. But everyone welcomed me and I quickly felt as part of the community.
