Is it a Big Deal to Move from the United States to Australia

Immigration News

We live in an age where the world feels much smaller than it did a hundred years ago. Cheap travel, social media, YouTube, and being able to stream your favourite T.V. shows from around the world means we can celebrate different cultures and customs no matter where we live. But if you've ever moved to another country, you'll know that although you think you know what to expect once you arrive, there will still be plenty of surprises.

On the Quora website, the question was asked, 'What is it like moving from the U.S. to Australia?' Quora user Eric Hahn said, "I've been here for 21 years. It's quite easy, but (America and Australia are) definitely not the same, even though it looks that way on the surface." He joked, "And, NO, there are no kangaroos hopping down the streets of Sydney. Forgetting that you ever watched Crocodile Dundee is a good idea. Unless you make an effort, you may never see the outback."

Patrick McDonald wrote of his experience after moving to Australia from the States, "I've lived here in the Sydney area for more than 49 years now, and my son and grandchildren were born here. I've made 25 trips back to the U.S. over the years but have never regretted my move to Australia."

Many users on Quora were keen to point out the differences that stood out most for them. For example, when it comes to food, Henry R. Greenfield pointed out that there is the "same food only generally better quality and less corporatized. Anything you want, any ethnic food, Italian, Greek, Thai, Chinese, Indian, you name it, Australia has it in every major city and most minor ones too."

What are the main things that people from the U.S. notice when they move to Australia?

Many lists include:

Drivingon the left-hand side of the road - This takes some time to adjust to, even things like crossing the street you have to be extra careful until looking to your right becomes natural.
Medicare- Australia has a universal healthcare system. So, if you're unfortunate enough to be admitted to hospital, you at least know that your hospital bill is unlikely to make you bankrupt.
Minimum Wage- The minimum wage in Australia is decent ($21.38 AUD as of 1^st July 2022), so we don't need to tip anyone. Ye-hah! The price on the taxi meter or the restaurant menu is the price you pay.
Guns- We have a lot less of these in Australia, and you need to be registered to own one, and you have to keep it in an approved gun cabinet when not in use.

Some users pointed out the things they missed, such as a cheap cup of coffee or owning a gun, plus missing friends and family, but luckily, we live in the age of Facetime and Skype, which eases the homesickness.

One Quora user beautifully answered the question, what is Australia like to live in for Americans? He wrote, "It's simply magical! I have never been anywhere like it! The people are Uber-friendly, love to help you, and give you friendly advice. It's just so different. Australians like you and want to know you … the word or term Mate means something!!"

Need help taking the first step in moving from the United States of America to Australia or require some assistance with an Australian visa? Talk to the immigration experts at No Borders Migration Lawyers.