Life in Australia: what to expect and how to get started
Thinking about life in Australia? Whether you’re an Indian planning to move, a student, or someone curious about expat life, this page gives short, practical tips you can use right away. I’ll cover money, work, housing, healthcare and everyday tips that matter from day one.
Money & Work
Expect higher wages but also higher living costs. Average full-time pay is decent compared to many countries, but rent in big cities can take a big chunk. As a rough guide, a one-bedroom city-centre flat often costs between A$1,500–2,800 per month depending on the city. Groceries for one person usually run A$300–600 monthly.
Look for jobs in healthcare, IT, construction, hospitality and aged care—these sectors hire frequently. If you want to work, apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) as soon as you arrive; employers need it. Permanent residents and citizens access better job options, so check skilled visas (subclass 189/190) if your occupation is on the skilled list.
Visas, Healthcare and Basics
Visas matter. Popular paths include student visas (if you’re studying), skilled migration, temporary work visas and partner visas. Each visa has its own rules on work rights and length of stay—read the conditions carefully before committing.
Healthcare: Australia has Medicare for citizens and permanent residents. If you’re on a temporary visa, you’ll likely need private health insurance or Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) if you’re a student. Even with Medicare, many people get private cover for faster specialist access.
Open a bank account early—many banks let you set one up online before arrival. Get a local SIM and register for a TFN and Medicare (if eligible). Public transport is good in most cities; consider a weekly or monthly travel pass to save money. For short trips between cities, budget airlines and long-distance coaches are options.
Housing tips: Use local platforms and community groups to find rentals. Inspect the property in person if you can. Expect a bond (security deposit) equal to 4 weeks’ rent in most states, and read the lease carefully about utilities and maintenance.
Everyday life: Australia is multicultural and laid-back. English is the main language used at work and in services, so good English helps. Social life often centers around cafes, sports, beaches and community events. Weather varies a lot—Sunshine Coast and Perth are much sunnier than Melbourne or Tasmania.
Safety and rules: Follow local road rules, respect wildlife, and be ready for strict quarantine rules on food and plants at airports. Recycling and waste rules are taken seriously—learn your local pickup days. If you face any official issues, state migration and local community centres can help.
Final quick wins: prepare documents (degree certificates, police checks, reference letters), budget for initial costs (first month’s rent, bond, phone, transport), and join local Facebook groups for tips and flatmate leads. Small prep makes the move smoother and helps you enjoy life in Australia faster.
How is the life of Indian immigrant in Australia?
In my exploration of the life of an Indian immigrant in Australia, I've found that it is a mix of opportunities and challenges. Generally, they enjoy a high standard of living, excellent education, and promising job prospects. However, they also face cultural differences and sometimes, racial discrimination. It's heartwarming to see many Indians creating their own communities, celebrating their festivals and traditions, which helps them feel more at home. So, while the path of immigration is not always smooth, the rewards often outweigh the difficulties.
