Australia is more than just sun, surf, and kangaroos. It's a land of diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and a lifestyle that's hard to beat. If you're considering a move down under, here are twelve compelling reasons to make Australia your new home.
Love endless summer? Head to Queensland. Prefer cosy winters and four proper seasons? Hello, Melbourne. Dry, desert vibes more your thing? The Outback’s got you covered.
Australia’s size means there’s a climate for just about everyone. Prefer warm, beachy days year-round? Head north. Keen on crisp winters and cosy jumpers? The south’s got you sorted. You even have snow in some parts of the country through winter. Wherever you land, you’ll find a weather pattern that suits your style.
Aussies are famously laid-back, and the lifestyle reflects that. Think BBQs in the park, beach walks after work, and a strong love for long weekends.
Work-life balance is a real thing here. People value their time off, and there’s no shame in heading to the beach on a weekday afternoon if your schedule allows. It’s all about living well, not just working hard.
From the Great Barrier Reef to the dusty red heart of Uluru, lush rainforests to white-sand beaches, Australia is outrageously good-looking.
Whether you’re into hiking, diving, skiing, or simply watching the sunset over the ocean with a cold drink in hand - there’s no shortage of places to explore.
If you’re moving with a family - or thinking about it - Australia’s got plenty going for it. There’s a big focus on the outdoors, so kids grow up riding bikes, climbing trees, and spending weekends at the beach or the local footy oval.
The lifestyle is relaxed, the neighbourhoods are generally safe, and there’s a real sense of community in many suburbs. It’s the kind of place where barefoot school runs and backyard cricket are totally normal - and honestly, that’s part of the charm.
One of the best things about Australia is that it’s proudly multicultural. While English is the main language, you’ll hear dozens of others spoken in everyday life - from Mandarin and Arabic to Italian, Hindi, Greek, Vietnamese and beyond.
From the traditional custodians of the land to people from all over the world who've have made Australia home, creating a rich mix of communities, traditions, festivals and stories. Whether you’re looking to connect with your own cultural roots or explore something new, there’s space for everyone here - and plenty of opportunities to belong.
Australia isn’t shy about showing off - its cities and natural wonders are some of the most famous (and photogenic) in the world. Whether you’re into architecture, beaches, or natural landmarks, there’s something that’ll stop you in your tracks.
Let’s take a quick lap of the highlights:
It’s the classic postcard shot: the Sydney Opera House sitting proudly on the harbour, with the Harbour Bridge right next door. Add in Bondi Beach, ferry rides to Manly, and coastal walks with ocean views, and you’ve got a city that somehow manages to be both buzzing and beachy.
Artsy, edgy, and a little bit moody (in a good way), Melbourne is known for its hidden laneways, bold street art, and top-tier coffee culture. It’s also the sporting capital of Australia - home to the Australian Open, the Melbourne Cup, and AFL grand finals that basically shut down the city.
Laid-back but lively, Brisbane sits on a river that winds through parks, city skylines, and breezy walkways. With year-round sunshine, rooftop bars, and easy access to the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, it’s the kind of place where you might “pop out for a swim” on your lunch break.
Over on the west coast, Perth is all about space, sunshine, and a slower pace. You’ve got beaches that are barely touched, Swan Valley wineries, and day trips to Rottnest Island to snap a selfie with a quokka (yes, that’s a thing).
Often underrated, Adelaide is full of charm. It’s packed with festivals (hello, Fringe), galleries, and live music - and it’s the gateway to the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale wine regions. Affordable housing, low traffic, and a strong sense of community make it a pretty great place to call home.
Australia’s capital often gets overlooked, but it’s full of surprises. Yes, it’s where all the politics happen - but it’s also got brilliant museums, loads of green space, and a growing foodie and coffee scene. Plus, it’s one of the best places in the country to see the stars thanks to super low light pollution.
You’ve got:
Australia is home to some of the best universities and schools in the world, with qualifications that are recognised globally. Whether you're moving with school-aged kids, planning to study yourself, or thinking ahead for future opportunities, the education system here offers loads of options - from public and private schools to TAFEs and universities ranked in the world’s top 100.
Australia’s healthcare system is one of the best around. The public system (Medicare) covers most essential services, and if you want extra cover, private health insurance is widely available too. Hospitals and clinics are modern, professional and well-equipped, and you can usually get in to see a GP without much hassle.
It’s a system that means less stress when someone in the family gets sick, and more peace of mind overall.
Compared to many countries (especially in Europe or parts of Asia) homes in Australia tend to be big. Backyards, garages, open-plan living... it’s all part of the package.
Even in cities, you can usually find a home with a decent amount of space, and if you head to regional areas - the sky’s the limit.
Australia’s food scene is seriously underrated. Thanks to its multicultural roots and love of fresh produce, you’ll find everything from weekend farmers markets and trendy food trucks to top-tier restaurants and good old-fashioned fish and chips by the beach. Whether you're into fine dining or bakery pies, you won’t go hungry here. And yes - Vegemite is definitely an acquired taste.
Sports in Australia is more than just a hobby - it’s a way of life. It’s the common thread that ties communities together, whether you're watching a footy game with mates at the pub, playing backyard cricket on a lazy Sunday afternoon, or cheering on your local team at the stadium.
Sport brings people from all walks of life together. It’s a universal icebreaker, whether you're new to the country or catching up with old friends.
Local parks and sports clubs are always buzzing with people of all ages and abilities, whether it's a casual game of soccer, a kids' footy match, or a family heading out to support their team
From crocs and snakes to the legendary Steve Irwin, Aussie animals have a reputation for being a bit wild.
But don’t worry - it’s not all about the scary stuff. Australia is home to some seriously lovable creatures too. Picture spotting a koala nestled in a tree or seeing a wombat waddling across the bush. There’s also the iconic kangaroo, the ever-curious quokka, and the playful platypus.
And let’s not forget about the birds. The skies are full of colourful parrots, cockatoos, and magpies, each with their own character. If you head into the water, you’ll find dolphins, sea turtles, and a rainbow of fish swimming in the Great Barrier Reef.
So, while Australia does have its share of “wild” creatures, it’s also a place where you can experience some of the most unique and surprising wildlife on the planet.
Now that you’re sold on all the amazing reasons to move to Australia, you might be wondering where the best (and most affordable) places are to put down roots. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant culture of Sydney or the laid-back lifestyle of Perth, Australia has a place for everyone - no matter what kind of lifestyle you’re after.
Let’s dive into the best places to live in Australia, whether you’re seeking bustling city life, a slower pace in the country, or somewhere in between.
Australia offers a variety of places to suit every lifestyle. Here’s a quick guide based on what you’re looking for:
Melbourne is famous for its cultural scene, from laneway cafés to street art, with a climate that keeps you on your toes - expect four seasons in one day.
With stunning beaches and world-famous landmarks like the Opera House, Sydney is perfect for career-driven people who want a city with a laid-back vibe.
Brisbane offers year-round sunshine and a relaxed pace, along with a lower cost of living compared to Sydney.
Perth is a coastal city with great weather, outdoor activities, and a slower pace of life, ideal for those who love nature and peace.
Known for its arts and festivals, Adelaide is a great spot for foodies and wine lovers, with more affordable housing than other major cities.
This small city offers a cool climate, stunning natural beauty, and a growing arts scene, perfect for those who love a creative atmosphere.
As the nation’s capital, Canberra has a laid-back vibe with great schools, parks, and a family-friendly lifestyle.
For those who love the tropics and outdoor adventures, Darwin offers year-round warm weather and proximity to some of Australia’s most stunning natural wonders.
So, whether you're drawn to beaches, city life, or the great outdoors, Australia has something for everyone. With a laid-back vibe, diverse culture, and endless adventure, it’s no wonder so many people are choosing to call it home.
And when you're ready to make that move to Australia, Upmove is here to help. With a network of trusted, local removalists across the country, your relocation is easy and affordable - leaving you free to soak up your new life down under.
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Upmove acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
