Relocating is always a big step – but if you are moving overseas to somewhere like Perth or Brisbane, it’s important that you plan ahead to make the process easier. Leaving things until the last minute will only cause unnecessary stress and make the experience less enjoyable.
We’ve put together a checklist below that should hopefully help you with the process.
Find the Perfect Accommodation for you
Australia has lots of accommodation opportunities that are available for people moving to the country to choose from. There are lots of new apartments in Perth that are perfect for young professionals and young families wanting to move to the area. Make sure you arrange your move with a reputable company and do your research on the surrounding areas including transport links, and local amenities.
Get Your Documents Ready
It’s important that you get all of your documents ready for your move to Australia. They will be required when you are undertaking any legal activities in the country. Important things that you will need to remember include:
- Your birth certificate and passport
- Any adoption documents
- A marriage or divorce certificates
- Any medical records
- Academic records
- Insurance papers, whether this be for car or travel
- Your drivers license
- Financial records and proof of income
Get Your Personal Items Sorted
If you are a resident for over 12 months in Australia – you can transport your personal affects without any tax implications. What’s important for you to take into account is whether or not it’s more cost-effective for you to take these items – or to simply purchase new things when you get to Australia. Some things could have import duty or goods and services applied such as cars, machinery, boats etc. Look this up in advance so you don’t get a nasty shock.
Make Sure Your Money is Transferred
The last thing you want to worry about when you have first moved is not being able to access cash. In order to save money, it’s good practice to make sure all of your bank accounts in your current home town are closed to avoid incurring unnecessary fees. You should open your Australian bank account well in advance. You can do this online and will literally only take you a few minutes. SWIFT will allow you to make international money transfers, and it’s also good practice to have some Australian cash at the ready just in case. If you have any international credit cards, these can be taken with you.
Organise your Medical Information
This is incredibly important, especially if you are bringing children with you. You will need these to give to your new medical professionals so they have full knowledge of your medical history. You will need your standard medical records including X-Rays, dental records, any immunization records you have for your kids, any medical records from opticians, and prescription information.
Getting your Items Shipped
It can take a lot of work to organise, pack and ship all of your life to another country. To make this as easy as possible for you, make sure that you only take things that you really want. This will save you both time and money. You will of course want to take things that have some sentimental value to you, as well as things that would be more expensive for you to buy brand-new such as TV’s or expensive appliances.
Do your research though, as not all of your electronics will work in the same way in Australia. If you are hiring someone to pack your items make sure that they provide you with a list, or if you are doing this yourself – create your own list so you are prepared. It also might be a good idea to see if they offer an unpacking service for when you arrive at Australia to relieve any further stress. To be on the safe side, it’s also important that you have the contact details for the company who is responsible for shipping your items – and to have the relevant insurance. If there are things that you don’t want to take straight away but simply can’t bear to let go of – then look at cost-effective storage options in your home-town.
Now you have your checklist ready – you are all set for your big move to Australia. Moving overseas is a big decision, so there is lots to prepare. Make the journey as easy as possible on yourself and ensure that you have every angle covered.
