Expat uncovers costly living trap for new arrivals in Australia: ‘Will hold you back’
Exploring Living Costs as an Expats in Australia
Moving to Australia can be an exciting adventure, especially for international job seekers. Gabby Watson, a British woman currently living in Sydney on a Working Holiday Visa (WHV), recently shared her experiences regarding the cost of living, which can be quite different from what many might expect.
Cost of Living Myths
Gabby mentioned that many expats fall into the trap of renting in high-cost areas like Bondi Beach. The median rent in Bondi is around $1,700 per week for houses, compared to just $1,000 in more affordable suburbs like Strathfield. She found her room in a share house through Flatmates.com.au for only $250 a week, which she noted is quite reasonable, especially compared to her home back in the UK.
Finding Work on a Working Holiday Visa
While some newcomers struggle to find jobs, Gabby landed a position within a week of arrival. She targeted temporary roles that matched her background and emphasized the importance of applying in larger cities. For those on a WHV, the key is to connect with recruitment agencies and perhaps call ahead to make a good impression.
Gabby’s success illustrates that finding employment is possible, even if the current job market can be competitive. Many positions in hospitality and retail often welcome those on temporary visas, which can include roles that cater to casual staffing needs.
Visa Options for Long-Term Living
If you’re considering a longer-term stay in Australia, there are various visas to keep in mind. For skilled professionals, options like the 482 visa (Temporary Skill Shortage visa) and the 189 visa (Skilled Independent visa) allow for more permanent residency pathways. The 190 visa (Skilled Nominated visa) requires a nomination from a state or territory, while the 491 visa (Skilled Work Regional) helps those who want to live and work in regional areas.
Understanding the Job Market
The job market in Australia has been robust, with nearly 194,000 visas granted for the Working Holiday Program last year. However, those seeking long-term roles should note that employers usually prefer candidates looking for permanent positions, and working holiday visas might limit your options in that regard. It’s important to stay flexible and open to various job types while you adjust to life in Australia.
As Gabby’s experience shows, finding affordable accommodation in less touristy areas and being proactive in your job search can make a world of difference.
Have your say!
Got a question, opinion, or experience to share about working in Australia? Leave a comment below and join the conversation.
Thinking about moving to Australia? Have questions or need help?
Join our free and supportive community here at Oz Visa Forum.
Post in our forums to get advice and support from people who’ve already made the move Down Under.
Not sure where to start? Click here to get started
Responses