Moving from London to Sydney represents one of the biggest lifestyle changes you can make, switching hemispheres and crossing multiple time zones.
Pre-Move Planning
Your Australian visa should be your first priority – most migrants choose either the Skilled Migration visa (subclass 189) or the Employer Sponsored visa (subclass 186).
- Apply at least 6-12 months before planned move date
- Gather required documents (passport, birth certificate, qualifications)
- Complete police checks for both UK and Australia
- Schedule medical examinations
Financial Preparations
Opening an Australian bank account before arrival makes the transition smoother – Commonwealth Bank and ANZ both offer overseas account opening services.
- Set up currency exchange through reliable services like TransferWise or OFX
- Research Australian tax requirements
- Estimate initial setup costs (typically AUD 5,000-10,000)
Housing
Sydney’s rental market moves quickly, with weekly rent averaging AUD 550-850 for a 2-bedroom apartment.
- Popular expat areas: Manly, Bondi, Coogee (beach lifestyle)
- Family-friendly suburbs: Lane Cove, Chatswood, Neutral Bay
- CBD-adjacent: Surry Hills, Paddington, Potts Point
Healthcare
Register for Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system) as soon as you arrive – visit a Medicare office with your visa and passport.
Employment
Update your CV to Australian format, removing references to UK-specific qualifications unless widely recognized.
- Main job sites: Seek.com.au, Indeed.com.au
- LinkedIn – Sydney has active professional networks
- Recruitment agencies specializing in UK transfers
Shipping & Storage
Container shipping from London to Sydney typically takes 6-8 weeks.
| Container Size | Approximate Cost (GBP) |
|---|---|
| 20ft | 2,500-3,500 |
| 40ft | 4,000-5,500 |
Timeline Checklist
- 12 months before: Start visa process
- 6 months before: Research areas, schools if needed
- 3 months before: Book shipping, flights
- 1 month before: Cancel UK services, arrange temporary accommodation
- 1 week before: Forward mail, notify important contacts
First Week in Sydney
- Get SIM card (Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone)
- Register for Medicare
- Open local bank account (if not done previously)
- Apply for Tax File Number
- Register for MyGov account
Contact the British Consulate in Sydney for additional support: +61 2 9247 7521 or visit their website.
Transportation
Sydney’s public transport system uses the Opal card for trains, buses, and ferries. Consider whether you need a car based on your location.
- Trains run frequently between suburbs and CBD
- Ferry services offer scenic commuting options
- Converting UK license to NSW license within first 3 months
Education
If moving with children, research schools well in advance as catchment areas strictly determine eligibility for public schools.
- Public schools: Free for permanent residents
- Private schools: AUD 20,000-40,000 annually
- International schools: Often follow British curriculum
Cultural Adjustment
While Australia shares many cultural similarities with the UK, expect some differences in workplace culture and social norms.
- More casual business environment
- Outdoor lifestyle emphasis
- Different public holidays and seasonal celebrations
Building Social Networks
Join expat groups and local community organizations to establish connections quickly.
- Meetup.com groups for UK expats
- Local sports clubs and fitness centers
- Professional networking events
Conclusion
Moving to Sydney requires careful planning and preparation, but offers exciting opportunities for a new lifestyle. Success depends on thorough research, proper timing, and maintaining flexibility during the transition period. While initial setup can be challenging, most UK expats report positive experiences after settling in.
Remember to:
- Start preparations early, especially visa applications
- Budget carefully for initial expenses
- Stay organized with documentation
- Maintain open communication with employers and authorities
- Connect with expat communities for support
FAQs
- What visa do I need to move from London to Sydney? Most UK citizens will need either a Skilled Worker Visa, Partner Visa, or Working Holiday Visa (for those aged 18-30). The specific visa depends on your circumstances, employment status, and intended length of stay.
- How much money should I save before moving to Sydney? It’s recommended to have at least AUD $10,000-15,000 saved, covering initial accommodation costs, bond (security deposit), basic furniture, and living expenses for 3-4 months. Sydney is one of Australia’s most expensive cities.
- What’s the process for shipping belongings from London to Sydney? You can use sea freight (8-12 weeks) or air freight (1-2 weeks). Sea freight typically costs AUD $3,000-7,000 for a 20ft container, while air freight is considerably more expensive but faster.
- How do I set up banking in Australia before arrival? Major Australian banks like Commonwealth, ANZ, and Westpac allow you to open an account up to 12 months before arrival. You’ll need to visit a branch with identification documents once in Australia to activate full banking services.
- What are the quarantine restrictions for bringing items to Australia? Australia has strict biosecurity laws. You must declare all food, plant material, and animal products. Wood furniture must be treated and certified. Many food items are prohibited, and all items must be clean and free from soil.
- How do I transfer my UK driving license to an Australian one? UK license holders can drive in NSW for their first three months after arrival. After that, you must convert to an NSW license, which requires proof of identity, residency, and current UK license. No driving test is required for UK license holders.
- What’s the process for finding rental accommodation in Sydney? Start your search on websites like Domain.com.au or Realestate.com.au. You’ll need to provide references, proof of income, and typically pay one month’s rent as bond plus one month’s rent in advance. The rental market is competitive, particularly in desirable areas.
- How do I arrange healthcare coverage in Australia? Register for Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system) once you have a permanent visa. Consider private health insurance as well, as some visas require it. There’s a reciprocal healthcare agreement between the UK and Australia.
- What’s the timeline for shipping pets from the UK to Australia? The process takes minimum 190 days and includes vaccinations, blood tests, and quarantine. Pets must spend 10 days in quarantine upon arrival in Australia. All arrangements must be made through approved pet transportation companies.
- How do I transfer my UK qualifications and professional certifications? Contact the relevant professional body in Australia for your industry. Many UK qualifications are recognized, but some professions require additional assessment or registration with Australian authorities before you can practice.