Moving from Melbourne to London represents a significant life change that requires careful planning and organization.
Pre-Move Planning
The first step is securing the right visa – most Australians qualify for either the Youth Mobility Scheme (if under 30) or need to obtain a work visa through sponsorship.
- Apply for visas at least 3 months before intended departure
- Gather required documents (passport, birth certificate, bank statements)
- Book medical examinations if required for visa application
- Research UK National Insurance Number application process
Housing in London
London’s rental market moves quickly, so temporary accommodation for the first few weeks is recommended.
- Popular areas for Australians: Clapham, Shepherd’s Bush, Earl’s Court
- Expected rental costs: £800-£1500+ per month for a room in a shared house
- Letting agents typically require: passport, visa, bank statements, employment contract
Banking & Finance
Setting up a UK bank account should be a priority upon arrival.
- Digital banks like Monzo and Revolut offer quick setup
- Traditional banks (Barclays, HSBC) require proof of address
- Transfer money using services like Wise or OFX for better exchange rates
Healthcare
Register with the NHS (National Health Service) as soon as possible after arrival.
- Find local GP surgeries at NHS website
- Get travel insurance covering the gap before NHS registration
- Bring prescription records and medical history
Shipping & Storage
Choose between air freight (2-3 weeks) or sea freight (8-12 weeks) for belongings.
| Service Type | Cost (20ft container) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | $5000-8000 | 2-3 weeks |
| Sea Freight | $2000-4000 | 8-12 weeks |
Transport
Get an Oyster card or contactless bank card for public transport in London.
- Underground (Tube) operates across 9 zones
- Monthly travel cards cost £140-£400 depending on zones
- Buses are cheaper at £1.65 per journey
Employment
Start job hunting before arrival through LinkedIn and recruitment agencies specializing in your industry.
- Update CV to UK format (no photos, personal details)
- Research average salaries on Glassdoor
- Join Australian expat networks for job opportunities
Practical Tips
- Convert electronics or buy new ones (UK uses 230V)
- Get an international driver’s license if planning to drive
- Research council tax bands for different areas
- Join Facebook groups like “Aussies in London” for community support
Estimated Costs
| Expense | Approximate Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Visa Application | 300-1500 |
| Flight | 600-1200 |
| First Month’s Rent + Deposit | 2000-3500 |
| Initial Setup (furniture, etc.) | 1000-2000 |
Weather Adjustment
London’s climate differs significantly from Melbourne’s, requiring preparation for year-round variability.
- Average winter temperatures: 2-9°C
- Average summer temperatures: 18-23°C
- Frequent light rain throughout the year
- Shorter winter days (as little as 8 hours daylight)
Cultural Integration
Social Norms
- British workplace culture is generally more formal
- Pub culture is central to social life
- British humor tends toward dry wit and sarcasm
Language Differences
- Different terminology for common items
- Varied spelling conventions (organisation vs organization)
- Regional accents and dialects vary significantly
Legal Requirements
Several administrative tasks require attention within the first months:
- Register for Council Tax within 30 days of moving
- Update address with visa authorities
- Register to vote (if eligible under visa terms)
- Convert Australian driver’s license within 12 months
Conclusion
A successful move from Melbourne to London requires thorough planning across multiple areas: legal requirements, housing, healthcare, and cultural adjustment. Key priorities should include:
- Securing appropriate visas and documentation
- Establishing banking and healthcare arrangements
- Finding suitable accommodation
- Building social and professional networks
Allow 3-6 months for complete settlement, and maintain flexibility in plans and expectations during the transition period.
FAQs
- What visa do I need to move from Melbourne to London?
Most Australians need either a Work Visa (such as the Skilled Worker Visa), Youth Mobility Scheme Visa (if under 30), or Ancestry Visa (if eligible through UK grandparents) to live and work in London. - How much money should I save before moving to London?
It’s recommended to have at least £3,000-£4,000 saved up for initial expenses, including accommodation deposit (usually 6 weeks rent), first month’s rent, transport, and living costs while settling in. - What’s the best time of year to move to London?
Summer months (June-August) are ideal for moving as weather is milder, daylight hours are longer, and it’s easier to find accommodation, though prices may be higher during this peak period. - How do I transfer my Australian qualifications and certifications to the UK?
Contact UK NARIC (National Recognition Information Centre) to have your Australian qualifications assessed and recognized in the UK system. - What are the main differences in healthcare between Melbourne and London?
You’ll need to register with the NHS (National Health Service) upon arrival. Unlike Medicare, some services may require payment, and you’ll need to pay prescription charges in England. - How do I set up a UK bank account from Australia?
Many major banks offer international account opening services. You’ll need proof of UK address and employment. Some banks like HSBC and Santander offer international banking solutions specifically for expatriates. - What areas of London are popular with Australian expatriates?
Areas like Clapham, Putney, Shepherd’s Bush, and Earl’s Court have historically large Australian communities and offer good transport links to central London. - How do I ship my belongings from Melbourne to London?
Sea freight takes 6-8 weeks and is most economical. Air freight is faster (1-2 weeks) but more expensive. You’ll need to declare items at customs and may need to pay import duty on certain items. - What tax considerations do I need to be aware of when moving from Australia to the UK?
You’ll need to notify the ATO of your departure, consider tax residency status, and understand UK tax obligations. You may need to file tax returns in both countries initially. - How do I transfer my driving license from Victoria to the UK?
Australian licenses are valid for 12 months in the UK. After this period, you must exchange it for a UK license. You don’t need to retake a driving test but must apply through the DVLA.