Moving from Brisbane to London represents a significant life change that requires careful planning and consideration of various practical aspects.
Essential Pre-Move Planning
The first step is securing the appropriate visa – most Australians moving to London will need either a Work Visa, Ancestry Visa, or Youth Mobility Scheme Visa.
- Work Visa: Requires sponsorship from a UK employer
- Ancestry Visa: Available if you have a UK-born grandparent
- Youth Mobility Scheme: For Australians aged 18-30
Housing in London
London’s rental market moves quickly, and prices vary significantly between areas.
| Area Type | Monthly Rent (1 bed flat) |
|---|---|
| Central London | £1,800-£2,500+ |
| Zone 2-3 | £1,300-£1,800 |
| Outer London | £1,000-£1,300 |
Banking and Finance
Set up a UK bank account before leaving Australia – banks like HSBC and Citibank offer international account opening services.
Digital Banking Options:
- Wise (formerly TransferWise)
- Monzo
- Revolut
Healthcare
Register with the NHS (National Health Service) once you have a permanent address in London.
Moving Your Belongings
International shipping from Brisbane to London typically takes 6-8 weeks by sea freight.
Recommended Shipping Companies:
- Crown Relocations
- Allied Pickfords
- Grace Removals
Cost Comparison
| Expense | Brisbane (AUD) | London (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Transport Pass | $155 | £150 |
| Coffee | $4.50 | £3.50 |
| Basic Utilities | $200 | £175 |
Timeline Checklist
- 6 months before: Apply for visa, research areas to live
- 3 months before: Book shipping, arrange accommodation
- 1 month before: Notify Australian authorities, arrange travel insurance
- 1 week before: Forward mail, close Australian accounts
Important Contacts
- Australian High Commission in London: +44 20 7379 4334
- NHS Registration: 0300 311 22 33
- UK Visa Information: +44 20 7123 4567
Weather Adjustment
Pack appropriate clothing for London’s cooler climate, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 25°C throughout the year.
Job Search Resources
Transportation
Public transport in London is extensive but can be expensive. Consider getting an Oyster card or using contactless payment for the best rates.
Transport Options:
- Underground (Tube)
- Buses
- Overground trains
- DLR (Docklands Light Railway)
Cultural Adjustment
British culture differs from Australian in subtle ways. Workplace etiquette, social norms, and communication styles may require adjustment.
Key Differences:
- More formal workplace culture
- Different public holidays and traditions
- Earlier closing times for shops and pubs
- British humor and social customs
Social Integration
London has a large Australian expat community, but integration with locals is important for a fulfilling experience.
Ways to Meet People:
- Meetup groups
- Sports clubs
- Professional networking events
- Community classes
Conclusion
Moving from Brisbane to London requires thorough preparation across multiple areas – from visa arrangements to cultural adaptation. Success depends on careful planning, maintaining flexibility, and establishing a support network. While challenging, the transition offers unique opportunities for personal and professional growth in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Final Tips:
- Keep important documents easily accessible
- Maintain emergency funds in both currencies
- Stay connected with family in Australia
- Be patient with the adjustment process
FAQs
- What visa do I need to move from Brisbane to London?
Australians need either a Skilled Worker visa, Youth Mobility Scheme visa (if under 30), or other relevant work visa to live in London. You’ll need to secure this before moving and meet specific eligibility criteria. - How much money should I save before moving to London?
It’s recommended to have at least £5,000-£7,000 saved, covering initial accommodation costs, deposit, first month’s rent, transportation, and living expenses while settling in. London’s cost of living is significantly higher than Brisbane’s. - How do I transfer my belongings from Brisbane to London?
You can use international shipping companies like Allied Pickfords or Crown Relocations. Sea freight takes 6-8 weeks and is cheaper, while air freight takes 1-2 weeks but is more expensive. You’ll need to declare items and comply with UK customs regulations. - Do I need to notify any Australian authorities before moving?
Yes, notify the ATO, update your address with Medicare, redirect mail via Australia Post, and inform your superannuation fund. Consider whether to maintain your Australian bank accounts and notify relevant institutions. - How do I set up banking in London?
You’ll need proof of address and visa status to open a UK bank account. Consider banks like HSBC or NatWest that offer international accounts. Digital banks like Monzo or Revolut can be easier to set up initially. - What’s the process for finding accommodation in London?
Use websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom. Most rentals require references, proof of income, and a deposit equal to 5 weeks’ rent. Consider temporary accommodation while searching for permanent housing. - How do I access healthcare in London?
Register with a local GP once you have a permanent address. The NHS is free for visa holders who’ve paid the Immigration Health Surcharge. Keep private health insurance until you’re fully set up in the UK system. - What’s the process for converting an Australian driver’s license to a UK one?
Australians can drive on their Australian license for 12 months, after which they must obtain a UK license. You can exchange your Australian license for a UK one without retaking tests if done within 5 years of becoming a resident. - How does the tax system work when moving from Australia to the UK?
You’ll need to file a final Australian tax return and register for UK tax (HMRC) upon arrival. The UK tax year runs April to April, and you may need to declare income in both countries initially, subject to tax treaties. - What’s the best way to handle utilities and communications setup in London?
Set up utilities (gas, electricity, water) through your landlord or directly with providers. For communications, major providers include BT, Sky, and Virgin Media. You’ll need proof of address and may require a UK bank account.