50 Reasons to Move to Australia in 2024

Australia offers a range of excellent benefits and exciting opportunities, including a warmer climate, a shared culture and language, and universal healthcare. Many people emigrate to Australia from the UK each year, often with their family or for work reasons. 

Whatever your reason for moving, you are bound to reap the benefits that come with living in Australia. 1st Move International has listed 50 of the best reasons to move to Australia in 2024.

1. High Quality of Life

Australia ranks 11th in the world for its excellent standard of living. Offering a great quality of life, Australia boasts universal healthcare, impressive climate change efforts, and a safe environment. Perth ranks highly as one of the safest cities in the world, with other Australian cities often cited as safe cities. 

The strong economy and competitive salaries also contribute to the high quality of life in Australia. The education system, a multi-cultural society, and a work-life balance all make Australia a great place to live.

2. Beautiful Beaches

Australia is renowned for its famous beaches spanning over 25,000 kilometres. From Bondi Beach to the Whitsundays, beach culture is a way of life in Australia. You’ll often find people meeting to socialise on the beach as well as children gathering after school. 

As there are over 10,000 beaches in Australia, many people live within a short walk or drive, often passing on their commutes to work. There are also plenty of beach sports and activities to try such as yoga, volleyball, jogging, and of course surfing. 

3. Mild Climate

One of the many reasons people move to Australia is to enjoy the weather. Australia offers a generally warm climate throughout the year, especially in coastal cities. 

Experience warm, humid summers and mild winters in Coastal Queensland and parts of New South Wales. Expect hot, dry, and desert-like conditions in Central and Western Australia, including the Outback, with low rainfall. Northern Queensland, Northern Territory, and parts of Western Australia also have high temperatures all year. 

If you are after seasons, then Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales, and parts of South Australia offer four distinct seasons. You can expect snowfall in the Australian Alps. 

4. Diverse Natural Landscapes

From deserts and rainforests to mountains and coral reefs, Australia’s geography is incredibly varied. You don’t have to travel far to be surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. The Daintree Rainforest in Queensland is the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth. Those living in towns in Regional Queensland, like Cairns, will have the rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef nearby. 

Deserts in Australia cover 18% of its landmass and include the Great Victoria Desert, Simpson Desert, and Tanami Desert. There’s also the Great Dividing Range which stretches from Queensland to Victoria, popular with hikers and skiers.

5. English-Speaking

One of the many reasons to move to Australia, especially for UK English-speaking citizens, is the shared language. English is the primary language in Australia, so it makes it easier to adapt and settle into an unfamiliar country. It especially helps if you are moving with young children to get them settled in a new school as it is also the language of instruction. 

As English is a widely spoken language throughout the world, it helps all cultures to feel at ease when moving to Australia.

6. World-Class Education

Another reason to move to Australia is to study at one of the world’s top universities. Australia is renowned for its education system, attracting students from worldwide destinations. 

Consistently ranking high across world rankings, The University of Melbourne, Australian National University, The University of Sydney, and The University of Queensland offer excellent educational opportunities. 

On a lower level, Australian public schools are free for primary and secondary students, including foreign permanent residents. Lessons are taught in the English language, making it easier for British expats to settle into life in a new school.

7. Friendly Locals

The friendliness of Australians is another draw for many people considering the move. Australians are known for their laid-back and welcoming nature, offering an open mind and acceptance of people of different cultures. 

They often take a casual approach to life, which can make social interactions feel more comfortable and less formal. This helps many British expats to feel part of a community, despite living in big cities.

8. Outdoor Lifestyle

Australians spend a lot of time outdoors, with outdoor living being a way of life due to the warm climate. You’ll often find people dining outdoors, having BBQs, and beach picnics. Many Australian homes are built with outdoor living areas as an extension of the interior. There is a big emphasis on having a fully equipped garden to embrace outdoor living year-round, with an outdoor dining area, barbeque, and often swimming pools.

Australians are very active, with popular outdoor activities including hiking, surfing, and cycling. Camping is also a popular activity due to the various national parks and outdoor spaces. 

9. Cultural Diversity

Australia is known for its cultural diversity, which is reflected in its population, traditions, customs, and social practices. About 30% of the population was born overseas and over 300 languages are spoken in Australia. Australia’s cultural diversity is a reason people from various cultures make the move as it offers a sense of security. 

Australia is home to the Aboriginal peoples, who are the original inhabitants of mainland Australia, and the Torres Strait Islanders, from between the northern tip of Queensland and Papua New Guinea. These cultures are very much celebrated and alive in modern Australia, as seen through language, art, and laws.

10. Stable Economy

Australia has one of the largest and most stable economies in the world, with its GDP rising by 1.5% in 2023-2024. The services sector makes up more than 70% of the country’s GDP, making it the largest contributor. This is made up of financial services, tourism, education and healthcare. 

Australia is a world leader in exporting minerals such as coal and gold, which make up a significant part of the country’s GDP. It’s also a significant employer, offering many roles and high wages for mining engineers, drillers, and labourers. 

11. Universal Healthcare

Australia’s healthcare system is ranked the 3rd best in the world, scoring 74.11 out of 100 in the 2024 CEOWORLD magazine Health Care Index. Australia’s Medicare system provides free or low-cost, high-quality healthcare to citizens, permanent residents, and some visitors. 

The universal healthcare system, Medicare, covers GP visits, hospital treatment, tests, and prescription medication for free or at a subsidised cost. It’s mainly funded through taxes such as the Medicare Levy, which sees taxpayers charged 2% of their income. There are exemptions for lower-income individuals to ensure access to free healthcare.

12. Clean Environment

Australia is known for its clean environment, which focuses on sustainability, environmental responsibility, and urban cleanliness. Sydney and Melbourne rank among the top 30 cleanest cities in the world, and cities like Melbourne and Adelaide are working towards zero-waste strategies. 

Australian cities have strict air quality regulations aiming to reduce pollution. There is also a supply of high-quality drinking water to ensure clean water for residents. In particular, Brisbane’s focus on water conservation and green living helps make it a clean city to live in.

13. Low Crime Rates

Crime rates are low in Australia compared to other countries, with strong law enforcement, a high standard of living, and effective social systems helping to contribute to overall safety. 

Australia is consistently ranked highly as a safe place to live and travel, with a recent study ranking it 2nd in the world. Many Australian cities also do well in global rankings, with Sydney coming in as the 5th safest city to live in and Melbourne 10th.

14. Work-Life Balance

Australians are known to have a healthy work-life balance which is supported by government policies, workplace practices, and societal attitudes. Although they share a similar working day and week to the UK, their warmer climate and outdoor living culture means they prioritise a healthy balance of both professional and personal responsibilities.

The option to work from home, flexible working hours, part-time, and casual work are becoming increasingly popular, giving many people the opportunity to have a work-life balance. 

15. Spectacular Wildlife

Australia is home to unique wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else. The country’s isolation and vast range of ecosystems such as rainforests and deserts mean you can find a range of wildlife in Australia. This includes kangaroos, koalas, platypus, wombats, Tasmanian Devil, exotic reptiles and vibrant bird species, to name a few.

Different regions will be home to specific animals, for example, kangaroos are found in the outback, grasslands, and open woodlands. 

16. Food Scene

Australia’s food scene offers a diverse and dynamic array of international cuisines, from a cultural blend of indigenous ingredients, British colonial influences, and many European, Asian, and Mediterranean influences. Examples of modern influences include spicy kangaroo burgers, sushi with native Australian ingredients, and lamb with wattleseed.

There is an emphasis on the use of fresh and local produce in a sustainable way. Iconic Australian meals and snacks include meat pie, pavlova, Vegemite, TimTams, and lamingtons. 

17. Iconic Landmarks

Another reason to move to Australia is for its many famous landmarks. These are known worldwide, including the Sydney Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach. Many of these are considered bucket list landmarks, so living in Australia will give you plenty of unique places to visit with your friends and family.

18. Progressive Values

Australia is known for its progressive values that focus on supporting equality, social justice, and sustainability values throughout the country. Its immigration policies make for a welcoming multicultural society. There are strong Indigenous, LGBTQ+, and gender equality rights in place. The healthcare and education systems emphasise equity and inclusion to ensure every resident and citizen has access to both.

19. Excellent Public Transport

Public transport is extensive and widely used in the bigger cities, including buses, trains, trams, and ferries. Australia’s rail network and airports are advanced, and busy airports include Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, Melbourne Airport, and Brisbane Airport. 

It is also home to the Sydney Metro, Australia’s first fully automated rapid transit system that helps connect the city. In Melbourne, you can find the world’s largest tram network offering excellent coverage and accessibility. You will need a Myki card to board all trams in Melbourne and generally all cities will use smart ticketing.

Driving in Australia is also common and sometimes preferred due to long stretches of road. Just be prepared when on long journeys and keep an eye out for any wildlife on the roads.

20. Thriving Art Scene

Australia has a rich artistic heritage and hosts numerous galleries and cultural events. Indigenous Australian art is still produced and celebrated in Australia as one of the oldest art forms in the world. This art is celebrated in national and international galleries, such as the National Gallery of Australia and the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

Modern art is also celebrated with famous Australian artists including Tracey Moffatt, Patricia Piccinini, and Brett Whiteley. To support smaller galleries, you can visit ACCA in Melbourne or Carriageworks in Sydney.

21. Festivals and Events

Australia hosts multiple events throughout the year, from Mardi Gras to music festivals, you will find something you can enjoy. These events celebrate Australia’s cultural heritage, arts, sports, and natural beauty. Some arts and cultural festivals include the Sydney Festival, Adelaide Festival, Melbourne International Arts Festival, and Dark Mofo. Much loved music festivals include Splendour in the Grass, Falls Festival, Tamworth Country Music Festival, and Laneway Festival.

22. Coffee Culture

Coffee culture is thriving in Australia and is taken very seriously. Home to some of the best cafes in the world, Australia can be thanked for revolutionising the global coffee scene through its focus on high-quality beans, expert baristas, and a community-driven café culture. The flat white is the signature coffee drink in Australia, with long black, piccolo latte and magic (double ristretto topped with steamed milk) being other favourites. You will find mainly independent cafes and coffee shops over chains, where people gather to socialise and work.

23. Growing Tech Industry

Another reason to move to Australia is its ever-expanding tech scene, providing excellent job opportunities. The Australian tech industry is rapidly growing, seeing more and more global tech firms and start-ups arrive. This includes expansion across areas such as fintech, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, renewable energy tech, and agritech. Sydney is known as the Silicon Valley of Australia, home to big firms like Atlassian, Canva, and Google’s Australian headquarters. 

24. Great Career Opportunities

Australia offers diverse job opportunities across many industries, with specific demands varying by province, skills, and industry trends. The economy is strong, with opportunities for skilled professionals, tradespeople, and individuals in service industries. There are also high salaries on offer with competitive rates, especially for those with in-demand skills. 

The healthcare and social assistance industry is the largest in Australia and has a strong demand for nurses, midwives, and GPs in particular. The technology sector is rapidly expanding thanks to digital transformation across industries, with a specific need for software developers and cybersecurity specialists.

25. World-Famous Surfing Spots

People visit Australia from all over the world to surf at some of the famous beaches. Byron Bay, Bells Beach, Bondi Beach, and Snapper Rocks are some of the most renowned surfer beaches in Australia. You will have a variety of surfing hot spots on your doorstep with the over 10,000 beaches in Australia. There will be spots catered to all levels, from beginners to experts. 

26. Sporting Culture

Similar to the UK, Australia has a vibrant sporting culture that plays a vital role in daily life. Australian rules football, rugby league and rugby union, cricket, and surfing are amongst some of the most popular sports in Australia. Australia have won the ICC Cricket World Cup the most times out of any nation, offering another attractive reason people move to Australia.

Most towns and suburbs have sports clubs for activities like football, cricket, netball, and swimming. Sports is a core subject in many Australian schools, encouraging children to develop their fitness skills.  

27. Vibrant Cities

Australia is home to many vibrant cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. They offer a unique mix of city living as well as being close to natural beauty, giving you the best of both worlds. Wherever you choose to live in Australia, you will never be too far from one of these vibrant cities. As Australia is a large country, you can travel to another city or province as a weekend getaway. To help your search, you can read our blog on the best places to live in Australia.

28. Access to Asia-Pacific

Australia’s location makes it easy to travel to major Asia-Pacific nations when living in Australia, as well as acting as a hub for trade and diplomacy. Situated in the Southern Hemisphere, Australia is near nations such as China, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, and India. Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are well-connected to Asia-Pacific hubs like Singapore, Hong Kong, and Tokyo via airlines such as Qantas and Singapore Airlines. This is a big draw for people moving to Australia, especially for those who need to travel for work purposes. 

29. Work Visas and Immigration Opportunities

Australia offers several pathways for skilled workers to live and work in Australia as a permanent resident. Visas such as the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) and the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) let you live and work in Australia if you are nominated by either a state, family sponsorship or an Australian employer. 

There are also multiple family visa options to keep families together. There is the Partner Visa (subclass 820 and 801), Parent Visa (subclass 103), and Child Visa (subclass 101) to allow partners, parents, and children of Australian citizens or permanent residents to move there.

30. Barbeque Culture

Australia’s barbeque culture, also known as ‘barbies’, is a popular way to socialise with family and friends. It’s a cherished part of the country’s culture, and people will often have barbeques to celebrate occasions as well as more casual ones to gather family and friends.

Sausages are popular barbeque items, along with meats such as steak, kangaroo, and lamb chops. Grilled fish, prawns, and oysters are also popular barbeque staples.

31. Stunning National Parks

There are over 500 national parks in Australia, with Kakadu, Daintree, and Blue Mountains being just a few. The Blue Mountains National Park located in New South Wales boasts waterfalls, cliffs, and famous landmarks like the Three Sisters rock formation. You can visit one of the oldest rainforests in Daintree National Park in Queensland, or ancient Aboriginal rock art in Kakadu National Park. 

Australia is also home to some stunning coastal national parks such as Cape Le Grand National Park in Western Australia. You may find kangaroos roaming around one of the park’s beaches, Lucky Bay.

32. High Wages

A major draw for people moving to Australia is the high wages on offer. Due to its economic structure, labour market policies, and standard of living, Australia is known to offer high and competitive salaries compared to other countries. The economy is thriving and with that comes high salaries, especially for those in-demand jobs. This is a trend that applies across most industries, especially for the roles that require specialised skills, extensive training, or are in high demand.

33. Eco-Friendly Nation

Australia is praised for its efforts in becoming an eco-friendly nation, from its renewable energy to the conservation of biodiversity. Around 30% of its electricity comes from renewable energy sources like solar or wind and the aim is to have net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Australia is also home to natural ecosystems such as the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and Kakadu National Park, which are protected areas. 

34. Good Public Services

Australia ensures excellent public services such as libraries, schools, and other local facilities to help citizens and residents with well-being, economic stability and accessibility. The public healthcare system Medicare helps to provide free or low-cost accessible healthcare to all. Public primary and secondary schools are free to promote high-quality education and inclusivity. You can also get access to free books and online resources in public libraries throughout Australia.

35. Family-Friendly Environment

A popular reason many people move to Australia is because of the family-friendly environment it offers. There is an abundance of green space, beaches, and activities on offer for children. Australia and its many cities are also some of the safest and cleanest in the world, making it a great place to live with your family. 

Offering excellent healthcare and education facilities, competitive wages, and a stable economy, moving to Australia with family is highly recommended. 

36. Relaxed Pace of Life

A popular reason why many people move to Australia is to enjoy the relaxed pace of life that is engrained in the culture. Australian culture sees enjoying life as a priority, with outdoor living contributing to a better quality of life. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is also encouraged. 

Australians live a slower life, with a focus on health, nature, and community, making it an ideal place to live for a balanced lifestyle. From enjoying a barbeque on the beach,  having a casual meal with friends, or hiking in nature, you can expect a more relaxed pace of life. 

37. Wine Regions

One of the biggest wine producers in the world, Australia has diverse regions that help produce a variety of wine types. Wine is a staple part of Australia’s culture, enjoyed during meals, barbeques, and social gatherings. Although thoroughly enjoyed in Australia, they are also a big export to key countries including China, the USA, and the UK. 

You can sample world-class wines from regions like Barossa Valley, Margaret River, and Hunter Valley. The Barossa Valley is home to some of the oldest Shiraz vines and notable wineries include Penfolds, Jacob’s Creek, and Henschke.

38. Cultural Heritage

Australia has a rich cultural heritage with Indigenous history ingrained into modern culture. One of the oldest continuous cultures in the world, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have lived on the continent for over 65,000 years. 

The Australian English language is influenced by Aboriginal languages, explaining the unique accent. Indigenous cultural practices are deeply tied to the land, water, and skies and you might see practices such as corroborees, smoking ceremonies, and initiation rites as cultural expressions in modern Australia. 

39. Proximity to Nature

A big draw for those moving to Australia is the proximity to nature, even in the bigger cities. Australian cities offer a unique mixture of city living and being near natural landscapes. This easy access to beaches, green spaces, and national parks offers an excellent quality of life to those living in Australia.

For example, in Melbourne, St Kilda Beach and Brighton Beach are easily accessible via a quick tram or train ride. Brisbane is also close to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. You can access Bondi Beach and Manly Beach by car or public transport from Sydney. 

40. Adventure Activities

There are endless opportunities for adventure lovers in Australia, from exploring the outback to visiting Tasmania. Whether it’s surfing in Bondi Beach or diving in the Great Barrier Reef, living in Australia has something for every adventure enthusiast. You can partake in trekking holidays on the Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory, the Overland Track in Tasmania, and the Blue Mountains in New South Wales. 

For those seeking further thrills, you can skydive in locations like Mission Beach in Queensland and Rottnest Island in Western Australia for breathtaking views.

41. Modern Infrastructure

Australia has a world-class infrastructure system that boasts highly developed roads, airports, and communication networks. There are major highways such as the Pacific Highway and Hume Highway that link key cities like Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. 

There is also excellent modern communication infrastructure in place in Australia, boasting 5G coverage in major cities and regions. National Broadband Network gives even remote areas access to high-speed internet.

42. High Standard Education

In Australia, public primary and secondary school education is free for permanent residents and Australian citizens. Higher education such as university is not free, but the HECS-HELP scheme can help eligible Australian citizens and permanent residents to get a tuition fee loan. 

Australia is also home to some world-class universities. According to the Times Higher Education rankings, the University of Melbourne is the best in Australia. It is also ranked number 33 in the top 50 overall in the world. This is followed by the Australian National University, in Canberra, and the University of Queensland in joint 54th place. 

43. Affordable Housing 

Although many major cities can be expensive for housing, Australia does offer affordable housing options. Adelaide is the most affordable out of the big cities, and if you direct your search outside of the city centre, you will find many affordable housing options. Rental costs in Adelaide are around 59% cheaper than in Sydney in 2024, so it’s ideal if you want to experience city living without the high costs. 

Smaller cities and regional towns such as Queensland, South Australia, and Tasmania, tend to have more affordable housing options. Hobart, Launceston, Wagga Wagga, and Toowoomba are towns that offer much lower house prices compared to the bigger cities. 

44. Low Population Density

Although Australia is a huge country, it has one of the lowest population densities in the world. It has a landmass of approximately 7.69 million square kilometres and a population of around 26 million, meaning the country averages roughly 3.4 people per square kilometre. 

The Outback takes up a large amount of the landmass and cannot be inhabited by a large population. This means that most people live in the cities and towns and the endless amount of open space is protected and can be enjoyed. 

45. World-Renowned Coral Reefs

Australia is home to some of the world’s most famous and ecologically significant coral reefs, such as the Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo Reef, and Lord Howe Island Marine Park. These underwater ecosystems are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also play a critical role in marine biodiversity. They support a diverse array of marine life, attract tourists from around the world, and are critical for ocean health.

Visiting these world-famous coral reefs is a priority on many people’s lists, so moving to Australia will allow you to work your way through them all. 

46. Small Communities

There is a great sense of community, especially in regional areas. If you move to Australia and live in coastal towns, rural farmlands, outback regions, and mountain villages, you will find yourself part of a small community. As the population is lower in these rural areas, residents are more likely to know each other. There are often local events, such as weekly markets or music events to support the local economy. People in regional towns often come together to support one another in times of need, whether through local events, fundraisers, or informal networks.

47. Cultural Integration Programs

Another great reason to move to Australia is the integration support that is offered to new residents. There is a range of cultural integration programs in Australia designed to help new residents feel welcome and ease the transition of moving to a new country. There are settlement services for new immigrants to help with language support and finding accommodation. The Australian Cultural Orientation Program helps new residents to understand the local culture, society, and laws, to help people settle in quicker. 

48. Thriving Tourism Industry

Australia has a thriving tourism sector due to many famous landmarks that see visitors from all across the world. It’s one of the biggest sectors in Australia and brings in a good amount for the economy. Whether you want to see the amazing wildlife in Tasmania or the iconic Sydney Opera House, there are a wealth of excellent destinations to work your way around. It also provides job opportunities for citizens and expats. With a commitment to sustainability, accessibility, and adventure, Australia continues to be a major global tourism hub. 

49. Start-up Culture

There is a thriving start-up scene that sees many new small businesses opening their doors in Australia. The government offers a variety of initiatives to help support start-ups while they find their feet in the industry. The R&D Tax Incentive provides tax offsets to encourage investment in research and development. Some accelerators and incubators offer mentorship, funding, office space, and networking opportunities. 

50. Pathway to Citizenship

A great reason to move to Australia and gain permanent residency is the pathway to citizenship it offers. All permanent residents in Australia are eligible to become Australian citizens. The country also recognises dual citizenship, meaning you don’t have to give up your British citizenship.

International Removals to Australia 

If you’re ready to move to Australia after reading our 50 Great Reasons to Move to Australia blog, you’re in the right place.

We offer guaranteed weekly shipping to Australia from a range of UK destinations. Our shipping and packing methods are unique to ensure the safe arrival of your personal and household items. We are also custom experts, so help you with the process and gather the correct documentation. 

Simply complete our quick and easy form and we can provide you with a personalised free quote for your removals.