Relocating to Australia with your family is an exciting adventure, but it can also feel overwhelming due to the costs involved. Costs can mount up rapidly, including those for flights, shipping, visas, and lodging.
But if you prepare ahead and make wise decisions, you may find the most affordable option to move to Australia with your family without going over budget.
In this guide, we’ll explore practical tips, cost-saving strategies, and step-by-step advice to make your move affordable and stress-free.
Step 1: Research Visa Options
Getting the right visa is the most important and first step in relocating to Australia. Visa costs can be significant, so choosing the most affordable option for your family is key.
Skilled Migration Visas: If you have skills in demand, such as nursing, teaching, or engineering, you may qualify for a Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) or Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190). These visas are cost-effective because they offer permanent residency, allowing your family to work, study, and access healthcare. The application fee starts at around AUD 4,640 for the primary applicant, with additional fees for family members.
Family Sponsorship Visas: If you have relatives in Australia, they may sponsor your family through a Parent Visa or Partner Visa. These can be expensive, with fees ranging from AUD 4,000 to AUD 8,000, but they’re a viable option if you qualify.
Regional Visas: Consider visas like the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491), which encourages settlement in regional areas. These visas often have lower costs and fewer requirements, plus living in regional Australia is generally cheaper.
Step 2: Budget for Visa Processing
Visa fees are non-negotiable, but you can save money by planning ahead:
Apply for visas early to avoid rush fees or penalties.
Ensure all documents (passports, health checks, police clearances) are ready to prevent delays or reapplication costs.
If your budget is tight, consider applying for the primary applicant first and adding family members later, though this may not always be possible.
Step 3: Find Affordable Flights
Airfare is a major expense when moving to Australia with your family. To get the cheapest flights:
Plan Ahead: Discounts are frequently available for tickets purchased three to six months in advance. To keep track of costs, use comparison websites such as Google Flights or Skyscanner.
Travel Off-Peak: Avoid peak seasons like December–January or school holidays when flight prices soar. Flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are frequently less expensive during the week.
Consider Layovers: Direct flights are convenient but expensive. Opt for flights with one or two layovers to save hundreds of dollars per ticket.
Look for Family Deals: Some airlines offer discounts for families or children. Check with carriers like Qantas, Emirates, or Singapore Airlines for promotions.
Step 4: Minimize Shipping Costs
Moving your belongings to Australia can be costly, especially if you’re bringing furniture or large items. Here’s how to keep shipping affordable:
Downsize: Sell or donate items you don’t need. Focus on essentials like clothes, personal items, and important documents. The more shipping, the lower the price.
Compare Shipping Companies: Get quotes from multiple international movers like Allied Pickfords or Crown Relocations. Shared container shipping (where your items share space with others) is often the cheapest option.
Use Air Freight for Small Items: For lightweight essentials, air freight can be more affordable than sea freight. Check with companies like DHL or FedEx.
Avoid Extra Fees: Pack items properly to avoid customs delays or additional charges. Adhere to Australia’s stringent biosecurity regulations by appropriately declaring all items.
Tip: Australia has strict rules on importing wooden items, plants, or food. Check the Australian Border Force website to avoid fines or confiscated items.
Step 5: Plan Your Accommodation Wisely
Finding affordable housing is crucial when relocating to Australia with your family.
Start with Temporary Housing: Rent a short-term apartment or Airbnb for the first 1–2 months.
Consider Regional Areas: Cities like Sydney and Melbourne are expensive, with median rents around AUD 600–800 per week for a family home. Regional areas like Adelaide, Tasmania, or rural Queensland offer rentals as low as AUD 300–500 per week.
Share Housing: If you’re open to it, sharing a house with another family or tenants can cut costs significantly, especially in the early months.
Tip: Use websites like Domain, Realestate, or Flatmates to find rentals. In high-demand locations, competition for rentals can be fierce, so apply early.
Step 6: Save on Everyday Expenses
Once you’re in Australia, managing daily costs will help you stay on budget:
Public Transport: Australia’s cities have reliable buses, trains, and trams. Buy weekly or monthly passes for discounts. For example, a family of four in Melbourne can save by using a Myki card for public transport.
Grocery Shopping: Shop at budget supermarkets like Aldi or Coles for affordable groceries. Cooking at home and buying in bulk can result in monthly savings of hundreds.
Healthcare: When you become eligible, apply for Medicare (accessible to permanent residents). This covers many medical expenses, reducing the need for private insurance initially.
Schooling: Public schools in Australia are free for permanent residents, so enroll your children to avoid private school fees.
Conclusion
Relocating to Australia with your family doesn’t have to be expensive if you plan carefully. By choosing the right visa, booking affordable flights, minimizing shipping, and settling in cost-effective areas, you can make the move affordable and enjoyable. Start researching today, use free resources, and take it one step at a time. With the right approach, you’ll soon be enjoying your new life in Australia without financial stress.
