hi i worked in altona and lived in point cook, living in the western suburbs is alot cheaper than anywhere else in melbourne. altona is an older part but you can still buy new houses. the beach in altona is great for little ones as it has a gentle slope free parking and a great park (next to the beach) and about 15 to 20 minutes drive into the city. i wouldn't move much further away than werribee as you will find most of the friends you find will come from your work place. and you tend to go to one and anothers houses for a drink than to the local. i am australian but my partner tracy is english and wanting to move there. if you need any other info on the basics drop me a line and i'll be happy to help. geoffrey
