Hi tonyboy,
I came over from Scotland 2 years ago with my OH and 3 kids, I had spend all my 44 years in the west of Scotland. And as much as my heart will always be there, I can say it is very different here in Queensland and in my opinion a much better way of life compared to Scotland. Yes it still has the same social issues, just not in the same scale, yes the weather is better and that makes 1 hell of a difference, our kids have all played sport since the could walk, they have much more time outdoors time here, and they have different options. Some things are more expensive but it balances (in my opinion)... What I find is if you want something bad enough you have to work hard to get it, in Scotland it was never there(in my opinion). I don't think people release how hard it can be in Scotland for some people.
Good luck, I do understand why you want to come over.