grizzly111

Benefits of a good British education In all seriousness, yes Australia has been good to me but I've worked very hard to get to this point, made considered decisions in adulthood and had supportive parents that gave me a great start in life. I had to work out through trial and error how to 'play the game' in Australia. Astute money management plays a starring role as you sidestep the various money grabs along the way. Things are fundamentally costly in Oz (as we all know). When interest rates AND tax rates were higher it compounded this. Especially if you are into the Luxuries. Work ethic is important, especially if you are a foreigner. I could write an entire book but it's all really just common sense. All in all I'd consider myself fortunate.

Sammy, interestingly, a month ago a very well-travelled old man who has lived in multiple countries over many years told me precisely that: Australia *is* a superficial place. It suprised me as he was Aussie. He explained that there is little depth of history and culture (if that's your thing - and it sounds like it is) here. Also it is very isolated. People are overly money focused - have a look at all the cheap ads on TV he said, advertising all the cheap stuff. Discount this, discount that. This already confirmed what I knew. Some will tell you it is what you make of it.... Sure, it's a great place to make some $$$$, have a laid-back lifestyle and go to the beach. Getting into a decent Uni was easy too. Take it from me - I've done all of that - in fact I'm fortunate to live a short walk away from many decent beaches and be able to semi-retire. BUT humans are sometimes never happy - always looking to improve! When I was in my late teens and early 20's Australia was fun, carefree and generally wonderful. I actually had a great time and consider myself lucky. Now a decade on, I'm looking through that thin veneer and exposing what is underneath. I am wanting more depth to life. Less sun. More stimulation. I'm listening to AND learning from the older generation much, much more. Their experiences are invaluable. In my personal analysis you are correct! Good luck.

SusieRoo: you can simply Google the reasons. Anyone in the development game knows the real reasons especially regarding land supply. Add in my previous reasons + rising wages + foreign investment + cost of adding services to new suburbs. The Government loves it (taxes & duties). People in Australia don't want to live away from major cities but interestingly land is still fairly highly priced for the average punter in many regional centres....now you build the picture.... Regarding the future: nothing is impossible (eg: look at Hong Kong and how they have reclaimed land from the ocean to build on etc). You reasoning is correct.

SusieRoo your question is perceptive. The UAE can build cities in the middle of deserts. Now the main reason land prices are high is because councils won't release new land. This artificially inflates the prices. Remember: the Australian Government loves their taxes. It is very, very tightly controlled. And it's not good.

Property in Australia is artificially propped-up by negative gearing. Also superannuation. Lots of mum and dad investors out there that don't quite understand how it all works, hoping to get rich. In Australia it's been easy-going for too long. The low interest-rate environment needs to end. The RBA knows this and so do those in power. Look at the situation in the USA - low interest rates is like an addictive drug. In the US many thought they were wealthy owning several properties until the bust cycle - wealthy on paper then suddenly it all vanished. Remember: you aren't a true millionaire until you become a cash millionaire!

I really liked Winchester. But I know it's not cheap. Going to check out Shrewsbury this trip probably. Australian healthcare is indeed expensive - less and less GP's are bulk billing and those that do only do it mostly for concession card holders (now even this is also on the decline). Specialists add a huge margin on top of the rebate they receive back from Medicare. GP's tend to receive around $40 for a short consult but then additional Medicare Items are added on top (eg Care Plans) which are good money makers ($100+). Long consults >20 mins are billed @ $70+. Bulk billing doctors tend to be of lower quality (generally speaking and will often double/triple book. Not to say that non-bulk billers don't do this though - times are changing fast! I have to say, some of the stuff kids are learning schools in Australia AND how it's administered along with the standards often makes me shake my head. Often the younger of my staff cannot even string a proper written sentence together without grammatical and spelling errors. By hey ho, this is the digital age so it doesn't really matter right? I've spoken to several teachers (both experienced & in training) in various states about this and it appears endemic. Not sure if the UK is any different these days. Anyway, I'm very thankful to have parents that worked hard to give me the opportunity of being able to attend some decent schools in both the UK & Oz some 20 years ago. I can make something of a comparison in terms of 'private' education anyway. The UK school was ranked in the top 5 according to a newspaper I remember at the time (I forget). The Oz school was state No.1 or 2 (again I forget). Although the Oz school was extremely wealthy with immense resources (and this was somehow publically well known & even promoted!) I can safely say that - all things equal - I would send my kids to the UK school no question given the chance. The teachers and the overall standard of education I received in the UK was qualitatively far superior.

Thank you so much for the replies. I'll be looking for more a town initially serviced by a local station (probably rent first for a year). Yes I'll be likely looking to stay in Ludlow for a night or two. Shropshire seems to have a few things going for it. Might check out Bath too. But as one poster mentioned it's not cheap! Trying to formulate an itinerary - won't be hiring a car. A trip to Devon is looking on the cards too. Winchester & the New Forest is actually really lovely.

We're going to do a reconnaissance of the UK in preparation for a permanent move if we like it. We are looking to live in the South / South West of England primarily. May consider Shropshire and surrounds. We have no kids and are in our 30's. Looking to make a move to a village / edge of town location in the countryside. I'm trying to generate a sample itinerary of nice places to check out. Not easy when you've lived in London and been in Aus for the past 20 odd years! Would love some suggestions and input from the forum to fill this limited time schedule on which areas are best to check out and where to avoid completely. Probably going to AirBnb much of it. First few days will be spent in London recovering from jet lag/shopping. But after that all good.

You obviously don't like the general environment in Perth. Many would share your observations. You've experienced a better life and you want that back. What you need to decide first and foremost is whether a change of environment will help? Have you considered leaving Perth for another place in Oz? The culture etc will be (mostly) the same but the change of environment might just do you good. The next thing to try would be living back in the UK for a month or two and seeing if you like it. That way you will be in the best informed position to decide with a degree of accuracy. Many blokes chase the big bucks in the mines and O&G in Australia but it is really, really detrimental to their health in the long run. For many reasons. It is good that you made your money and had the sense to get out early. You have to do what makes you happy.

Thanks for the replies. Yes I would preferably want to avoid London & the home counties due mainly to cost. My goal would be to live (mainly) off investment income so I would need to budget carefully at least to start with for the first year or so. Likely will rent for the first 12-24 months. Get a part time/casual job. Council rates are dear in UK! Once the market turns around in Australia my plan would be to sell off all property & just lead a comfortable life really. This could take years by my estimations and is dependent on many factors. Lots to consider but all replies are much appreciated!

That's essentially what I'm after. Any pointers?

Gary, your observations regarding Australia are entirely correct. The further North you go, the worse the boganism gets. As I've mentioned previously, Australia is a very young country and does not generally suit those after culture and deep history etc to be honest. Furthermore you have to really like the hot, humid climate (especially in QLD & NT), not be phased by biting insects and have armor for skin vs UV. (Regarding UV - don't underestimate its effects esp. for your children - this is why indigenious peoples are exactly that - their skin is so well adapted to life in Oz naturally!). At least the life in Oz is pretty laid back if you want it to be. But again it depends on your definition of 'laid back'. The observation that in Oz the more rural/regional areas are the worse areas is an interesting one being the opposite of the UK. I'd have to agree. I'm in a very similar situation to you. HOWEVER Australia doesn't appear to be offering what I'm after. I have decided that a recon trip back to the UK for a few months initially will be best.

Not a problem Lady Bird. I have to agree with you there - I would also pick the UK over Australia if money was no object. Much like many of the rich & famous - have a property in a top area of the England and have a holiday home/bolthole or two someplace warm & beachy! The simple fact of the matter is that there is so much more diversity, culture etc to take advantage of in the UK especially with its ease of access to Europe. If you have the $$$$ of course. Australia is still a very young country and life I find is very concentrated around the major cities especially on the East coast. One of the issues I've found in Aus is how pricey things are and how people seem to get away with it so easily without adding value & service to the transaction. Hong Kong & Japan are way ahead in this regard. UK someplace in between in my opinion. Property (excluding units) in Brisbane is looking attractive to purchase at present however it remains to be seen whether the downturn in Syd + Melb plus tighter bank lending will impact signifcantly in Brisbane. Renting a unit should be easy as there is an oversupply at present. When work is involved, Australia (especially for general health professionals) appears to be easier. Higher average wages are a major factor. Whatever your decision I am sure it will be the best.

How about this as a suggestion: 1. Move back to Brisbane. Hook up with your old job and start earning the some good $AU. 2. Apply for your citizenship - this will take over a year to complete (Im still waiting for mine - lots of delays at present). 3. By this time you can really assess if Australia is better than the UK according to your needs. The $AU you earned could go towards purchasing in a superior location back in the UK. By this time the exchange rate may have improved also with Brexit etc? Not sure on this though. Not sure on what your finances are like but if they are solid then ask yourself would you rather be well-off in the UK or Australia? How far will $1 go in the UK vs AU? I know of one health professional looking to cash out in Australia and take around $1.5mill cash (at your age) excluding super with him to the UK. The reasons you list for remaining in the UK are mostly emotional. That's fine. But returning to Australia would enable you to re-assess, earn and establish the important citizenship. These are logical, non-subjective reasons to my mind. Remember this though: in order to grow you need to put roots down. At 40 you still have time to do the above. Make it happen and good luck!

I'll let the prominent neurosurgon (awarded the Order Of Australia) Dr Charles Teo answer this one: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-01-19/australia-still-racist2c-says-surgeon-charlie-teo/3782286 Have things changed since then? It's very much alive (as evidenced by certain pollies fanning the fires of racial intolerance) although I'd like to think it's improving.... Good luck!

Just want to add to this: Yes, skin cancer incidence in Australia is far higher than the UK with up to TWO in THREE Australians being diagnosed by age 70. More than 750,000 people each year in Australia are treated for non-melanoma cancer. This is up to 2-3 times higher than in the UK & USA. The rate is phenomenal. Much damage is actually caused before the age of 20. In Australia around 2000+ people die each year from skin cancer. From just melanoma, it is expected that 1800 people will die in 2017. That is 5 people a day so in fact a HIGHER mortality rate than the UK adjusted for population; (given that UK has almost 2.7x population of Australia....a rate considered similar would be 2.6 people per day). HOWEVER whether you are in the USA, UK or Australia, skin cancer is always the most common cancer, far outnumbering lung, prostate and breast cancers together! Remember this is because it covers ALL forms of skin cancer (BCCs, SCCs etc) and not just the lethal melanomas. Now, if we are JUST talking about melanomas then breast cancer cases alone outnumber it. Yes, don't be complacent about it. Especially not in Australia or other high UV index countries (eg South America). It is vital that anywhere in the world where you are exposed to the sun to wear protection to ensure prevention of premature skin aging and skin health is optimised.

I've spent tens of thousands on TV advertising. And if I'm honest there are better forms of advertising out there for the money! Everytime I come up with a concept, it is invariably dumbed down by the director, who invariably says I need to target the level of the audience (often to cringeworthy levels). Even the jingles. Sophistication is a no-no. And of course comes at significant extra cost. These guys are *right* though. In Australia, advertising is very materialistically driven. It's all about price, value and BIG discounting. Much like USA I am told. However, are we underestimating the Australian audience? Having a look on Youtube for past and present adverts in the UK certainly brings both fond memories (the aim of advertising?), smiles and a certain sense of marvel. But in answer to your question, Pura Vida, in my experience I do believe you are correct.

I just gotta accentuate my personal perception of the standard of TV ads especially around Christmas time in Australia. I feel starved of the quality of UK ads!

Interesting thoughts. Chavs vs Bogans. I think chavs have a worse reputation, but never met one. I'm not sure they are on the same level. Bogans tend to be employed?? Have to say, the coffee in Australia is indeed very good!

I often find myself having to check my speedo. Not because of the proliferation of speed cameras but due to the continual tailgating (especially by big 4WDs) that make me question whether my right foot angle is correct.

Harry you are absolutely correct! Mes sentiments exactement! Australia has so much going for it, yet I have come to realise from sheer unfortunate experience (after years of denial) that: In Australia, being a bogan is celebrated. Bogan behavior is endorsed. The continual act of staring up at the underbelly of mediocrity is considered OK. People shy away from taking personal responsibilty for their actions. Tall poppy syndrome is rife. Being successful just isn't the done thing in Australia! Being cultured, academic and even wealthy (and showing it) really gets under a true blue Aussie's skin. Some areas are better than others, sure, but I've lived all around Australia save for WA & ACT, worked as an employee and an employer, both in cities and regionally and honestly, apart from the weather, there ain't much difference. I also share in your opinion of the bogan Aussie mindset - they are like the teenagers of the world - hate to be challenged, still have a long way to mature and think they are best at everything! Harry - good luck!

I think you can only access your super early if you rescind your Australian PR/citizenship. Let us know how you go. Also it should be noted that super as an investment is generally considered very good.

If it makes you feel any better and if you have children, I can say that with some certainty from personal experience (unless things have changed dramatically), that the education system in the UK is superior. As a child that was extremely lucky to have been to some of the best schools in both the UK & Australia I could easily tell the difference. So if you have children, and even more so if they are academically inclined, then perhaps there is some comfort in knowing the UK should provide them with an education second to none. Good luck!

Yes sunnies are essential wear in Australia! However, many still don't realise that UV is still doing damage to your skin in even in the shade or in the car with the windows down as much can be reflected. Having done some experimentation with a basic UV, I have found this to be indeed the case. It is astounding how powerful the sun is in certain parts of Australia. Myself, I try to avoid exposure to the sun from 10-4pm. It seriously ages you. It is important to protect children especially as that is when the damage is done. I have seen many cases of skin cancers in all manner of strange areas of the body such as the backs of legs or on a foot. Most often it results from damage during childhood. The sad thing is that I have seen state schools make young kids go out in the midday sun to clean up the school yard. Caps are worn, but backs of legs are often left unprotected... Personally I find cooler weather more enjoyable. And look forward to a white Christmas!

The UK weather ain't the best but that all depends on your definition and needs of course. I can factually say, though, that at least the sun in the UK has much less chance of killing you than in Australia! Especially QLD, which has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. As an owner of multiple covertibles over the years - which have been extremely enjoyable I might add - my next car will certainly be a fixed roof. Also, many appear not to know that incidence of pterygiums is high in Australia as well (again, esp QLD). If you are wondering what a pterygium is, it's basically flesh that forms over the eye as the body's natural response to protect it from constant, excessive UV exposure. You may have noticed people with this condition especially in areas of the world that are exposed to high UV indexes and where people tend to work/spend time outside. It needs to be surgically removed in those affected by an opthamologist. I really urge people to remember to use sunscreen (and use it properly!) & cover up where possible when enjoying the fantastic (generally) weather in Australia. For me personally: Winter vs winter - Australia definitely superior. Summer vs summer - England is more enjoyable.