The Smith Clan

We estimated around 30k 2 parents and 3 children. Possibly higher. That included moving 2 dogs and a cat too. Visas and agent fees are enough just to start with. Its shocking how quickly it adds up. Best wishes

Is there no way you can return, would family not financially support you to move back. There is the option of renting if you could not buy in the UK. You may not get the home you have now but happiness is very important!

Noticed a few on here that have moved back to Devon or Exeter, going to have to visit. Ive spent many happy holidays in Cornwall (Hayle st ives ) but never been to Devon and only stopped off at Exeter for service.

That is good to hear, we are going to Brisbane in August and this is ideally where we plan to settle, if we move.

Thank you faithmove7 for your response, that's an idea for me to research. Are you still planning the move? I feel like i'm on an emotional rollercoaster making this decision, I never thought making a decision could impact so much on me! Best wishes from an ex army wife too Maria x

Thank you for your responses and cider drinking coder I totally agree there is there is no place for racism anywhere.

From doing lots of reading on here and having met a chap from Oz who openly made the following statement "you might have a problem if you were black" when I asked if we would easily make friends if we moved to Oz, I would like to ask others of there experiences. My children are mixed raced as I am and although most people do not notice I am mixed race, my children have darker skin and clearly mixed race. We live in a mostly white area and we have had 1/2 occasions when my daughter has been called brown, I am not blind and I know racism exists in the UK, though we have moved forward a lot compared to back in 60'70's. My question is would this be a problem in Oz, is it likely my child could be bullied, I am not asking this because I believe ppl from OZ are all racist, this is purely to help us make an informed decision, it may be the person from Oz who I spoke to was the wrong person but some ppl have posted threads that people use the term wog openly and I am trying to get some honest open feedback. Post not intended to cause offence. Maria x

To access gp and any hospital treatment we may require what healthcare package covers this and also do I pay on top for ambulance cover? Would be on 189 visa.

We are a family of 5 moving to Brisbane kids will be 13,11 and 7. How much in savings would you advise to bring or did you use whilst finding work and what would be the minimum amount of time we should at least account for (until get a job) I am a social worker and my husband will be need to retrain for his gas engineer role also qualified mechanical engineer. I know I will also have to retrain so may not be able to jump into social worker role. All help appreciated. Maria x

Just costing up everything, would be arriving on visa 189 are there school fees to reckon into costs. Some people have mentioned paying school fees and not sure if this depends on what visa you arrive on. All responses very much appreciated! Maria x

There seems to be so many positives in moving back to the UK, just the job situation holding you back. If taking the financial cut would mean you would really financially struggle then you would need to look at if you could make it work but if more due to the position change I would go with all the positives you mention. Also once back in Uk its easier to get another job. For us moving to Oz its the financial aspects that have played a great part in making the decision to move, its got to be financially viable. I am not the best person re pensions and so on and how this impacts being out the UK but sure there is someone who can advise. Best Wishes Maria

thanks yes I will inbox and get a quote. Maria x

did shipping the car cost on top of shipping container, as this sounds a cheaper option for us if we can fit it in. also im guessing you can fill up the car with boxes and items too? Maria

Would be arriving on visa 189, are there costs for schooling on this visa? Children would be approximately 13, 11 and 7 when we move. Are there wrap around clubs for after school or activities for kids at school. We don't have a location but may possible be around landsbourgh area. Thanks in advance for any advice. Maria x

Trying to work out shipping costs, is it worth taking furniture or is it cheaper to buy once we arrive. Will need a 20ft for personal belongings, kids items etc, is 40ft much more? Thanks in advance. Maria x

we are travelling with virgin Australia luggage allowance 30k

Congrates on the move, best of luck. What was the total bill with golden arrow? Maria x

I was recently told they used to be able to go together but not anymore. I have a very nervous cavvie and this worries me as he is fine with my other dog and they board together when we go away, they are very close.

Many thanks

That's good news, thank you.

Many thanks

We are travelling to Brisbane mid Aug for 3 weeks, what's the average weather like and temps around then I understand your winter then x

Thank you for posting considering that agent have spoken with John, good luck with your new life X

sounds like it 189 is best option then, yes it's looking very expensive! is there any reason you have not moved yet CaptainC I see you have been granted your visa. It all quickly adds up!

We are considering emigration from uk and visiting in August, looking for any social workers happy to meet up for a chat and hopefully get a feel for social work in oz. Also to chat on here prior to visit. I work in older adults and also have experience in adults with learning disabilities. We are a family and love to meet up in Brisbane. thanks, Maria x