Why move from the UK to Australia?

A destination of choice

Australia remains an attractive destination for Britons, and migrants from the UK make up the second largest group of new arrivals to Australia, behind only New Zealanders. Between July 2008 and June 2009, 13.6% of all new settlers in Australia came from the UK.

Multiple surveys and studies continue to list Australia as a ‘Top 3’ destination for skilled workers, expats, students, investors and migrants. So what is it that is so enticing? Why are Brits still choosing Australia a top living destination?

Why move?

Culturally, at least on the face of it, Australia and England are close relatives. They share language, education systems and much of their history. On top of this apparent similarity there is the draw of warm weather and an enviable lifestyle born of an outdoorsy, ‘work to live, not live to work’ attitude.

Moving to Australia is often a lifestyle choice. Referred to as ‘the lucky country’, Australia offers a high standard of living, relatively inexpensive real estate, ancient and varied landscapes, temperate weather, world-leading education and health systems and political and economic stability. With quality, beautiful homes to be found for less than £200,000, there is major incentive to start anew in Australia.

Get happy

Studies confirm that those Britons that do make the move to Australia are extremely happy with their decision. The Changing Settlement Experience of New Migrants Report shows that 95% of skilled migrants have employment within 18 months of arrival and 94% are ‘very satisfied’ with their new lives.

Senator Amanda Vanstone of the Australian government sums up the development of the immigration success saying, “Not only are we attracting more skilled migrants than ever before, but these publications show that they are also happy with their lives in Australia and are becoming highly successful.”