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With its strong economy, laidback sunny lifestyle, and stunning landscapes, many Canadians head down for a fresh start. If you’re considering moving to Australia from Canada, this guide is for you. We’ll share valuable insights on moving costs, relocation companies, visa options, living expenses, and tips for this huge adventure.
| Volume | Average cost |
| One-bedroom apartment | CAD $4,000 – $9,000 |
| Three-bedroom house | CAD $8,000 – $12,000 |
Disclaimer: The prices above are estimates.
Shipping furniture to Australia overseas takes roughly a month. Air freight only takes a few days, but it is significantly more expensive and often only used for urgent, small shipments. You can save costs by planning ahead, comparing quotes from international movers to Australia, sharing a container, relocating during low season, decluttering before packing boxes, and refraining from extra services such as storage or (dis)assembling.
Most goods that are imported into Australia are subject to duties and taxes. For goods exceeding AUD 1,000, you’ll need an import declaration and pay a processing charge. Most cargo insurances range from 0.2% to 2% of the total value of the goods. You can add all-risk coverage, which usually costs 1% to 3% of the shipment’s value.
Request Moving Quotes to AustraliaFor a relocation that’s so huge, you’ll want to work with an International moving company. These companies specialize in moving household goods overseas and can handle everything from packing to customs and door-to-door delivery.
When looking for the best international moving companies from Canada to Australia, pay attention to the reviews, services, location, and overall reputation. Don’t hesitate to call and get any questions answered, especially about the included services.
Can I move my dog to Australia? The answer is yes, but not all of them are allowed. Dog breeds prohibited in Australia include the Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Perro de Presa Canario. See the full list of prohibited breeds in Australia.
When moving to Australia with a cat or dog, you need to adhere to Australia’s strict biosecurity laws. As the process can be complex, it’s recommended to work with a pet relocation service to move your dog or cat to Australia. Below are the steps to moving pets to Australia.
As a Canadian, you need a visa to travel to Australia. The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is available for stays up to three months for business or tourism purposes. It’s a quick and easy online application.
If you want to permanently move from Canada to Australia, a visa is required. In this section, we’ll look at the visa requirements for Canadian citizens to enter Australia.
From student visas to short and long-term visas, there are different routes to take for Canadians moving to Australia.
Whether you’re moving to Australia for work or studying, below are the steps to apply for a Canada to Australia work visa.
While prices vary between cities, you’re generally paying more as a Canadian living in Australia versus back home. That said, Australian salaries are higher, so your local purchasing power is also higher in most cities.
| Item | Toronto, Canada | Sydney, Australia | Perth, Australia |
| Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant) | $28.00 | $22.55 | $22.55 |
| Pint of Beer | $8.00 | $9.92 | $10.82 |
| Regular Cappuccino | $5.48 | $4.61 | $4.91 |
| Eggs (dozen) | $4.94 | $6.45 | $5.85 |
| Single Transport Ticket | $3.35 | $4.51 | $4.24 |
| Monthly Rent (1-bed, City Center) | $2,520.38 | $3,069.46 | $1,918.70 |
| Monthly Rent (1-bed, Outside Center) | $2,101.98 | $2,047.25 | $1,541.81 |
| Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) | $4,330.89 | $5,844.74 | $5,180.06 |
Source: Numbeo
The strong economy, laid-back lifestyle, and ever-impressing sights make many Canadians seriously consider moving down under. But which Australian city best fits your needs and lifestyle? Let’s zoom in on the two cities attracting many Canadian expats: Perth and Sydney.
This sunny, beachy “City of Light” is relaxed and popular among families and retirees. It’s more affordable than Sydney, with a budget-friendly housing market. There’s a good job market for mining, energy, resources, tech, healthcare, and tourism. On weekends, you can visit cultural festivals, explore the culinary scene, and enjoy the outdoors.
This bustling financial and cultural capital is often the first choice for Canadians moving to Australia. There are many opportunities for career growth in sectors like finance, tech, tourism, and media. While the living expenses and housing market are high, so are the salaries. You can visit the iconic landmarks, spend time at Bondi Beach, or dive into the food scene.
It’s the land of laid-backness, kangaroos, social services, and great coffee. At first glance, Australia seems like a dream place where every Canadian wants to settle! But like any place, there are cons to moving to Australia too. Here’s a realistic view of what to expect.
Before saying yes to moving from Canada to Australia, you want to know what you’re getting into. And who’s better to tell than other expats? We’ve collected the best advice on moving to Australia as a Canadian expat, from people who started a new life down under before you.
You’re moving to Australia from Canada and it feels like there are a million things to do! Stay calm and follow this moving to Australia checklist to ensure you’ve thought of everything.
