Key Takeaways
- Average moving costs to Australia range from CAD $4,000 to $12,000 via sea freight, depending on household size and volume. Air freight is faster but significantly more expensive.
- You can save up to 30% on moving costs by decluttering, sharing a container, and avoiding peak moving seasons.
- Moving pets to Australia requires an import permit, vaccinations, and a quarantine of 10–30 days. Costs vary, but planning at least 6 months in advance is essential.
- Living in Australia is approximately 10–20% more expensive than in Canada, but higher average salaries offset this. For example, rent in Sydney is 20–25% higher than Toronto.
Cost of Moving to Australia
The average cost of moving from Canada to Australia ranges from CAD $4,000 to $12,000 using sea freight and varies depending on the distance, volume, shipping company, and season.
| 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 Australia
Best International Moving Companies Canada to Australia
For 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.
9.8
51
Toronto
3 ratings as Good Price
3 ratings as "Good Price"
8.8
209
Mississauga
4 ratings as Friendly
4 ratings as "Friendly"
8.5
17
Mississauga
2 ratings as Professional
2 ratings as "Professional"
9.5
28
Kanata
7 ratings as Good Communication
7 ratings as "Good Communication"
Moving to Australia with Pets
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.
- All pets need an ISO-compatible microchip for identification and undergo veterinary checks to make sure they’re fit for travel.
- Apply for an import permit well in advance via Australia’s agriculture website.
- Cats and dogs need an inactivated rabies vaccine at least 180 days before entering Australia.
- Upon arrival in Australia, pets need to quarantine for 10 to 30 days.
- For dogs, Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, and Bordetella need to be valid throughout the quarantine period.
- For cats, Feline Enteritis, Rhinotracheitis, and Calicivirus vaccinations have to be valid during the entire quarantine period.
Visas for Moving to Australia From Canada
Visas to Move to Australia Permanently
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.
Related article
Find container costs to Australia, find moving companies and how to move belongings.
Visa Types for Canadians Moving to Australia
From student visas to short and long-term visas, there are different routes to take for Canadians moving to Australia.
- Working Holiday Visa: For Canadians aged 18-35, to work and travel in Australia for up to one year.
- Temporary Work (Skilled) Visa: For people with a job offer from an Australian employer to work temporarily at the company. This visa requires sponsorship of an employer.
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa: For employers to fill labor shortages by sponsoring skilled workers for temporary positions.
- Student Visa: To study full-time in Australia after enrolling in a recognized course.
- Skilled Migration Visa: For in-demand skilled workers. You need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
- Employer Nomination Scheme: For skilled workers nominated by their employer to live and work in Australia.
- Business or Investor Visa: For business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs who want to start a business or invest in Australia.
- Partner Visa: For individuals with an Australian citizen or permanent resident partner to live and work in Australia.
How to Apply for a Working Visa in Australia
Whether you’re moving to Australia for work or studying, below are the steps to apply for a Canada to Australia work visa.
- See which working visa you need (working holiday visa, skilled migration visa, etc.).
- Check if you meet the eligibility requirements. You might do a skills assessment, pass a health examination and a police background check, or prove your English skills through an IELTS or TOEFL exam.
- Submit your Expression of Interest (EOI), when applying for a working visa in Australia, such as the Skilled Migration Visa.
- Wait for your invitation to apply for a working visa or study visa.
- Submit your visa application online through the Australian Department of Home Affairs with the correct documents and pay the fee.
- Wait until you get notified of the decision, which can take several months.
- Travel to Australia with your study or working visa.
Cost of Living in Australia vs Canada
The monthly costs of living in Australia average around CAD $3,000 for one person, with a big portion going towards housing. Below, we’ve compared the living expenses in Australia vs Canada.
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
Best Australian Cities to Move to From Canada
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.
Moving to Perth, Australia
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.
Moving to Sydney, Australia
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.
Living in Australia Pros and Cons
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.
Pros
Excellent healthcare & education
Stable political environment
Low crime & high safety
Great work-life balance
Strong economy & job opportunities
Multicultural & welcoming society
Cons
High living costs & taxes
Expensive imported goods
Unpredictable housing market
Limited public transport outside cities
Fewer jobs in regional areas
Risk of natural disasters
Moving to Australia Advice
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.
- Australia is known for its high living costs, so calculate your expected monthly expenses and budget to manage costs accordingly. Especially for families moving to Australia, make sure to research childcare and education as these costs quickly add up.
- Research or secure a job before arriving, as the market is competitive and challenging.
- Familiarize yourself with cultural differences, local norms… and lots of Aussie slang.
- Mentally prepare for the challenges that come with the geographical distance.
- Plan for a lengthy, thorough visa process.
- Understand the healthcare system to make sure you’re covered for the essentials.
Moving to Australia Checklist
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.
- Apply for jobs in Australia or enroll in a university, if needed
- Choose the right visa for your move to Australia and apply early
- Understand the costs and create a budget for moving and living in Australia
- Research the best Australian cities to move from Canada and find accommodation
- Check Sirelo’s database and browse international moving companies in Canada
- Declutter and pack your belongings, or hire a mover to pack for you
- Set a date for your move with the moving company
- Inform the local authorities about your move from Canada and cancel memberships
- Understand the health insurance system and how you’re covered
- Set up an Australian bank account
- Understand the tax system (you might need to file taxes in Australia and Canada)
- Transfer your Canadian driver’s license
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