My opinion is probably a bit one sided as I am Australian even though I am in Dubai at the moment.
I have many friends that have moved to Aust from the UK and they have sworn never to return to live in thier home countries of England, Scotland, Ireland ect.
My wife is actually of UK origin and her parents also live in Aus now.
I would not say the streets are paved in gold though, in saying that there are many opportunities to be had for the person that will get of thier bum and seek these opportunities.
Aus is a vast country and I am proud to call it home. I would never settle permanent in any other country.