moving to Sydney

[JennyP]

Anyway advice on moving to Sydney, I would appreciate advice on the cost of living there compared to the UK.

[kaz101]

Hi Jenny,

I've not lived in Sydney, I've only had holidays there and I think it would be comparable to London in the UK since it's a major city.

When you say the cost of living what do you want to include? I've just added a useful website post and that has property links in it which are usually people's major cost.

Regards,
Karen

[Spock]

most food stuffs would be a fare bit cheaper than UK. The cost of rent has increased quite a bit recently, however still probably les than UK.

[kaz101]

Originally Posted by Spock

most food stuffs would be a fare bit cheaper than UK.

I actually find it more expensive than the UK for food. In the UK I'd spend 30 to 40 GBP a week whereas in Oz I'm spending about A$120 on average. I guess it depends on where you're used to shopping in the UK and where you are here. Not sure whether it could be more expensive here since we are in a more rural area....

Regards,
Karen

[Spock]

compare the cost of a beer!

[Akatrin]

In a 2006/7 study, London rated second most expensive city in the world. Sydney rates at about number 20. It's the most expensive city in Australia, but that can have its advantages. If you want to rub noses with Australia's small celebrity population, make it in showbiz, or have lots of business with the rest of the world, Sydney seems to be the place for it. Things are faster paced, but generally meaner (and higher crime) and its a bit dirtier than other major Australian cities.

Food is different in that in the UK, people tend to do their shopping every couple of days. In Australia, it's more likely people will go shopping once a week and buy in bulk. However, it's not necessairily enough to make any price difference. Supermarkets in Australia have put up their prices quite a bit, blaming the drought or the hurricane or whatever else seems convenient. Eating out prices are comparable.

[kaz101]

Originally Posted by Spock

compare the cost of a beer!

Oops we're actually lucky they let us in since we don't drink, but don't tell anyone

[JennyP]

Thanks for the tips, I thought it might be like that, not sure if would agree to taking a drop in salary to go but its the qualitity of life that appeals to me. Karen you made me laugh about the drink, they might not let me in I would drink all their red wine, just love it. My problem would be that I have lived in england for years but I am from Northern Ireland and no one might be able to understand a word I say. Will let you know our decision on going, we have a few months yet.

[JennyP]

Hi Karen, it looks like we won't be going to Sydney. We have been very disappointed with the wage offered. It would mean we would be 25% down in income and still be paying the 40% tax. We don't mind a small drop but that is two much. I live in hope the company come back with a better offer but I doubt it. Thank you for your advice and help. Hope you have a lovely christmas and great new year. Take care, if anything changes will let you know. All the best Jenny

[kaz101]

It's a shame it wasn't a better offer Jenny.

They may come back with another offer.

Merry Christmas to you too. Hope you have a prosperous New Year too!

Regards,
Karen