How much did you take over from the UK?

[Ju&Mike]

How much would you say is the minimum we would need to set up in Australia? Family of 4 wanting to live in Sydney.

[newtoOZ]

When I read your post title, I thought you were referring to furniture, clothing, and other possessions. When I read the post, I decided you were talking about money.

All I know is, you will need more than you expect. I came on a company move and still spent more of my own than I expected. And you'll want to have a bit of a savings account in OZ, too.

I could certainly see why you might want to leave a substantial portion of your savings in British pounds, or might not want to liquidate investments. Maybe you could look into efficient ways of transferring money if you need more?

[devilishdaz]

My wife and I are moving to Australia at the end of the year and believe it depends where you move to. Cost of food is relatively cheap compared to the UK and electricity is also much cheaper.

Would be interested to know how what sort of things people find more expensive.

Daz

[tygwyn]

Originally Posted by devilishdaz

My wife and I are moving to Australia at the end of the year and believe it depends where you move to. Cost of food is relatively cheap compared to the UK and electricity is also much cheaper.

Would be interested to know how what sort of things people find more expensive.

Daz

I wish this was the case! We've been here for 14 months and I honestly havent found anything cheaper here than the UK (apart from wages being less). Dont get me wrong.....we're glad we made the move........but we certainly arent any better off financially here than we were in the UK - worse off in fact.

To get an idea of food check out this store - Fooddirect : Your Smart Shopping Alternative

You may find some exotic fruits to be cheaper but thats about it.

We brought $25,000 over with us and that was eaten up pretty quickly - when you first arrive you're spending money hand over fist.

Good luck with everything.

Rachelle

[devilishdaz]

Just out of curiosity where did you move to?

[tygwyn]

Richmond in NSW

[newtoOZ]

Prices are really the same? I think some things, like internet access, are more expensive than the US.

[tygwyn]

Same with the UK too - Broadband costs are a killer here and you also have to keep a close eye on your usage because they'll sting you (badly!) if you go over!

[Ju&Mike]

Do you think £5000-£6000 would be enough to start off or should I bring more over?

[newtoOZ]

I don't think it sounds like enough if you aren't coming over with a job already lined up or with a free place to stay. Even if you get a job, how much delay will there be befor you see your first pay? Are you going to rent an apartment or house? If so you need rent and security money and money to get around while you look for work. Meanwhile all your regular expenses keep right on coming.