Living in Melbourne, Australia – An Expats Guide
Melbourne, consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable cities, offering an irresistible mix of culture, nature, and modern conveniences.
Expats who relocate to Melbourne quickly discover why it’s a favourite destination for those seeking an exciting new life overseas.
The city’s unique charm stems from its diverse neighbourhoods, from Fitzroy’s artsy vibes to St Kilda’s, a beachside retreat – with each section of the city having its own unique character appealing to a range of different people.
There truly is a home for people from every walk of life in this wonderful city!
Whether you’re a foodie drawn by Melbourne’s thriving café culture or a professional seeking opportunities in Australia’s numerous booming industries, this city has something to offer everyone.
One of Melbourne’s most attractive aspects is its multiculturalism, with large communities of expats from Europe, Asia, and beyond.
This cultural richness is reflected in everything from the food scene to the festivals, giving the city a truly global feel and helping expats to feel at home in no time.
Melbourne’s world-class education and healthcare systems provide peace of mind for families.
At the same time, young professionals appreciate the city’s excellent job market, particularly in the IT, healthcare, and construction sectors.
From weekend trips to the nearby Yarra Valley wine region to exploring hidden spots filled with street art, Melbourne presents endless opportunities for adventure and discovery.
Moving to Melbourne could be one of the best decisions you make, whether you are planning to stay for a few years or a lifetime, it is an experience not to be missed.
Join us as we explore everything that makes this city so great!
Melbourne’s Multicultural Community
Melbourne is home to a global tapestry of different cultures.
You will soon realise that life in Melbourne feels like being part of a rich global tapestry – a fact that the city truly embraces and celebrates.
Surprisingly, just over 30% of the city’s residents were born in Australia, with the rest hailing from all corners of the world, such as China, India, Greece, Vietnam, Italy and the UK.
This rich blend of cultures gives Melbourne a distinctive global charm, evident in its many friendly neighbourhoods, international food scene, and multicultural festivals.
Whether you are sharing stories over coffee with a Greek neighbour or celebrating Lunar New Year in Chinatown, expats find their friendship circles expanding in unexpected ways when moving to Melbourne.
This diversity is precisely what makes living in Melbourne such a uniquely enriching experience, especially for expats!
Cost of Living in Melbourne: What Can You Expect
Living cost will be rather different when moving to Australia from the UK.
Melbourne is often described as a more affordable city than Sydney, but it’s important to keep in mind that it is still considered an expensive city by global standards.
To illustrate the cost-of-living differences, we have compared living costs in Melbourne to London.
For a clearer idea of how your expenses would stack up, visit the cost of living calculator website Numbeo:
- The cost of living in Melbourne is 24% cheaper than in London
- Cost of Living, including rental prices, in London is 44.3% higher than in Melbourne
- Rent prices in London are 89.3% higher than in Melbourne
- Restaurant prices in London are 38.8% higher than in Melbourne
- Groceries prices in London are 9.8% lower than in Melbourne
- Local purchasing power in London is 23.4% lower than in Melbourne
Only the cost of groceries and purchasing power is more costly in Melbourne – something that you will find throughout the whole of Australia.
Compared to London, which has an average monthly salary of £3,554, Melbourne’s average salary is slightly lower, at £3,214.
The good news is that overall, you will find that your day-to-day expenses are lower in Melbourne.
Essential Documentation for Living in Melbourne
Make sure you have a good understanding of visa requirements before making the move.
Securing the appropriate visa is crucial before you embark on your journey to Melbourne.
If you are not an Australian citizen, you will need a valid visa to live and work anywhere in the country.
Australia’s visa system operates on a points-based immigration system favouring candidates with skills that address national shortages.
But what does this mean for you?
Applying for Australian citizenship will involve meeting residency requirements and demonstrating your commitment to Australia.
However, if you’re worried about losing your British citizenship, Australia permits dual citizenship, allowing you to hold citizenship in both countries without relinquishing either!
This gives you the flexibility and benefits of being a citizen of both the UK and Australia and is something you may want to consider.
For more detailed information about visa categories and the citizenship process, the Australian Government’s Immigration website is the best place to go.
Familiarising yourself with the requirements in advance will ensure a smoother transition as you prepare for your life in Melbourne.
Finding Work in Melbourne
There are several in-demand industries in Melbourne.
Securing employment while living in Melbourne can be challenging but knowing where to start your hunt can make all the difference.
One of the key strategies we recommend is to focus on Australia’s in-demand occupations.
The Australian government regularly updates its skills shortage list, highlighting professions experiencing a shortfall in local talent.
These industries often make it more advantageous for skilled professionals to obtain visas and secure employment, so keep an eye out for any in-demand jobs in your field!
Currently, some in-demand jobs include construction workers, health professionals, engineers, and those with information communication technology (ICT) and science skills.
For anyone unfamiliar with the Australian job market, working with a migration agent can be a smart move.
Migration agents assist with the complex visa application process and offer valuable services such as updating your CV to Australian standards and connecting you with potential employers.
They also prepare you for interviews, making the transition into the Melbourne workforce smoother.
Check out the Australian Government’s Immigration site to explore the current skills shortage list and other migration information.
With proper preparation, finding work in Melbourne will not only become far more achievable but also increase your chances of visa approval – a win-win situation.
Work-Life Balance
Life in Melbourne offers more than just great job opportunities it also provides an enviable work-life balance.
The Aussie culture prioritises personal well-being, where people leave work on time without feeling pressured to stay late.
It’s not uncommon to see workers clocking out at 5 pm sharp, with minimal overtime, allowing more time to enjoy life outside of the office – Melbourne is certainly a wonderful place to do so!
Victoria, Melbourne’s state, boasts an impressive 13 public holidays annually, more than most places across the globe.
This, along with Australia’s standard paid leave, means you have plenty of time to relax and explore with family and friends in your new home.
This clear separation between work and personal life is one of the key reasons why expats find living in Melbourne so attractive – the city truly allows you to strike the perfect balance between career success and enjoying your downtime with loved ones!
Understanding Taxes While Living in Melbourne
Make sure you have a good grasp on the tax system when relocating to Australia.
Moving to a new country means you’ll need to familiarise yourself with the local tax system, this is no different when moving to Australia.
This applies whether you’re a citizen, a temporary resident, or have been in Australia for more than six months; you will likely be classified as a resident for tax purposes.
This means you must pay income tax on any earnings in the country.
Employers in Melbourne handle much of the tax process by calculating and deducting tax based on your salary, using your Tax File Number (TFN) and Withholding Declarations, meaning understanding taxes should be quite easy to adapt to.
For those moving to Melbourne, some of the tax bracket thresholds have very recently been increased, these are the latest figures:
- $0 – $18,200: No tax
- $18,201 – $45,000: 16%
- $45,001 – $135,000: 30%
- $135,001 – $190,000: 37%
- $190,001 and over: 45%
You can review the complete tax brackets on the Australian Taxation Office website.
Factors like your Medicare levy status, superannuation contributions, and potential deductions can also impact your final tax bill.
Expats should be aware that Australia’s taxation system is comprehensive and offers ways to reduce their tax burden through credits and deductions.
You can explore the Australian Government’s tax resources online for a more in-depth look at how taxation works while living in Melbourne.
Staying informed will help you manage your finances as easily and efficiently as possible during your time in Australia.
Healthcare in Melbourne
Melbourne offers locals some excellent healthcare provisions.
Ensuring your family’s health needs are met is a priority when moving to Melbourne, and you’ll be glad to hear that Australia’s healthcare system offers excellent support.
The public system, known as Medicare, provides high-quality, accessible care for citizens, permanent residents, and certain visa holders.
If you’re eligible, signing up for Medicare is essential, as it covers services like GP visits and hospital care.
However, just be aware that Medicare comes with the Medicare Levy, a tax of around 2% of income that helps fund the system.
Enrolling in Medicare is straightforward. You are required to fill out a registration form, which is available online or at a local Medicare office.
Visit the Australian Government website for further information and guidance about enrolling in the Medicare system.
While Medicare covers a wide range of services, expats should also invest in private health insurance for more comprehensive coverage.
Private insurance offers additional benefits like access to specialists and shorter waiting times.
Platforms like iSelect provide easy comparisons of Australia’s leading health insurance providers for those unsure about which private policy best suits their needs.
This free service can help you find a policy tailored to your specific circumstances while living in Melbourne.
By combining Medicare and private insurance, you’ll ensure comprehensive healthcare for yourself and your family.
A High Standard of Living and Unmatched Safety
Melbourne offers an exceptional quality of life for its residents, making it a magnet for expats worldwide.
The city’s high standard of living is partly due to a 30-year infrastructure strategy that was established to enhance access to jobs, services, and public transport.
Residents enjoy easy commutes from well-planned urban spaces, and a robust healthcare system, contributing to a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle for locals.
In addition, Melbourne’s thriving cultural scene, diverse neighbourhoods, and proximity to some breathtaking nature further elevate the city’s appeal, allowing residents to enjoy a well-rounded
Melbourne’s Weather
Moving to Melbourne means adapting to a city with famously unpredictable weather.
Melbournians often joke about experiencing “four seasons in one day,” as its coastal location contributes to rapid shifts in climate.
Understanding the city’s seasonal patterns can help you prepare for anything!
- Summer (December to February) – brings warm to hot days, with average temperatures between 14°C and 25°C, though it’s not uncommon for the mercury to hit 40°C during heatwaves.
- Autumn (March to May) offers a more temperate climate, with mild days between 10°C and 20°C, making it a favourite for outdoor activities.
- Winter (June to August) – in Melbourne is cool, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 14°C. Frost is rare, but early mornings and nights can feel chilly.
- Spring – (September to November) sees the city come alive with blooming flowers and mild weather, with temperatures typically ranging from 9°C to 19°C.
Despite these fluctuations, snow and ice are rare occurrences in Melbourne, thanks to its proximity to the coast and generally temperate climate.
For more details on what to expect with Melbourne’s weather, check the Bureau of Meteorology.
Discover Melbourne’s Hidden Coastal Gems
There are some wonderful beaches to explore in and around Melbourne.
When it comes to beaches, Melbourne may not be the first location in Australia that comes to mind, especially when compared to iconic spots like Bondi in Sydney.
But for those thinking of relocating to Melbourne, the city offers a charming array of coastal escapes perfect for unwinding.
With 14 sandy beaches to choose from, Melbourne’s coastline is ideal for those seeking a laid-back seaside experience.
Brighton Beach is perhaps the most well-known, famous for its colourful bathing boxes and surfy atmosphere!
A haven for swimmers and sunbathers, it’s also just a short walk to Brighton’s trendy cafés, galleries, and boutiques, making it a popular choice for residents and visitors.
Williamstown Beach, affectionately known as “Willy Beach,” offers a more serene escape.
Located just minutes from the city, this historic spot boasts stunning views of Melbourne’s skyline and draws swimmers, sailors, and those simply looking to relax by the water.
Half Moon Bay is another must-visit. Its crescent-shaped shore offers natural shelter, perfect for boating and swimming.
Just offshore lies the sunken HMVS Cerberus, a 19th-century warship turned artificial reef that adds a touch of history to this scenic bay.
Whether you’re into water sports or want a picturesque spot to unwind, Melbourne’s beaches deliver understated charm.
Explore Beyond the City
Be sure to head out of the city and explore some of Victoria’s top escapes.
One of the best things about living in Melbourne is how easily you can escape the city and dive into Victoria’s stunning landscapes.
Ideal for those craving coastal views, mountainous adventures, or charming regional towns, exciting getaways are just a short trip away.
Take the train to historical towns like Bendigo or Ballarat, both known for their Gold Rush heritage, art galleries, and quaint streets for a cultural escape.
If natural beauty is more your style, the rugged coastline along the Great Ocean Road offers jaw-dropping ocean views, while inland, Victoria’s ancient rainforests provide a unique retreat for nature lovers.
Art enthusiasts can embark on the famous Silo Art Trail, showcasing large-scale murals on grain silos across the state.
Or, for those seeking outdoor fun, the Murray River offers watersports and sun-drenched landscapes perfect for a riverside escape.
During winter, Victoria’s alpine region comes alive with snow, and within just four hours, you can be skiing or snowboarding in places like Mt. Buller.
The variety of landscapes makes planning exciting weekend getaways from Melbourne easy.
Looking for an international escape?
Popular holiday destinations like Fiji, Tahiti, and New Zealand are just a short flight away, making Melbourne the perfect launchpad for more distant adventures.
Melbourne’s Culinary Scene
Melbourne is a culinary playground for food lovers.
Moving to this wonderful city will provide you with easy access to one of the world’s most exciting and diverse food scenes.
While Australia is often associated with the classic BBQs, Melbourne has evolved into a global foodie mecca, offering a staggering variety of dining experiences.
With over 5,000 cafes and restaurants scattered throughout the city, there’s no shortage of places to explore.
What makes Melbourne truly unique is where you’ll find its culinary gems.
The city is full of surprises, from hidden laneways and underground basements to eateries tucked beneath bridges.
Melbourne’s rich multiculturalism is beautifully reflected in its food scene, which offers diverse offerings, from authentic Italian pizza on Lygon Street to delicious dumplings in Chinatown.
The options for those living in Melbourne are endless—whether indulging in high-end dining or savouring street food from one of the many vibrant markets, like the iconic Queen Victoria Market.
With every meal, the city serves a fresh take on global cuisine, delighting both locals and the hundreds of thousands of visitors who flock here yearly to experience its food and wine culture.
For a deeper dive into Melbourne’s food scene, check out Visit Victoria’s guide.
A Wine Lover’s Paradise
Be sure to explore Melbourne’s wonderful vineyards.
Living in Melbourne isn’t just about enjoying world-class coffee and food—it’s also a dream for wine enthusiasts.
Just beyond the city’s urban hustle lies a treasure trove of some of the finest cool-climate wines in the world.
Victoria boasts 21 diverse wine regions, each offering a unique blend of flavours and experiences for both connoisseurs and casual wine lovers.
The Yarra Valley, just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, is one of the most iconic and accessible wine regions in Australia.
Known for its exceptional Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir, the valley offers more than just a tasting—it’s an experience.
Spend a day touring picturesque vineyards, indulging in gourmet local food, and sampling wines that have earned international acclaim.
But Melbourne’s wine scene doesn’t stop at the Yarra Valley.
Other regions like the Mornington Peninsula and Macedon Ranges also produce remarkable wines, each offering a unique slice of Victoria’s diverse winemaking landscape.
Whether you’re visiting a cellar door or attending one of Melbourne’s many wine festivals, there’s always something new to discover.
For more on Melbourne’s wine regions, check out this helpful guide.
A Coffee Lover’s Dream
Melbourne is a coffee lover’s dream.
In Melbourne coffee isn’t just a drink, it’s a way of life!
The city is home to some of the world’s most talented and inventive baristas, constantly raising the bar on what makes the perfect cup.
While chain coffee shops like Costa Coffee dominate in other parts of the world, Melbournians take their coffee game seriously, opting for artisanal espresso-based drinks that focus on quality, flavour, and craftsmanship over ease of access!
Melbourne’s vibrant café culture is woven into the fabric of the city, with many of the best spots tucked away in laneways and hidden alleys.
These quirky cafes are often housed in unique and character-filled buildings, offering not just great coffee but a memorable atmosphere.
If you enjoy sipping a perfectly brewed flat white or discovering a new single-origin espresso, exploring Melbourne’s coffee scene is an adventure in itself.
For locals, coffee is more than just a morning pick-me-up—it’s a source of pride and a daily ritual that reflects the city’s passion for excellence.
If you’re moving to Melbourne or planning a visit, don’t miss out on this world-renowned coffee culture.
Must-See Attractions When Living in Melbourne
Explore all of the great attractions on offer in Melbourne.
Once you’ve settled into your new home in Melbourne, the city and the state of Victoria open up a world of exploration.
Melbourne is a gateway to some of Australia’s most breathtaking landscapes, offering unique experiences that will keep even seasoned travellers captivated.
One of the most iconic attractions is the Great Ocean Road, a scenic drive that begins just an hour west of Melbourne.
This stunning coastal route boasts spectacular views, from dramatic cliffs to pristine beaches, and offers access to famous landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. It’s a must for anyone living in Melbourne.
The Grampians National Park is located around 170 miles from the city for a more rugged adventure. Known for its stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and indigenous rock art, the Grampians rival their Scottish namesake in beauty and grandeur.
Within Melbourne itself, there’s always something to see and do.
From top-tier restaurants along the coast to lively cultural festivals, the city offers endless entertainment.
If you’re looking for a day by the sea, check out Melbourne’s best beaches, perfect for everything from water sports to family outings.
For more information on these attractions, check out the Visit Victoria website for up-to-date guides and recommendations.
Here are five top attractions in Melbourne with brief overviews about each:
- Royal Botanic Gardens: A lush urban oasis, the Royal Botanic Gardens offer 94 acres of stunning landscapes, tranquil lakes, and diverse plant collections. They are perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic with friends.
- Federation Square: A bustling cultural hub in the heart of Melbourne, Federation Square hosts art exhibitions, live events, and dining options, all set against striking modern architecture.
- Melbourne Zoo: Home to over 300 species, Melbourne Zoo is a family-friendly destination where visitors can encounter native Australian wildlife and exotic animals from around the world.
- National Gallery of Victoria (NGV): Australia’s oldest and largest public art museum, NGV boasts an impressive collection of local and international art, including renowned exhibitions and contemporary works.
- Queen Victoria Market: A historic marketplace offering fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs. It’s a lively spot to explore Melbourne’s diverse culture and culinary delights.
Each location on our list celebrates Melbourne’s rich culture, natural beauty, and exciting city life – so get out there and explore everything the city has to offer.
A Cultural Powerhouse
Living in Melbourne means immersing yourself in a city brimming with culture.
The arts, sports, and global events come together to create a vibrant urban lifestyle. Often dubbed Australia’s cultural capital, Melbourne offers a wealth of attractions for residents and visitors alike.
The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) houses the nation’s most extensive collection of Australian art, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, Arts Centre Melbourne is the beating heart of the city’s performing arts scene, hosting everything from ballet to live concerts and home to the Australian Music Vault. For more information, visit NGV and Arts Centre Melbourne.
The sports culture is equally significant in Melbourne.
The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), with the largest seating capacity in the Southern Hemisphere, is the site of thrilling events like AFL matches and cricket tests.
Melbourne also hosts world-class events like the Australian Open Tennis Championships, the Melbourne Cup, and the Formula One Grand Prix, making living there a thrilling experience.
Finding Your Dream Home in Melbourne
Melbourne is home to some excellent neighbourhoods and a diverse range of properties.
Buying a home will likely be at the top of your list if you plan on permanently living in Melbourne.
Melbourne is known for its relatively high property prices. Like many global cities, Melbourne’s housing market has been impacted by rising interest rates and inflation, leading to cautious yet upward market trends in 2024.
As of September 2024, the median cost to purchase a home in Melbourne stands at AUD 934,000 (£480,170).
While this figure may seem steep, there are still affordable options, especially if you want to look beyond the city’s central areas.
Suburbs like Melton, west of the city, offer three-bedroom homes for around AUD 470,000 (£242,000).
For even tighter budgets, Hopetoun in the northwest has properties under AUD 200,000 (£102,000).
Be sure to explore more affordable suburbs.
Of course, as always, homes with ocean views come with a premium price tag, often exceeding well over AUD 1,000,000.
However, waterside locations like Portarlington, Corinella, and Paynesville offer more affordable coastal living.
Understanding Australia’s house-buying process is crucial. Each state has slight differences in regulations, so it is advisable to consult a reliable and local property agent.
For more detailed advice, including a step-by-step resource on buying property in Melbourne, visit the Select Legal website.
Melbourne’s Rental Market
Living in Melbourne brings many benefits, but finding a rental property can be challenging, especially in 2024.
Like the UK, Melbourne’s rental market faces a supply and demand crisis, making it competitive for prospective tenants.
With a shortage of rental homes available, many renters are offering more than the asking price to secure a property.
While this may sound intimidating, finding the perfect home is still possible; it just requires more time and patience.
The upside? Renting in Melbourne is generally more affordable than in the UK.
According to the latest figures released in March 2024, the average cost to rent a property in Melbourne is AUD 560 per week or AUD 2,240 (£1,151)
For those seeking luxury, a three-bedroom apartment with city views can cost around AUD 3,500 (£1,799) monthly.
Using a rental agent is one of the best ways to navigate Melbourne’s competitive rental market.
Agents can help streamline your search and find a property that fits your budget and preferred location.
For more detailed guidance, check out rent.com.au, which offers a comprehensive “go-to guide” on renting in Australia.
With the right approach, you can secure your ideal home and enjoy everything that comes with living in Melbourne, from its vibrant culture to its stunning neighbourhoods.
Understanding Melbourne’s Banking System
When living in Melbourne, navigating the banking system is a straightforward process characterised by efficiency and security.
Like the UK, Melbourne has widespread access to bank branches, ATMs, and comprehensive online banking services. Managing your finances is convenient no matter where you are in the city.
Internet banking is prevalent in Melbourne, with banks offering various digital services to suit various needs.
Most transactions, such as paying bills, transferring money, or checking your balance, can be done online or through mobile apps.
Opening a bank account in Melbourne is relatively simple and is best completed in person.
To do so, you’ll need to provide key documents, including your passport, visa, proof of address, and tax information from the Australian Taxation Office.
Additionally, a tenancy agreement, a recent utility bill, and your employer’s details are typically required.
Melbourne is home to branches of Australia’s “Big Four” banks—ANZ, NAB, Westpac, and the Commonwealth Bank of Australia.
These banks all cater to expats, but smaller banks and credit unions are also worth considering for their competitive rates and personalised service.
For more information, visit ANZ, Westpac, or CBA.
Understanding Melbourne’s banking options will make sorting your finances and settling in even more manageable.
Get the Most From Your Currency Transfer
When moving to Melbourne as an expat, managing currency transfers becomes essential to your financial planning.
Foreign exchange (FX) companies can be a smart alternative to traditional banks, as they offer more competitive rates and lower fees for international money transfers.
The foreign exchange market, also known as Forex, is the global marketplace for trading currencies.
Using an FX firm often gives you better exchange rates than those offered by major banks, meaning more Australian dollars for the same amount of pounds.
This can make a big difference, particularly for larger transfers, such as purchasing a home or car.
In addition to better rates, many FX companies charge lower or no fees, whereas banks typically impose transaction and currency conversion fees.
FX companies also provide user-friendly online platforms, allowing you to quickly initiate, track, and manage your transfers without any hassle.
In short, using an FX service is a practical way to save money and ensure smooth financial transactions for those planning long-term transfers between the UK and Melbourne.
For more information on FX services and to compare rates, visit OFX or Wise, two popular FX providers.
Education in Melbourne
Families moving to Melbourne will have access to excellent education facilities.
Ensuring a quality education for their children is a top priority for families in Melbourne.
Many parents relocating from the UK may be concerned about how Melbourne’s education system compares, but you can rest easy knowing that Australia maintains high standards across the board.
Whether you choose public, private, or international schools, Melbourne offers a variety of options to suit your family’s needs.
Australia is known for its diverse and inclusive education system, with the government investing heavily in teaching resources and student support services.
In Victoria, schooling is compulsory for children aged 6 to 17.
However, children can start earlier, with many enrolling in Prep (preparatory year) at age 5, provided they turn 5 before April 30 of that year.
Melbourne’s schools follow a curriculum similar to the UK, making the transition smoother for expat families.
The school structure is divided into Primary School (Prep to Year 6) for ages 5-12 and Secondary School (Years 7 to 12) for ages 12-20.
Parents can choose between government-funded public schools and private or international schools, which come with additional costs but may offer smaller class sizes and specialised programs.
To learn more about school options and enrolment, visit the Victorian Department of Education.
Getting Around Using Melbourne’s Public Transport Systems
Make the most of the excellent transport links in the city.
Life in Melbourne comes with the convenience of one of Australia’s best public transport systems, offering a seamless network of trains, buses, and iconic trams. Public Transport Victoria (PTV) manages the entire system, ensuring efficient travel throughout the city.
The transport system is divided into two zones: Zone 1 covers Melbourne’s central business district (CBD) and inner suburbs, while Zone 2 covers the outer suburbs.
If you’re staying within the CBD, you can enjoy free tram rides within the Free Tram Zone, which is perfect for getting around the city centre without spending a cent!
A Myki card is essential for travel outside the Free Tram Zone.
Melbourne’s public transport relies on the Myki card, a reusable smart card that makes commuting easy across trains, buses, and trams.
You can purchase a Myki card at major retailers, visitor centres, and train stations.
To use the card, load the app onto your phone, add money to it, and tap on and off as you travel. It offers flexibility and is easy to top up online or at Myki machines.
To plan your journeys and learn more about Melbourne’s transport options, visit Public Transport Victoria.
With an integrated system like this, living in Melbourne is not only convenient but also eco-friendly, allowing you to traverse the city quickly and efficiently.
A Guide to Driving in Melbourne
Driving in Australia should be rather easy to get used to but you should still consider learning the rules of the road.
Melbourne boasts well-maintained roads and an efficient transport system, making driving relatively straightforward.
Like the UK, Australians drive on the left-hand side, so adjusting to the traffic flow is smooth for expats.
However, it’s essential to understand that Melbourne has strict road laws, and the police prioritise safety, so always adhere to speed limits and traffic rules.
Before you get behind the wheel in Melbourne, make sure you have a valid driver’s license.
For newcomers, the VicRoads website provides all the information they need about obtaining or transferring a license.
All vehicles in Victoria must be registered with VicRoads, and you’ll need to obtain a Certificate of Roadworthiness to ensure your vehicle is safe for the road. This certificate is essential for both new and used cars.
In addition, it’s highly recommended that you have comprehensive car insurance to protect yourself in case of an accident or damage. Whether you’re commuting to work or taking weekend trips along the Great Ocean Road, having proper coverage will give you peace of mind while living in Melbourne.
For more information on vehicle registration and road rules, head over to VicRoads.
A Sports Lover’s Haven
Melbourne is a great place to be if you enjoy watching live sports.
When moving to the area take the opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the world’s most passionate and vibrant sporting cultures!
Sports are often the heartbeat of social gatherings, from barbecues to casual conversations, where you’ll likely be asked, “Who do you barrack for?”—a common Aussie phrase meaning “Which team do you support?”
Melbourne is famous as the birthplace of Australian Rules Football (AFL), with the sport originating in Victoria in 1896.
Local AFL teams, such as the Melbourne Demons, Essendon Bombers, and Collingwood Magpies, are followed with fervent loyalty by locals.
Cricket also holds a special place in Melbourne’s sports culture, with the legendary Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) serving as the city’s iconic venue.
Major events like the Boxing Day Test and the Ashes series attract global attention.
The city also excels in tennis, hosting the Australian Open, one of the four Grand Slam tournaments, which draws top international players each January.
Melbourne’s sports calendar also includes the world-famous Melbourne Cup, known as “the race that stops the nation.”
With thriving soccer, rugby, and basketball leagues, Melbourne’s sporting diversity means there’s something for every fan.
It’s no wonder the city’s love for sports is second to none!
Melbourne’s Unique Wildlife
Be sure to explore some of the unique wildlife on offer in Melbourne.
Living in Melbourne isn’t just about city life; it’s also about encountering some of Australia’s most unique wildlife right in your backyard.
Despite its urban sprawl, Melbourne is home to several fascinating species, many of which aren’t found elsewhere in the country.
Take the Rainbow Lorikeet, a common sight in the city’s parks and gardens.
These vibrant parrots add a splash of colour to Melbourne’s green spaces and are known for their playful nature.
Another native resident is the Common Ringtail Possum, one of two possum species living in the city.
Unlike its more intrusive cousin, the Brushtail Possum, the Ringtail is less of a nuisance, often nesting peacefully in trees across suburban areas.
One bird you can’t miss is the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo. Known for their noisy squawks, these striking white birds are common throughout Melbourne and can live up to an astonishing 100 years.
For a truly unique experience, watch for the Grey-headed Flying Fox, a species of fruit bat weighing up to 1 kilogram.
These bats form massive colonies, with some camps hosting up to 200,000 individuals.
Living in Melbourne perfectly balances urban living and incredible encounters with Australia’s diverse wildlife.
Bringing Your Pets to Melbourne
There are a number of things you need to do in order to bring your pets to Melbourne.
For many Melbourne expats, bringing a beloved pet is a top priority.
However, importing pets to Australia involves specific steps to ensure compliance with the country’s strict biosecurity regulations.
The first step is to obtain an import permit from the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry.
This must be done well in advance, as the process can take time!
It’s important to note that relocating can be highly stressful for pets.
Upon arrival in Melbourne, they must undergo a minimum 10-day quarantine to ensure they meet Australian biosecurity standards. Be sure to book quarantine space beforehand, as availability can be limited.
When arranging transportation, use a pet transport company that is a member of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA).
These companies are industry-regulated, ensuring the best care for your pet during their journey.
Visit IPATA for details on pet travel regulations and services.
While the process may seem daunting, proper planning will help ensure a smooth transition for your pet, allowing them to settle into life with you in Melbourne.
Moving Your Personal Belongings to Melbourne
We hope our ex-pats guide will give you a good understanding of what to expect when you arrive in Melbourne.
The next step is to arrange for your personal effects to join you.
When relocating to Melbourne, ensuring your belongings arrive safely and efficiently is crucial.
Choosing a reliable and experienced international removal firm is essential to making the process stress-free.
White & Company specialises in international removals to Australia, providing our clients with a hard-to-beat service.
Through our many decades of experience, we understand each move has unique challenges, so we offer tailored services to meet your individual needs.
Whether you have a full load or just a part shipment, White & Company ensures your personal effects are securely wrapped, packed, and transported to Melbourne quickly and carefully.
If you need storage before or after your move, we provide accredited facilities that meet European standards, keeping your items safe for as long as you need.
Upon arrival in Melbourne, our local partners will handle all necessary paperwork, customs clearance, and the careful unloading and unpacking of your belongings, allowing you to settle into your new home smoothly.
For more information on shipping personal effects to Australia, you can contact our international office at 01489 854175 or fill out our quick quote form to get started.
With trusted support every step of the way, your transition to living in Melbourne will be so much easier, leaving you free to focus on enjoying your new life in this vibrant city.
Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.
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