"Absolutely. One aspect that isn’t often discussed is the issue of social isolation."

Are you considering making the move to Australia? Or perhaps you've already taken the leap and are settling into your new life Down Under. Whether you're in the planning stages or have already made the move, gaining insights from fellow expats can be invaluable in navigating the transition.

In this exclusive blog series, we sit down with expats who have made Australia their home to gain firsthand insights into their experiences, challenges, and tips for thriving in their adopted country.

From navigating the visa process to finding the perfect rental property, adjusting to the Aussie way of life, and embracing the diverse culture and landscapes, these expats share their stories, advice, and practical tips for making the most of life in Australia.

Join us as we delve into the diverse experiences of expats from around the world who have chosen to call Australia home. Whether you're a prospective expat or a seasoned resident, there's something for everyone in our insider interviews.

Stay tuned for this interview, where we discuss the journey to Australia, the challenges faced along the way, and some top tips for newcomers to the Land Down Under.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn from those who have walked the path before you. Subscribe to our blog and follow along as we explore the expat experience in Australia, one interview at a time.

Welcome to Expat Interviews: Navigating Life Down Under. Let's discover the world of expat living in Australia together!

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Today we speak to Emma who relocated to beautiful QLD from the UK.

Interview with Emma: Moving to Australia and the Lessons Learned

Asset Go: Hi Emma, thanks for joining us today. Can you start by telling us a bit about your background and what prompted your move to Australia?

Emma: Hi, thanks for having me! I’m originally from London, and I moved to Australia about a year ago. The decision to move was partly driven by my career in nursing, which is in high demand here, and partly by a desire for a change of scenery. My partner and I were looking for a new adventure and Australia seemed like the perfect place with its great climate and laid-back lifestyle.

Asset Go: What was the most challenging aspect of your move?

Emma : The biggest challenge for me was adjusting to the different pace of life. In London, everything is very fast-paced and there's a constant rush. In Australia, especially in places like Brisbane where we moved, life is much more relaxed. It took some time to get used to the slower rhythm and the less hectic work culture.

Asset Go: How did you find the process of settling in and finding a place to live?

Emma: Finding a place to live was a bit tricky. We started our search online, but I quickly realized that in Australia, it's essential to visit properties in person. The rental market can be quite competitive, and it was common to attend multiple viewings and put in applications before securing a place. Additionally, the real estate agents here often have a different approach compared to the UK, which took some getting used to.

Asset Go: What are some cultural differences you’ve noticed between Australia and the UK?

Emma : One major cultural difference is the Australian sense of humour. Australians tend to be very laid-back and often use humour to diffuse situations. They also have a more informal approach to communication, which can be surprising if you’re used to the more formal British style. For example, it’s common for people here to use nicknames or informal terms of address in professional settings, which felt a bit odd at first.

Asset Go: Can you share an experience that highlighted these cultural differences?

Emma: Absolutely. One experience that stands out was during my first few months working in an Australian hospital. I noticed that the approach to patient care here was quite different from what I was used to in the UK. In Australia, there's a stronger emphasis on patient-centered care and involving patients in decision-making. I attended a case meeting where the entire team, including the patients and their families, were actively discussing care plans and treatment options. This collaborative approach was new to me and required me to adapt quickly.

Additionally, the informal communication style among the healthcare staff was noticeable. There was a relaxed atmosphere in meetings and a more casual way of addressing each other compared to the formal interactions I was accustomed to back home. Initially, this informality felt strange, but I soon realized it contributes to a more approachable and supportive work environment. Adapting to these differences was a learning curve, but it ultimately helped me integrate better into the Australian healthcare system.

Asset Go: Have there been any surprises or unexpected challenges in terms of the cost of living or daily life?

Emma : Yes, the cost of living is definitely higher in some areas than I expected. For instance, dining out can be quite pricey, and while groceries are not outrageous, they are noticeably more expensive compared to the UK. Additionally, the cost of health insurance and some utility bills took us by surprise.

Asset Go: On a lighter note, what are some of your favorite things about living in Australia?

Emma: Oh, there’s so much to love! The outdoor lifestyle is a huge plus. We’ve really enjoyed exploring the beautiful beaches and national parks. The weather is fantastic, and the relaxed vibe is refreshing. I also appreciate the emphasis on work-life balance here. It's common to see people making time for leisure activities and family, which is something I really value.

Asset Go: Is there anything you miss about the UK, or anything that you find particularly challenging?

Emma: I do miss the UK’s rich history and cultural institutions. There’s a sense of tradition and heritage in places like London that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. As for challenges, I’d say the distances between places can be daunting. Australia is so vast, and traveling to visit friends or family can be quite a trek.

Asset Go: Here’s a controversial question: have you found any downsides to living in Australia that people might not talk about openly?

Emma: Absolutely. One aspect that isn’t often discussed is the issue of social isolation. While Australians are friendly, it can be challenging to make deep, meaningful connections quickly. The transient nature of many Australian cities means people are often moving in and out, and it can take longer to build a close-knit social circle compared to the UK. This sense of isolation, especially in smaller cities, can be quite overwhelming for some newcomers.

Asset Go: That’s a very interesting point. How have you managed to deal with social isolation, and what advice would you give to others in a similar situation?

Emma: I’ve been proactive about joining local clubs and groups that match my interests, which has helped me meet people. It’s also important to be patient and persistent. Building lasting relationships takes time, so I’d advise newcomers to stay open-minded, be proactive in social settings, and not get discouraged if things don’t fall into place immediately.

Asset Go: Thanks so much for sharing your insights, Emma. Do you have any final thoughts for those considering a move to Australia?

Emma: Just be prepared for a bit of an adjustment period. Australia is a fantastic place to live, but like any big move, it comes with its own set of challenges. Embrace the differences, be open to new experiences, and remember that it takes time to find your rhythm in a new country. It’s definitely worth it in the end!

Asset Go: Great advice. Thanks again for your time, Emma.

Emma: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure.

If you would like to share your journey with other expats, please get in touch. Be sure to join Moving To Australia - Support Group on Facebook. This group has been created with the intention of allowing expats making the move and expats who have already made the move to Australia to connect and offer each other words of advice and support. Moving countries can be an extremely overwhelming experience and often expats are making this transition with no support. This group is designed to create a safe place where you can ask fellow expats for their advice or words of encouragement so you can better equip yourself and family for your transition to Australia. Ensure to follow where you will get access to free wellbeing resources, guest speakers and Australia wide catchups.