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Moving to Brisbane, Australia | Expat Exchange
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Streets beach in Southbank Brisbane, Australia

Moving to Brisbane, Australia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Sep 12, 2024

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Brisbane, Australia for its temperate climate, vibrant culture, and diverse population. With its close proximity to the beach, the city offers a relaxed lifestyle and plenty of outdoor activities. The city is also known for its excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around. Additionally, Brisbane is home to a number of universities and colleges, making it an attractive destination for students and professionals alike. Before moving to Brisbane, it is important to be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other parts of Australia. Additionally, the city is prone to flooding, so it is important to be prepared for potential weather-related disruptions. It is also important to be aware of the city's strict quarantine laws, which are in place to protect the health and safety of the community. Finally, it is important to research the job market and the availability of housing before making the move.

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William Russell
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William Russell

What do I need to know before moving to Brisbane?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Brisbane, they said:

"Before moving to Brisbane, it is important to have a good understanding of the climate. Brisbane enjoys a subtropical climate with warm and humid summers, and mild, dry winters. This can be a pleasant change for those used to living in more extreme climates. It is also advised to familiarise oneself with the transportation system - both public transport and roads. Taxis are also a convenient option for getting around the city. Furthermore, expats should become acquainted with the cost of living in Brisbane. While it is generally more affordable than many cities in the US and the UK, basic necessities such as housing, food, transport, and entertainment will add up, and expats should plan their budget accordingly. Additionally, health care should be made a priority and expats should arrange for international health insurance in case of medical emergencies. Finally, it is important to research the job market for any skills or qualifications you may have to ease the transition into the city," explained one expat living in Brisbane, Australia, Australia.

How do I find a place to live in Brisbane?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One way to find an appropriate place to live in Brisbane is to search the internet for listings of available properties. You can find a variety of places, such as apartments, houses, and townhouses. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents for help in finding the perfect property for you. To narrow your search, you can look for listings in the areas and neighborhoods that suit your lifestyle and budget. Additionally, using online resources such as rental websites, newspapers, and social media can be a great way to find available places. You can also join local networks and forums where you can learn information that can help you find the right place to call home," replied a member in Brisbane, Australia.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Brisbane?

"Expat homes and apartments in Brisbane often have a modern look and feel, with plenty of natural light and lots of open space. Many offer stunning views of the city and surrounding areas. They often come fully furnished and equipped with modern amenities, such as air conditioning, swimming pools, and private outdoor areas. Expat homes and apartments in Brisbane are typically also within easy reach of shops, restaurants, and other attractions," remarked one expat who made the move to Brisbane, Australia.

What is the average cost of housing in Brisbane?

If you are thinking about moving to Brisbane, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Brisbane, varies based on location, condition, and other factors, but the average cost of housing can generally be considered to be moderately priced. Depending on the exact location and type of property, monthly rents can range from affordable to slightly expensive. Purchasing a home can also vary greatly in cost, from a few hundred thousand to well over a million dollars in more affluent areas," replied a member in Brisbane, Australia.

Should I buy or rent a home in Brisbane?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Brisbane, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Whether to buy or rent a home in Brisbane is a big decision that should be made carefully. Consider the cost of buying and the ongoing costs of ownership including maintenance and other fees. Think also about the commitment of buying versus the flexibility of renting, both in relation to the length of the tenancy and the ability to easily move to another location if desired. Ultimately, you should make the decision based on budgeting, needs and lifestyle," replied a member in Brisbane, Australia.

What should I pack when moving to Brisbane?

We asked people living in Brisbane to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When preparing to move to Brisbane, it is important to remember to pack items such as clothing for warm and hot weather, sun protection like sunscreen and sunglasses, hats, insect repellent and comfortable shoes. In addition, good bedding, a quality mattress, household items, kitchenware and a favorite book or music can make settling into your new home easier. Appliances, such as a fan, electric kettle and toaster, may also be useful. Depending on where you are moving from, it may also be necessary to bring international power adapters and plug converters. Don't forget important documents such as passports and visas, financial records and address books. Finally, make sure to bring some cash in local currency in case of emergencies," explained one expat living in Brisbane, Australia, Australia.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Brisbane?

We asked people in Brisbane if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"In Brisbane, it is important to respect cultural values and customs. It is considered impolite in Australia to be late for appointments – so it is important to arrive on time, or preferably early. It is also important to be aware that discussing personal matters or sensitive topics, such as religion and politics, in public is generally not accepted. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the cultural setting before discussing these topics. Similarly, it is important to be mindful of public displays of affection as these may be considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to avoid using offensive language, cursing or swearing as this may be perceived as insulting," said one expat in Brisbane, Australia.

"No I didn't. I'm not sure that is possible with Australians they are so laid back," remarked one expat who made the move to Brisbane.

Why do people move to Brisbane?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Brisbane, they responded:

"People move to Brisbane for many reasons. Living in Brisbane offers an idyllic quality of life, with comfortable temperatures, great outdoor activities and plenty of cultural activities. The cost of living and housing is generally lower than other Australian east coast cities, making the city more accessible and appealing to many people. Employment opportunities are strong due to its thriving economy, especially in industries such as professional services and IT. Education options are also excellent, with a high number of universities, TAFEs and other education institutions. People appreciate Brisbane’s relaxed lifestyle and close proximity to the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, providing easy access to some of Australia’s most popular beach destinations," offered one expat living in Brisbane.

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How are healthcare services Brisbane?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Brisbane, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Brisbane, Australia provide a high quality of care. Brisbane has a range of public and private hospitals, as well as specialist medical services and over 24,000 allied health professionals across the region. Brisbane is particularly strong in the fields of cancer services, cardiovascular services, oncology, neurology and paediatric services. Public hospitals are amongst some of the most highly rated in Australia, and all hospitals are supported by the excellent ambulance, pathology and allied health services. The city’s Health Precinct is characterized by world-leading research and healthcare delivery and the latest medical technologies, while the newly-established Children’s Health Queensland offers comprehensive medical care for children from birth to age 16. Brisbane also has a number of specialized clinics and institutes," wrote one expat living in Brisbane.

What are medical services in Brisbane like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Brisbane, they replied:

"Brisbane offers a range of medical services from private and public hospitals, specialist and generalist clinics, an array of allied health services, day and home health care, pharmacies, and more. There are four major public hospitals in Brisbane; Lady Client Hospital, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, and Queensland Children’s Hospital. Brisbane also has over 4,000 licensed medical practitioners and specialists available to provide first-class medical care. There are a number of private clinics in Brisbane that offer a variety of services including general medical practice, obstetrics and gynaecology, ophthalmology, dermatology, ENT, cardiology, and plastic surgery. Furthermore, Brisbane also offers a range of allied health services such as physiotherapy, dietetics, speech pathology, occupational therapy, audiometry, and psychology," remarked one expat in Brisbane.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Streets beach in Southbank Brisbane, Australia

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