Moving to Melbourne

"Before moving to Melbourne, expats should familiarise themselves with the local climate and seasons. Melbourne has warm summers and cool winters, with temperatures ranging from around 20 degrees Celsius in winter, to over 30 degrees Celsius in summer. Additionally, Melbourne receives significant rainfall throughout the year and experiences four distinct seasons. It is also important to remember that Melbourne will often experience four seasons in one day, so it is advisable to bring appropriate clothing and layers. Melbourne is known for its multicultural and vibrant culture, with a wide variety of restaurant, bar and café options available to explore. Furthermore, the city is a hub of creativity, with an array of events, exhibitions, galleries and theatres to enjoy. Expats should also keep in mind that Melbourne is home to a public transport network that consists of trains, trams and buses, allowing them to get around the city with ease. With its lively atmosphere and array of amenities, Melbourne is an exciting city for expats to explore. By doing research and preparing for the local climate, expats will be well-equipped to settle into the city," explained one expat living in Melbourne, Australia, Australia.

"Look for an area convenient for your work and lifestyle. In Melbourne there's lots to choose from on both sides of the Yarra," said one expat in Melbourne.

"There are many ways to find a place to live in Melbourne. One of the most convenient ways to search for housing is online. Websites such as Domain, Realestate.com.au, Rent.com.au, and Gumtree all have a wide variety of rental housing available in Melbourne. Additionally, many local newspapers, as well as community and notice boards, may also advertise rental properties in the area. It can also be helpful to seek the advice of a rental agent, who may have more specialized knowledge and resources to help you find the right place," said one expat in Melbourne, Australia.

"Expat homes and apartments in Melbourne are often located in modern high-rise buildings with easy access to public transport and the city centre. Most homes come with fully functional kitchens and have plenty of natural light. Expats can find modern furniture for their homes in abundance and many apartments feature balconies with amazing views. Expat homes often come with updated appliances and amenities such as air conditioning and heating, as well as wireless internet. With so much on offer, Melbourne can be a great city for an expat looking for a comfortable place to live," explained one expat living in Melbourne, Australia, Australia.

"The average cost of housing in Melbourne is estimated to be between $550 and $650 per week for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre. Renting in the surrounding areas of the city can range from $400 to $550 per week, depending on the type and size of the property," remarked one expat in Melbourne, Australia, Australia.

"Much higher housing costs here. Figure around $1000 per week. It will obviously be less if you don't need such a big place," said one expat in Melbourne.

"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Melbourne, it is important to consider the amount of time one intends to stay in the city, their budget and other lifestyle preferences. Buying a home is a good option if the length of stay is more than five years, and one has access to the necessary finances. Buying a house in Melbourne requires a large initial investment, but owning a home can be a good long-term investment, as the value of property in the city is likely to appreciate over time. Alternatively, renting a home may be a better option for shorter-term stays, or if the initial costs are too high. Renting a home in Melbourne can be cheaper than buying and is also a viable short-term solution as the rental prices in the city can be flexible depending on the duration of the lease. Renters also have more flexibility in terms of where they live and can often move more quickly than those who own a home and need to sell it before they move," commented one expat who made the move to Melbourne, Australia.

"It is important to pack the essentials when moving to Melbourne, such as an adequate supply of clothing for the climate, comfortable shoes suitable for walking around, sunscreen and a pair of sunglasses. Important documents such as passports, visas, and medical records should also be brought. If possible, it may be beneficial to bring a few simple kitchen items such as utensils, dishes and pots/pans. Electronics such as a laptop, phone, and charger are also recommended. It is also a good idea to bring a rain jacket and umbrella in case it rains. Finally, items such as an alarm clock, bedding and curtains, and a few homey items to make the space feel comfortable should be included," replied a member in Melbourne, Australia.

"Wish we brought: 1) relatives and friends 2) international newspapers 3) better choice of clothing Wish we left at home: 1) artwork 2) boxes photos 3) books," commented one expat who made the move to Melbourne.

"When visiting Melbourne, it is important to be mindful and respectful of the local culture. Common cultural faux pas to avoid include failing to queue in line when waiting for a bus or train, not greeting or making eye contact when speaking to someone, speaking too loudly or profanely in public spaces, or failing to close a door after entering or exiting a room. Additionally, it is also important to avoid discussing sensitive topics, such as politics or religion, except for with close and trusted friends," remarked one expat who made the move to Melbourne, Australia.

"People move to Melbourne due to its vibrant and diverse culture, excellent job opportunities, quality education and healthcare, scenic landscapes and bustling nightlife. Melbourne also offers a lower cost of living than other major cities like Sydney and its relatively mild climate makes it an attractive destination for people both living in Australia and from overseas. It is also known as Australia’s ‘sporting capital’ thanks to the wealth of sporting facilities andevents the city hosts," wrote one expat living in Melbourne.

"Healthcare services Melbourne are of a high standard, with a range of public and private hospitals and clinics, providing quality care and a range of options for those wanting specialist services. The availability of medical services is good, with a wide variety of medical services for a variety of illnesses, from general practitioners to specialists. The cost of healthcare services is generally reasonable, though in some circumstances, private health insurance may be needed. There is a range of strategies to ensure health services are accessible and affordable for all, including bulk billing and telehealth services," replied one expat when asked about moving to Melbourne.

"Medical services in Melbourne vary by area and generally provide a wide range of services for both general and specialist care. Primary care services include general practitioners, family doctors, nurses and other allied health professionals, whilst specialist services cover a wide range of specialties, from cardiac services to pediatric care. Most service providers accept major health funds and some offer discounted rates for bulk billing. Emergency care is available throughout the city with four major trauma hospitals providing specialized treatment. Melbourne offers a range of public and private health facilities and services, with increasing numbers of people taking advantage of the latter. Telemedicine is also becoming more prevalent and some services offer online consultations with doctors, psychologists and physiotherapists," commented one expat living in Melbourne.