The number of people moving interstate is on the increase. And people who were born overseas are more likely to move internally than the Australian-born, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Settlement in a new country involves a significant process of adjustment, so moving interstate can mean settling twice.
Public affairs manager at settlement services provider AMES Australia, Laurie Nowell says migrants need to revise the steps they took when they first arrived.
Your moving checklist should include – registering your change of address with government departments, banks, RTA and other service providers you may use.
Most changes can easily be done online.
Pallavi Thakkar arrived from India and settled in Sydney, but recently she made a move to Melbourne for a better career opportunity.
She advises to have a ‘moving budget’ to avoid any financial surprises.
It’s also important to remember that insurance premium and service providers can differ from state-to-state.
Australia has a national curriculum, regardless of where you live or what school system you are in.
However, Laurie Nowell from AMES suggests doing your research can help you with enrolment as certificates, subjects and school terms vary.
Each state has its own rules and regulations regarding car registration and vehicle licences.
Different documentations are required to complete the process. And fees vary.
Voting is compulsory in Australia.
Every time you move, you must update your address on the electoral roll or your name could be removed and you will be unable to vote.
Laurie Nowell says the Australian Electoral Commission offers different options for updating your enrolment details.
Families often make the move for better cultural links and community support.
Pallavi Thakkar says she found social media platforms useful to get practical advice and connect with her Indian cultural community.
Apart from community forums, Laure Nowell says settlement services providers and migrant resource centres can also assist.
It’s worth remembering, that Australia has some of the strictest quarantine laws in the world, and these apply when moving interstate.
It’s recommended to leave behind plants, animal products and agricultural equipment which may contain contaminants.
For more information check out the Australian Government's interstate quarantine website.
