We break down the cost so you can budget with confidence.
A common question we get asked at Transition Medical is:
“How much will it cost me to move to Australia?”
Unfortunately it really does come down to your own circumstances and plans.
Are you relocating on your own or with your family? Will the practice contribute towards relocation costs? Are you planning to go into long term rent immediately or stay in temporary accommodation (eg. AirBnB)?
Whilst every situation is different, having a realistic financial plan before you move can make the transition significantly less stressful.
Here’s a breakdown of the main costs you’ll want to budget for.
Visa Costs
The Australian Government reviews visa application charges each financial year, and new visa fees came into effect on 1 July. Depending on your visa pathway, government application charges have increased, so it’s important to check current fees before lodging your application.
For doctors relocating under employer-sponsored or skilled migration pathways, visa fees are just one part of the overall relocation budget. Medicals, police clearances and other application costs should also be factored in.
AHPRA Registration Costs
Before practising medicine in Australia, you’ll need registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
If you’re applying through the Expedited Specialist Pathway (ESP), you’ll need to budget for:
- Initial application fees
- Registration fees
- Certified documentation.
These fees are separate from your visa application and are an important part of your relocation budget.
At Transition Medical, we guide candidates through every stage of the AHPRA process to help avoid unnecessary delays or unexpected costs.
Flights to Australia
Flights are often one of the largest upfront expenses.
Typical one-way economy fares from the UK to Australia range from approximately:
- £700–£1,300 per adult
- More during school holidays or peak travel periods
If you’re relocating as a family, this cost can quickly add up, and if you prefer to travel in Business Class it’s significantly more than this.
Temporary Accommodation
Many doctors choose to stay in serviced apartments or short-term rentals while they search for permanent accommodation.
We generally recommend budgeting for 4–8 weeks of temporary accommodation to give yourself time to explore different suburbs before signing a lease. Once again it will depend on your circumstances and the area you are relocating to determine the likely cost of this so we recommend you look on the usual sites for an idea of how much it may cost you.
Renting Your First Home
Rental prices vary considerably depending on where you choose to live.
As a guide, average weekly rents for a family home are approximately:
| City |
Average Weekly Rent
|
|---|---|
| Sydney | AUD $796 |
| Melbourne | AUD $613 |
| Brisbane | AUD $687 |
| Perth | AUD $721 |
| Adelaide | AUD $629 |
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/au/property/average-rent-price-in-australia/
Bear in mind that more rural accommodation is likely to be less expensive than living in the City and of course the price varies widely depending on the location. your first three months, you’ll also need to budget for:
- Rental bond (usually four weeks’ rent)
- Two weeks’ rent in advance
- Utility connections
- Internet
- Basic household essentials
Buying a Car
Outside Australia’s major CBDs, a car is often essential.
A reliable used vehicle may cost anywhere from AUD $8,000–$20,000, depending on age and model.
There are of course rental and finance options available.
Everyday Living Expenses
Don’t forget your day-to-day costs while you’re getting settled.
This might include:
- Groceries
- Mobile phone
- Internet
- Furniture
- School uniforms
- Childcare
- Petrol
- Eating out
Having enough savings means you can enjoy settling into your new lifestyle without worrying about every expense.
How Much Should You Save?
Every move is different, but as a rough guide:
Single Doctor
AUD $15,000–$25,000
This should comfortably cover flights, registration, temporary accommodation, rental bond, a car and initial living expenses.
Couple
AUD $25,000–$35,000
Family
AUD $35,000–$50,000+
The more prepared you are financially, the easier your transition will be.
Many doctors also receive relocation assistance from their employer, which can significantly reduce your upfront costs, so it’s always worth discussing this before accepting a position.
How Transition Medical Can Help
From AHPRA registration and visa guidance to choosing the right location and understanding relocation costs, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
We’ve helped UK and Irish doctors successfully relocate, and we’re always happy to answer your questions, even if you’re only at the early planning stage.
Get in touch with the Transition Medical team for a confidential discussion about current opportunities and let us help you plan your move with confidence.
Further Reading
