Important updates to our Australian emigration services
We have withdrawn our Australian emigration legal services as of April 2024 and are unable to assist with enquiries or advice about moving to Australia.
This information remains accessible to aid anyone wishing to make the move to Australia, however please note that this information was last updated in August 2023.
Emigrate to Australia is a London-based Australian emigration service who may be able to assist with any enquiries, however please note that we do not endorse any one provider’s services. They can be contacted on 020 7427 5290.
Moving to Canberra could potentially be one of the greatest decisions you ever make. Being one of Australia’s best-kept secrets, the city has many features that’ll entice anyone looking to move from the UK.
Recent updates to the ACT Critical Skills List show more job opportunities than ever for work-based visas in this wonderful city. But if you’re still on the fence, never fear. Follow me as I delve into the top six reasons why you should consider moving to Canberra from the UK.
1. Fantastic location.
Canberra is often heralded for its great location in the Southeast. It’s perfectly positioned between Sydney and the Snow Mountains, meaning it’s convenient if you wish to travel elsewhere.
For instance, in the summer months, there are plenty of beaches nearby, such as Merimbula or Batemans Bay. In the winter, the Australian Alps are close, with the Perisher Valley being nearby for those keen on skiing or snowboarding.
2. Excellent employment rates.
Canberra currently boasts Australia’s most educated workforce and the highest average income in the country. On top of this, the unemployment rate here is currently one of the lowest in the country, sitting at an average of 4.7%.
Regardless of the sector you work in, Canberra has a whole range of employment opportunities available for UK migrants. If you have skills in IT, health or construction, this city may have the role you’re looking for.
Check out our blogs on Skilled Migration Visas and the Skilled Occupation list for more information.
3. Vibrant culture.
Canberra is a wonderfully multicultural city that is not only well-connected locally, but also in touch with the global community too. It should come as no surprise when moving to Canberra – the political heart of Australia – that you won’t run out of exciting and educational things to see and do.
Living here means being closer to some of Australia’s most iconic and famous cultural attractions. Here are a few that come to mind:
- Australian War Memorial – Founded to commemorate Australian soldiers who fought in conflicts throughout the 20th century. This memorial combines a shrine, a world-class museum, and an extensive archive.
- Parliament House – Home to the Australian Parliament, the house is a meeting place for members of parliament and serves as a reminder of Australian democracy.
- National Portrait Gallery – The NGPA is a public art gallery containing over 3000 portraits of many prominent figures in Australian history. This ranges from the likes of Hugh Jackman all the way to the late Queen Elizabeth II.
- Questacon – Known as The National Science and Technology Centre, Questacon is an interactive science communication facility. It has over 200 interactive exhibits related to science and technology, with a focus on developing guests’ STEM capabilities.
Regardless of what piques your interest, there are plenty of places to visit and explore in Canberra.
4. Safe living.
Concerns around safety are always common when looking to move house. However, moving to Canberra is a good option for those who are looking for a friendly community.
Whilst not completely crime-free, the city holds one of the lowest crime rates in the country. There are plenty of family-friendly neighbourhoods to choose from, including Yarraluumla and Kambah. Both of these are great examples of safe places to live in Canberra.
5. Great affordability.
One of the most alluring aspects of Canberra is its affordability. Compared to other major cities in Australia, Canberra is much cheaper. For example, overall, the city is 15% cheaper than Sydney and 5% cheaper than Melbourne.
Money saved from rent and other expenses will allow you to spend it elsewhere. Going out in the evening for dinner or other activities may become commonplace with the money you’ll be saving!
6. Plenty of education options.
Moving to Canberra can be an excellent option for those in need of education. If you’re a student looking for some experience abroad, or you have children that need to attend school, the city hosts many options to choose from.
Currently, there are over 150 schools in Canberra, with most being government-run and the rest either religious or private. On top of this, there are also six international schools that cater for the many migrants that move each year.
In terms of higher education, moving to Canberra is a great choice for students looking for a university. Some of the most notable examples include The Australian National University and The University of Canberra, both ranking well on the World University Ranking list.
What’s the best visa to move to Canberra?
The visa you’ll need if you’re planning a move to Canberra will differ on your situation. Whether it be work, family or business, there are options available for everyone.
The most accessible visa to use is the Subclass 190 Nominated Visa. This visa is for skilled workers looking to migrate to Australia through a nomination scheme.
You can check if your chosen occupation will allow you to migrate to Canberra by visiting the ACT Critical Skills List.
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