Damon Mcknight
Australian expatriates, or those living outside of Australia, make up about 2.34% of the Australian population. This diaspora community is highly educated, with 44% of Australian expatriates in other OECD countries having attained a high level of education. Australian expats face challenges such as isolation from loved ones due to the country's distant location and the high cost of living in Australia. However, they also benefit from a welcoming culture, a friendly and inclusive society, and a wide range of outdoor activities and volunteering opportunities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | In 2020, 2.34% of the Australian population lived overseas, which is lower than most OECD countries, except the USA (0.89%) and Japan (0.64%). This includes approximately 598,765 Australian-born people living outside of Australia. |
| Education | 44% of Australian expatriates in other OECD countries had a high level of education. |
| Cost of Living | Australia has a high cost of living, with high rents and high costs for goods and services. |
| Visa Options | There are plenty of visa options available, especially for skilled expats. |
| Driving | Expats with a temporary visa can drive in Australia for three months with a foreign license or an International Driver's Permit. After that, they must obtain an Australian driver's license. Citizens of certain countries can exchange their license without taking a test. |
| Healthcare | Expats can access the public healthcare system for some subsidized services. To access the universal healthcare system (Medicare), one must be a permanent resident or from a country with a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Australia. |
| Friendliness | Australian society is generally friendly and welcoming, with a strong culture of valuing friendship, authenticity, optimism, and egalitarianism. |
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What You'll Learn
Australian expats are highly educated
Australian expatriates, or those Australians living outside of Australia, are highly educated. In fact, 44% of Australian expatriates in other OECD countries had a high level of education. This is reflected in the fact that skilled worker visas are designed to encourage experienced expats to work in specified parts of Australia. The skilled worker visa requires a job offer or a certain number of points in the Australian immigration system, which are based on in-demand skills or employment offers. This suggests that Australian expats are in high demand in other countries due to their high level of education and skills.
The high level of education among Australian expatriates is also evident in the 2003 CEDA report, which found that for every one highly educated Australian living in an OECD country, there were seven highly educated migrants to Australia. This "brain circulation" and "brain gain" benefit Australia as these skilled expatriates tend to return to Australia and bring their enhanced skills and expertise with them. The report also recommended that the Australian government maintain active contact with the diaspora, recognizing the value of its highly educated and skilled expatriates.
Furthermore, the Australian diaspora is highly educated compared to other countries. For example, while 44% of Australian expatriates in OECD countries had a high level of education, Japanese expatriates had the highest proportion with 50% having a high level of education. This showcases that Australian expatriates are not only highly educated within their own country but also in comparison to other expatriate groups.
The education levels of Australian expatriates have an impact on their visa options as well. The Australian government offers skilled worker visas and points-based systems that favor those with in-demand skills and employment offers. This indicates that Australia recognizes and values the high level of education and skills that its expatriates possess, and seeks to attract and retain this talented cohort.
Overall, the high level of education among Australian expatriates is notable and has various implications, from visa options to contributing to Australia's "brain gain" and skilled workforce. This education level is also recognized and valued by the Australian government, which seeks to maintain connections with its highly skilled diaspora.
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They often feel isolated from family and friends
Australia is known for its high living costs, with rents and the cost of goods and services higher than in most countries. This can be a significant challenge for Australian expats, who often face financial pressures in affording everyday expenses and renting homes. The process of obtaining a permanent visa is extensive, and the high cost of living in Australia's major cities can be a barrier for expats.
The Australian continent is geographically distant from many parts of the world, particularly those in the northern hemisphere. This distance can lead to feelings of isolation for Australian expats, who may find it time-consuming and costly to travel back to their home countries to visit family and friends. The time and financial constraints associated with long-distance travel can exacerbate the sense of isolation for those living far from their support systems.
In 2020, approximately 2.34% of the Australian population lived overseas, a lower percentage compared to most OECD countries. This dispersion of the Australian diaspora across various countries can contribute to a sense of dispersion and disconnection from their home communities. The physical distance and potential language or cultural barriers in their new locations can intensify feelings of isolation.
To address these challenges, the Australian government has been advised to implement policies that actively engage and connect with the expatriate community. Initiatives that foster a sense of community and provide resources for expats can help alleviate feelings of isolation and promote a supportive environment for Australians living abroad.
Despite the challenges of living abroad, the Australian expatriate community is highly educated, with 44% of Australian expatriates in other OECD countries having a high level of education. This brain gain can contribute to a sense of shared expertise and skills within the expatriate community, fostering connections and a sense of belonging.
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They face high costs of living
Australia is known for its high cost of living. Many expats are surprised by the high costs of rent and everyday expenses. Australia is one of the most expensive countries in the world, with higher rents and higher costs for goods and services than most other countries. This is particularly true in the main cities. The cost of living in Australia is higher than in most other countries, including many European countries. For example, the cost of living in Australia is higher than in Germany, which is known for its high-quality housing.
The high cost of living in Australia can be attributed to several factors. One factor is the country's isolation from other major countries. Australia is located in the southern hemisphere, far from most other highly developed countries. This isolation leads to higher costs for importing goods and services, which are then passed on to consumers. Additionally, the Australian dollar is a strong currency, which can make the country more expensive for foreigners, especially those coming from countries with weaker currencies.
The high cost of living in Australia can be a challenge for expats, especially those who are not prepared for it. Expats should be aware of the high costs and plan their finances accordingly. It is important to consider the cost of rent, everyday expenses, and other costs such as healthcare and transportation. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living can vary within Australia, with the main cities tending to be more expensive than regional areas.
The Australian government has recognized the high cost of living in the country and has implemented policies to address it. The government has also taken steps to maintain active contact with Australian expatriates, recognizing their value to the country. Australian expatriates tend to be highly educated and skilled, with 44% of Australian expatriates in other OECD countries having a high level of education. This brain circulation and brain gain benefit Australia economically and socially.
Despite the high cost of living, Australia offers many benefits to expats, including a friendly and welcoming culture, a high quality of life, and a strong sense of community. Expats can also take advantage of the country's natural beauty and outdoor activities, such as camping, fishing, and snorkelling. Additionally, Australia offers a variety of visa options for expats, including skilled worker visas and working holiday visas, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad.
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They have many visa options
Australian expats have a wide range of visa options available to them, depending on their destination and purpose of travel. Here are some common visa options for Australians travelling abroad:
Visa-Free Travel
Australians can visit many countries without a visa, including those in the Schengen Area in Europe, depending on the length and purpose of their stay. It is important to check the specific requirements for each country, as some may require a visa for extended stays or certain activities.
Working Holiday Visa
Australia has reciprocal working holiday visa programs with several countries. These visas allow Australians to work and travel in the participating country for a specified period, usually up to one or two years. This is a great option for Australians looking to gain international work experience and explore a new culture.
Student Visa
For Australians wishing to study abroad, a student visa is required by most countries. This visa allows the holder to remain in the country for the duration of their studies and may also permit part-time work to support their studies.
Permanent Residency Visa
Some Australians may choose to obtain a permanent residency visa in their chosen country. This typically requires a significant commitment to the country, such as through investment, business ownership, or a highly skilled job. Obtaining permanent residency can provide more stability and rights, such as access to local healthcare and education systems.
Transit Visa
When travelling to a country that requires a visa, Australians may also need a transit visa if they need to pass through a third country during their journey. It is important to check the specific requirements for each country and ensure that all necessary visas are obtained before travelling.
In addition to these common visa types, there are often country-specific visas tailored to unique situations or purposes. It is essential for Australian expats to carefully research the visa requirements for their destination and provide all the necessary information when applying for visas to ensure a smooth process.
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They are welcomed in Australia's easy-going culture and driving laws
Australia's laid-back culture and easy-going people make it a welcoming place for expats. The country's diverse communities and low crime rates make it a special place to live. In fact, almost a third of the population was born overseas, and 23% speak a language other than English at home. The Australian way of life is characterised by a love of nature, sport, and a thriving beach culture. Australians are known for their friendly, welcoming attitude, and this extends to their driving habits.
The country's road network is expansive, with convenient options for hiring a car or campervan. Major roads are sealed and well-signposted, and fuel is easy to find. Petrol stations, or 'servos', are located at regular intervals on all major highways and are good places to take a break, stock up on fuel, and grab a bite to eat.
Driving laws in Australia are relatively relaxed, and the rules of the road are straightforward. Australians drive on the left side of two-way roads, and speed limits are strictly enforced. The maximum speed limit in urban areas is typically 50 kilometres per hour, while most other roads have a maximum speed limit of 100 kilometres per hour. It's important to be aware that highway police are very strict about enforcing speed limits, and hidden speed cameras are widely used.
Other important driving laws to keep in mind include the requirement to wear seatbelts for all drivers and passengers. Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal, and random breath and drug tests are conducted by police across the country. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a criminal offence, with a blood alcohol limit of 0.05%.
Overall, Australia's easy-going culture and driving laws make it a welcoming place for expats to settle in and explore the country's diverse landscapes.
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Frequently asked questions
Australian expatriates refer to Australian-born people and citizens living outside of Australia, of which there are approximately 598,765. In 2020, 2.34% of the Australian population lived overseas, which is lower than most OECD countries.
44% of Australian expatriates in other OECD countries had a high level of education. This is slightly lower than Japanese expatriates, who have the highest proportion at 50%.
Australian expats tend to be highly skilled and educated, with many falling into the category of digital nomads. They also tend to be well-travelled, with plenty of visa options available to them.
One of the biggest challenges for Australian expats is the high cost of living in Australia, particularly in major cities. Additionally, the distance from the northern hemisphere can lead to feelings of isolation from family and friends back home, and travel can be time-consuming and costly.
Australian expats are generally welcomed in other countries, with many reporting that Australia is a friendly and inviting culture. An InterNations Expat Insider survey found that over 70% of expats living in Australia feel at home and describe the country as "easy-going".
