Immigration to AustraliaAustralia has always been a great place for Chinese people, whether it's for better education, social welfare or a fresh and pleasant living environment. Whether it's for better education resources, more liberal social welfare, or a refreshing living environment, Australia has always been a great place for Chinese to live.immigrantsThe Australian government is a popular choice. However, real life in Australia is not entirely an "ideal country", but involves trade-offs and adaptations to work, education, health care, housing and more.
In this article, we will analyze all aspects ofImmigration to AustraliaThe real-life situation of the city will help you to fully evaluate your future immigration options.
I. Employment at work: high pay and stress at the same time
Australia has a relatively open labor market, especially for skilled migrants with professional skills and English proficiency.2025.Healthcare, information technology, engineering, education, construction and other industriesIt is still a popular shortage area with more job opportunities.
Advantage:
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High minimum wage (A$24.10 per hour in 2025)
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Valuing employee rights and interests, flexible working hours, and supporting Work-Life Balance
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Skilled worker visa (e.g. 482 visa) can be converted to permanent residence with pay.
Disadvantage:
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High English requirements, language is the biggest barrier
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Newcomers to employment need to adapt to the concept of "local experience"
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White-collar competition is fierce and some industries are becoming saturated
📌 tip: At the early stage of immigration, it is recommended to improve competitiveness in the workplace through vocational assessment, participation in local internships, and improving English language scores (e.g. IELTS, PTE).
II. Education system: free and compulsory education + world-class universities
Australia has the world's leading education resources.International competitiveness from primary to tertiary education.. Compulsory 12-year public primary to high school education is free for Australian PR and citizens; international students pay tuition fees but still enjoy quality teaching.
Public Schools:
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Districts are clearly gerrymandered, and school district housing affects access to schools
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Teaching emphasizes diversity, practice and individual student development
Private/parochial schools:
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High quality of teaching but expensive tuition fees of AUD 20,000 to 30,000 per annum
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Multi-language program with emphasis on character development and college guidance
Higher education:
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Australia's top eight universities are ranked globally (e.g. University of Sydney, University of Melbourne)
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Skilled Tafe Academy popular for children of skilled immigrant families
📌 tip: Parents are entitled to free education for their children when they immigrate, but it is advisable to research school districts and the timing of enrollment in advance to avoid missing out on places.
III. Health insurance system: universal coverage, but with limitations
Australia has a world-leadingUniversal Health Care System (Medicare)The government provides reimbursement for most medical services for both citizens and PRs. Temporary visa holders (e.g., international students, 482 work visas) are required to purchase private health insurance (OSHC).
Medicare Advantage:
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General medical services above 80% free of charge (e.g. GP visits, some emergencies, laboratory tests, etc.)
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Free hospitalization in public hospitals
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Free childhood vaccinations
Problems:
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Long queuing time at public hospitals, taking months to see specialists
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Additional private insurance or co-payment for dental, eye and some surgeries
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Weak medical resources in remote areas
📌 tip: It is recommended to purchase supplemental private insurance (e.g., Bupa, Medibank) in conjunction with Medicare to cover a more comprehensive medical program.
IV. Housing costs: large urban differences, house prices and rents need to be carefully considered
Housing is one of the biggest expenses in Australian life.House prices in Sydney, Melbourne and other big cities remain high in 2025, but Adelaide, Hobart, etc. are better value for money.
Buying a house:
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It's relatively easy for Australian locals or PRs to buy a home.
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Non-permanent residents are required to pay additional stamp duty or apply for FIRB (foreigner approval for home purchase)
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Mortgage rates are around 5~6%, but first-time buyers can enjoy government subsidies
Rentals:
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Monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment (2025 data):
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Sydney: $3000+
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Melbourne: $2500+
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Adelaide/Canberra: $1800~2200
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Residential environment:
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Most of the residences are detached houses with lots of space
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Public transportation is well developed but not accessible in all areas, and car purchases are more common
📌 tipIt is recommended to rent an apartment when you first arrive in Australia, and consider buying a home after you understand the living area, and choose an area close to schools or transportation hubs for a more stable life.
V. The "sweetness" and "difficulty" of real immigrant life
✅ Pros Summary:
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Beautiful environment, fresh air, sound social welfare
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Equity in education and fitness for children
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Job security and life balance
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Multicultural and inclusive
❗ Facing challenges:
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Initial acculturation and language barriers
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Competition for employment and the `Australian experience' threshold
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Health system is free but limited in efficiency
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High prices and house price pressure cannot be ignored
Conclusion: Prepare well to embrace the ideal life
Immigration to AustraliaIt's not a "once and for all" shortcut, but an all-encompassing transition. Understanding the real life situation, making good mental expectations and planning, in order to truly enjoy the freedom and stability brought by Australia. Choosing the right city to settle in, making a suitable employment plan, and allocating a reasonable budget for education and housing are the key factors for everyone.recent immigrantsAn important topic that families must face and address.