So, you’re thinking about swapping Tayto crisps and rainy days for barbies, beaches, and deadly wildlife? Good choice. I made the move myself, and let me tell you — it’s one hell of a ride.
This guide isn’t just another boring checklist. It’s everything I wish I knew when I packed up and moved from Ireland to Australia. From what to sort before you leave, to avoiding sunburns and dodgy landlords when you arrive, this is the real-deal, straight-talking Irish guide to making the move.
Let’s get you to Oz without the stress (and maybe with your sanity intact).
Thinking of moving to Australia from Ireland? Whether you’re heading over on a working holiday visa, moving for work or study, or starting a new chapter Down Under, this guide covers everything you need to know.
From visas and money transfers to health insurance, jobs, and where to live — this is your one-stop guide for making the move from Ireland to Australia as smooth (and affordable) as possible.
Before You Leave Ireland
Hopefully, more sunny daysare to come in Australia
Before boarding that flight, here are a few things to sort out:
- Book flights early – Prices spike around Christmas and Aussie summer.
- Scan your documents – Passport, visa grant notice, insurance details. Save copies to your phone and cloud.
- Sort prescriptions – Bring a GP letter and stock up on any key medication.
- Set up a money transfer account – Wise, CurrencyFair, or OFX
- Download your free checklist – https://irisharoundoz.com/download
Visas for Irish Citizens
Working Holiday Visa (417)
The most popular option for 18–35 year olds. You can work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months, with the option to extend up to 3 years if you meet certain work requirements.
Student Visa
Perfect if you’re planning to study in Australia. You can work part-time while studying.
Skilled Visas
If you work in a profession listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.
Partner or Family Visas
If you have an Aussie partner or close family member, you might qualify for a family-based visa.
Get a free visa assessment from True Blue Migration.
Travel Insurance & Healthcare
Looking for a full breakdown on what travel insurance you actually need for Australia? I’ve written a detailed post covering all the options, common mistakes Irish travellers make, and why the reciprocal health agreement isn’t enough.
👉 Read the full travel insurance guide here
Many Irish travellers assume the reciprocal health agreement will cover them — but that’s not the full story. It doesn’t cover ambulance, dental, or most private care.
We recommend:
- True Traveller Insurance – covers work, travel, and allows unlimited trips home. Available even after you’ve left Ireland.
- Go Insurance – great option after you’ve been in Australia for 3+ months. Ideal for longer-term cover, and you can get 10% off through Irish Around Oz.
Medicare
Once you arrive, you can register for Medicare, Australia’s public health system. Visit a Medicare centre with ID and visa documents. Processing can take a few weeks.
Setting Up Your Finances
Bank Account
You can open a bank account before or after you arrive. Popular options: NAB, Commonwealth, ANZ, Westpac.
Tax File Number (TFN)
Apply online once you’re in Australia. You’ll need this to legally work.
Superannuation
Australia’s version of a pension. If you’re working, your employer will contribute to a super fund. You can claim it back when you leave (conditions apply).
Money Transfers
Avoid hidden fees and bad exchange rates by using services like:
What to Pack (and What Not To)
Australia is warm, yes — but it also gets cold in places like Melbourne.
Bring:
- Light layers
- A decent jacket
- Copies of your documents (printed and digital)
- Plug adaptor for AU sockets
- Travel insurance details
- Aussie dollars or a Revolut card
Leave behind:
- Excess toiletries (buy cheap there)
- Heavy winter gear (unless you’re heading to Tasmania!)
Shipping Your Belongings
Too much luggage? You’ve got options:
-
- Send My Bag – Great for extra suitcases 5% discount
- Seven Seas Worldwide – Best for sending boxes or long-term storage 10% discount
- Palmer’s Relocations – Full-scale international moving service – $100 off.
Your First Week in Australia
Here’s what to tick off after you land:
- Get a SIM card (Optus, Telstra, Vodafone)
- Apply for your TFN
- Register for Medicare
- Sort short-term accommodation
- Set up a local bank account
- Learn your city’s public transport system (Opal in Sydney, Myki in Melbourne, etc.)
Where Irish People Usually Move
Sydney
Busy, buzzing, and by far the most popular with Irish expats. Big job market, but expensive rent.
Melbourne
Cultural capital, loads of events and festivals. Slightly cheaper than Sydney. Chillier winters.
Brisbane / Gold Coast
Warm climate, outdoor lifestyle. Growing Irish community. Affordable by big city standards.
Perth
Sunny, relaxed, and a strong Irish community. Slightly more isolated but great work/life balance.
Finding Work in Australia
Plenty of casual and skilled work available, especially for working holiday makers.
Popular jobs:
- Hospitality (bars, cafes, restaurants)
- Construction (White Card required)
- Nannying & childcare (Working With Children Check)
- Admin & customer service
Websites: Seek, Indeed, Jora, Gumtree.
Join Irish job groups on Facebook to find leads and employers who “get the accent”.
Finding a Place to Live 🏘️
Start with short-term stays (hostels, Airbnb, flatmate rentals) until you get your bearings.
When renting:
- Always inspect before paying anything
- Bond = 4 weeks’ rent (standard)
- Use Flatmates.com.au or realestate.com.au
Average rents vary — Sydney is the priciest, Brisbane and Perth are more affordable.
Aussie Life Tips for Irish Newcomers
- Learn the slang (“arvo” = afternoon, “servo” = petrol station, “bogan” = a term you’ll figure out soon enough)
- Don’t skimp on suncream — the UV is no joke (unless you’re auditioning for ‘Lobster of the Year’)
- Aussie humour is dry and sarcastic — so you’ll feel right at home
- Drinking culture is strong but casual — expect to be offered a goon sack and not question it
- Everything will seem expensive, until you realise brunch is a religion here
- Yes, that spider is probably real — but it’s more afraid of you than you are of it (hopefully) (“arvo” = afternoon, “servo” = petrol station)
- Don’t skimp on suncream — the UV is no joke
- Aussie humour is dry and sarcastic — you’ll fit right in
- Drinking culture is strong but casual (goon is a rite of passage)
Join the Irish Community in Australia
Stay connected, find work, housing, and events through Irish Facebook groups:
- Irish Around Sydney
- Irish Around Melbourne
- Irish Around Brisbane
- Irish Around Perth
- Full list of groups
We’re a friendly bunch. Say hi, ask a question, or share your story.
Download the Checklist
Feeling overwhelmed? Grab the free Moving to Australia Checklist with everything from this guide in one simple PDF: 👉 https://irisharoundoz.com/download
Thanks for stopping by,
Stephen Palmer