Thinking about making the move from the UK to Australia? You’re not alone! With a booming job market, stunning landscapes, a relaxed lifestyle, and plenty of opportunities in construction and trades, now is the perfect time to take the leap and build your future down under.
Once you arrive, we’ll connect you with top employers and great job opportunities that suit your skills and aspirations. But first, here’s how to get set up— from visas and banking to housing and transport—so you can settle in quickly and confidently start enjoying life in Australia.
Supporting Your Move to Australia
At Fetch Recruitment, while we don't specialise in migration services, we are committed to supporting your relocation to Australia every step of the way. We connect you with trusted resources, including our preferred visa partner, TechVisa, and help match your skills to the right opportunities.
We go beyond just employment – offering practical guidance on settling into Australian life, from securing essential services to connecting with local communities. Let us help make your transition seamless, so you can confidently start your new chapter down under.
Visa Information
There are several visa pathways depending on your skills, experience, and how long you plan to stay:
Working Holiday Visa (WHV) – Subclass 417
- Perfect for those aged 18–35 looking to live and work in Australia for up to 12 months.
Can be extended for a second or third year by completing specified regional work. UK citizens no longer need to complete this regional work requirement, making the process even easier for those coming from the UK.
Skilled Work Visas
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (TSS) – Subclass 482: For skilled workers sponsored by an employer.
- Skilled Independent Visa – Subclass 189: A points-tested visa for in-demand occupations (no employer sponsorship required).
Skilled Nominated Visa – Subclass 190: State-nominated visa for skilled professionals.
Employer-Sponsored Visas
If you secure a job offer from an Australian employer, they may be able to sponsor you for a longer-term visa or even permanent residency.
Not sure which visa is right for you? Our preferred visa agent can guide you through the process.
Tax File Number (TFN)
Once you arrive in Australia, you’ll need a Tax File Number (TFN) to start working. This is like a National Insurance number in the UK. You can apply online through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website once you have an Australian address.
Bank Account
Setting up an Australian bank account is essential for receiving your salary. Many banks allow you to open an account online before you arrive, so you can have everything sorted when you land. Major banks include:
• Commonwealth Bank
• Westpac
• NAB
• ANZ
Superannuation
Super is Australia’s pension system, where your employer contributes a percentage of your wages into a super fund. You can access these funds when you retire or if you permanently leave Australia. If you're on a temporary visa, you may be able to claim some of it back upon departure.
Popular super funds include AustralianSuper, Hostplus, REST, Sunsuper, and HESTA, each offering different investment options and benefits.
Health Insurance & Medicare
When moving to Australia, it's important to understand your healthcare options.
Medicare: If you're from a country with a reciprocal health agreement with Australia (e.g., the UK), you may be eligible for Medicare, Australia's public healthcare system. This gives you access to a range of services, including hospital care and doctor visits.
Private Health Insurance: If you’re not eligible for Medicare, or if you prefer additional coverage, you’ll need private health insurance. Popular providers include Bupa, Medibank, HCF, and NIB, offering a variety of plans to suit your needs.
Phone & Internet
Choose a prepaid plan for flexibility or a contract plan for better value. Major providers like Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone offer physical SIMs and eSIMs for instant activation, often with discounts for the first three months.
