If you’ve ever thought about, or are actively considering relocating to Australia, the whole experience can be a bit scary! However, with the right research and planning it can be one of the most thrilling things you ever do. Getting lost in the excitement of it all can be easy so here is a handy guide of essential activities people often overlook when planning a move.
Healthcare
One of the most important things to do during your planning is to research the different healthcare options that are available in your new local area. This is especially important if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
Start by making a list of services and providers so you can refer back to them quickly and easily. Better still, when you visit the area you are relocating to, see if you can get recommendations from locals for the best practices in the area. Local knowledge is priceless.
Below is a list of the services available in the suburb of Pakenham, Melbourne:
- Medical Centre: Pakenham Family Health
- Local Hospital: Pakenham Community Hospital
- Dentist: Pakenham Dental Surgery
- Optometrist: Specsavers Pakenham
Checking out the local entertainment and nightlife is another important step that people can sometimes overlook.
If you are familiar with the area then you most likely have your favourite restaurants already. If you’re exploring somewhere new then now is the right time to get out and about and see what the area has to offer.
Restaurants and bars are just a couple of things you should consider. Other lifestyle activities are important too, especially if you enjoy doing them regularly where you live now. Some questions you may want to ask yourself are:
- Are there any local events that take place you can attend or help with?
- Are there any local sports teams you can join?
- Where is the closest gymnasium?
- Are there any clubs in the local area such as gardening or cycling?
- Does anywhere offer classes like cooking, pottery or surfing?
Taking the time to make a list of your current lifestyle activities and exploring what’s available will only enhance your time in your new home. Planning ahead and discovering a few new places early on will make you feel at home right away.
Schools
If you have children or are planning to have children after you have relocated, then researching schools in the local area must be a top priority.
The best way to make sense of this information is to make a list of all the schools in the area. Gaining some local knowledge on each school’s size, reputation and grades will help you to make the best choice for your children.
You will also need to think about secondary schools and colleges if your children are close to leaving primary school or are already in secondary education.
Starting Your New Adventure
As scary as it can be starting your new adventure, it can be really exciting too! Just remember to consider all of your options, visit the area you wish to relocate to and create a plan with a sensible timeline. If you take this advice, plans should start to come together and be everything you have dreamed it will be.
