Moving to Australia Checklist

Every task from twelve months out to your first ninety days in Australia. Tick as you go — it saves on this device automatically.

Research and eligibility

12 months out

0/5

Confirm your occupation is on a skilled list
Score your points test honestly
Shortlist two or three places to live
Decide whether you need a registered migration agentCheck they hold a MARA registration number.
Set a total relocation budget including three months of living costs

Assessments

9 months out

0/5

Book and sit an English test
Collect payslips, references, contracts and certificates
Lodge your skills assessment
Start professional registration if your job needs itAHPRA, teacher registration and trade licensing all take months.
Check every passport has at least 12 months left

Visa application

6 months out

0/5

Submit your Expression of Interest
Apply for state or regional nomination if relevant
Order your UK ACRO police certificate
Book medicals with a panel physician once invited
Start the pet import processRabies testing and permits take at least six months.

Logistics

3 months out

0/6

Get three removals quotes and book a container
Contact schools and request enrolment packs
Open an Australian bank account from the UK
Set up a currency broker and watch the rate
Give notice on your job and tenancy
Book flights and four to six weeks of temporary accommodation

Wrapping up the UK

1 month out

0/6

Tell HMRC you are leaving the UK (form P85)
Close or transfer utilities, council tax and subscriptions
Get copies of medical and dental records, prescriptions and immunisation history
Request school reports and reference letters for the children
Get a UK driving licence check code and a letter of entitlement
Arrange travel and transit insurance for the move

Landing admin

First week in Australia

0/6

Apply for a Tax File Number
Enrol in Medicare under the UK reciprocal agreement
Activate your bank account in branch with your passport
Get an Australian SIM and number
Choose a superannuation fund
Register with rental agents and start inspections

Making it home

First 90 days

0/6

Convert your UK driving licence
Register with a local GP and dentist
Enrol the children and buy uniforms
Join one club, sport or community group
Sort car, contents and (optionally) private health insurance
Take a weekend trip somewhere you have never heard of

What this doesn't cover

This is a general timeline, not a substitute for official guidance. It doesn't cover state-specific nomination criteria, employer sponsorship paperwork, complex tax residency situations, or individual visa conditions — a registered migration agent or your visa grant letter should have the final word on those.

Next action

If you haven't already, see where you stand overall on the full roadmap — it links each stage back to the right tool.

View your roadmap

The moving checklist