Whilst Australia’s reputation for sunshine and fresh air undoubtedly holds certain appeal, those are not always the attraction that steals the hearts of every employee you want to move here.
Successfully moving employees for work requires acknowledging a broader range of factors. Personal and family considerations, including childcare options, cultural adjustments, and financial implications, play a crucial role in individual decisions.
Particularly impactful are concerns related to financial security and living costs. For instance, children’s school fees are not free in all parts of Australia. There are also other areas like their retirement or superannuation fund, medical expenses and the high cost of living.
Beyond these concerns, there are persistent myths surrounding employee relocation to Australia, which can further complicate the decision-making process. Below are some of them.
4 Employee Relocation Myths
Myth 1: Integrating in Australia is easy
One of the biggest myths surrounding relocation to Australia involves underestimating the challenges of integration and settling in. There is a belief that all Australians are welcoming with big smiles. While this is true when you meet for the first time, it does not mean that they want to become your new bestie.
They already have a circle of friends, unlike the new arrival who has just moved and is seeking a new social network.
As a global mobility manager, you must put strategies in place to help families integrate–yes, families, not just the employee when they are in the office.
Myth 2: Everyone wants to move to Australia
Well not always. Asking a family to uproot their lives, leave parents, grandparents and established support networks, and cross the globe is a monumental decision, not to be taken lightly.
The pandemic has dramatically reshaped our perception of distance. Borders slammed shut, loved ones isolated, and the dream of a quick “home” visit became a logistical nightmare. Hence, since COVID-19, fewer families want to be as far away as Australia where they might not get back “home” within one flight.
Myth 3: Dual income earners can continue the lifestyle in Australia
Not always from the start! The reality can be more challenging than anticipated. It is not unusual for a highly professional expat to have a highly professional partner who will need to build up their new business network and secure a new role. This is quite a tall order when our employment rate is so low.
For those moving with children, balancing childcare responsibilities with job searching can be a significant hurdle. Often the partner needs to settle children into school or wait on spaces in kindergarten.
Hence, instead of assuming a smooth transition, you can go the extra mile by offering valuable support: Help partners connect with industry networks, provide access to career coaches, and offer information on up-skilling opportunities.
Myth4: Providing four-week temporary accommodation is enough time to find a rental
In some situations, yes. While finding temporary accommodation might be manageable within weeks, settling in comfortably in most cases takes much longer. Furnishing a new home, getting utilities connected, and navigating daily life requires time and knowledge that newcomers often lack.
For us Australians, “how things work” comes naturally – from rental applications to local identification and credit history. But imagine arriving as a family, unsure of the right suburb for your needs and budget. Picture missing an “Open for Inspection” because you did not understand that it’s only for 15 minutes and you don’t have a car, so you rely on public transport or Uber. It can be highly stressful.
This is where engaging a relocation professional is invaluable. They can help your employees navigate suburb options, shortlist suitable homes, and guide them through inspections, paperwork, and utilities setup.
Personnel Relocations can help
Moving employees to Australia presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. While the sunshine and beaches may beckon, a successful relocation requires a deeper understanding of cultural nuances, practical realities, and the emotional journey of adapting to a new life. By acknowledging the myths and realities, embracing the complexities of family needs, and offering proactive support, you can ensure a smooth transition for your employees and their families.
To help you navigate the intricacies of Australian relocation, we’ve created a comprehensive downloadable ebook specifically for global mobility officers. Packed with practical guidance, expert insights, and helpful resources. Email us to get a copy.
Personnel Relocations simplifies the process of corporate relocation to make it comfortable and hassle-free at an affordable price. With excellent care and the right guidance, Personnel Relocations can help your employees make the right start in Australia.
We understand that every relocation is different, and each one has different goals. To contribute to your employees’ settling in Australia, we have alliances with experts such as relocation mentors, life coaches, cross-culture trainers, baby equipment hire, business communication specialists, local and international furniture removals, interior designers, decluttering, unpacking and setting up trades services which can help with specific needs.
It is not unusual for Personnel Relocations to handle the full suite of relocation needs, all from just one call.
