Relocating to Australia? First, make a list

Migrating to a new country is a life-changing move most people only do once. So there are many things you must consider, plan and do. However, do it right and starting over in Australia will become a relative breeze.

Here are a few thought-starters because (while everyone’s move is different) everyone needs a plan.

First up, develop a comprehensive checklist of things to do before you relocate.

Prepare an inventory of household goods and belongings.

Making a detailed list will help you decide:

• what to take,
• what to dispose of,
• calculate a realistic value for insurance,
• brief your removalist,
• deciding what you will need immediately on arrival.

You may need to send some goods by air freight or as unaccompanied baggage.

In deciding what to take to Australia remember to check on quarantine and other customs rules and regulations.

For example a wide variety of timber and cane products, fabrics, foodstuffs cannot be brought into Australia.

Customs regulations restrict goods that can be brought into Australia free of Customs Duty.

There are exemptions for permanent residents arriving in Australia – broadly speaking, they may bring to Australia their personal and household effects free of Customs Duty and GST, provided they can show evidence they have owned and used these items for more than 12 months.