I wish you all the best with the move Simon. It would be a good idea to get the PR as soon as possible (I'm sure you know that though). I was going to go down on a 457 visa, but my company said that they would prefer a 121. I was willing to take the 457 for speed, but now that my arm was twisted, I'm glad they went that route.
My wife is wanting to go back to work when we get there so that will help with the finances. It will also give her an opportunity to make new friends. Maybe if your wife got a job it would help things along. To be honest, I want my wife out to work regardless of the finances. It's better than sitting at home on her own when I'm at work. She told me that a little supermarket job would do just to socialise.
I am considering Nambour because I don't have to live in expensive cities with my job. My work involves my travelling to jobs, so why live in the city? Nambour is also not far from the Sunshine Coast. I'll be struggling for a while until I recover from the initial cost of everything and get on my feet. I do feel that it will be worth it though.
You can save money by doing little things. Get a 'pay as you go' internet dongle and PAYG phone. Shop at farmers markets instead of supermarkets (the quality would probably be better). In the UK everytime you take the kids out it costs a fortune. There are great beaches and parks to spend family time in the sunshine.
I reckon that inflation in the UK is going to get worse. Australia may not seem so expensive in a couple of years. I also think that you would be giving your children a great opportunity.
Anyway, best of luck.
Last edited by a moderator: Aug 13, 2011