Although Australia is among the top destinations in the world, it may seem impossible to move there without money. The transition can be made without having a huge budget with proper planning, resourcefulness, and a strategic approach. This guide explores various ways you can move to Australia with limited funds and eventually build a sustainable life in one of the world’s most desirable countries.
Advertisements
1. Understanding the Visa Options
As a first step towards moving to Australia, you must secure the right visa. Although some visas may require financial backing, there may be other alternatives that do not require substantial funds.
a. Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 and 462)
You can work in Australia while traveling for up to 12 months with the Working Holiday Visa if you are between 18-30 years old (or 35 years old in some countries). The initial expenses and visa application fees will need some funds, but you can earn money quickly after arriving by working casually in the hospitality industry, agriculture, and other fields.
Advertisements
b. Skilled Migration Visa
A skilled migration visa may be appropriate for you if you possess specific skills that are in demand in Australia. Using this visa, you can permanently live in Australia without having to save a lot of money. Skilled migrants can apply for a variety of visas, such as the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) and the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189).
c. Student Visa (Subclass 500)
A student visa is another option for people who want to move to Australia and pursue education. Although it’s not completely free, some scholarships cover tuition fees and even living expenses. With a student visa, you can work part-time to support yourself.
Advertisements
2. Find a Job Before You Move
When moving to Australia without significant funds, it is best to secure a job before you arrive. Many Australian employers are willing to sponsor overseas workers, especially in industries where there are skill shortages. You can save money on upfront costs like accommodation if you are able to secure a job offer before you move.
a. Job Search Websites
A job search should start on websites like SEEK, Indeed, and Jora Australia, tailoring your CV to Australian standards, and highlighting any skills and experiences that are in demand in the Australian job market.
b. Industries to Target
There is a high demand for skilled workers in areas such as healthcare, IT, engineering, construction, and education. Additionally, jobs in aged care, hospitality, and seasonal agriculture are readily available.
c. Employer-Sponsored Visas
An employer who sponsors you may be able to help cover visa costs and assist with relocation expenses. The Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482) and Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) are examples of employer-sponsored visas.
3. Utilize Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering is another way to get a foot in the door while exploring employment or study options in Australia without any money. Many organizations offer volunteers the opportunity to volunteer in exchange for housing and food.
a. WWOOFing (Willing Workers on Organic Farms)
The WWOOF program allows you to work on organic farms across Australia in exchange for housing. The program gives you a chance to immerse yourself in Australian culture while meeting your basic needs.
b. HelpX and Workaway
By connecting travelers to hosts who need help with various tasks, such as house-sitting or gardening, these platforms help travelers reduce the cost of living while seeking permanent employment or education.
4. Leverage Scholarships and Grants
Australian scholarships can save your life if you’re planning to study there but lack the funds. Several scholarships cover full tuition, living expenses, and even accommodation expenses for international students.
a. Australia Awards Scholarships
Students from developing countries can apply for these highly competitive scholarships, funded by the Australian government and covering tuition fees, return airfare, and living expenses.
b. University Scholarships
The majority of Australian universities offer scholarships to international students based on academic merit, research potential, and financial need. You should check with the universities that interest you to find out if there are any available scholarships.
5. Couchsurfing and House-Sitting
You can explore options like Couchsurfing and house-sitting if you’re worried about the cost of accommodation when you first arrive. These options let you stay with locals or take care of someone’s home in exchange for free accommodation.
a. Couchsurfing
The Couchsurfing website connects travelers with hosts who offer free accommodation. Though Couchsurfing is generally short-term, it helps reduce your expenses during your move.
b. House-Sitting
When you house-sit, you get to live rent-free while caring for someone’s home, and sometimes their pets, while they’re on vacation. House-sitters can be found on websites such as TrustedHousesitters and Aussie House Sitters, which are cost-effective ways to stay in Australia for a short time.
6. Start a Side Gig or Freelance Work
Consider freelancing or starting a side gig before you arrive in Australia if you have skills to work remotely. Using platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer, you can earn an income even before you arrive in Australia by working for clients all over the world.
a. Digital Nomad Visa
While Australia does not yet have a specific visa for digital nomads, you can still work online while on a working holiday or tourist visa as long as your income comes from overseas clients. Web developers, writers, graphic designers, and other freelancers who can work remotely will benefit from this option.
7. Living on a Budget in Australia
If you arrive in Australia, living on a budget will be essential until you find a steady job or income. Australia is known for its high cost of living, especially in cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
a. Affordable Cities
In more affordable cities such as Adelaide, Brisbane, or Perth, the cost of living is generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. Rent, groceries, and transportation are more affordable, so your limited funds can be stretched further.
b. Use Public Transportation
Rather than owning a car, consider taking public transportation, which is often cheaper and will save you money on petrol, insurance, and maintenance. Most Australian cities are well connected by public transportation, making getting around easy.
c. Cook at Home
The cost of eating out in Australia is extremely high, so cooking at home is a great way to save money. You can also save a lot of money by shopping at supermarkets such as Coles, Woolworths, and Aldi.
8. Seek Support from the Community
There are support systems available to help immigrants move to a new country without significant funds. Getting in touch with others in similar circumstances helped many immigrants move to Australia without significant funds.
a. Join Expat Communities
If you are a new expat in Australia, consider joining online forums, Facebook groups, and local meet-ups. These communities may be able to offer you advice, information, and emotional support.
b. Government Support
While transitioning, you may also qualify for government-backed benefits, such as healthcare, housing, and social services, depending on your visa type. Research these benefits.
Conclusion
Resourcefulness, determination, and strategic planning are essential to moving to Australia without money. It is possible to make the move without breaking the bank if you explore visa options, secure employment before you arrive, volunteer, use scholarships, and live on a budget. You can build a fulfilling life in Australia with the right approach, even though the journey may be challenging.
Advertisements
