Australia is the number one destination for British expats, the eighth-highest-ranking country in the world for its quality of life. The country is often said to be among one of the best for expats looking for a fresh start and a change of scenery. With more than 1.2 million Brits living Down Under, and a further 60,000 said to be considering making the move, many are asking, is the quality of life in Australia better than in the UK?
Australia offers better work and wages
Australia has repeatedly been voted the best country in the world to live and work and has regularly beaten the UK to the top spot in the OECD’s Better Life Index. According to the latest data from the OECD, Australia scores more highly than the UK for job security, employment rates and wages, with the average Aussie household enjoying more than $37,000 in disposable income a year, compared to just $33,000 in the UK.
While unemployment rates across the two countries are comparable, with the UK having a slight edge, Australia handily beats the OECD average, with 73 per cent of the working population in a paid job – compared to an average of 66 per cent across OECD countries. However, those working in the UK are earning less than their Australian counterparts on average, at just $47,000 per year versus $55,000 on average in Australia.
Higher wages are often cited by expats as a reason to make the move – with many professionals earning more in Australia than they would in the UK. And if you’re keen to keep as much of that money as possible, it could pay to take advice on remaining tax efficient.
Australia offers great healthcare
According to the most recent OECD data, Australia takes the top spot for healthcare outcomes and was ranked third overall for healthcare performance. Data from the IEA shows that the Australian healthcare system beats the UK’s NHS in cancer survival rates – a key metric for assessing the quality of care.
In addition, the IEA’s 2021 report also found higher mortality rates for heart attacks and strokes in the UK and lower infant and maternal mortality in Australia. The report concluded that while the Australian system has downsides, it delivered world-leading healthcare outcomes while spending less than competitor countries in Europe and North America.
Australia also beats the UK for its number of hospital beds and doctors per head of the population – with almost double the number of available beds – with Australians living more than a year longer than UK citizens on average.
Stunning scenery and great weather
Australia’s stunning vistas and turquoise seas are often cited by expats as a key reason for their move – and a big boost to their quality of life. The country’s diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to rugged outback, provide endless opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities, appealing to nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Australia's climate, characterized by abundant sunshine and milder temperatures compared to the UK, fosters an outdoor-centric lifestyle conducive to well-being. With more sunny days, Australians enjoy ample opportunities for outdoor recreation year-round, contributing to a healthier and more active lifestyle.
A better life Down Under?
With its thriving economy, Aussies enjoy higher wages and better job prospects, topping the charts in the OECD's Better Life Index. The healthcare system consistently outshines the UK's NHS in key areas like cancer survival rates and overall healthcare outcomes. Plus, with more hospital beds and doctors per capita, Aussies tend to live longer, healthier lives.
But for many the big draw is the stunning scenery – with unparalleled natural beauty and abundant sunshine outdoor activities become a year-round prospect, promoting a healthier lifestyle and overall well-being.
So, if you're dreaming of swapping rainy days for sunny rays and embracing a lifestyle filled with adventure and exploration, Australia could be your ticket to a better quality of life.
