What a Start to the New Year! Australians Living Abroad
Let’s kick off the New Year (2021) with a topic close to the hearts of many Aussies: living and working overseas. I recently came across an article in The Guardian UK titled “‘A spoilt brat country’: the Australians overseas who decided not to come home,” written by Karen Guest, an Aussie living in the UK.
The piece offered insights from various Australians who’ve chosen to stay abroad, but honestly, the opinions felt a bit off to me. So, I thought I’d share a different perspective—one that might resonate with those who see travel and working overseas as a natural part of the Aussie experience.
The Aussie Urge to Roam
Let’s face it: for many Australians, the idea of heading overseas isn’t exactly groundbreaking. In fact, it’s practically a rite of passage. I like to think of Aussies abroad in two broad groups: the young adventurers fresh out of school, and the more seasoned professionals looking for a career boost or a change of scenery.
Gap Year Dreamers
Remember those high school days when everyone was buzzing about their gap year plans? My own kids were no exception. The excitement of taking a break after years of study, saving up for the trip, and plotting out adventures across Europe or Asia—it’s a story that plays out in households across the country.
What surprised me was how organised these plans were. Kids were already researching how to build a solid CV, finding out who to contact for overseas placements, and even taking courses to land jobs abroad. Pretty impressive, righty?
The jobs they go for are just as varied—bartenders, baristas, fitness trainers, au pairs, and even sports coaches in UK schools. There are agencies in Europe that specialise in placing young Aussies as au pairs, and there’s a real demand from European parents for native English speakers to help their kids learn the language. It’s a win-win: the kids get a cultural exchange, and our young Aussies get a taste of independence and adventure.
Not Just an Aussie Thing
Of course, we’re not the only ones bitten by the travel bug. Europeans and Japanese youth are just as keen to see the world. You’ll spot them in Australia, picking fruit in the Riverland or Mildura, or sharing their outback adventures on social media as Jackeroos and Jillaroos. It’s all about building character and making memories. For many Australians, that first trip overseas opens their eyes to a world of possibilities—and makes the idea of living abroad seem totally doable.
The Grown-Up Expats
Then there’s the other group: adults who’ve already started their careers in Australia and are looking for bigger opportunities overseas. Australia’s population is about 25 million, which is tiny compared to the UK (66 million), Germany (83 million), or the US (328 million).
Bigger economies mean more jobs, more industries, and more chances to climb the career ladder. It’s the same reason young Aussies from smaller cities like Adelaide or Hobart head to Sydney or Melbourne. Sometimes, you just have to go where the action is.
London Calling (and Beyond)
Take London, for example—a city of nine million and a global financial hub. It attracts talent from all over the world, including plenty of Aussies. And it’s not just London. You’ll find Australians in Singapore, Hong Kong, and other major business centres across Asia Pacific.
The same thing happens in reverse, with Kiwis coming to Australia for new opportunities. Employers in these places don’t hire just anyone—Aussies get the job because they’re qualified and capable, which says a lot about our education system and work ethic.
Why Do Aussies Leave?
So, why do Australians choose to work overseas? The reasons are as varied as the people themselves. Some are driven by wanderlust and a desire to experience new cultures. Others are looking to save up for a dream home back in Australia, taking advantage of lower taxes in places like the Middle East or parts of Asia. Career progression is a big motivator, too.
But here’s something interesting: I’ve never met an Aussie who left because they were fed up with politics or policies or life back home. It’s usually about personal growth, adventure, or financial goals—not running away from Australia.
The Hollywood Factor
Let’s not forget our homegrown stars who’ve made it big overseas. Think of all the Australian actors, directors, and visual effects artists who’ve won Oscars—57 in total! That kind of success wouldn’t have happened if they’d stayed put and watched the world go by. Sometimes, you have to take a leap of faith to see what you’re truly capable of.
Do They Ever Come Back?
This is the million-dollar question. Some Aussies find love, start families, or build businesses overseas and decide to stay for good. Others discover a better work-life balance or simply fall in love with their new home. But in my experience, most eventually return.
There’s something about Australia—the climate, the stunning landscapes, the unique wildlife—that calls people back. And when the time is right, many expats find their way home, flat white in hand and “I Still Call Australia Home” playing in the background (thanks, Qantas.
The Big Picture
The urge to explore is in our DNA. Whether it’s a gap year in Europe, a finance job in London, or a film career in Hollywood, Australians have always looked beyond their borders for adventure and opportunity. It’s not about rejecting Australia—it’s about embracing the world and seeing what’s out there. And when the adventure is over, there’s no place like home.
So, if you’re an Aussie thinking about living or working overseas, go for it! The world is big, and there’s plenty to learn. Just remember: Australia will always be here, ready to welcome you back with open arms and a good cup of coffee.