Pros and Cons of Living in Australia in 2026: For Individuals and Families
Updated On
-
Copy link
Explore the best benefits of Australia PR along with the detailed pros and Cons of living in Australia in 2026! From stunning landscapes and vibrant culture to its high cost of living, all you need to know to make an informed decision.
Limited-time offer : Access a free 10-Day IELTS study plan curated for you
Table of Contents
Australia is a land of opportunity, boasting a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and a high quality of life. However, like any other country, there are both pros and cons to living in Australia.
From the stunning natural beauty and abundant opportunities for personal and professional growth to the high cost of living and risks of natural disasters, we'll examine the advantages and disadvantages of calling Australia home.
What are the Pros and Cons of Living in Australia from an Expat’s Perspective?
4% of the Australian population is of Indian origin, having said that, the Indian community in Australia is the 2nd largest and fastest growing overseas group.
With the constant rise in number, there are some fair share of pros and cons of living in Australia, let’s deep dive and take a look at them in detail.
Pros of Living in Australia in 2026
Australia offers a high quality of life with its excellent healthcare, world-class education, and stunning natural landscapes. Its diverse culture and strong economy make it an attractive destination for individuals and families alike. Let’s take a look at the key advantages of living in this vibrant country.
Explore the Top 10 Benefits of Australia PR here.
1. Multiculturalism
According to recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australia's population is projected to exceed 30 million between 2029 and 2033, with a significant portion of this growth attributed to immigration.
Australia's multiculturalism is evident in its government policies and institutions. The introduction of the Australian Multicultural Policy in 2011 further emphasized the nation's dedication to fostering a cohesive society.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Population Born Overseas | 27.60% |
| Languages Spoken at Home | Over 350 languages spoken; 22% of Australians speak a language other than English at home |
| Top Countries of Birth (Overseas) |
|
2. Healthcare
Healthcare in Australia has public and private options available, ensuring everyone has access to quality medical care for free or at a lower cost through Medicare (funded by tax).
Medicare fully covers public hospital services and partially or fully covers other health services such as those provided by GPs, medical specialists, physiotherapists, community nurses, and basic dental care for children.
Another key component of Medicare is the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which reduces the cost of certain prescription medicines.
| Healthcare Facility | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Public Hospitals | Free for citizens and most permanent residents | Covers clinical services, doctors’ fees, medication, accommodation, and operating theatre fees. |
| Private Hospitals | Combination of Medicare, private health insurance, and personal payments | Medicare covers 75% of medical costs. Costs can vary significantly based on the insurance plan. |
| General Practitioner (GP) Visits | Funded by Medicare and private health insurance | Medicare rebates are available, but some individuals may pay additional fees |
| Ambulance Services | Not covered by Medicare, out-of-pocket fees apply | Ambulance services are often a significant out-of-pocket expense for citizens |
3. Education & School
The world-class education in Australia with globally recognized universities, schools, and vocational education and training (VET) institutions, provides students with excellent opportunities to pursue their academic and career goals.
Australian citizens and permanent residents have free access to the majority of government schools. Some universities impose a "voluntary contribution" or donation fee, which can cost anywhere between AUD 60 and AUD 1,000.
Average Cost of Education at Schools in Australia
| Level of Study | Government Schools (AUD) | Catholic Schools (AUD) | Independent Schools (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary | 221 | 2,132 | 6,541 |
| Secondary | 536 | 5,477 | 11,553 |
Average Cost of Education at Universities in Australia
| Level of Study | Cost (in AUD) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 20,000 - 45,000 |
| Postgraduate | 22,000 - 50,000 |
| Doctoral Degree | 18,000 - 42,000 |
Check Out the Cost of Studying In Australia here.
4. Cheaper Transportation
Australia has a well-developed transportation system with well-maintained roads, buses, trains, trams, and ferries, making commuting easy and convenient.
For daily commuters, purchasing a monthly travel card is more cost-effective. These electronic cards automatically deduct fares based on the distance traveled. Each Australian city has its own travel card, such as Metrocard in Adelaide, SmartRider in Perth, and Opal Travelcard in Sydney.
As per Statista, In the first quarter of 2024, households in Australia's capital cities spent an average of AUD 41.10 per week on public transport.
| City | Weekly Cost of Public Transport Per Household (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Brisbane | 59.67 |
| Melbourne | 53 |
| Sydney | 50 |
| Perth | 45.9 |
| Adelaide | 42.5 |
| Canberra | 29.72 |
| Hobart | 28 |
| Darwin | 20 |
5. Booming Job Market
Employment in Australia is booming with opportunities across various industries, especially in healthcare, education, technology, and mining, making it an attractive destination for job seekers.
In 2024, the number of job vacancies in Australia reached 400,000. Additionally, the government has raised the minimum salary for temporary skilled migrant workers to $70,000 for the 2025-26 period. The current unemployment rate in Australia is 3.9%.
Here is a list of highest highest-paying jobs in Australia and their average salaries.
| Job | Average Salary (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Neurosurgeon | 425,000 |
| Chief Executive Officer (CEO) | 400,000 |
| Anaesthetist | 380,000 |
| Financial Analyst | 300,000 |
| Head of HR/HR Director | 300,000 |
Take a look at this blog to learn about the 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Australia to maximize your income.
6. Climate
Australia boasts a diverse climate, featuring mild winters and warm summers across much of the country, making it perfect for outdoor activities and leisure.
Summer spans from December to February. Autumn lasts from March to May, winter from June to August, and spring from September to November.
Here is a table summarizing the average temperatures in the four seasons in the top cities of Australia.
| City | Average Temperature in Summer (°C) | Average Temperature in Autumn (°C) | Average Temperature in Winter (°C) | Average Temperature in Spring (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | 18.6 - 25.8 | 14.6 - 22.2 | 8.8 - 17 | 11 - 23 |
| Melbourne | 14 - 25.3 | 10.9 – 20.3 | 6.5 - 14.2 | 9.6 - 19.6 |
| Perth | 17.5 - 30 | 13.7 - 26 | 8 - 19 | 11.7 - 23 |
| Brisbane | 21 - 29.8 | 15 - 25 | 11 - 21 | 15 - 25 |
| Canberra | 12.6 - 27 | 6.8 - 20 | 1 - 12 | 6 - 19 |
| Adelaide | 16.7 - 28.6 | 12.7 - 22.7 | 8 - 16 | 11.8 - 22 |
| Hobart | 11.5 - 21 | 8.9 - 17.3 | 5 - 12.3 | 7.8 - 16.9 |
7. Technological Advancement
As per the report by Gartner, Australia’s IT sector industry witnessed a growth of AUD 111.7 billion in 2023, which is a substantial increase from 111.2% in 2022. The Australian IT sector is expanding rapidly and going through an exciting age of innovation. It has a strong research and development culture, making it a hub for technology and innovation.
The Australian economy receives annual contributions from the digital technologies sector of about AUD 122 billion (6.6% of GDP). Australia's IT spending is expected to reach AUD 146.85 billion in 2025, reflecting an 8.7% increase from 2024, as reported by Gartner.
Read this article to learn How To Get a Job in Australia From India.
8. Low Taxes
Australia has a relatively low tax rate compared to other developed countries, making it an attractive destination for professionals and entrepreneurs. According to the latest OECD data, Australia has a total tax-to-GDP ratio of 28.2%, making it the 8th lowest among the 35 OECD members.
Effective from July 1, 2024, the following tax changes will apply:
- The bottom tax rate will decrease from 19% to 16%.
- The 32.5% tax rate will decrease to 30%.
9. Good Social Welfare System
Australia's social security system offers targeted support to individuals at various life stages, providing a safety net for vulnerable Australians unable to work. It includes payments for individuals and families during times of need and to help cover specific costs, like raising children.
The program provides flat-rate retirement, survivors, and disability benefits to those who meet income and asset tests. As of March 31, 2023, approximately 1 in 4 Australians aged 16 and over (24%, or 5 million people) were receiving income support. In 2021–22, Australian governments allocated AUD 212.4 billion toward welfare services and support.
Check out the Australian Visa Requirements here.
10. Work-life Balance
Australia’s work-life balance ranks 8th best in the world. Beyond the work-from-home mandates, employers have a strong emphasis on work-life balance, with flexible work arrangements, generous leave entitlements, a laid-back culture, and taking time off from work pressure. Burn-out is a serious problem in the workplace and employers in countries like Australia can prevent this persistent issue.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Global Ranking | Australia ranks 8th in the world for work-life balance |
| Average Working Hours | Approximately 32 hours per week |
| Annual Leaves | Australian workers enjoy 30 days of annual leave |
| Sick Leave | Standard sick leave is typically 10 days per year |
| Parental Leave | Australia offers up to 18 weeks of paid parental leave, with additional unpaid leave options available |
11. Large and Vibrant Cities
Australia has 86 cities, with eight designated as capital cities. The most populated cities are Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Hobart, and Darwin. Sydney is the largest, with a population of 5.231 million.
Indian students favor Melbourne for its numerous top universities and because it hosts 50% of Australia's leading tech companies.
| City | Population | Indian Population | Top Travel Destinations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | 5,231,147 | 240,000 | Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, Taronga Zoo |
| Melbourne | 4,917,750 | 220,000 | Federation Square, Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne Zoo |
| Brisbane | 2,582,007 | Approximately 100,000 | South Bank Parklands, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary |
| Perth | 2,192,229 | Approximately 60,000 | Kings Park, Cottesloe Beach, Fremantle Markets |
| Adelaide | 1,387,290 | Approximately 40,000 | Adelaide Central Market, Adelaide Zoo |
Read about the things to carry while travelling to Australia from India here.
12. Cost of Living
Despite being a developed country, the cost of living in Australia is comparatively lower than in other Western countries, making it an attractive destination for expats and students.
The cost of living in Australia is approximately INR 86,152 per month, excluding rent. This amount covers various daily expenses such as food, medical care, and transportation. Rent in Australia is, on average, 18.9% lower than in the United States. Cities like Adelaide and Perth are generally more affordable compared to Sydney and Melbourne.
Let’s take a look at the cost of living in the capital cities of Australia.
| City | Cost of Living Per Month (Without Rent) in AUD | Cost of Living Per Month (Without Rent) in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Canberra | 1,871 | 99,851 |
| Sydney | 1,746 | 93,180 |
| Melbourne | 1,602 | 85,495 |
| Perth | 1,536 | 81,973 |
| Brisbane | 1,487 | 79,358 |
| Hobart | 1,732 | €92,433 |
| Adelaide | 1,670 | 89,124 |
| Darwin | 1,360 | 72,580 |
13. Wildlife
Australia is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including iconic animals such as kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies, offering a unique experience to nature lovers. There are an estimated 200,000 to 300,000 species in Australia. This includes around 250 native mammal species, 550 land and aquatic bird species, 680 reptile species, 190 frog species, and over 2,000 marine and freshwater fish species.
14. Food & Wine Culture
Australia is a melting pot of traditional food and diverse culture, with a fusion of different cuisines and a thriving wine industry, making it a haven for food and wine enthusiasts.
Australia's food and wine culture is a vibrant blend of global influences and rich local traditions. Australia is the world's sixth-largest wine producer, with over 60 designated wine regions, including the famous Barossa Valley and Hunter Valley. In 2023, Australian wine exports reached approximately 620 million liters, showcasing its global impact.
The food industry is equally dynamic, with a strong emphasis on fresh, locally sourced produce. Popular dishes like meat pies, barramundi, and pavlova reflect Australia's fusion of traditional and contemporary tastes.
The seas around Australia offer an abundance of high-quality seafood. Indian grocery stores in Australia are well-stocked with a wide variety of Indian foods like masala spices, coconut milk, etc.
To find the best Indian grocery store for your needs, it's advisable to research online first. This allows you to find a store that carries the stuff you want and has the layout and atmosphere you prefer.
Read this article to learn about the Easiest States to Get PR in Australia.
15. Good Quality of Air and Water
The air quality index of Australia is among some of the cleanest in the world. Thus, improving physical health and overall well-being, and reducing the risk of respiratory and other illnesses caused by pollution or contaminated water sources.
Check out the current air quality index of top cities in Australia below.
| City | AQI |
|---|---|
| Sydney | 19 |
| Melbourne | 13 |
| Brisbane | 6 |
| Perth | 28 |
| Adelaide | 27 |
| Canberra | 24 |
| Darwin | 39 |
16. Accommodation
Australia offers a wide range of affordable and comfortable housing options, from apartments to spacious houses, with access to various amenities.
Numerous international students opt for short-term lodging as they acquaint themselves with their new city and explore potential housemates. This includes options like hotels, hostels, and other temporary accommodations. Families often choose serviced apartments or family-friendly Airbnb rentals for more space and comfort during the initial stay.
| City | Cost of Accommodation for Students (AUD/month) | Cost of Accommodation for Bachelors (AUD/month) | Cost of Accommodation for Couples (AUD/month) | Cost of Accommodation for Families (AUD/month) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | 650 - 1,000 | 1,997 | 2,000 - 3,500 | 3,759 |
| Melbourne | 800 - 1,200 | 1,334 | 1,800 - 3,200 | 2,155 |
| Brisbane | 840 - 2,000 | 1,858 | 1,800 - 3,000 | 2,555 |
| Perth | 300 - 800 | 1,713 | 1,500 - 2,800 | 2,740 |
| Canberra | 400 - 500 | 1,400 - 2,600 | 1,900 - 3,300 | 3,000 - 5,200 |
17. Opportunities for International Travel and Exploration
Australia and its nearby borders are home to beautiful beaches, wildlife, and natural wonders. It broadens cultural horizons, promotes personal growth, and boosts the economy through tourism.
Australian citizens or permanent residents have the privilege of visiting, working, and residing in New Zealand without needing a visa prior to travel.
Cons of Living in Australia
While Australia offers a high quality of life, stunning landscapes, and diverse cultures, it also comes with certain challenges for residents. High living costs, remote locations, and extreme weather conditions can impact daily life. Let’s explore some of the key drawbacks of living in Australia.
1. High Cost of Living in Big Cities
Urban cities such as Sydney, and Melbourne can make it difficult to save money or afford basic necessities, leading to financial stress and hardship. However Regional areas of Australia have better opportunities and the cost of living is also low.
2. High Levels of Traffic Congestion in Major Cities
An increasing number of vehicles is causing major congestion in Australia, leading to frustration, stress, and wasted time commuting, impacting work-life balance and mental health. It is recommended to avail the public transport and cycles to commute.
Explore how to immigrate to Australia from India without job offer here.
3. Risk of Bushfires and Other Natural Disasters
Off late due to global warming, Australia is reeling with natural calamities causing property damage, loss of life, and mental health issues, creating a sense of insecurity and fear.
4. Large Distances Between Cities and Towns
People who are looking for jobs in urban cities, often have to stay in areas where the cost of living is low. Thus these low-lying areas lack basic essential services, such as healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
5. Strict Immigration Policies and Processes
Australia follows a strict immigration policy, creating barriers for individuals and families seeking to immigrate, causing emotional distress, and disrupting life plans.
Here is an article on the Australian Visa Types You Should Know.
6. Relatively high crime rates
This can cause fear, anxiety, and trauma, impacting personal safety and well-being, as well as community cohesion. However, the high crime rates in Australia have not translated into high levels of fear of violence.
Weighing the Pros & Cons of Living in Australia
In conclusion, Australia boasts a high quality of life, stunning natural landscapes, a friendly and welcoming culture, and a strong economy, it also has its downsides, such as high cost of living, harsh weather conditions, and Immigration policies. Ultimately, the decision to live in Australia depends on an individual's personal preferences and circumstances.
If you want to explore life in Australia, GetGIS is here to help you. It helps you weigh your options with expert insights, making your transition to Down Under seamless. Reach out to GetGIS for personalized guidance today!
Useful Links
- Best Way to Get PR in Australia
- Top 10 In-Demand Jobs in Australia
- Top 10 Universities in Australia
- Pathways from Temporary to Permanent Residency in Australia
- Study in Australia for Free in 2026: Scholarships, Affordable Universities, and Tips
- Best Jobs for Indian Freshers in Australia
- July Intake in Australia 2026: Application Deadlines & Process for International Students
- November Intake in Australia 2026: Application Deadlines & Process for International Students
- February Intake in Australia 2026: Application Deadlines & Process for International Students
- Australia PR for Professionals in STEM and Healthcare in 2025-26
- 5 Year Work Visa in Australia: Guide for Professionals & Expats (2026)
- Average Salary for Indians in Australia in 2026
- Difference in Living Cost in Canada and Australia 2026: Which is Better for Indians?
Limited-time offer : Access a free 10-Day IELTS study plan curated for you
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Australia worth living in?
Which is safer, Australia or the USA?
Is Australia safe for Muslims?
How many Hindus live in Australia?
Where do Indians stay in Australia?
Is Australia expensive to live in?
Which city has best job prospects in Australia?
