Relocation Checklist

Don’t know where to start? Our handy Relocation checklist will help you to stay organised.

For detailed information about relocating to Victoria, download a free copy of Victoria’s Relocation Guide.

On this page:
Preparing for departure
Arriving in Victoria

Preparing for departure

18 months prior

• Compile a shortlist of where in Victoria you would like to live. Talk to friends and relatives already living in the State. Conduct research on the internet, useful websites include:
  - Visit Victoria
  - Live In Victoria
• Learn more about property prices and the cost of living. Develop a budget for when you move.
• Research job opportunities and business opportunities for you and your family.
• Attend migration expos to obtain more information and ask questions.
• Find a migration agent or research your migration visa options if you plan to apply yourself.
• Talk to your doctor about any medical conditions that may need attention.
• Prepare your current home for sale or rent.

12 months prior

• Ensure that you and your family all have valid passports.
• Complete your visa applications forms – seek assistance from your Migration Agent if required.
• Inform your children’s schools of your relocation plans. Request copies of all relevant documentation such as school reports.
• Talk to your family and friends about your plans to relocate.
• Organise your finances. Consolidate accounts and reduce debts wherever possible.
• Research costs for relocation services and source airfare quotes.
• Familiarise yourself with Australia’s customs and quarantine requirements for your pets and belongings.

6 months prior

• If your permanent residency visa has been granted, put your home on the market for sale and source temporary accommodation should your house sell sooner than anticipated.
• Check the required notice period for vacating your property if you are renting.
• Undertake medical and police checks if required.
• Create or update your Last Will and Testament.
• Research processes involved with transporting pets i.e. quarantine, vaccinations, costs involved.
• Sell or donate unwanted furniture and household goods.
• Consider advising your employer of your relocation plans.
• Obtain copies of medical and dental records for you and your family.
• Request credit references from your bank and other lenders.
• Narrow down your search for places you would like to live in Victoria.
• If you are considering living in regional Victoria, contact a Regional Migration Coordinator and advise of your expected arrival date and occupational details.

2 months prior

• Source and book temporary accommodation in Victoria for when you arrive.
• Investigatetransport options to your temporary accommodation when you arrive.
• Investigate new schools or childcare providers for your children and register them if possible.
• Book your pets into quarantine service and boarding kennels in Victoria if necessary.
• Begin packing items you do not regularly use.
• Update your Curriculum Vitae/Resume including employer references. Start applying for positions via employer and recruitment websites. Follow up by phone if possible.
• Obtain statements from your financial institutions and any pension /superannuation funds.
• Service your vehicle, prepare for sale or storage.
• Confirm your departure date with removalists.
• Contact potential employers in Victoria and notify them of your interest and expected arrival time. Arrange a telephone interview if appropriate.
• Arrange necessary insurance cover for you and your family. Ensure it is valid until you take out a new policy in Australia.
• Settle any outstanding legal matters if applicable.

1 month prior

• Sell or store your car.
• Provide a forwarding address to your bank, migration agent, post office, financial institutions, employer, friends and family, and relevant authorities. Arrange for your mail to be redirected.
• Compile personal records and paperwork into a secure travel file.
• Arrange for current prescriptions and a sufficient supply of any medicines.
• Pay all bills, cancel subscriptions and ensure any direct debits will be stopped once you move.
• Organise private health and other insurance for when you arrive in Australia.
• Confirm temporary accommodation booking for when you arrive.
• Register to attend a skilled or business seminar for when you arrive in Victoria. These seminars will provide you with tips and contacts to make a rapid transition into work or business.
• If relocating to regional Victoria, confirm your arrival date with a Victorian Regional Migration Coordinator and make an appointment to visit them.
• If possible, set up a bank account in Australia.

2 weeks prior

• Obtain some Australian dollars and/or travellers’ cheques for when you arrive.
• Finish packing all non-essential items.
• Back up your computer files.

1 week prior

• Organise transport to the airport.
• Pack essential items and on-board luggage. Include activities for children if applicable.
• Leave forwarding contact details for the new occupants of your home.

Arriving in Victoria

When you first arrive

• Check into your temporary accommodation.
• Let your friends and family at home know that you have arrived safely.
• Set up a pre-paid mobile phone account.
• Find your nearest internet service point.
• Hire a car to explore Melbourne, regional Victoria and your local area, including local schools if applicable.
• Purchase the weekend newspapers and acquaint yourself with Melbourne and regional Victoria. Here, you will also find job and property vacancies, and cars for sale.
• Apply for a tax file number and open a bank account if still required.
• Register yourself and your family for a Medicare card if you are eligible or arrange for private health insurance.
• Contact potential employers and recruitment agencies to set up job interviews.
• Attend a skilled or business seminar.
• Collect your pets from quarantine if necessary.
• If living in regional Victoria, visit your Regional Migration Coordinator.

When you move into your new home

• Set up utilities including phone, power, internet etc.
• Contact your children’s new schools or child care provider and arrange for a progress report.
• Introduce yourself to your new neighbours.
• Look into social and recreational activities in your local area.
• Purchase a car if required and organise registration and insurance.
• Register with your local library.