Receiving that PR visa is a major milestone — often the result of years of planning, paperwork, and patience. It’s your ticket to a new life, but it also comes with real financial responsibilities from day one.
Moving to Australia is a dream for many – the lifestyle, the fresh air, the multicultural vibe. But while we’re busy packing bags, booking tickets, and lining up job interviews, there’s one topic that often takes a back seat: Money.
And not just earning it — but truly understanding, budgeting it smartly, and preparing your finances to support your new life in Australia.
Whether you are coming from India, South Africa, the UAE, or anywhere else, this guide is built on real, lived experiences — including mine — nd is designed to help you budget better and make the most of your money in your first 6–12 months as a PR migrant in Australia.
When I arrived in Australia on a PR visa, I was fully focused on job hunting. But here’s the truth: those first few months — before you earn your first Australian dollar — are financially crucial. The way you manage your budget, savings, and daily expenses during this phase can shape your early migrant journey.
In March 2023, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that over 3 million permanent migrants have arrived in Australia since 2000, and India accounts for nearly 15% of them. What’s even more telling? Around 59% of these migrants arrived on skilled visas, and the median age was 37.
That means most of us aren’t arriving as students. We are professionals and families in our 30s and 40s — people who may already have responsibilities, financial commitments, or some savings. But relocating is more than just a change of address —it’s a reset on how we plan, budget, spend, and protect our money in a new system.
So if you’re preparing to make the move to Australia, or have just landed, let’s talk about what really matters — how to take care of your finances smartly and confidently from day one.
1. Review & Manage Your Finances Back Home
We have all heard the phrase: “Money makes money.” But do we apply that when migrating? Before setting foot in Australia, it’s essential to assess and optimize your existing financial assets.
Check Your Investments Back Home
Do you have money invested in mutual funds, fixed deposits, or other accounts in your home country? Are these investments still giving you good returns?
If not, this is the time to rethink them. Can you move your money to better options with higher interest or more flexibility? Choose accounts that allow you to access your funds internationally — so you’re not stuck if you need emergency cash after moving.
Track and Cancel Useless Subscriptions
Have you signed up for multiple online platforms? Learning apps, shopping sites, music or video subscriptions — many of us forget these are still being auto-debited from our bank accounts.
Before you move, go through your credit card and bank statements. You might find you are paying for 3 learning platforms, 2 grocery apps, and a few software tools — even some newly added ones in Australia.
Cancel anything you don’t really need. These small amounts may seem harmless, but when you’re on a tight migrant budget, every dollar saved helps.
Understand Your Home Country Insurance Plans
Many people continue to pay for health or life insurance policies from their home country — without checking if they’re still valid once they move abroad.
Some policies may stop covering you if you’re no longer a resident. Others might offer limited international benefits. Read the policy details carefully, nd if needed, get advice from a financial expert who understands cross-border money matters for migrants.
Also, check what kind of insurance you may need in your new country. For example, in Australia, new migrants often need Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) until they become eligible for the public health system. Similar rules may apply elsewhere too — so it’s best to be prepared.
2. Shop Smart – Don’t Burn Your Dollars
Moving to a new country means buying lots of things, but you don’t need to buy everything brand new or expensive. Australia doesn’t manufacture many goods locally, so things can seem pricey, but “cheap” here usually means good value, not poor quality. Knowing where and when to shop can save you a lot
When we shop smartly, we avoid overspending on things we don’t truly need, especially during those first few months when every dollar counts. There are plenty of affordable stores and second-hand options that offer quality products without the high price tag.
My personal experience: When I first arrived, I spent over $500 on a dress for a job interview, thinking it was necessary to impress. Later, I realized there were many affordable alternatives that looked just as good. Similarly, I overspent on furniture, toys, and kitchen appliances because I didn’t know about the better shopping options available.
Where to Shop in Australia – Your Go-To Stores
Kmart / Big W
These are fantastic for affordable clothes, kitchen utensils, storage boxes, and many household essentials. They offer a great balance between price and quality—perfect for migrants on a budget.
Aldi / Woolworths
When it comes to groceries and kitchen appliances, these are the big players. Aldi especially is known for its low prices and surprisingly good quality on fresh produce and pantry items.
Timing Your Purchases – Sales Events Matter!
One of the biggest secrets to saving money in Australia is timing. Knowing when the big sales happen can help you grab essentials and even branded items at a fraction of the usual cost.
Here are some must-know sales events:
Click Frenzy (May & November)
Huge online sales with big discounts across electronics, clothing, homewares, and more.
Black Friday
Originally a US sale event, now huge in Australia too. It’s a great time to find branded goods like clothing, gadgets, and appliances on sale.
Boxing Day (December 26th)
This is the biggest post-Christmas sale in Australia. Expect extreme discounts on everything—from shoes to home electronics.
Just remember: Being frugal is smart — especially as a new permanent resident.
Discover Hidden Gems from Your Community
Sometimes the best deals come from fellow migrants or locals sharing their tips.
Facebook Marketplace
This is gold for finding second-hand furniture, kitchen items, toys, and even some appliances. You’ll be surprised how much good quality stuff you can pick up here for very little.
Temu / Shein
These online stores offer a huge range of affordable clothing and accessories. You might hesitate because they’re not “brand names,” but many people find great deals on trendy and decent-quality items here.
And Most Importantly – Don’t Buy What You Don’t Need!
The temptation to recreate your old life in a new country is very real. But in those first few months, every dollar counts. Spending on things just for comfort or to “feel at home” can quickly lead to financial stress.
Focus on buying what’s necessary first—things that help you live and work comfortably. Once you’re settled and earning steadily, you can think about the extras.
By shopping smart, timing your purchases, and knowing where to find bargains, you can stretch your dollars further—and have the peace of mind to focus on building your new life in Australia.
Once you’ve settled, found income stability, and understood cost of living in Australia better, then you can expand your lifestyle purchases.
