Your Guide To Moving Interstate in Australia

July 7th, 2023

Relocating to another state is a task that requires careful planning and organisation. It can be quite stressful, given the number of things you need to manage. Here’s a guide to help you navigate through this process and ensure a smooth transition.

Organising the Journey: People and Possessions

Think of your move as having two main components – transporting your family and moving your belongings.

If you’re choosing to drive, ensure your vehicle is in top condition by scheduling a service beforehand. If flying seems more practical, start scouting for flights that offer the best timings and rates.

Start by taking stock of all large items and estimating the number of boxes required for packing. This will help you get accurate quotes from movers. Also, keep in mind certain items like refrigerators need special handling during transit.

Decluttering: Sell, Donate or Discard

Start by evaluating the larger items in your home. If you’re moving to a smaller place, you might need to let go of some furniture. Conversely, a larger home might make your existing furniture seem inadequate. Consider selling furniture that won’t fit in your new home online, donate what doesn’t sell, or give it away to friends or family.

As for personal items and clothing, the less you take with you, the better. Use this opportunity to declutter and start anew.

Packing: An Art and Science

Once you have decided what you’re taking with you, start packing items that aren’t used daily. Label each box clearly with the room it belongs to and its contents. Fragile items should be packed with care and marked as such.

Remember, packing is time-consuming. The longer you’ve lived in your current home, the more time it will likely take to pack everything.

Mind the Details

It’s often the small things that can cause the most stress during a move. Creating a checklist well ahead of time can help avoid last-minute hassles.

Ensure you’ve informed all utility providers about your move, settled all bills, and arranged for utilities to be connected at your new home. Remember to redirect your mail through Australia Post to ensure you don’t miss any critical correspondence.

Don’t forget to inform other essential entities about you moving homes, including your bank, Medicare, the ATO, Centrelink, the Australian Electoral Commission, your state motor vehicle authority, the pet microchip registry, and insurance companies.

Additional Moving Considerations

Beyond the basics of organising, decluttering, and packing, there are a few additional considerations that can make your interstate move smoother.

Health and Medical Needs

If you or any of your family members have ongoing medical needs, be sure to research healthcare providers in your new location. Transfer medical records to your new provider well ahead of time. Also, don’t forget to refill prescriptions before you move.

School Transfers

For families with children, school transfers are a critical aspect of moving. Research schools in your new area and understand their enrolment process. Contact your children’s current school to inform them about the move and organise the transfer of academic records.

Pets

Moving can be stressful for pets too. Plan how you will transport your pet to the new home. Some states have specific requirements for bringing pets in, so be sure to check these out. Also, find a new vet in your new location.

Insurance

Your belongings are at risk of damage during the move. Check with the removal company about their insurance coverage. It might be wise to purchase additional insurance to cover any gaps.

Final Walk-through

Before you leave your old home for the last time, do a final walk-through. Check all the rooms, closets, and cabinets to ensure nothing has been left behind.

Arrival at Your New Home

Once you arrive at your new home, take the time to clean it thoroughly before unpacking. Unpack room by room, starting with the kitchen and bedrooms. These are essential for basic daily living and will help you feel settled more quickly.

Moving interstate is a significant life event. It can be an emotional time, as you say goodbye to your old home and face the uncertainty of settling into a new community. Remember to take care of yourself during this period. Allow yourself to feel all the emotions that come up and take breaks when needed.

The Key to Moving Interstate

Interstate moving can feel overwhelming, but with careful planning and organisation, it can be managed effectively. The key is to start early and tackle one thing at a time. And remember, whether you’re moving to Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, or South Australia, there are plenty of resources available to help you navigate the specifics of your new location. Happy moving!