When planning a move to Australia, most people focus on packing, visas, and costs. But one crucial aspect that’s often overlooked—and rarely covered online—is timing.
Australia operates on its own unique schedule when it comes to housing, jobs, schooling, and even shipping logistics. Misjudging your ‘Aussie Timeline’ could leave you facing unexpected delays, higher costs, or missing out on key opportunities. Let’s break down how to time your move perfectly so you arrive at the right moment, fully prepared.
1. The Best Time to Secure a Rental or Buy a Home
If you’re planning to rent, January and February are peak seasons, with a rush of expats, students, and job seekers looking for places to live. Prices soar, and competition is fierce.
Best time to arrive: March to May or September to November, when demand cools, giving you better choices at lower prices.
For buying a home, Australian property cycles differ by city:
Sydney & Melbourne: Spring (September to November) sees the highest number of listings.
Perth & Brisbane: Prices tend to dip in winter (June to August), making it a good time to buy.
Tip: If you’re shipping your belongings, factor in arrival times. A poorly timed shipment could leave you waiting weeks for furniture in an empty home.
2. Job Market Cycles – When to Apply for Work
Australia’s hiring patterns follow the financial year, which runs from July to June.
Best time to job hunt: July to October, when budgets reset and new roles open.
Worst time to job hunt: December to January, when businesses slow down for the holidays.
Some industries have their own hiring cycles:
Education & Public Sector: Hires early in the year (January to March).
Trades & Construction: Picks up in spring (September to November) as projects ramp up.
Tip: If you’re moving for work, time your arrival with peak hiring periods to secure a role faster.
3. School Enrolment – Avoiding the Cut-Offs
Australia’s school year starts in late January. If you arrive mid-year, securing a place in a good school can be tricky. Plan to arrive before December to register your child in time for the new school year. For university enrolments, semesters start in February and July, so aligning your move to these dates is crucial.
4. The Hidden Costs of Shipping at the Wrong Time
International shipping rates fluctuate based on global demand.
December to January: Peak shipping period (more expensive) due to holiday freight congestion.
March to April and September to October: Lower demand means faster transit times and better pricing.
Australian customs clearance also slows in December and January, which could leave your belongings stuck longer than expected.
Tip: Ship your items in late February or August to avoid peak congestion and keep costs down.
5. Healthcare – When to Sort Medicare and Private Cover
If you’re eligible for Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system), apply as soon as you land. Processing can take weeks, and arriving without cover could mean paying out-of-pocket for unexpected medical expenses. Private health insurance rates reset on April 1st, often increasing prices. If you’re taking out private cover, lock in a policy before then to avoid price hikes.
6. Cost of Living – Seasonal Price Fluctuations
The cost of essentials like groceries, petrol, and utilities can fluctuate significantly.
Electricity prices peak in winter (June to August) when heating demand rises.
Rent and flights spike in December and January due to holiday travel and summer demand.
Tip: If you’re moving on a budget, aim for the shoulder seasons (March to May or September to November) when prices are more stable.
Final Thoughts: Timing Is Everything
Moving to Australia isn’t just about booking flights and packing boxes—it’s about understanding the country’s natural rhythms and planning around them. By syncing your move with the Aussie Timeline, you’ll avoid unnecessary stress, reduce costs, and settle into your new life much more smoothly.
Need help with timing your move? John Mason International has been moving people to Australia for over 140 years. We’ll guide you through every step, from packing to arrival, ensuring your transition is seamless. Contact us today for a free video survey and tailored quote. Because when it comes to moving, timing matters.