worzel

I got an email from a colleague in Sydney on Monday saying she was leaving. As she is an ex-Pom working for a British company and at my level it would have been perfect for me and they would probably have helped out financially too. I was sorely tempted as it sounded like fate but I have backed out as I don't fancy Sydney because it would be a return to a large mortgage and long commutes. So we are still heading for Perth, the one major city we haven't been too with no job lined up and only the good people of this forum as possible friends.

Did I do the right thing?

Muzza04

Were you offered the job?

sel

If its any consolation I think you have made the right choice

You are leaving to start a NEW life and to have an adventure ... anyway you already know your reasons against slotting in and making do just because its easy ... I totally understand the temptation tho cos its so very near for you and scary ...

See you soon at the meet

worzel

No, I don't think they have even advertised yet but without being big-headed I am sure I would have got it if I wanted it. It is well within my capabilities, I know their systems inside out and I know the people.

NedKelly

No you didn't. Perth is too full of South Africans and Brits.

sel

Well a few more won't hurt then

Muzza04

No job offer, no job. Off to perth you go.

Vegemite Kids

GRRRRRR

And lots and lots of australians, plus malaysians, japanese, indonesians, vanuatans, chinese, indians, vietnamese, italians, americans, dutch, kiwis .. and thats just the people I've met, all of whom are lovely people.


Worzel, for what its worth I think you made the right decision. Since moving to Perth a year ago, hubby has changed careers completely (engineer to apprentice stonemason) and I'm thinking of doing the same (changing careers that is but not stonemasonary) Between us we have taken a pay cut of over 75% compared to what we were earning in Germany, but we still save money each week (unless I decide to go shoe shopping ) If we had made the 'sensible decision' we would now be in brissie, where all my family are, but I'm glad we werent sensible. We've had a fabby 12 months in Perth and are looking forward to many more years here

Just remember in Sydney you get approx 15% more salary than Perth but your house costs 40-50% more. Do the math and then decide

Hunkyhenry

Sydney s a different train to Perth!!!

GinaUK

Obviosyly I'm completely biased here but I think you made the right choice. Like you said, Sydney means small house, huge mortgage, long commutes, hectic life. Personally, I think Perth has a much nicer life style to offer.

I know, I worry about the "will we get jobs" question as well, especially at our "advanced age", but then: accountants ARE on the MODL, Perth has lots of large and medium-sized companies - we'll get jobs ...

Gina

worzel

Thanks Gina. Your assurance means a lot.

Mike&Kate

Hi - Interested to hear about the change of career. We're trying to find infos on training to become an Electrician in Perth and generally how to go about starting a new career from scratch once we get there. Is it possible to get previous work experience (different industry tho') recognised and reduce the 4-year apprentice stint? Is it possible to live off the wages or would a second income be vital to keep our heads above water? We're leaving UK end of June.

chocaholic

I'm sure you've made the right decision for you and that's all that really counts, doesn't it.

It wouldn't have been right for me...I'm a Sydney girl.