Given the fact that Australia is such a vast country, there must be regional variations. When thinking about moving to Australia, one should consider each Australian state like as if they were different countries sharing the same continent. After all, they are sub-national entities each having legal and political systems of their own. Or what do you think? I don´t think there are many people who are saying: "Should I move to Perth or Sydney, I just can´t make up my mind".

Or am I completely wrong? Are there substantial differences between the Australian states? Or is it more to do with the differneces between the largest cities and the vast inland? Perhaps Perth and Sydney have more in common than Sydney and some small village in NSW.

A very jaundiced view of federation....

No, it isn't that different between states. But it is that different that it becomes a pain in the arse to do certain things. Labour mobility is one of the biggest issues which is problematic due to states' inidviduality.

Personally, I believe that federation is continued by those riding the gravy train. Sincerely, I have never come cross politicians such as those in WA who earn so much money for making such bad decisions (often out of vested interest) and are so thick.

They'd lose a lot through centralisation of power and government.

Roll on centralised power and government...

You will find differences in redtape, and they will legislate differently.

A good one I can think of is that NSW requires a annual roadworthy check for a second hard car when others only require it, if at all, on re-registration, or sale.

Defintely the case

Apparently the train lines are different gauges in some states.....how thick is that?

Different rules and regulations for each state, red tape for Africa in each state.

Wouldn't it be nice if everything was standardised throughout the whole of Oz?

........ Roy Orbison immediately springs to mind!

It can be like living in a different country, the landscape, climate and laws are all different. When you look at the huge difference in km's it is not surprising, there is also a huge rivalry between the states, especially when it comes to sport

There is also a few different time zones as well.

You've just reminded me of one of my favourite quotes of all time ...

Ian Rush (Liverpool & Wales legend) on his time in Turin with Juventus:

"I couldn't settle in Italy — it was like living in a foreign country."

Priceless ...

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Ey up lad, just seen your avatar, watched "Shameless" last night, me and the hubbie love it, what a brilliant show, will have to get our pommie mates onto it too as it is shown on SBS and not a lot of folks would see it. Even got a Yorkshire lass here who is heading home after 7 years who hasnt watched it yet

differences in states - yorkshire lancashire - emmerdale eastenders - off course they will be a difference -