Hi just looking for some info on Newcastle and surrounding areas, we have recently got our visas for Oz and my husband has secured a job in Newcastle just looking for some help with the best areas to bring up kids i have 2 boys they are 7 and 3, we would be renting to start with.

Thanks Natalie

Good choice. Newcastle is a bit of an up and comer. Can't really advise on where to live in Newcastle itself but I do like going to Nelson Bay and surrounding areas. Very beautiful and a 45 min drive away, and a lot of people who live there work in Newcastle and do the drive in every day.

If you want to be near the city but like the beach life, Merewhether, Bar Beach, The Junction, Cooks Hill are good areas - also Honeysuckle is a great harbour side location. Close to the city and currently being redeveloped from industrial to residential is Carrington and Maryville. Newcastle is a great city and going through a big change for the better. Good cafes, bars and restaurants and very family oriented.

Hi Natalie, why don't you tell us your approximate budget and what you like in an area, then we can offer specific advice. Newcastle isn't a big city really but added to the population and suburbs of Lake Mac you have a lot of variety in lifestyle and budget.