How to Choose a Suburb in an Australian City

Which Suburb?

Australia is crawling with suburbs! If you think you’ve got it tough deciding which city to live in, wait until you have to drill down and choose a suburb in that city. Australian cities, between them, have well over 1,000 suburbs.

SuburbsSo, as you can imagine, it’s very difficult for me to answer questions about good and bad suburbs around Australia.

That’s why I encourage people to comment about their particular suburb or area on all of my pages about Australia’s cities and states. Be sure to read those comments as they are certainly helpful for people trying to choose somewhere to live in Australia.

I have broken all of the suburbs down for you for each of the big cities here on this website. From any page, simply hover over the “Australia’s Cities” link in the top navigation bar towards the left and the 10 major cities will drop down. Hover over your city of choice and to the right it will be broken down further into, usually, Inner, North, South, East and West.

Click on any one of those links, and at the foot of each page you will see a full list of every suburb for that particular part of that city. If you want to know more about that particular place, why not post a question in the comment box at the bottom. Someone who lives there might pop by and answer your question.

Hopefully that will help you choose a suburb. If you live in Australia, why not add a comment about what it’s like to live in your area?

Useful links for suburb research:

MyBoot

There are some other very useful websites with some great information about Australian suburbs. First up is a website that will give you the demographics for each suburb, like how far it is from the city centre (CBD), the population, size by square kilometres, average age, median house prices and more.

This website has been around for some time, but I’m not sure if it is constantly being maintained. I took a look recently, the search function didn’t work and neither did comparing crime stats. What does work quite well though is if you click on the map towards the top of the page on the left to select your state, and then choose your destination within that state from the alphabetical list to find out more about its demographics.

Visit: myboot.com.au

RealEstate

This next website is great for researching information about Australian suburbs. It’s also a portal for Australian real estate sales, so you can go househunting at the same time. To find out more about any Australian town, suburb or postcode, just search for it in the search box, then click on the “Search” button to the right. Next, click the “Suburb Profile” link on the right hand side and it will take you to a page full of useful information, mostly demographics, house prices and trends.

Here’s the link to the site…

Visit: realestate.com.au/

Or, if you want to skip the trends bit and just get reviews from people who live in these areas, take a look at…

Homely

Another useful tool to search for information about suburbs around Australia, but do be aware that sometimes some strange results will occur. I noticed this when checking out Brisbane, a couple of our not so hot suburbs were being touted as best places to live here; some people, it seems, do think it’s amusing to write completely false reviews.

So when using Homely, be aware that this might happen as it might happen on other review sites too. I would suggest doing initial research on this site, then coming back to ask for a second opinion, as a comment, in a relevant city page (links above) or on this page. Always get a second opinion and remember, if house prices seem extraordinary low in a certain suburb, there’s probably a reason. It’s usually a very good clue that the area isn’t that great.

Having got that out of the way, this is a well-organised site. You can pick your suburb from one of the lists or the search box works really well. Some suburbs don’t yet have any reviews, but others have plenty and you can join in on the conversation and ask questions if you want to.

Well worth a look, here is a link to the site.

Visit: homely.com.au/find-places

Country of birth

So, when other people who come from your country moved to Australia, where do they go? Which city do they go to? Which suburb in that city do they go to? Here’s how to find out…

Visit: Who Lives Where? Migrants Settling in Australian Cities

Socio-economically advantaged and disadvantaged areas

Safe suburbs

I am often asked ‘What are the safe suburbs?’ in various cities. Australia is a safe country, but some areas are safer than others and here’s how to find them…

Visit: Crime Statistics in Australia: Finding Safe Suburbs

Happy house hunting.

 

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{ 207 comments… add one }
  • Sena August 7, 2014, 6:08 pm |

    Dear Bob,

    I am planning to retire from full time work within a year and move to Brisbane to live(currently in NSW). We spent a week last year trying to look at real estate but our biggest problem is choosing a suburb with good facilities. Can you or other readers help?

    We like peace and quite in the suburb, easy transport to the cbd, good hospital facilities, and multicultural food. We enjoy Walking and community festivals/events to link up with others too.

    Sena

  • Shahrokh July 15, 2014, 8:12 pm |

    Ok, got it , thanks ….. but I always say that the sydney where you can improve your life and specially your mind besides this there are lots of the best situations for enjoying of life…

  • Shahrokh July 15, 2014, 1:29 am |

    Why ? Really why?

    • BobinOz July 15, 2014, 7:34 pm |

      Thumbs up is a compliment, think ‘Like’ on Facebook, it’s the same as one of those. Maybe thumbs up is different in your culture?

  • shahrokh July 14, 2014, 6:10 pm |

    to tell you the truth Australia is my heart and my breath and in my opinion i can’t live with out Sydney ….. i really like walking on street ..

    • BobinOz July 14, 2014, 9:57 pm |

      The thumbs up for Sydney then shahrokh, by sound of it…

  • Hassan Raza July 11, 2014, 11:03 pm |

    Hi. I am looking to move to Brisbane for educational reasons but I’m hesitant as I’m only 19. So i want to ask that is Wooloongabba(pardon the spellings) a safe place to live in terms of racism and discrimination as I’m asian?

    • BobinOz July 13, 2014, 10:57 pm |

      Brisbane is a safe city, by and large, and there’s nothing wrong with the area you mention, it’s actually quite a good area, it’s where the famous cricket ground is, known as “The Gabba”.

      But like any country we have racists and nutters who can get on buses, so no area can ever be described as fully safe or racist free. But that’s just me being pedantic.

  • Andrew June 5, 2014, 8:53 pm |

    Hi Bob, just moved to Perth from the UK and really liking the site and emails. Thanks. One I get to know Perth better I’ll have to post some info on here.

    Just wondering about your site, how you got into it etc as I read something about SBI course and developing a website and making it commericially viable. Didn’t know if you had used that?

    Thanks for any help,

    Andrew

    • BobinOz June 6, 2014, 12:56 am |

      Hi Andrew

      Welcome to Australia! Hope you get to love Perth is much as I love it here in Brisbane.

      I have heard of SBI, but I’ve never used it. This website is a self hosted WordPress site and if you are going to build a website, I would recommend you do the same.

      SBI has been around for many years and I think it’s pretty good, but WordPress has enormous support with millions and millions of users, it’s a very solid platform.

      This was the first WordPress website I’d ever built, and I got into it simply because I felt I had so much to say about life in Australia after I moved here. And look at me, more than five years on and I’m still saying stuff 🙂

      Cheers, Bob

      • Andrew June 6, 2014, 3:35 pm |

        Thanks Bob – definitely enjoying the Australian ‘winter’!!

        Cheers for the advice. I know generally sites like yours are mainly because you want to help people and spread the knowledge but can you actually make some profit at the same time?

        • BobinOz June 6, 2014, 6:21 pm |

          It’s possible, but you’ll earn more money in McDonald’s 🙂 Unless your site goes massive, and that’s not easy.

  • mike and nikki June 4, 2014, 6:35 am |

    Now we are closing in obtsining our permanent vissd we are now looking at the bedt place to live, a few people are mentioning Brisbane to me but we are coming on the back of my husbands skill as a carpenter and not sure where the best place for work is?

    • BobinOz June 4, 2014, 7:58 pm |

      Have you had a good look at my page A Quick Guide to Choosing a City in Australia? Hopefully it will help you narrow your search.

      • PaulIfans June 4, 2014, 10:38 pm |

        Hi Bob,

        Thanks for both replies. Yes I had a good look at the page you mentioned. I find your site very rich in information and very well structured and written.

        It’s really overwhelming trying to work out the options, the pitfalls, the process etc. It’s a breath of fresh air to see your site.

        Sydney would be an option, but like you I am not a fan of the hustle and bustle. Nor do I have pockets deep enough to pick up a million dollar house within 30 minutes commute of CBD!:)

        I have a friend who works in Perth in the same sector as me, so that could be a potential angle too.

        In any case, thanks again for your help. We are only just starting to look, as we are not happy and even worried about how things are going in France and in Europe in general. So I’m researching as much as I can to weigh things up.

        Thanks again and have a good day

        Paul

        • BobinOz June 6, 2014, 12:17 am |

          Yes, the options can be a little overwhelming, lots of big decisions to make. I hope you make the right ones.

          Thanks Paul, Bob

  • Shahrokh June 4, 2014, 3:07 am |

    I have been saying just sydney for ever …. my love Sydney

  • PaulIfans June 3, 2014, 9:00 pm |

    Hi Bob,

    My family & I live in France, and are just starting looking at a move to Australia.

    I work in ICT in banking, so it looks like I would be okay finding a job in places like Sydney or Perth. My wife is a freelance translator and can work from home. What we would be looking for is somewhere that I can find work in my field, which suits a family, and with a not-too-scorching summer! 35 degrees is fine, but I have already experienced mid-40 degrees in NSW and it is not pleasant!

    It looks like Queensland could be interesting for us. It looks reasonably hot all year around, but not oppressive? Plus with simpler commutes than Sydney CBD…

    Thanks in advance

    Paul

    • BobinOz June 4, 2014, 7:56 pm |

      Well I’m in Brisbane Paul, I love the climate, but for about five weeks or so a year it does get very humid and we do hit 40°C on a reasonably regular basis. It certainly hotter here than in NSW.

      Perth is also very hot, similar to Brisbane. If I were you, I would go where the work is and see how it goes for a couple of years. Sydney would probably be quite ideal, it is the financial hub and 40° days down there are not the norm.

      Good luck with your search, I hope you find somewhere suitable.

      Cheers, Bob

  • Shahrokh May 20, 2014, 4:32 am |

    I really like to live in australia specially in sydney becaucse in my opinion this place is the best location for living ofcourse with my family . Obviously , I don’t any wish ….just living in sydney……

  • Dani May 12, 2014, 2:17 pm |

    I’m a student from the US studying at UQ for law. What areas surrounding the university should be avoided?
    Thank you! I’m trying to find housing, but I do not know what areas are safest.

    • BobinOz May 13, 2014, 1:59 pm |

      What’s the location of the UQ building for law?

      • Dani May 14, 2014, 1:35 am |

        It’s the St. Lucia campus, if that helps.

        • BobinOz May 14, 2014, 10:09 pm |

          There is nowhere up that way that can be described as “unsafe”, so if I were you I’d stay close to the University, there’s quite a lot of student digs around there and you’ll want to be close to Toowong because all the students like to have a few beers down at the Royal Exchange at the weekends.

          You’ll be close to the city as well, you can get a citycat ferry all the way.

          Have fun, Bob

          • Dani May 15, 2014, 12:30 am |

            Great, thanks for the help!

  • naveed February 28, 2014, 5:10 pm |

    Hi,
    I need a suggestion regarding choosing a post code for 489 visa. I selected 4124 but the authorities asked for choosing a locality north or west of sunshine coast. Please sugest me the area that is also business hub in respect to job prospects. For information i am a technology expert looking for Telecom/ Networks related job

    Thanks

    • BobinOz March 1, 2014, 10:28 pm |

      Sorry, but I don’t really understand what you need here. If you really do have to select a postcode in that area, just Google Australian postcode maps and select something that is suitable.

  • Gemma February 6, 2014, 7:34 am |

    Hi Bob

    Firstly, I love how informative your website is. Me and my partner are looking to emigrate in the near future. I was looking into Sydney, but after researching realised it was very expensive.

    I have started looking at Perth and the GoldCoast but interested in any info you could give on “gay friendly” suberbs in these areas?

    Thanks

    Gemma x

    • BobinOz February 6, 2014, 5:37 pm |

      I would if I knew Gemma, but I don’t. Obviously Sydney is, I think, known as the gay capital of the world, so that would be the place to go. Perth is pretty expensive as well and I shouldn’t think the Gold Coast is not too far behind in terms of property prices at least. You’ve probably picked out three of the four most expensive places in Australia with Darwin probably being the other one.

      Sorry I can’t help further, but may I suggest you ask your “gay friendly” questions on my pages about Perth and the Gold Coast? Hopefully someone from that way will be able to help you.

  • Bac January 15, 2014, 8:59 pm |

    Very useful website, thanks for all the info.

    I am a software professional moving to Brisbanefrom India in next few weeks. My wife ( house wife) and twin boys 3 years old would be moving with me. The approx salary offered is AUD120000 PA ( pre tax & supreannuation).

    I do not have much idea about Brisbane (other than the generic info available).
    1. Is it possible to get a good 2 Bed apartment within 5-10 km range from CBD, which suburbs I should look out for- considering daily commuting time & safety for my family & good scholl for kids.what would be average rent/pw for these areas.
    2. What will be education cost for my Kids- is it subsidized, where can I get more info
    3. The superannuation that is deducted- is it refundable in case I come back to my home country.
    4. considering the fact that I am not a spendtrift what can be my saving potential – can I save AUD 1500 pm after spending decently on rent/ utilities/transport etc. I intend to use public transport and not car

    Ho..seems lot many questions 🙂 , if you disagree then you agree with me :-).

    cheers

    • BobinOz January 16, 2014, 2:12 pm |

      Yes, lots of questions, some impossible to answer. I couldn’t possibly tell you if you would be able to save $1500 per month or not, I wish I had such skills 🙂

      I’ve written about pretty much everything you are asking questions about, all the answers you need will be found if you read the relevant pages under my Migration Advice tab in the main menu.

      Cheers, Bob

  • clare roche January 6, 2014, 8:03 pm |

    hi bob, we are a family of 4, two young children 5 and 3.We are moving over from the uk and have settled on Brisbane, have you any information on Holland park? Jobs. schools, houses prices, beaches etc. thanks clare

    • BobinOz January 7, 2014, 4:23 pm |

      No, I don’t know anything specifically about Holland Park, but if you click on my Migration Advice link above you’ll find information on jobs, schools and house prices.

      No beaches in Brisbane 🙂

      • clare roche January 8, 2014, 2:50 am |

        thanks bob, great website, I actually laugh out loud at some things.

        • BobinOz January 8, 2014, 8:54 pm |

          Thanks Clare, if I can make someone laugh, then I’m happy too 🙂

  • Irene November 1, 2013, 9:26 pm |

    Hullo Bob,

    I will be moving to Brisbane in June next year to undertake my PhD studies at UoQ. I hope you are in position to advise me on aspects of accommodation.

    I have enjoyed reading your blog.

    Rgds,

    Irene

    • BobinOz November 3, 2013, 9:34 pm |

      If you are going to the campus at St Lucia, then I think you’ll find there is quite a bit of student accommodation in that area, but I would also ask about the availability of accommodation on campus, at least for your first year.

      Good luck, Bob

  • Maitreyee Menon October 14, 2013, 7:54 pm |

    Hi Bob,

    We are migrating to WA next year and our city is Perth. My husband is in the hospitality industry and main works involves in cafes and restaurants. Need your advice which is the best suburb in Perth to rent. We are looking for moderate rentals. Please help me with this

    • BobinOz October 15, 2013, 3:14 pm |

      Hi MM

      I don’t know Perth at all, I’ve not even been. My best suggestion would be for you to ask the same question, not address to me but to everyone, over on my page about Perth. Hopefully someone will be able to help you. Do also read the other comments people have made about Perth on that page, I’m sure you will learn quite a lot about the city. Cheers, Bob

  • Steve September 22, 2013, 6:12 pm |

    Fantastic site – best resource I’ve come across. I’d welcome any advice you (and others) are able to provide regarding choice of suburb to live in Brisbane.

    I’ve a job offer from an employer in Brisbane for an initial period of 3 years. I’ll be working in the CBD a day or two a week (rest of time working from home). My wife will be working as a nurse. My children (10 and 13) will ideally go to Catholic schools. So any tips for choice of suburbs with: easy access to CBD, local hospitals, and good Catholic schools. Many thanks in advance.

    • BobinOz September 23, 2013, 6:04 pm |

      Hi Steve, glad you like my website. Congratulations on your job offer, I hope you get to love Brisbane is much as I do.

      Here’s how I would approach your search for a suburb. Sounds like your children’s education would be pretty high on your list, so I would go over to my page called Which school? and set the search criteria for Catholic schools only. Then whittle down your choices of suburbs where there are schools that you think are suitable.

      Then, if you can’t decide, come back here and let me know your shortlist and what your preferences are in terms of what you want from a suburb and I’ll see if I can help.

      Cheers, Bob

  • Louise Bradshaw September 19, 2013, 6:56 am |

    Hi Bob
    I hope you can help.
    I am moving to Victoria in 11 days.
    My partner has been offered a job in Oz so we will be moving from the UK.
    We are both 29 years old and luckily my current boss in the UK is keeping me on whilst I move to Oz. So I will be working from home.
    We are looking to rent a place in Torquay but I am worried that there won’t be much to do there?
    I am a girl who loves clubbing and shopping and meeting new people but initially we can’t move to Melbourne until my boyfriend has settled in to his job.
    Do you know anything about Torquay or could you suggest any alternative areas to live that might be up both our streets if this isn’t the case with Torquay?
    I hope to hear from you
    Louise

    • BobinOz September 19, 2013, 9:51 pm |

      Hi Louise

      My only experience with Torquay is driving through it to get to the Great Ocean Road during my road trip. It’s a very small town, I can’t really imagine there’ll be much clubbing going on 🙂

      If Melbourne is not an option, the only other place I would suggest is Geelong, it would certainly be livelier than Torquay.

      Good luck, Bob

      • Louise Bradshaw September 23, 2013, 10:41 pm |

        Thank you Bob 🙂

  • Agnes September 18, 2013, 3:57 pm |

    Hi Bob,
    “From any page, simply hover over the “Living in Australia” link in the top navigation bar towards the left and the 10 major cities will drop down” – sorry, I can’t find the link…

    • BobinOz September 18, 2013, 4:32 pm |

      Well spotted! I made some changes to this website a while back and didn’t realise I had this instruction here. The page that used to be called “Living in Australia” is now called “Australia’s Cities” so if you hover over that link at the top of the page, you will see the 10 links to the cities drop-down.

      I’ve changed it in the main page now, thanks for pointing it out Agnes and sorry, my bad 🙂

      Cheers, Bob

  • Ashriel August 28, 2013, 7:40 pm |

    Hi Bob,
    my husband and i are considering purchasing a house in Fitzgibbon (Brisbane). Wondering if that suburb is safe and flood free? All advice is very much appreciated. Thanks in advance!

    • BobinOz August 29, 2013, 9:40 pm |

      I’ve never actually been to Fitzgibbon, but I’m kind of aware of the area and I’m sure it will be perfectly safe. The nearby suburbs of Sandgate, Shorncliff and Deagon are really good areas, so I’m sure it will be fine.

      As for flooding, if you visit my page about Brisbane you’ll find a link on there to the flood maps for the area, be sure to check your exact address.

      Hope it all goes well, Bob

  • Lauren August 14, 2013, 9:33 pm |

    Hi Bob!! Great website, me and my fiancé are moving to Brisbane July 2014 and we are overwhelmed by the size of Brisbane ha! We are looking into the southern suburbs and am wondering if you have any advice on places you may have been to. I need to be in a place near schools as I am a primary school teacher and would really appreciate any help and/or advice from anyone not just Bob 😀 thanks xxx

    • BobinOz August 15, 2013, 4:42 pm |

      Hi Lauren

      My best advice would be not to go too far south, make sure you stay within the Brisbane City Council boundaries. Closer to the city, the better. Other than that, I don’t know the southern suburbs that well so I will leave it to someone else who might be able to help you.

      Good luck, Bob

  • Lynn June 19, 2013, 8:24 am |

    Hi Bob!

    Me and 3 of my friends have just moved arrived in Alice Springs all the way from the USA. We are considering moving to Brisbane to look for work and such but we are wondering what the job market is like for young people on working/holiday visas. Also, we need housing that is good for walking/biking/public transit.

    Any tips?

  • Maria June 9, 2013, 8:06 am |

    Hi Bob
    I’m a swedish student who is moving to Brisbane this Juli to study at Griffith University at the Nathan Campus. I’m not that familiar with Brisbane and its suburbs and its all a bit confusing, So I need your advise about which area I should live in, so that I’m close both to campus and city, but is also a good place to meet other students and is financial possible for a student..

    Maria

    • BobinOz June 10, 2013, 7:07 pm |

      Hi Maria

      Well, the closer you get to the city the more expensive your accommodation will become, my suspicion is that you will probably be best off sharing somewhere with other students closer to campus.

      Not being a student myself, I really don’t know where they all hang out, but I would suggest contacting the University and asking them where the biggest congregation of student digs are in the area and how you can find out about any potential vacancies.

      Other than that, do we have any students reading this who can help Maria out?

      Bob

    • Mike June 11, 2013, 1:23 am |

      Hi Maria…

      I know how it feels to be a student having been one of those people that spent too long at university collecting bits of paper. My advice would be for your first semester at least in a New country, to try and get a room on campus, its the safer bet (good security, good facilities), and will be full of other students, meaning you will get to mix with other students, make friends and then explore Brisbane with your new friends to find a suitable place to share together. It would be the way I would do it if I had my time at uni again..

  • Leanne May 20, 2013, 7:19 am |

    I know I’ve said it before but this site is fab!! Well done bob! I enjoy reading all the advice and info on here! Can’t wait till I’m in Australia! 🙂 from the not so sunny north east of England! ;-/

    • BobinOz May 20, 2013, 9:09 pm |

      Thanks Leanne, very much appreciated. Hope to see you here soon 🙂

  • sarah May 18, 2013, 12:55 am |

    Hi Bob,

    Brilliant website!

    We’re looking to move to Brisbane but still looking up suburbs and suitable areas for quiet and peaceful family living preferably closer to parks and woods.
    Wondered if you could enlighten us on the healthcare system in Brisbane and which are the government/ private hospitals how it works. Is it similar to the UK? Are we required to register with a GP local to the area we live in?
    How about libraries?
    Pardon me if you already have a link to this and I hadnt noticed.
    Thanks much!

    Cheers

  • sam May 14, 2013, 10:10 pm |

    Hi,

    I am planning to immigrate to Brisbane. Currently, I am in Leicester, UK. I want to move to an area, where there are some Indian people.i like my shops and i want indian grocery shops handy. I very much enjoy celebrating indian festivals like navratri, diwali, holi ……I have 2 school going children. i love outdoor activities. i wish the area to be safe and sound. i dont want to live in the countryside. i want to live in an area where houses are close to each other and in a neighbourhood friendly area.
    Please can you advice me some areas to move to, where I can be close to my community and culture.your help will be highly appreciated.

    Thanks,

    Samta shetty

    • BobinOz May 15, 2013, 12:25 am |

      Hi Samta

      I really don’t know where the place you have described might be in Brisbane, so I can’t help you with that one.

      I have to ask the question though Sam, I hope you don’t mind, but if you want to be close to your community and culture, why have you decided to move to Australia?

      I only ask because, generally speaking, most people believe that those who come here to live from other countries are much more likely to settle and make lots of friends if they embrace the Australian lifestyle, the culture and the way of life.

      Yes, we have plenty of Indian festivals, I’ve been to Diwali myself, plenty of Indians (and other cultures) gathered in Brisbane city centre for the festival of light, I think it was. So you will find people from your community and culture here, but it might not be such a good idea to try and isolate yourself within such a community, not if you really want to enjoy Australia.

      Just something to think about, thought it worth mentioning.

      Cheers

      Bob

  • Leanne April 9, 2013, 1:48 am |

    Hi , I will post it on there also thanks! And I will look into those places you have mentioned.
    Cheers…

  • Leanne April 8, 2013, 7:59 am |

    Hi. Love this site.. You do a great job!
    I’m trying to get some idea on which subs near the Sunshine Coast are nice for families, as close I mean as a 20-30 mins drive or closer. I have 2 sons age 13 and 10 , any tips or advice greatly appreciated.
    🙂

    • BobinOz April 8, 2013, 6:06 pm |

      I love it up that way, but I don’t really know the area well enough to advise on suburbs. It might be a good idea if you ask this same question on my page about the Sunshine Coast, somebody may be able to help you out.

      For what it’s worth, I think Mooloolaba in Maroochydore are really nice and I’ve heard that Buderim is a good place to live and has a really good school.

      Thanks

      Bob

  • Sathesh March 14, 2013, 8:15 pm |

    Hi Bob..

    I am from Sri Lanka and I am moving to Brisbane in another 3 weeks time. I am frantically searching for a good suburb to secure a rental. We are a family of three (my wife,2 year old son and myself) looking to set ourselves up in Brisbane.

    My budget is around $325 to $375 and would prefer the southern or the eastern suburbs. I researched a lot and I have shortlisted Capalaba, Alexandra Hills, Springfield Lakes and Forest Lake but I am still confused due to the numerous suburbs available out there. Can you suggest me a good place to start our new life in Australia ?

    Oh and most importantly it should have good day care centers where my little prince can spend the day happily and safely.

    Cheers
    Sathesh

    • BobinOz March 15, 2013, 1:38 pm |

      Hi Sathesh

      Out of the areas you are looking at, if it were me, I would go for the Capalaba Alexandra Hills area if you can find something in your budget, I think it’s really nice over that side. I don’t know about the daycare centres, but generally speaking there are plenty of those around.

      Good luck!

      Bob

      • Sathesh March 15, 2013, 6:35 pm |

        Thanks Bob.. Seems like I need to adjust my budget to rent a house in Capalaba or Alex Hills.

        Cheers
        Sathesh

        • BobinOz March 15, 2013, 7:16 pm |

          Yes, I think your budget is a little light, especially if you are looking for a three or four-bedroom detached house. The unit or apartment may well be an option, although these options may not suit you.

          Good luck!

  • David February 7, 2013, 8:27 am |

    Hi Bob.

    I’ve been living in Brisbane during the last 3 years. My wife and I used to live in the city and currently we are living in Chapel Hill. We love the area but the humidity is the only bad thing. We are thinking to buy a house soon but Chapel Hill is too expensive so we’ve been looking around Doolandella and Bellbowrie. Referring to the first one, we like the train station near and the distance from the CBD but we are not sure about the surrounding suburbs!. The second one is nice but the public transport is the issue. What can you tell us about them?. Which one do you
    recommend?.Also,we wonder which one is warmer in winter. I hope you can help us.

    Many thanks.

    David

    • BobinOz February 8, 2013, 8:01 pm |

      Hi David

      Well, I’ve never been to Doolandella, but like yourself I do know a bit about the surrounding suburbs, so for me I would take Bellbowrie all day long out of the two. But then I would, I’ve lived here in Bellbowrie for five years.

      Public transport isn’t good from here, no trains, but we do have a bus service that goes right into the city and it doesn’t hang about. Off-peak the journey takes about 40 minutes, maybe 45, during rush hour, I’m not sure, I don’t do it.

      I have no intention of moving out of here, I’ve not seen anywhere in Brisbane that I think I’d prefer, and it’s certainly warm enough for me here in winter.

      Good luck, where ever you decide to live.

      Cheers

      Bob

      • David February 12, 2013, 1:48 pm |

        Many thanks for your suggestion! We are still looking around the area.

      • LeanneB July 27, 2015, 2:36 am |

        Hi Bob, we are looking to move to Australia and will be visiting to suss places out first. From reading through many comments and looking at different websites, I am drawn to Brisbane, however I am correct to assume (from what I have read) that you aren’t close to the beach in Brisbane suburbs??
        We are an outdoorsy family, like nice restaurants, enjoy countryside in the UK, and would want to be as close to the beach as possible in Oz, with good primary / secondary schools nearby. Where in Brisbane and nearby would you recommended we focus on when we come over ? Many thanks, and what a great intuitive website!

        • BobinOz July 27, 2015, 8:04 pm |

          Brisbane does have one or two beaches, if you pop over to Margate, north-east of Brisbane, and Redcliffe just above it, they are probably our best beaches. You’ll see what I mean though, they are not great.

          For proper golden sandy beaches with real waves, you need to go north or south of Brisbane by about an hour and a quarter. Other than that, Brisbane will have everything you could want, lots of countryside, open spaces and some good restaurants sprinkled around and also in the city.

          If you really want to be close to the beach though, you’ve got to head to either the Sunshine Coast, which is a bit quiet, or the Gold Coast, which is a bit too commercial. Both have great beaches though.

          Personally I’d choose somewhere in Brisbane and just travel to the beach when you need it, but if you really want to be close to the beach, that’s where you will need to head. Good luck, Bob

          • LeanneB July 28, 2015, 6:43 am |

            Hi Bob. Many thanks for your speedy reply – your website is great! I’ve been looking at your pages on the 6 steps today, which is really helpful. At the moment we run our own small building company in the UK – my husband is a bricklayer by trade and my background is accounts, and project and communications management in the utility sector, so I’m hoping that between us we’d have some skills to bring and be able to find work if we had to financially / score on the points system..? Although we really want to get a substantial pot of money behind us first so we will look to visit later on this year and then hopefully get going on a 5 year plan – my only concern then is that my husband will be 48, which I know is nearing the age limit of 50. Brisbane does sound great, and I think we should check out the Sunshine Coast too because in our heads a move to Oz would mean living by the sea for us – this is something we can suss out when we come over though. I looked at Buderim and that sounds like a good area? When you say its quiet up there, how quiet are we talking? Anyway I’m waffling on, thanks again for your advice.

            • BobinOz July 28, 2015, 6:02 pm |

              Yes, Buderim is quite nice, and when I say quiet, there’s not much work around and not much to do in terms of nightlife.

              Before you make too many plans though, you really should discuss your options with a MARA registered migration agent, they are the only people that can truly advise you on your options and whether you do have a chance of a successful application or not.

              If you prefer, you could get my agent to do an assessment, details are on my Visa Assessment Service page. I wouldn’t wait too long to do that, you need to know where you stand now so you can plan for the future.

              Good luck, Bob

              • LeanneB July 31, 2015, 5:38 pm |

                Hi Bob, thanks again for your reply. We will definitely get on with the assessment via your contact before we get too carried away with the idea. We watched a programme on Brisbane last night which featured bellbowrie – looked lovely there too. I have a tonne of questions I’d like to ask you, but will get the assessment done first, and then take things from there.
                Many thanks again
                Leanne

                • BobinOz July 31, 2015, 7:25 pm |

                  Ok Leanne, I think that’s the best way for you to go about this, no point making too many plans until you know where you stand.

                  Bellbowrie on the television? What show was that, do you know what it was called?

                  • LeanneB August 2, 2015, 4:01 am |

                    Hi Bob
                    We’ve downloaded 4od on the ipad and can get it from there. It was a programme on channel 4 back in 2013 & 2014 called Relocation secret agent down under – its Phil spencer (if you know of Kirsty & Phil..), and in each episode he basically helps people from the UK find a house in the city/suburb they want to live in Australia. We watched an episode on the Sunshine Coast last night. Really good way to get a glimpse of different areas etc.
                    Talk soon
                    Leanne.

                  • LeanneB August 2, 2015, 4:10 am |

                    Hi Bob, not sure if my reply posted or not as my internets playing up, but basically its a programme which aired on channel 4 in 2013&14 called relocation secret agent down under with Phil spencer, in each episode he helps fanilies from the UK find a house in their chosen city/suburb for their budget.
                    Thanks
                    Leanne.

                    • BobinOz August 2, 2015, 8:24 pm |

                      Ha ha, I know the program you mean, the family featured on it, Lisa and Perry and their girls, they are close friends of ours. They didn’t buy a house whilst they were on the show, but they have now 🙂

                      Cheers, Bob

  • Kathryn November 17, 2012, 7:46 pm |

    Jay, click on the link below which will bring up an Australia-wide website which will assist you in locating a child care centre close to you:

    http://www.echildcare.com.au/

    Australia is a very multiculturally tolerant country. Do not believe everything you have read in Indian newspapers. Some of the attacks on Indian students is because they were at the wrong place at the wrong time – the attacks were criminally based and not racially motivated. Australia (generally) is one of the most tolerant countries in the world and far less xenophobic as many Asian countries, eg Japan, China and Korea. Of course, there are racists everywhere but in Australia racism is largely frowned upon. You won’t have any trouble if you work hard, treat people with respect and don’t expect this country to provide you with financial hand-outs (welfare). Australia is a fabulous country that provides equal opportunities to hard working migrants who are prepared to work hard for a living. Australians don’t l ike shirkers or welfare cheats and welcome immigrants who don’t whine or complain but, instead, appreciate that they will not get everything on a platter and will have to work hard to succeed. Good luck!

    • Jay November 18, 2012, 1:33 am |

      Hi Kathryn

      Thank you for your reply , much appreciated , your words have put me to ease.

      Do you know much about the areas I mentioned , or from your knowledge is Caboolture a bad place to live with 2 small kids?

      • BobinOz November 19, 2012, 2:16 pm |

        Hi Jay

        I’ve never been to Caboolture, so I couldn’t really tell you what it’s like. I know what you are saying though, the place doesn’t have a great reputation from what I’ve heard either. Maybe somebody who actually lives in Caboolture could help out here?

        The place does get a mention in my post about taxes, just scroll down and read the comments and your see that somebody called Sunseeker mentions it and somebody else responds as well. Worth a read. As for racism, Kathryn has answered you well, thanks Kathryn!

        Cheers

        Bob

  • Jay November 17, 2012, 10:15 am |

    Hi Bob

    Moving to Brisbane next year want to live north of Brisbane , Petrie , Dakabin , Narangba and possible surrounding areas , I have had a look at Caboolture which is slightly out seems to be very good value for money ,but all I seem to get is negative reviews online is it really that bad..

    I have two small kids 3 and 1 years of age , so I need a good childcare centre , can you let me know or give me a indication on how much day-care centres cost please as I am really confused. Also I am from India , is there any racist areas I should avoid , I know they exist everywhere , but I don’t want to be around ignorant people , I want to live amongst humane multicultural people , I really would appreciate your advice.

  • Kathryn November 5, 2012, 6:35 pm |

    You’re welcome, Bob!

  • Kathryn November 4, 2012, 8:16 am |

    Tanya, my advice is to look in the St George or Sutherland Shire areas which is a beautiful area in which to live surrounded by lovely beaches, parks, with lots of great shopping, world class restaurants, clubs, cafes and entertainment. You don’t say where you are working – if you are working in the city, any of the suburbs along the Illawarra rail line would be great (southbound from Penshurst). Penshurst, Mortdale are great suburbs as they are close to the big shopping area of Hurstville and 5 mins drive to the major arterial links of the M5 or M4. These suburbs are on a 30 minute rail link to the city and the rental accommodation here is reasonable. Next to Mortdale is the gorgeous suburb of Oatley which is situated on the banks of the Georges River and has a garden village atmosphere – however property and rents here are more expensive. Further south on the Illawarra line (from Como south) you are in the Sutherland Shire and you and your daughter would love the beach areas of Cronulla (especially South Cronulla) – of course, rental in this area is more expensive because it is very popular. The beaches of Cronulla, Oak Park, are really lovely and full of restaurants, clubs, hotels and cafes with the big shopping areas of Caringbah and Miranda nearby. Suburbs to look at for good rental on the Sutherland Shire line are: Jannali, Kirrawee, Miranda (which is busy), Caringbah. Otherwise, you could look at the Northern Beach suburbs of Dee Why, Collaroy, Narrabeen – these areas are really lovely but are further out from the city (on a bus line). Let me put your mind at rest that compared to other large cities of the world (eg London, LA, San Francisco, Miami, Moscow etc), Sydney is a very safe city. However, there area areas to avoid which have some gang-related violence – these are: the Bankstown lines (especially Bankstown, Punchbowl, Wiley Park). Also, I would not choose to live on the Western lines out near Parramatta or Blacktown – these are big satellite cities of Sydney with huge spralling malls but they are rather industrial and very remote from the city of Sydney and a long way from the beaches of the coastal areas. Also the south western areas around Liverpool are remote (with not much in the way of restaurants or night life). My advice is to steer clear of inner city areas like Kings Cross, Darlinghurst and Redfern which are known “trouble spots” for some outbreaks of drunk and disorderly behaviour (but young, single people absolutely LOVE living there because of the clubs and night spots that are open 24/7). The area of greater Sydney is huge (exceeding 12,000 square kilometers) encompassing some of the most beautiful places in Australia, eg the Blue Mountains. Sydney is one of the most cosmopolitan, multicultural cities in the world and despite its flaws (reputed to be brash, expensive with big urban sprawls) there is no city like it and it gets my vote as the most wonderful livable city on earth – I have travelled and lived throughout the world and still believe that Sydney is the greatest city in Australia in which to live. The reason it is so expensive, simply, is because most people who come to Australia want to live here and demand exceeds supply. However, there are pockets of Sydney that are reasonably priced – my advice is to pick a suburb on a train line as it is much easier to get into town. The trendy areas of Leichhardt, Balmain, Newtown, Marrickville, Glebe etc are extremely cosmopolitan, lively and very popular – they are very close to the city centre but the rents are high. Good luck!

    • BobinOz November 5, 2012, 1:53 pm |

      Tanya, it probably won’t surprise you to learn that Kathryn knows more about Sydney than I do 🙂

      Kathryn, thank you for taking the time to give such a thorough answer, I know it will be very valuable to many of my readers, so I really appreciate what you have done.

      Bob

  • Tanya November 3, 2012, 4:59 pm |

    Hi Bob,

    I’ve just got back on my feet financially after a very bitter split with my husband and am now looking at buying a house in Sydney for me and my 18y.o. daughter. My daughter’s safety is my main concern, so how do I find out which suburbs I should avoid?

  • Lisa October 20, 2012, 7:20 pm |

    Hi, Firstly I’d like to say what an amazing website such a fantastic idea. We’ve found so much useful information on here!
    My husband, myself and our 2 children aged 4 & 1 yrs are starting the process of our move to OZ and after initially considering Perth we have now decided on Brisnbane.
    As I have read in several areas of your websites the main issue of relocation is where do I live? I have read through the threads and completely understand that you can’t comment on whether an area is a good place to live or not but I need a point in the right direction. We are an outdoors family and would love to live close to the sea. Id like to be rural but not in he middle of nowhere and initially for the first few years we’ll be renting. Schools are obviously important as is having a supportive community so an area with expats would be good. From research I guess a fairly medium sized town would be ideal. My husband works in recruitmennt so I guess will be travelling to Brisbane city and I have a homebasd childcare setting here in the UK so would look to start up a family day care in OZ. Any suggestions would be greatly received, I feel like im drowing!

    • BobinOz October 22, 2012, 8:08 pm |

      Hi Lisa

      There are plenty of rural areas close enough to Brisbane city, where I live in Western suburbs for example. The city is only 22 km away, but if you were to live in Pullenvale or Anstead, for example, it is like living in the countryside. Samford Village on the north west side of Brisbane is very rural as well. Trouble is, you’re not really close to the sea in Brisbane, not the golden sandy beachy seaside anyway.

      There are probably other rural areas close to Brisbane on the north side, and if you go that way you’ll be closer to the great beaches on the Sunshine Coast and also Redcliffe, which isn’t a great beach but does at least have some sand.

      Buderim further north is worth a look, that’s close to the beach and about an hour and 20 minutes drive from Brisbane. For schools, check out my page called Which school?.

      Happy househunting!

  • SN October 9, 2012, 9:39 am |

    Hi,
    My husband and I are looking at moving to Brisbane to study next year, most likely at QUT Kelvin Grove.
    We would like to rent a 2 bedroom apartment that has good access to transport nearby, and not too far away from everything but not too expensive (student budget).
    I’ve been having a look at realestate.com.au and domain.com.au for some ideas, but not entirely sure what to look for suburb wise. Would you have any suggestions please?

    • BobinOz October 9, 2012, 7:31 pm |

      I think it will be more of a case of going to a suburb you can afford, obviously the closer to the city the more expensive things get. If it’s any use to you, most of the students live in the suburb of St Lucia, it’s where the main university building is. You’ll probably be able to find some decent priced accommodation there. Good luck.

  • cindy October 7, 2012, 7:53 pm |

    hi Bob,

    i know my question isnt really fit for this catogory but ive been searching everywhere trying to find out if it is legal for me to move out of my parents house to live with my boyfriend if in not a perminent resident yet, ive been in australia almost 3 years now and im on my parents visa, my boyfriend is an australian citizen. please help i really need to know if its legal for me to do so
    thanks

    • BobinOz October 8, 2012, 4:26 pm |

      I can’t really answer that Cindy, I don’t know enough about your situation. But I will say that if you are not yet on a permanent residency, then at some point your visa will expire and you will have to leave Australia unless you take the necessary steps to extend your visa or make it permanent. And you might need to do that with your parents rather than separately. Good luck!

  • Kathryn April 14, 2012, 7:54 pm |

    Connie, my advice to you is to consider Sydney which is one of the most gay-friendly cities on earth! The inner (Sydney) city areas of Darlinghurst, Surry Hills, Leichhardt, Newtown have huge populations of gay residents. Also, the Blue Mountains area of Katoomba (which offers a gorgeous alternative lifestyle in a World Heritage listed environment) is favoured by a lot of gay people as well as people who are artistic, theatrical or musical. Generally, Melbourne, Sydney or Adelaide are considered more liberal in their views than Brisbane or Perth (which are widely considered to be much more conservative). However, whichever city you choose, I doubt you will have any problems. Generally Australians accept people for who they are and are extremely tolerant. Discrimination against people due to their colour, race or sexual inclination is not only illegal in this country but is frowned upon by the large majority of the population. Welcome down under!

    • BobinOz April 15, 2012, 1:31 am |

      Good answer Kathryn, better than I could have done 🙂

      You are probably right, Sydney would be the best option, but Sydney isn’t for everyone. Connie, when you say you are looking for “open minded and safe place for primarily our daughter”, I think they are two different things.

      Sydney would certainly be the most open-minded for your situation, but maybe not the safest for your daughter. Although I’m not saying that Sydney is not safe, but Tasmania would probably be safer if you get my point.

      But Kathryn has nailed it anyway, you will almost certainly be accepted anywhere and not discriminated against, and Australia is a pretty safe country wherever you go. So, perhaps you should try Sydney first, or maybe just go where ever you want to.

      Please do let us know where you end up and what you think of it.

  • Connie April 14, 2012, 10:45 am |

    Hi Bob,

    Your website is so useful and informative.
    Myself, my partner and our daughter (13) are in the process of emigrating to Aus. Our query is, as a lesbian couple we would like your advice and knowledge as to where you think would be the most open minded and safe place for primarily our daughter.
    Brisbane is the most appealing to us???

    Any information would be greatly appreciated.
    Thanking you in advance,

    Connie

  • Alex March 31, 2012, 1:46 am |

    Hi Bob,

    I am enjoying your website, very informative.
    My wife and I will be moving to Brisbane to live very soon and we would like and idea on an area that would best suit us.
    We are in our early 50’s and we enjoy live music bars and good eating places but we also like to chill out by taking walks, I will be working in the city so I will probably depend on Public transport to get there so I don’t want to be to far away, any ideas Bob?

    Many thanks,

    Sandy

    • BobinOz April 2, 2012, 8:41 pm |

      Most of the night life takes place in Fortitude Valley, New Farm, the West End and Paddington. I’d be inclined to choose somewhere that has good access to those places and the city, but you may find it too noisy or possibly too expensive to actually live in those areas.

      The Gap might be worth a look, but I think you really need to check out some places for yourself when you get here.

      Cheers

      Bob

  • Zelna March 2, 2012, 9:12 pm |

    Hi, we are moving to Brisbane from Melbourne in a few months. My husband will work in Manly. We have 2 primary school children. Can you recommend a good school/area to live in? Tx!

    • BobinOz March 5, 2012, 5:14 pm |

      Hi Zelna

      I think it’s all quite nice over that side, as long as you stay close to the coast. Not sure about the schools though, but I think there is quite a lot of choice. Have a look at my page called Which school? That’ll help you select a decent school.

      • Zelna March 5, 2012, 6:19 pm |

        Thank you Bob!!

  • Max February 13, 2012, 8:34 pm |

    I was just surfing the web and found a great website for deciding on a suburb in Australia.
    It’s called Cityhobo.com.

    • BobinOz February 15, 2012, 12:26 am |

      Hi Max

      Yes, I’ve seen that website before, it’s not bad. Certainly doing better than my “Own Your Town” effort, which hasn’t really got off the ground.

      But it’s not great either, I had a look around their Brisbane listings and my suburb doesn’t seem to exist. Shows how hard it is to get this sort of thing off the ground.

      It’s worth looking at though, and maybe some cities have better coverage than others. Thanks for the tip.

      Bob

  • Karen January 23, 2012, 8:17 am |

    Hi Bob,
    Was looking at some bed and breakfasts inBrisbane That are convenient to CBD, a couple that looked nice were in Paddington and New Farm, would like to get a feel for some of the suburbs. Do you have any info you can share on these two areas? Are they more expensive areas to live? What would be the differences – do you l,e one area better than the other (assuming you have some knowledge about them both)? Do you have any other suggestions on good areas to stay that have good transportation or walking distance to places of interest, restaurants etc. so you cold manage without a car for the time in the city? Appreciate your help.
    Karen

    • BobinOz January 23, 2012, 9:52 pm |

      Hi Karen

      Both areas are very popular and trendy and both offer easy access to the city. My preference would be for Paddington, it has easy access to pubs and restaurants.

      New Farm is really nice too, close to the river and also not far from Fortitude Valley, full of pubs and clubs. You wouldn’t need a car at either of them.

      Bob

  • Tom Parkes January 12, 2012, 8:13 pm |

    Hi Bob,Thank u for the reply i will indeed get hold of them.Very much appreciated.With Kind Regards Tom Parkes.Thank You.
    P.S-Love ur site,Great info.

    • BobinOz January 13, 2012, 10:07 pm |

      Thanks Tom and good luck!

    • Kathryn February 2, 2012, 12:42 am |

      Tom, here is a link providing you with information on Centrelink located at Perth:

      http://www.centrelink.gov.au/internet/internet.nsf/services/career_centres_outlets.htm#wa

      However, you may have some issues in attaining financial assistance if you are not an Australian citizen. My suggestion is that you visit Perth (on a holiday) before you make any final decision about a permanent move. Use the time there to seek out employment opportunities, make enquiries about real estate (purchasing or renting) and what area(s) close to your young son’s location that appeal to you.

      It amazes me that your ex-wife managed to get away with moving to another country with your child without your permission! Usually, spouses are not allowed to remove a child without the permission of the other parent. It may be a good idea to talk to a solicitor to ascertain your legal rights on this issue.

      • BobinOz February 6, 2012, 9:37 pm |

        I assumed you did give your wife permission Tom. If you didn’t, you might like to read my post about moving abroad with children.

  • Tom Parkes January 11, 2012, 7:21 am |

    Dear Bob,Im wanting to leave NZ with my eldest boy to Perth to live to be closer to my other little boy who is 2yrs,might i add my eldest is 10.My ex partner is living there in WA with him but will not help me in any way.We both are from NZ but i need to be closer to my bubba to.I have my eldest in my care and his mother has given me full permission to take my eldest over.Can i get assistance from the government to help me start off.My ex partner there has been living there for well over 3yrs and had our son there to.I would really appreciate if you can help me with some answers as i need to be with my young to.With Kind Regards Tom Parkes.Thank You Bob.

    • BobinOz January 12, 2012, 3:33 pm |

      Sorry Tom, I have no idea. I imagine you would have to make enquiries with Centrelink.

      good luck!

      Bob

  • Thomas W. September 2, 2011, 12:16 am |

    Dear Bob,
    I’m 40 years old now, and very interested to the info on your e-book, and other source you provide. I’m from Indonesia (Jakarta), and I’m set a plan to move to suburb between Brisbane and Goldcoast, in the nest 1-2 years ahead. Where is your suggestions to choose ?

    I prefer a home in quiet area, but not far from my son ( 7 & 8 years old) school. My skill is on handling home support, especially in green pest management/ green building management. I hope, I can get a job first for 6-12 months in Pest Control Company here, before I develop my own research for green pest management solutions.

    Any way I happy that there is a person like you who provide this service.

    Warm regards,

    Thomas W.

    • BobinOz September 3, 2011, 4:00 pm |

      Hi Thomas

      I don’t really know the area well enough to make specific suggestions, but I do have some useful links on my page called Which Suburb. You will find a link to it underneath the Migration Advice link in the main navigation menu at the top.

      Happy hunting.

  • Ayesha June 22, 2011, 12:32 am |

    Hi Sir,
    First of all your site is briiliant as it contains all kind of info about Australia. I am from Pakistan and i would plan to get study visa to brisbane. I am very confused about the residence. I will move with my famiy, my husband and 2 years daughter. I am selected CQU which is at Ann Street. I want residence near it. Please give me some nearby areas which are low rented and suitable for family. I want studio or 1 bed.
    Reply me please
    Regards

    • BobinOz June 23, 2011, 12:50 am |

      Hi Ayesha

      If you head over to my page about housing, you’ll find a link there to an online real estate search engine which you can use to find out the prices of housing, studio and one bed apartments to buy or rent.

      If you mean Ann Street in the city centre, there aren’t many (or any) areas around there that are low cost. I suggest you search a wider area and specify the amount of rent you want to pay.

      Good luck!

  • Dedrei Botha June 7, 2011, 7:43 pm |

    Please help. We are immigrating to Australia. We would like to live in the Eastern Suburbs. Which suburbs are affordable and nice to live. We would like to drive around the areas in July 2011 when we come for our holiday. Please give some tips

    • BobinOz June 8, 2011, 9:46 pm |

      Hi Dedrei

      Well, Eastern Suburbs only really consists of Alexandra Hills, Capalaba, Thornlands, Gumdale, Tingalpa, Hemmant and Wakerley and I don’t really know much about any of them at all.

      But I have been to Bayside and I’ve got some videos of a few of the suburbs there that I made. I’ll be adding them to this website soon on my page about Eastern Suburbs Brisbane.

      So stay tuned.

      Meanwhile, you will get a lot of information about the area and what each suburb is like by clicking through those useful links above. But it’s not the big area, you will get a good feel of it when you come here on holiday.

    • Kathryn February 1, 2012, 5:15 pm |

      Hi DedreiBotha,

      I would presume that you would be talking about the famous but very expensive Eastern Suburbs area of Sydney. Here is a description of the Eastern Suburbs (defining the cost to purchase homes there) :

      The northern parts of the EASTERN SUBURBS surrounding Sydney Harbour feature the exclusive suburbs such as Vaucluse, Rose Bay, Darling Point, Dover Heights, Double Bay, Point Piper, Woollahra, Watsons Bay, Potts Point, Rushcutters Bay, Elizabeth Bay and Bellevue Hill. The old saying: “You need Double Pay to live in Double Bay is true”. Point Piper homes can range from around $20 Million (if they are right on the harbour). You will need SERIOUS money to live here.

      South of these suburbs are Bondi Junction, Bondi, Bronte, Tamarama, Queens Park, Clovelly, Coogee, Randwick and Kensington. Homes in these areas are cheaper but are still expensive ranging well over AUS$1 Million to AUS$7 Million. These areas are great to rent as they are close to the eastern beaches of Bronte, Coogee, Tamarama and, yes, Bondi (which, btw, is NOWHERE near the nicest beach in Sydney).

      To the west of Bondi Junction are the inner-city suburbs of Centennial Park, Paddington, Darlinghurst, Moore Park and the Kings Cross locality. The landscape in these areas is dominated by overhanging trees and renovated terrace houses. Homes can vary widely in price here but you will be paying over AUS$1.5+ Million for something that is a dump that needs renovating unless you want to live in a 1 bedroom Studio in Darlinghurst or Kings Cross for around AUS$600,000+. Rentals in these areas can range anywhere between $350.00 per week for a studio upwards but most of these type of rentals, you would need to sign a 6 months+ lease. In Sydney, furniture is not often provided with long-term leases.

      Further south, the area is also known as “South-Eastern Sydney”. It includes suburbs such as Maroubra, Matraville, Malabar, Little Bay and La Perouse.

      Personally, I think the Eastern Suburbs are over-priced, over-rated and over-crowded. My suggestion is to look to the Southern Suburbs along the Illawarra line, eg Campsie, Kogarah, Rockdale which are central to everything, on a rail line (close to the city) and with homes and units (apartments) that are moderately priced.

      I’ve lived in Sydney most of my life and I think some of the best areas of Sydney (to live) are the multicultural St George district (which is spoilt for choice with beautiful parks, trendy restaurants, cafes and within 45 minutes from the city by rail) and right near the arterial highways of the M5 (with direct links to the city and Canberra). Also, Cronulla/Sutherland has some beautiful beaches. Homes and rental here are also expensive but a lot more reasonable than the eastern suburbs. The NORTHERN BEACHES areas of Sydney, eg Collaroy, DeeWhy and Narabeen are gorgeous!

      My advice is not to restrict yourself to the EASTERN SUBURBS as they are extremely expensive areas with some issues relating to noise and street brawling. AVOID THE INNER WESTERN SUBURBS of Bankstown, Wiley Park, Punchbowl due to recent serious criminal activity, eg drive-by shootings (on targeted homes). The far western suburbs are inexpensive to rent and live but the areas beyond Liverpool and Parramatta are too far out from the city and there’s not much night life or cultural activity out there.

      Northern Suburbs, Southern Suburbs, St George are lovely family-oriented areas which are a lot more reasonable to live in and rent and still quite close by rail. Good luck!

      • BobinOz February 1, 2012, 11:47 pm |

        Gosh! Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs are a lot more expensive than Brisbane’s Eastern Suburbs! Not sure which Eastern Suburbs Dedrei Botha meant, but I hope for the sake of her bank balance she meant ones in Brissie.

        Nice round up though Kathryn, thanks for that.

        • Kathryn February 2, 2012, 12:31 am |

          I think most people enquire about the Eastern Suburbs in Sydney because of the (undeserved) popularity of Bondi Beach. The area is notoriously expensive and you really don’t get much for your money there – there are other areas and beaches in Sydney that are much nicer.

          • BobinOz February 6, 2012, 9:30 pm |

            I actually couldn’t tell the difference between Bondi Beach and Coogee Beach, as you can see from my post called Sydney. NOT the capital Australia.

            But everyone raves about Bondi, no-one ever seems to mention Coogee. Strange.

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