🗓️ Life event guide
Moving to a New City in Australia
Costs, logistics, and what to sort before and after you move interstate — with a timeline to keep you organised.
📦 Life event guide·8 min read·Updated March 2026
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🚛Moving Cost Calculator
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Relocation Checklist
Interactive to-do list →
What it actually costs to move interstate
| Route & size | Removalist cost | DIY truck |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bed: Sydney → Melbourne | $1,500–$3,000 | $400–$700 |
| 2-bed: Sydney → Brisbane | $2,500–$5,000 | $600–$1,100 |
| 3-bed: Melbourne → Perth | $5,000–$10,000 | $1,200–$2,200 |
| 3-bed: Sydney → Adelaide | $4,000–$8,000 | $900–$1,800 |
Add $300–$800 for packing materials, $200–$600 for transit insurance, and storage costs if needed.
8-week moving timeline
8 weeks out
Start decluttering. Get 3+ removalist quotes. Give notice to landlord (if renting). Research new area: schools, doctors, transport.
6 weeks out
Book removalists. Arrange vehicle transport if needed. Start collecting boxes. Notify employer of new address for payroll.
4 weeks out
Redirect mail via Australia Post. Notify bank, super, ATO, insurance providers. Cancel/transfer utilities.
2 weeks out
Confirm removalists. Pack non-essentials. Book cleaners if required. Arrange pet transport.
Moving week
Pack essentials last. Photograph meter readings. Collect keys to new place.
After moving
Update driver's licence and vehicle registration within 3 months. Update electoral roll. Find new GP and dentist.
Cost of living comparison
Moving cities changes your cost of living significantly — especially rent. Factor this into your decision alongside salary.
Sydney
$2,800/mo
1-bed median · index 100
Melbourne
$2,200/mo
1-bed median · index 79
Brisbane
$1,950/mo
1-bed median · index 70
Perth
$1,900/mo
1-bed median · index 68
Adelaide
$1,600/mo
1-bed median · index 57
Canberra
$2,200/mo
1-bed median · index 79
Sydney = 100 baseline. Full city comparison →
Frequently asked questions
How much does an interstate move cost in Australia?
Interstate removalist costs vary by volume and distance. A one-bedroom apartment from Sydney to Melbourne typically costs $1,500–$3,000. A three-bedroom house from Sydney to Brisbane ranges from $4,000–$8,000. Additional costs include packing materials, insurance, storage if there's a gap between leases, and vehicle transport if you're not driving.
Should I hire removalists or rent a truck?
For moves under 2 hours, a rental truck is usually cheaper if you have people to help. For interstate moves, professional removalists are generally worth the cost — the risk of damage to furniture and injury to yourself over a long-haul move is significant. Get at least three quotes and check reviews on Google and ProductReview.com.au.
What do I need to update when I move states?
Within 3 months of moving: update your driver's licence to the new state (required by law), re-register your vehicle, update your Medicare and Centrelink address, update your electoral roll address, and notify your bank, super fund, and insurance providers. Your Medicare card stays the same — just update the address.
Can I claim moving costs on tax?
Generally no — personal relocation costs are not tax-deductible. The exception is if your employer requires you to relocate for work and pays or reimburses moving costs, those amounts may be handled as a fringe benefit. Some work-related moving expenses may be deductible in specific circumstances — ask your accountant.
How early should I book removalists?
Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead for interstate moves, especially if you're moving at end of month (the most popular time) or around school holidays. Last-minute interstate bookings are often unavailable or significantly more expensive.