Known for the eponymous river that meanders from the Coral Sea through the city, Brisbane is a gorgeous and vibrant expat destination.

One of Australia’s biggest cities, it has a rapidly expanding population of more than 2.5 million and is home to a significant expat population from all over the world, including New Zealand, the UK, China, India and South Africa.

Living in Brisbane as an expat

Brisbane is a laid-back city with an assortment of interesting and lively areas. While the centre is fairly compact, the suburbs sprawl outwards in all directions, offering wide-open spaces for outdoor entertainment. If expats should tire of their immediate surroundings, though, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast are great weekend getaway spots.

As one would expect from a growing city, the economy is ever-expanding, and expats should be able to find work in Brisbane fairly easily. Some of the main industries include IT, finance, administration, education and construction.

There’s an extensive public transport network in Brisbane, which includes buses, trains, ferries and taxis. The TransLink system also makes things convenient for those regularly using public transport. While cycling and walking are possible in the compact city centre, driving in Brisbane can be a hassle, particularly during peak hours.

Cost of living in Brisbane

The general cost of living in Brisbane is lower than in other major Australian cities, although the influx of expats has contributed to a steady rise in prices. Still, the cost of accommodation in Brisbane is far lower than that of other major Australian cities, such as Sydney or Melbourne. Brisbane’s public transport may be efficient, but it is also pricey. Expats looking to commute may want to look into a GoCard.

Expat families and children

Expats moving to Brisbane will be happy to hear that the city offers excellent free public schooling for permanent residents and locals. Temporary residents are charged fees. Parents also have the choice of non-government Catholic schools and other independent schools. There are a couple of international schools in the city, but these only offer the International Baccalaureate, and they are expensive.

Families can also rest assured that the city’s healthcare is exceptional, and the universal healthcare system, Medicare, is available to citizens and permanent residents. Temporary residents will need to be privately insured.

Expat families looking for a break are in luck. Many interesting activities can offer respite from the week’s work, and nature buffs have multiple opportunities to get out and enjoy the fresh air. A multitude of museums and art galleries can entertain those interested in intellectual pursuits, while active types can find myriad adrenaline-packed activities.

Climate in Brisbane

The city’s lovely subtropical climate means expats will have little trouble adjusting to the weather in Brisbane. Mild summers and winters leave a lot of time for activities all year.

With a large and inviting expat community, plenty of entertainment, good schools and a laid-back lifestyle, Brisbane is increasingly the expat destination of choice for families from all over the world.

Brisbane’s subtropical climate makes for enjoyable weather year-round, with hot summers and mild winters.

The summer months between December and February bring heavy humidity and high temperatures of around 84°F (29°C). The hotter months also sometimes bring thunderstorms, hailstorms, cyclonic winds and drought, but generally, the warm, sunny weather is perfect for holidays and outdoor activities. The summer sun can be harsh though. It’s best to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day, and don’t forget to put on sunscreen if you’re going to be outside. It’s also important to stay hydrated.

Winters, from June to August, are dry and mild with temperatures between 59°F (15°C) and 68°F (20°C). The rainy season runs from November to March.

Owing to Queensland’s strong economy and abundance of jobs, it is attracting skilled workers from all over the world, particularly to Brisbane, where demand for housing is sky-high as a result.

Expats looking for accommodation can make their task a great deal easier by having a clear, yet somewhat flexible, idea of what they’re looking for in terms of location, price and size.

Areas and suburbs in Brisbane

Brisbane has a variety of neighbourhoods for new arrivals to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a taste of city life or to settle down in the suburbs, there’s something for everyone.

Family-oriented expats will find that areas such as Victoria Point and Holland Park have a lot to offer. Both suburbs have great schooling options, plus plenty of parks and other green spaces for kids to play in. Holland Park has the added advantage of being just a ten-minute drive from the city centre, while Victoria Point is slightly further out – around 25 minutes from the centre.

Meanwhile, if you want to be where all the action is, city-centre locations such as Fortitude Valley and New Farm might be just the ticket.

Find out more by reading our guide to Best (and Worst) Areas and Suburbs in Brisbane.

Types of accommodation in Brisbane

There are a few different types of accommodation in Brisbane. The main types of accommodation you can expect to find are apartments (known locally as ‘flats’), units (small modern houses), and traditional ‘Queenslanders’ (one or two-storey weatherboard houses with verandas).

If you’re a student or young professional, it’s worth considering renting a room in a houseshare or flatshare. Although you’ll be sharing common areas such as the kitchen and living room, it’s a great way to meet people and is a fantastic budget-friendly option if you’re just starting out in Brisbane.

Furnished vs unfurnished

The majority of properties are rented unfurnished, meaning you’ll have to consider your options carefully when it comes to shipping personal goods to Brisbane. Even the most expensive rental properties rarely come with large white-label appliances, such as a fridge or washing machine. Having to ship or purchase these items new can be a costly endeavour.

Short lets

Short-term lets are an ideal choice for those who want to get to know the local areas a bit better before embarking on the house hunt. These lets are often in serviced apartments, providing everything you’ll need for day-to-day life while allowing for a longer stay than you’d typically have in a hotel. Short lets are priced somewhere between long-term rentals and hotels, being cheaper than hotels but more expensive than long-term rentals.

Finding accommodation in Brisbane

Newcomers in Brisbane should begin looking for accommodation as soon as possible. It’s best to have short-term housing lined up before arriving in Australia and then to look for something more permanent once in the country.

Due to high demand, city properties are snapped up quickly, and it may take a bit of time to find and get approval to rent the perfect home.

When it comes to house hunting, expats can either go it alone or enlist the help of an agent. Resources such as local newspapers and online property portals can be useful for those searching independently. Alternatively, estate agents can simplify the rental process, as they generally have good knowledge of the city and access to property listings before they go on the open market.

Property viewings in Brisbane are usually at set times and are done in groups. If the house on show is well-priced, you should expect to be viewing it with as many as a dozen other people. To avoid the crowds, go to weekday viewings during working hours rather than after hours or over weekends.

Useful websites

• RealEstate.com.au
• Flatmates.com.au
• Rent.com.au

Renting accommodation in Brisbane

Making an application

To apply for a rental, you’ll need references as well as proof of identity and employment. Bank statements may also be requested, and you may have to pass a credit check to ensure you can afford the rental cost.

Since the market moves fast, expats should research and prepare what they will need ahead of time so they are ready to submit at any moment.

Deposits and bonds

You may be asked for a holding deposit in order to reserve the property while the lease is drawn up and signed. The length of the holding period is negotiated between tenant and landlord. The agreed length should be written on the receipt for the deposit. If no length is specified, the default is 48 hours.

If you decide not to proceed with the lease, you need to inform the landlord before the holding period runs out. In this case, the holding deposit should be refunded within three days.

If you sign the lease, the holding deposit becomes part of the rental bond, which will be held in a secure account. At the end of the lease, the bond covers the cost of any damage to the property beyond normal wear and tear. The bond is usually the equivalent of four weeks’ rent.

Paying rent

Rent for accommodation in Brisbane is payable monthly or fortnightly, and rental listings may list the per-week price rather than the per-month price, so expats should be sure to double-check if a particular figure seems too good to be true.

Useful links

• Queensland Government – Tenancy fact sheets

Utilities in Brisbane

Utility bills are not typically included in the rental price and are the responsibility of the tenant. This extra cost should be factored in when considering how much you can afford to pay for rent.

Utilities that you may need to pay for include:

• Electricity
• Gas
• Water
• Internet
• Telephone

Read on to find out more about utility providers in Brisbane and how to go about getting set up for the various services you’ll require.

Electricity, gas and water

Electricity and gas charges may either be paid directly to the company supplying the service or to the property manager. If you pay directly, the service will be in your name, while if you pay through the property manager, the service will remain in their name. Note that the property manager is not allowed to ask you to pay more than the service provider has charged them for your usage.

Major electricity providers in Brisbane include Red Energy, Alinta Energy, EnergyAustralia, Origin Energy and AGL. You can use a comparison website to check that you’re getting the best deal on your electricity. If you find a better deal, it may be possible to switch providers.

Depending on where in Brisbane you are located, gas may be supplied either by Australian Gas Networks or Allgas Energy.

Water in Brisbane is provided by Urban Utilities. The cost of water is often included in rental payments. However, if your home is individually metered, you may be charged for water. Check whether this is the case before moving in.

Internet

The internet may not be automatically connected when you move into a new place. In this case, you must either contact a service provider to put in a connection line or – if there is already a connection line – have the service connected. Permission is needed from the property owner if you wish to have a new line put in.

Popular ISPs in Brisbane include NBN, Aussie Broadband, Superloop, SpinTel and Exetel.

Useful links

• Australian Government – Energy Made Easy
• Queensland Government – Utilities

The best places to live in Brisbane

The greater Brisbane area consists of several municipalities and hundreds of different neighbourhoods, and picking an area to live in is one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make when moving here.

Budget, distance from your workplace, lifestyle, and access to public transport should all be considered when deciding on a neighbourhood. If you have children, proximity to good schools and entertainment facilities will also be a deciding factor.

City living in Brisbane

If you want to live close to Brisbane’s best nightlife and entertainment and skip a long commute to work, the city centre is where you’ll want to start your search.

Fortitude Valley

Fortitude Valley is a vibrant area right next to the city centre, and it’s one of Brisbane’s main entertainment hubs. The streets here are lined with nightclubs, trendy bars and restaurants, and it is also home to one of the largest shopping precincts in Australia.

Expats living in Fortitude Valley will never be far from the action, as lots of the city’s annual events are held here. The central location of the area also means residents have easy access to all modes of public transport.

New Farm

New Farm is an inner suburb close to the city centre and located on the Brisbane River. The area is connected to Brisbane’s central business district and other parts of the city by regular ferries and buses.

In Merthyr Village, a nearby commercial area, residents can shop to their hearts’ content and grab a bite to eat at one of the many great restaurants and cafés. New Farm also has a vibrant arts scene, with regular shows taking place at the Brisbane Powerhouse – a tramway power station that has been converted into a theatre.

One downside is that property in New Farm is fairly expensive.

Family-friendly suburbs in Brisbane

For expats moving to Brisbane with children, being close to the right school will be essential. Both Victoria Point and Holland Park have excellent schooling options.

Victoria Point

Victoria Point is a leafy, family-friendly suburb located about 20 miles (30km) southeast of Brisbane’s centre. The area is particularly popular with UK and New Zealand expats. Families often find Victoria Point to be an ideal choice, thanks to the selection of private and public schools in the area.

Holland Park

Holland Park is a great neighbourhood for those with children, thanks to the number of parks, good schools, a well-equipped library, convenient shopping centres, and its proximity to the city centre (just a ten-minute drive). Although properties tend to be a little older here, this does mean that there are more affordable options for those on a budget.

Affordable areas of Brisbane

The cost of living in Brisbane is generally quite high, and rent usually makes the biggest dent. The best option for those on a budget is to look into sharing a house or renting a portion of one of the city’s many subdivided homes. This is also a great way to meet new people.

Darra

Darra is an older suburb with slightly more dated (though spacious) properties. The abundance of affordable rental options available in Darra makes it popular among students and young expats on a working holiday. There are regular bus and train services that connect the suburb to other parts of Brisbane.

On the downside, Darra is located close to a number of industrial areas, and it may not feel like the safest part of Brisbane. The amenities are also not quite on par with those in more affluent neighbourhoods, but Darra is perfect for those hoping to save a few dollars.

New arrivals will be glad to know that the standard of healthcare in Brisbane is excellent. Permanent residents here are covered by a universal healthcare programme called Medicare. Not all expats will qualify for Medicare, however. Those who don’t will need to make use of private healthcare. In this case, we advise investing in a health insurance policy, as costs can run high without one.

In Brisbane, expats will have a wide range of well-equipped public and private facilities to choose from, each with highly trained staff. There is also no shortage of pharmacies in Brisbane. Most are very well stocked and are able to order any medication that isn’t readily available. Selected pharmacies are open 24/7.

Below are some of the most highly recommended hospitals in Brisbane.

Hospitals in Brisbane

Mater Private Hospital Springfield

Website: www.mater.org.au 
Address: 30 Health Care Drive, Springfield Central

Queensland Children’s Hospital

Website: www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au 
Address: 501 Stanley Street, South Brisbane

St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital

Website: www.standrewshospital.com.au 
Address: 457 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane

Westside Private Hospital

Website: www.westsideprivate.com.au 
Address: Level 1/32 Morrow St, Taringa

Education and schooling in Brisbane consist of government and non-government schools. Government schools are, in most cases, free, while non-government schools are fee-paying.

Expat families moving to Brisbane will find that international schooling options are limited, but since English is generally the medium of instruction in both public and private schools, English-speaking children should adjust relatively easily. Those with limited English proficiency should consider one of Brisbane’s language immersion schools if they offer the child’s home language.

Government schools in Brisbane

Brisbane’s public schools are funded by the government and teach the Australian curriculum. For permanent residents and Australian citizens, government schools can be attended without paying tuition. Some schools do charge fees for certain resources, such as technology. These are known as non-tuition fees.

On the other hand, expat families on temporary visas will be required to pay both tuition and non-tuition fees to attend school in Brisbane. This can add up to a fair amount but is still far more affordable than the cost of attending private school.

Around a dozen government schools in the state of Queensland offer language immersion programmes, where a significant portion of the curriculum is taught in a language other than English. The particular language available varies from school to school, but options include French, German, Spanish, Japanese and Mandarin.

It’s important to note that Brisbane’s government schools require a certain standard of English to be met in order for students to be admitted. This is based on international language testing, such as ISLPR or IELTS. Prospective students who don’t meet the standard will need to undertake the High School Preparation (HSP) programme before they can be admitted to the school.

Public schools are assigned according to catchment areas, so parents should keep this in mind when deciding which neighbourhood to settle in.

Government schools are reviewed at least once every four years by the Queensland Department of Education (QDE). Results are available on school websites. Self-assessments between QDE reviews are also mandatory.

Useful links

• Queensland Government Department of Education

Non-government schools in Brisbane

In Australia, non-government schools are fee-paying institutions that can be divided into two broad categories: private and independent. The term ‘private schools’ refers solely to fee-paying Catholic schools, while all other fee-paying schools are known as ‘independent schools’.

Independent schools have the freedom to take a more tailored approach to education than public ones. Some are based on religions such as Judaism, Islam and non-Catholic denominations of Christianity. Others employ alternative education philosophies, such as Waldorf or Montessori.

Useful links

• Private Schools Guide – Brisbane Private Schools

International schools in Brisbane

The only real option parents will have when it comes to international education in Queensland will be the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. There are a few government and non-government schools in Queensland that offer this as an option to their students. Note that, unlike most government schools, those offering the IB do charge fees in order to cover the cost of the programme.

Expat parents moving to Brisbane may find it useful to make themselves familiar with the QDE’s international branch, known as Education Queensland International (EQI). EQI provides extra support for international students, particularly those who come from non-English-speaking backgrounds.

Useful links

• Education Queensland International

Special-needs education in Brisbane

The Queensland Department of Education operates on the principle of inclusivity. Their ultimate aim is to ensure that those with special needs can comfortably attend their local school, have access to the same education as their peers, learn in a safe environment, and make good academic and social progress.

Every school in Queensland receives core funding for students with special needs, as well as extra funding known as a Reasonable Adjustments Resourcing (RAR) allocation. Children with a wide range of needs are accommodated under these funds, including (but not limited to) those with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities, sensory and physical impairments, dyslexia, and mental health conditions.

For more information, consult with the Queensland Department of Education (QDE).

Useful links

• QDE – Students with disability

Tutors in Brisbane

Tutors are widely used in Brisbane, particularly for complex subjects such as maths and science, to assist non-English students with English proficiency, help new arrivals catch up to the local curriculum, and prepare for university.

For expats, hiring a tutor is a great way to ease their children’s transition to a new education system. Expat children from a non-English-speaking background can also benefit from tutoring with a native speaker of their home language to ensure continued proficiency.

There’s a variety of online tutoring companies with excellent reputations. Another way to find tutors in your local area is to ask your child’s school for recommendations.

Useful links

• Superprof
• Alchemy Tuition

Brisbane is renowned for the easy-going, relaxed atmosphere that inspired its playful nickname, ‘City of Sundays’. That’s not to say Brisbane isn’t brimful of exciting attractions, sights and entertainment, though. The city boasts several vibey districts, a stunning riverside park, a bona fide café culture, vibrant nightlife, and a chock-full event calendar.

Shopping in Brisbane

Shopping enthusiasts are sure to enjoy Brisbane’s wide range of designer boutiques and department stores. Numerous bustling markets dot the city, and the Queen Street Mall is convenient for those who prefer to shop in one place.

Brisbane also has an independent retail scene concentrated around the CBD, and Fortitude Valley and Paddington are the top spots for fashion and vintage. Here, shoppers spend the day trawling second-hand bookshops and other speciality shops.

The main antique precincts are centred in Woolloongabba, where quaint little boutiques offer an array of unique gifts and homewares. A growing number of weekend stalls are springing up all over Brisbane, where everything from organic produce to old-styled garments can be acquired.

Arts and culture in Brisbane

Brisbane offers tons of entertainment for culture vultures. The South Bank houses the Queensland Museum, the Queensland Art Gallery and the Performing Arts Centre. These venues host various events and world-class exhibitions.

Other cultural hotspots include the eclectic New Farm and Fortitude Valley, and expats could also take a walk around the heart of the metropolis and admire works of public art and heritage buildings.

Sport in Brisbane

In true Aussie fashion, sport is well catered for at the Brisbane Cricket Ground (known locally as the Gabba) and Ballymore, where the Wallabies defend their rugby pride. Those without a ticket for the game should head to the nearest pub or sports bar and watch it with the lively locals – quite an experience in itself.

Those who’d rather participate than spectate can join one of Brisbane’s many recreational sports teams. The city’s various social sports clubs offer a range of options, including football, volleyball, basketball, netball and more.

See and do in Brisbane

Brisbane Botanic Gardens

Nestled at the foot of Mount Coot-tha, the Brisbane Botanic Gardens are perfect for a quick escape from the city. Take a leisurely stroll, pack a picnic, and be sure to pop into the spectacular Tropical Display Dome. Space and science buffs will also enjoy the on-site Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary. It’s home not only to these adorable marsupials but also to kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, platypuses, and various species of reptiles and birdlife.

Queensland Maritime Museum

Founded in 1971, the Queensland Maritime Museum contains large-scale exhibitions featuring historic sailing ships, cruise liners and tankers. Expats can also browse a library that houses antiquated artefacts, documents and maritime photographs.

South Bank

This fun-packed district features a man-made beach and lagoon alongside parklands, rainforest walks, barbecue areas and cultural attractions. Those wanting to see the city from above should take a spin on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane, a 197-foot (60m) Ferris wheel.

What’s on in Brisbane

Goomeri Pumpkin Festival (May)

The Goomeri Pumpkin Festival sees hundreds of market stalls line the streets selling pumpkin-themed eats such as pumpkin soup, pie and even fudge. There are also competitions to take part in and live music to enjoy.

Brisbane Winter Racing Carnival (May/June)

Hosted by the Brisbane Racing Club, the Winter Racing Carnival is all about dressing to the nines, enjoying Brisbane’s lovely weather and having a flutter on the horse races at Eagle Farm and Doomben Racecourses.

Brisbane Marathon (June)

A huge event on the city’s calendar, the Brisbane Marathon sees professionals and amateurs come out in droves to run either the full or half-marathon. Non-runners can cheer them on from the side on what is always a festive day out.

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers (September)

During the Carnival of Flowers, more than 170,000 blooms can be viewed across Toowoomba. Visitors can partake in the celebrations in one of several of the city’s parks, including twilight tours, carnival rides, festival food and live music – a great day out for the whole family.

Where to meet people and make friends in Brisbane

Below are a few options where newcomers can get to know locals and fellow expats and make new friends.

South Bank Parkrun

Stay healthy and meet new people at this free 3-mile (5km) event where, every Saturday, active locals gather in South Bank to run, jog or walk.

Redland Bushwalkers

Expats with a love of nature and a passion for hiking will fit right in. Based in Redlands, the Redland Bushwalkers meet every Wednesday and enjoy an array of activities in the outdoors.

Brisbane Pickleball Club

For those looking to try something new, pickleball may be just the thing. This racket-based sport is a mixture of badminton, tennis and ping-pong. The Brisbane Pickleball Club hosts social sessions throughout the week, making it easy for anyone to join.

Getting around in Brisbane is relatively straightforward. The city centre is compact, which makes walking and cycling easy, while areas further afield are served by extensive public transport networks.

Trains, buses and the popular CityCat ferry are the main modes of transport for commuters travelling to the city each day.

Brisbane’s rapid population growth has led to the expansion of infrastructure and road networks, but the city still suffers from severe road congestion, particularly at peak hours. Another deterrent for drivers is the expensive (and shortage of) parking in the city centre. Still, a car is useful for traversing the city, particularly if you have kids or intend to explore the areas surrounding Brisbane.

Public transport in Brisbane

Translink Go Card

There are three main modes of public transport in Brisbane, namely trains, buses and ferries. These are all linked through an integrated ticketing system called Translink. Regular commuters often invest in the contactless and rechargeable Translink Go Card. Buying a Go Card not only eliminates the hassle of purchasing tickets for each trip but also saves money in the long run.

Buses

The bus network in Brisbane is large and comprehensive. All buses have a digital display on the front with their route number and final destination. There are many bus routes, but popular stops in the inner city tend to be serviced more regularly than those in the suburbs. There are a handful of free bus services in and around the city centre.

Trains

Trains are a quick and convenient way to travel and cover most of the suburbs and of course the inner city. Intercity rail services can be used to commute to other major destinations, such as the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. While trains are a fast way to get around, there are parts of Brisbane that aren’t covered by the rail network.

Ferries

The iconic ferries that dot the river in Brisbane are called CityFerries and CityCats. There is also a free ferry service, known as the CityHopper, connecting the city with South Bank. While these do not cover as much ground as the city’s bus and rail networks, they do provide a fast and unique way to travel around Brisbane.

Useful links

• Translink

Taxis in Brisbane

Taxis are readily available throughout the city, but they are pricey, so we don’t recommend using these regularly. Taxi fares for cabs hailed on the street and at taxi ranks are regulated by the government, while prebooked taxi fares aren’t subject to these restrictions. That said, it is still best to book ahead of time to ensure availability.

Major taxi companies operating in Brisbane include Black and White Cabs and 13cabs. Ride-hailing applications such as Uber are also available.

Useful links

• Black and White Cabs
• 13cabs
• Uber

Driving in Brisbane

Driving in Brisbane can be tricky. Many new arrivals are often confused and frustrated by the one-way roads and the lack of parking in the city centre. That said, the city generally has well-maintained roads and clear signage. Driving around the suburbs is often easier than in the city except during peak hours.

You can drive on a foreign licence in Brisbane for up to three months before you’ll need to obtain an Australian driving licence. Certain nationalities are exempt from doing practical and theory testing for licensing purposes, meaning they can simply exchange their home licence for an Australian one. Other countries are part of an agreement allowing their nationals to be classified as an ‘experienced driver’. In this case, individuals over the age of 25 can exchange their licence, while those below this age will need to do testing before the exchange can be made.

Note that if your licence from your home country isn’t in English, you’ll have to get it legally translated before arriving in Australia.

Useful links

• Austroads – Applying for a licence

Walking and cycling in Brisbane

Brisbane has many cycle paths around the city, making travel by bicycle safe and easy. Brisbane City Council has recently implemented a new e-mobility programme. E-bikes and e-scooters are now widely available, and riders need only register on the Neuron or Beam app to use these facilities. Expats should bring a helmet, as riding without one can result in a hefty fine.

Expats will also find that walking from point A to B in Brisbane is simple and enjoyable, especially in the city centre.