Moving to Melbourne Made Simple: Costs, Rentals & Rego Explained

If you’re moving to Melbourne, you’re not just changing postcode—you’re changing the way everyday decisions stack up: housing, transport, and the timing of your first month. After more than twenty years running North Removals, I’ve seen the difference good planning makes on interstate and regional moves into Victoria. This guide shares the practical bits I use on the job so your arrival feels organised, your budget realistic, and your move-day calm.

I keep things simple and actionable: what to expect with bonds and rent in Victoria, how public transport caps compare with running a car, and when to sort rego and licence changes. To be clear, we don’t handle council permits or lift bookings—that’s between you, your building and local council. What we do is move you safely and efficiently, working to the access windows you arrange and keeping your belongings protected door to door.

Whether you’re leaving Adelaide, Canberra, Sydney or a regional town, the long-haul into Melbourne rewards a clear plan and a dependable crew. My team focuses on careful wrapping, smart loading for the highway, and respectful handling at both ends—no shortcuts, no drama. Use this guide to make confident decisions before the truck arrives, then let one of the highest rated removalist in melbourne take care of the heavy lifting while you settle into your new routine in a city built on convenience.

Cost of Living When Moving to Melbourne

Moving to Melbourne changes how money flows day to day. I see it firsthand on interstate jobs from South Australia, Canberra and NSW: rents, permits, tolls and fares add up differently here. In this section, I’ll explain the big cost-of-living shifts I notice on the ground. You’ll learn what housing costs to set up, which everyday expenses surprise newcomers, and where Melbourne can be cheaper if you plan well and use local rules to your advantage.

Housing and Rent Differences in Melbourne

Housing is usually the biggest shock. Singles, couples and families moving into Melbourne face tighter competition, stricter building rules, and different upfront costs. Two-bedroom units dominate inner and middle‑ring options, while three‑bedroom houses cluster in the outer suburbs. I’ve set out the key cost components and rules that drive your first month’s budget in Melbourne, so you can compare apples with apples and avoid nasty surprises.

Item (Melbourne, Aug 2025)	What it means	Typical amount/limit (units)	Who does it most affect	Notes/documents to check
Bond (Victoria)	The maximum bond depends on the weekly rent	Up to 1 month’s rent if weekly rent ≤ $900; above $900, a higher bond may apply	Singles in 2‑bed shares; couples in 2‑bed units; families in 3‑bed houses	Bond must be lodged with RTBA; keep receipt and bond ID
Rent in advance	Limits on how much can be requested upfront	Weekly/fortnightly: up to 14 days; Monthly (if ≤ $900/wk): up to 1 month	All renters	Check the lease for payment frequency and due dates
Condition report	Must be completed and returned after move‑in	Return within 5 business days of moving in	All renters	Add photos/video; keep a copy for bond claims
Holding deposit	Can be requested before signing	Refundable when agreement is signed; if not signed within 14 days, refund by the next business day	All renters	Ensure any payment is clearly labelled as a holding deposit
Apartment move‑ins	Building rules affect timing and access	Book a lift; provide a public liability certificate; follow the set hours	Singles/couples in inner‑city units	Confirm move windows and loading dock access with the building manager
Resident parking permits (example: Yarra)	On‑street permit cost where off‑street parking is limited	1st permit $56; 2nd $135.50; 3rd $254 (to 30 Jun 2026)	House/older unit streets with timed zones	Fees and eligibility vary by council; check your council’s permit page
Scenario fit	Likely property by household	Singles: room in 2‑bed unit; Couples: 2‑bed unit; Families: 3‑bed house	Singles, couples, families	Outer suburbs offer more 3‑bed houses and driveways; inner suburbs favour units
Timeline to organise	Lead time to avoid delays/fees	2–3 weeks before the move for lift booking and permits	All renters	Align settlement/lease start with lift and permit availability

Source: Consumer VIC

From experience, book apartment lifts before you book flights. Many inner‑city buildings only allow weekday slots and require our public liability certificate, floor protection and an induction. For houses, measure driveway widths and front setbacks; some Melbourne streets switch to clearways at peak times, so we stage loads to avoid fines. If you’re crossing borders, pack biosecurity‑risk items separately and clean them. Label meter boxes and keys clearly; it saves costly delays during connection checks.

Your first month in Melbourne goes smoothly when you anchor plans to the rules above. Confirm bond, rent in advance and lift bookings early, then line up permits and utility starts. If you’re unsure, ring the building manager and your council; both can save you money and stress. Shortlist two suburbs that fit your scenario, then check the latest medians on the Homes Victoria Rental Report before you apply.

Everyday Expenses and Hidden Costs in Melbourne

Once you land in Melbourne, day-to-day costs feel different to Adelaide, Canberra or regional centres. If you’re comparing the cost of living in Australia, Melbourne has its own pattern: public transport uses daily caps, toll roads charge per trip, and inner councils police kerbside parking firmly. Utilities are regulated here, so electricity and water bills follow set frameworks. I’ve pulled together the recurring expenses that new arrivals ask me about most, plus the sneaky extras that catch people mid-move. Use it to plan a realistic weekly and monthly budget from day one.

For new arrivals, I suggest trialling a car‑light first month. Use Myki and hire a car or ute only for bulky weekends; it offsets tolls and parking. If you’ll commute on CityLink, open an account before you drive to avoid invoice fees. Photograph metre signs when you park; time limits can change by block. For electricity, start on the Default Offer, then run a comparison after your first bill. Batch cooking helps families manage food costs between school terms.

Melbourne rewards early budgeting. Lock in your transport choice, set electricity to the Default Offer as a baseline, and map any routes that touch toll roads. Track food spending for a month to spot quick wins before habits set. For a more detailed Cost of Living in Melbourne, sketch a simple first-month budget for your household size, then refine it after your first bills and a full week of travel. That rhythm keeps surprises small while you settle in.

Moving to Melbourne: Navigating Victoria’s Rental Market

I’ve helped families move to Melbourne from Adelaide, and one thing I’ve learned from those moves is that renting in Victoria has its own rules and surprises. In this section, I’ll share firsthand insights,  from unique Victorian tenant rights to smart tips for securing a home in Melbourne’s competitive market, so you’ll be well prepared to rent confidently in Victoria.

Lease Agreements and Tenant Rights in Victoria

Navigating a new state’s rental laws can be tricky. If you’re moving to Melbourne from Canberra, you’ll find differences in Victoria’s tenancy rules. Victoria’s recent rental reforms strengthened tenant rights, covering everything from pets to bonds. I’ve seen new arrivals surprised that Victorian landlords can’t just say “no pets” or hike rent whenever they want. Below, I’ve put together a handy comparison so you can quickly grasp how Victorian leases and rights stack up against what you may be used to back home.

Key Rental Aspect	Victoria (VIC)	New South Wales (NSW)	South Australia (SA)	ACT (Canberra)
Rent increase frequency	Max once every 12 months	Max once every 12 months (since late 2024)	Max once every 12 months	Max once every 12 months
Notice for rent increase	≥ 60 days written notice	≥ 60 days written notice	≥ 60 days written notice	≥ 8 weeks (56 days) notice
Rent increase limits	No fixed cap on amount (tenant can challenge if excessive)	No cap (tenant can dispute if excessive)	No cap (tenant can dispute via tribunal)	Capped to ~CPI + 10% (prescribed limit)
Routine inspections	Up to 2 per year (after first 3 months)	Up to 4 per year (quarterly)	Up to 4 per year (quarterly)	Up to 2 per year (twice yearly)
Pets in rentals	Landlord cannot unreasonably refuse pets; must apply to VCAT within 14 days to deny	Traditionally no right to have pets (landlord approval needed). Note: New 2025 reforms will prevent blanket “no pets” clauses	Landlord cannot unreasonably refuse pet requests (no blanket bans; new law since 2024)	No specific pet-rights law (landlord permission generally required; assistance dogs exempt).
Bond (security deposit)	Max 4 weeks’ rent if weekly rent ≤ $900; up to 6 weeks if rent > $900	Max 4 weeks’ rent if ≤ $900/week; no cap above $900 (negotiable)	Max 4 weeks’ rent if ≤ $800/week; up to 6 weeks if > $800	Max 4 weeks’ rent (any rent level)
‘No-cause’ evictions	Not allowed – landlord must give a valid reason (sale, owner moving in, etc.) to end tenancy	Until 2025, allowed at end of lease/periodic; from mid-2025, no-cause evictions are banned (landlords need grounds)	Banned as of 2024 – landlords now require a legitimate reason to evict (e.g. serious breach)	Until 2025, allowed at the end of lease/periodic; from mid-2025, no-cause evictions are banned (landlords need grounds)

Source: NSW GOV, SA GOV.

Victoria’s rental laws are now very tenant-friendly. Rent increases in Victoria are capped at once per year (with ample notice) – you won’t face quarterly hikes like elsewhere. Also, Victoria and the ACT limit routine inspections to twice a year, a relief if you’re used to NSW or SA’s four-times-a-year inspections. Victoria has followed SA and the ACT in ending no-cause evictions and letting renters keep pets – huge changes if you’re coming from strict no-pet and no-grounds regimes in NSW.

Moving interstate? Be ready to adjust to Melbourne’s logistics. In inner-city areas, many apartment buildings require booking a lift and council parking permits for the moving truck in the city. On the road, expect quirks like hook turns at tram intersections. Try to drive outside peak hour,  Melbourne traffic can rival Sydney’s, see commute & lifestyle comparison. If you’re coming from far away, allow extra travel time. And pack carefully: secure your furniture, because a long haul can jostle loose items. 

Understanding Victoria’s rental rules upfront gives you a major advantage. You now know key rights, like being allowed a pet and no rent hikes more than once a year, so put them to use. Read your lease carefully and question any clause that doesn’t match these rules. For more details on Moving Rights for Tenants, check official sources like Consumer Affairs Victoria’s renter guide and similar resources to keep informed as you settle into Melbourne.

How to Secure a Rental in Melbourne

Finding a home in Melbourne can feel like a competition, especially if you’re relocating from regional Victoria or Adelaide. I’ve seen clients from Canberra shocked at how busy Melbourne inspections get. There are concrete steps to improve your odds, though. In this section, I’ll cover ways to stand out in a rental application, options for short-term housing on arrival, and guidance on choosing a suburb for your lifestyle and budget. Shortlist a few areas that match your budget and commute—scan this affluent suburbs list if you’re aiming higher-end. Melbourne has a place for everyone – it just takes strategy to secure it.

Melbourne’s rental market follows a “distance versus cost” trade-off. Inner suburbs (like Brunswick or St Kilda) offer a vibrant lifestyle and quick commutes, but come with high rents. Further out (around Dandenong or Werribee), rents drop and space grows. Glenroy is a middle-ring suburb that balances cost and convenience. Ultimately, the key is to decide what matters to you – paying more for a short commute or saving money for a bigger backyard further out. Shortlist a few areas that match your budget and commute—scan growth suburbs to watch before you decide.

To stand out when applying, prepare a “renter résumé” with all your documents ready (ID, proof of income, references). If possible, attend inspections and introduce yourself; a friendly impression helps. If you arrive without a lease secured, consider a short-term rental stay (like an Airbnb) while you search. When picking a suburb, weigh space and affordability versus commute and lifestyle. For example, do you want a big backyard in the outer suburbs or a smaller unit closer to city action? You can always move later.

Patience and preparation are your best allies in Melbourne’s rental market. Start your search early and don’t be discouraged by a few knock-backs — even locals struggle at times. Stay open-minded about suburbs; you might discover a hidden gem outside your first choice that still ticks the boxes. If you need ideas, my Best Suburbs in Melbourne overview is a good starting point. With these tips and a bit of tenacity, you’ll be unlocking your new front door in Melbourne before you know it.

Getting Around in Melbourne: Cars, Rego and Public Transport

I’ve learned a thing or two about getting around Melbourne from helping families relocating from Adelaide to Melbourne. Moving to Melbourne means navigating Victoria’s vehicle registration (“rego”), transferring your interstate driver’s licence, and figuring out how to commute in a city with trams and trains. Below, I share practical tips and firsthand experiences to help you smoothly organise your car and public transport options after your move.

Transfer Your Car and Driver’s Licence to Victoria

Moving to Melbourne with a car from interstate means tackling VicRoads paperwork early. I always tell clients that Victoria has its own rules for cars and licences. You’ll likely need to swap your interstate number plates for Victorian ones and convert your driver’s licence within six months of arriving. Fortunately, if you plan with the right documents (and maybe a roadworthy certificate), the process is straightforward and ensures you’re driving legally in Victoria.

Requirement	Cost (AUD)	Details
Roadworthy Certificate (RWC) (if required)	~150–200 (inspection fee)	Needed only if your interstate rego is expired >3 months or not in your name. Must be obtained from a licensed tester in Victoria (certificate valid for 30 days).
Vehicle registration (Vic 12 months, metro car)	906.60 (2025)	Payable to VicRoads to register in Victoria (includes new plates and compulsory insurance). Lower in rural areas. Cancel interstate rego afterwards to claim any refund.
Motor vehicle duty (stamp duty)	0 (exempt for own vehicle)	Normally levied on vehicle value, but waived if the car was registered in your name interstate (bring proof of 12+ months interstate rego).
Victorian driver’s licence	~94 (3-year full licence)	Must convert within 6 months of residency. Fee depends on licence duration (e.g. 10-year ~$322). Any remaining time on your interstate licence is typically honoured on your new Vic licence.

Source: VicRoad

The table above breaks down the key steps and costs for bringing your car and licence into Victoria. The good news is you won’t be double-charged stamp duty if the vehicle has been in your name (VicRoads will waive that tax), and you often don’t need a roadworthy if your interstate rego is still current. The biggest cost is usually the Vic registration itself (around $900 for a year in Melbourne), but that includes new plates and mandatory insurance coverage. 

From my experience, it pays to tackle these tasks in the first week or two after moving. VicRoads appointment slots fill up, so try to book before you arrive. If your car needs a roadworthy, get it done while you’re unpacking, just don’t turn up with the car fully loaded with moving boxes! Also, bring a screwdriver when you go to VicRoads; you’ll swap to Vic plates on the spot. Lastly, remember that Transferring Your Rego From NSW to VIC also means cancelling your old interstate rego for a refund once you have your Victorian plates.

Sorting out your car’s Victorian rego and licence conversion early will save you headaches. Once you’ve got those new plates on and a Vic licence in your wallet, you can hit the road with peace of mind. My advice is to check VicRoads’ requirements well in advance, gather your paperwork, and book that appointment. It’s a one-time effort that gets you fully compliant and ready to drive as a Victorian, especially if you’re Transferring Your Rego between VIC and SA.

Do You Need a Car After Moving to Melbourne?

After moving here, many new Melburnians moving from Sydney ask me: Do I really need a car in Melbourne? Our city boasts extensive public transport, iconic trams, train lines, and buses that crisscross the suburbs, which is a change for those used to driving everywhere. On the flip side, driving in Melbourne comes with notorious peak-hour traffic, toll roads and pricey parking (up to $70 a day in the CBD). So, what’s the best way to get around for your situation?

Scenario (typical)	Owning a car (annual)	Using public transport (annual)	Key factors & considerations
Single (inner Melbourne professional)	~$6,000 (small car: fuel, rego, insurance)	~$2,500 (daily myki fares)	Car offers door-to-door convenience and flexibility for weekend trips. However, inner-city parking can cost $20–$80/day, and a yearly public transport pass is far cheaper if you live and work near trains or trams.
Couple (both working)	~$8,000 (one car shared; +$6k for second car)	~$5,000 (two adult Myki users)	One car can cover joint errands and the occasional commute, keeping costs down, but it means coordinating schedules. Relying on two Myki passes lets each person commute independently. Owning two cars roughly doubles costs (fuel, second rego), while using public transport avoids those bills but may be slower during peak times.
Family (2 adults + 2 kids)	~$10,000 (one mid-size car; +$8k for second)	~$7,500 (2 adult + 2 student passes)	A car is handy for school drop-offs, shopping trips and weekend sports. Many Melbourne families get by with one vehicle: parents might commute via train while the car is used for family logistics. Children travel on concession, kids under 5 are free, and a student yearly pass is ~$755 each, so public transport can save money, but wrangling prams or multiple kids on trams can be challenging.

As the table indicates, the value of a car in Melbourne depends on your circumstances. Singles in inner suburbs often find Public Transport is far cheaper than owning a car (saving thousands per year). Couples can save by sharing one vehicle or going car-free if near good public transport. For families, the math is closer; public transport for four can rival the cost of running a car, and many parents decide that the convenience of at least one vehicle outweighs the extra expense. 

Many interstate newcomers recalibrate their habits after moving. Clients who drive everywhere in, say, Adelaide or Wagga Wagga, discover they barely need a car during the week in Melbourne; they end up taking the tram to work and only driving on weekends. If you do keep a car, be prepared for local quirks: Melbourne has hook-turn intersections (for trams) that surprise many newcomers, and you’ll need to set up a toll account for CityLink/EastLink roads (something drivers from toll-free states like SA might not be used to). 

Ultimately, whether you need a car in Melbourne comes down to your lifestyle and location. If you’re moving from the country into an inner-city apartment, you might find public transport (and the odd rideshare or rental) covers your needs. But if you’re settling in an outer suburb or juggling family activities, keeping a car (or two) could be worth the cost. My advice: give Melbourne’s trams and trains a go first, then decide if the car stays.

Work and Careers When Moving to Melbourne

I’ve helped countless families and professionals relocate to Melbourne, and one thing I always notice is how the job market plays a huge part in a smooth transition. In this section, I’ll share what I’ve learned on the ground, from differences in major industries to clever job-hunting strategies, so you can hit the ground running in Melbourne’s competitive but opportunity-rich economy.

Industry Differences and Job Opportunities in Melbourne

Moving to Melbourne from somewhere like Adelaide, Canberra, or a regional town means stepping into a broader, busier economy. Melbourne’s job market spans finance, healthcare, tech and creative fields, offering choices beyond what a smaller city or Canberra’s public-service hub might have. And those sectors are still growing fast: health care alone is expected to add 60,000 new jobs in Melbourne by 2026. This overview highlights how major industries compare across regions, showing where Melbourne’s opportunities lie and why the work scene may feel different from back home.

Industry	Melbourne (Vic)	Adelaide (SA)	Canberra (ACT)
Health Care & Social Assistance	15.8% (2024)	17.1% (2021)	13.4% (2021)
Professional, Scientific & Technical	10.3% (2024)	7.1% (2021)	~8% (2021)
Public Administration & Safety	5.0% (2024)	~6% (2021)	~26% (2021)
Financial & Insurance Services	4.4% (2024)	~3% (2021)	~2% (2021)

Source: JobsandSkills

The table above highlights just how diverse Melbourne’s employment landscape is compared to smaller capitals. No single industry dominates in Melbourne; even the biggest sector (healthcare) accounts for only about 16% of jobs. Adelaide leans heavily on healthcare (around 17%), reflecting a smaller service-based market, while Canberra is unique for its huge public sector footprint, with roughly a quarter of jobs being government or defence. By contrast, Melbourne offers more private-sector roles in fields like finance and tech, which are scarcer in Adelaide or Canberra. 

From a mover’s perspective, I always advise planning interstate relocations with Melbourne’s quirks in mind. If you’re coming into the city, check if your new apartment building requires booking a service elevator or parking bay; many Melbourne high-rises do. Aim to move outside of rush hour, since navigating a big truck through tram routes and toll roads (CityLink) is tricky in peak traffic. Pack strategically for the long haul (I secure everything for 8+ hour drives), and be prepared for Victoria’s road rules like hook turns in the CBD! 

The key takeaway is that Melbourne’s economy isn’t one-size-fits-all; it’s a mosaic of industries. Knowing where your field fits into that picture helps you plan your move wisely. I tell clients to do a bit of homework on their target sector’s presence in Melbourne, as it makes settling in much smoother. With an understanding of these differences, you’ll be ready to tap into Melbourne’s opportunities. Next, we’ll look at how to land that job in your new city.

Job Hunting Tips for Newcomers to Melbourne

Having moved many clients into Melbourne from interstate and country towns, I know finding work fast is a top priority once the boxes are unpacked. Job hunting in Melbourne can feel overwhelming; there are dozens of avenues to explore, and salaries might differ from what you’re used to back home. In this section, I’ll break down where to look for roles, what kind of pay to expect at different experience levels, and how to tweak your resume for Melbourne employers’ eyes.

Sector/Role	Entry‑Level Salary (AUD)	Mid‑Level Salary (AUD)	Senior Salary (AUD)	Remote/Hybrid?
IT / Software Development	$60k–$75k	$85k–$110k	$120k–$150k+	Yes (widely)
Accounting / Finance	$55k–$65k	$80k–$100k	$110k–$130k+	Partial (some roles)
Healthcare / Nursing	$60k–$70k	$80k–$90k	$100k+	Limited (mostly on-site)
Creative / Design	$50k–$60k	$70k–$85k	$90k–$110k	Yes (common)

The table above gives ballpark annual salaries in Melbourne for different fields and experience levels. As a rule, Melbourne pay tends to be a notch above Adelaide or regional areas. Mid-level salaries around $80–90k are about the national full-time median. At the entry level, you might start near the mid-$50k to $60k range, while seasoned professionals can clear six figures. Remote work is common in IT and design roles (about 20% of Aussies worked from home in 2021), but frontline jobs like nursing stay on-site. 

Successful movers cast a wide net when job hunting. In Melbourne, sites like Seek, LinkedIn and Indeed list most vacancies, set up alerts, and even start applying before you arrive. Tap into networks: let former colleagues or Melbourne contacts know you’re looking. I’ve seen new arrivals get hired through a friend-of-a-friend. Also, tailor your resume to Aussie norms: keep it concise (about 2 pages), highlight accomplishments (not just duties), and don’t include a photo or personal info. Make clear how your experience fits Melbourne’s context to stand out.

The bottom line is to be proactive and open-minded in Melbourne’s job market. By using every channel, online boards, personal networks, and a polished Melbourne-ready resume, you’ll maximise your chances of landing a role that suits your skills. Settling into a new city is easier when you have work sorted, so put these tips into action and don’t be shy to seek local advice. Before long, you’ll be commuting like a local and calling Melbourne home.

Settling In After Moving to Melbourne

Settling into a new state means dealing with more than just unpacking boxes – there are many details to sort out. In this section, I’ll share insights on two crucial topics: Victoria’s healthcare (especially ambulance cover) and enrolling your kids in Melbourne schools. These tips will help you avoid surprises and get your new life in Melbourne off to a great start.

Healthcare Basics and Ambulance Cover in Victoria

One of the first things interstate movers notice is the differences in healthcare arrangements here in Victoria. If you’re coming from, say, Queensland or the ACT, you might be surprised that ambulance services aren’t automatically free in Victoria. Medicare works the same nationwide, but there are still crucial tasks to handle when you arrive. I guide clients from Adelaide, Canberra or country NSW on updating everything from Medicare details and electoral enrolment to getting ambulance cover and registering pets under Victoria’s rules.

Task	What to do in Victoria
Medicare (public health)	Update your address via myGov or the Medicare app within 14 days of moving. Medicare coverage and card number stay the same Australia-wide, so you remain covered as before.
Ambulance cover	Victoria does not provide free ambulance services for most people. Consider purchasing an Ambulance Victoria membership (about $106/year for a family as of 2024) or ensure your private health insurance covers ambulances. (Queensland residents previously had free ambulance nationwide—not the case once you live in Victoria.) An emergency call-out in Victoria can cost over $1,400 in metro Melbourne if you’re not covered.
Electoral roll	Update your address with the Australian Electoral Commission so you can vote in Victoria. This is a legal requirement when you move – you must keep your enrolment details current. You can update online or via a form; once done, you’ll be enrolled to vote in Victorian state and local elections too.
Pet registration	When you move your pets interstate, is important to register your dogs and cats with your new local council in Victoria. Councils here require annual pet registration renewals by 10 April. Fees depend on the council and whether your pet is desexed (e.g. City of Melbourne charges $71/year for a desexed dog, $215 if not). If coming from NSW, note that Victoria’s yearly renewal differs from NSW’s one-time lifetime pet registration.
Tax and address changes	Update your address with the Australian Taxation Office (through myGov) to ensure your records (like your tax file number, superannuation, and any Centrelink services) are up to date. Also, notify other key services (banks, utilities, insurance) of your new address. This ensures important mail – from rates notices to car rego renewals – reaches you in Melbourne.

If you’re moving to Melbourne, this table is a handy checklist of essential health and admin steps to take. It highlights that while national systems like Medicare and the ATO simply require an address update, state-specific services differ significantly. For example, unlike some states, Victoria’s ambulance services are user-pays, meaning you’ll want coverage to avoid hefty fees. The table also shows differences in pet registration: a NSW newcomer might be unaware of Victoria’s annual council fees. In short, ticking off each item ensures a smoother transition. 

Many clients feel overwhelmed by all the paperwork, so I advise tackling these tasks early. Use the myGov website to update your address once and share it across Medicare, ATO and other agencies. Also, sign up for Ambulance Victoria cover as soon as you arrive – otherwise, a simple mishap could lead to a hefty ambulance invoice. For pet owners, transfer any interstate pet registrations and let your new council and vet know your pet’s details. 

Sorting out healthcare and paperwork early will save headaches later. If you’re coming from interstate or regional VIC, don’t assume everything works the same way in Melbourne. Get ambulance coverage, update your addresses, and tick off those registrations as soon as you arrive. For a full Change of Address Checklist in Victoria, make sure you cover every step. With these basics done, you’ll have peace of mind to enjoy Melbourne’s lifestyle. Next, we’ll tackle getting your kids settled into Victorian schools.

Schooling in Melbourne and Education Transfers

I’ve seen families moving to Melbourne face some school-related curveballs. Victoria’s school system is familiar yet has its quirks; even the terminology is different. For instance, what a Sydney parent calls “Kindergarten” is “Prep” in Melbourne, and South Australians say “Reception” for that first school year. The curriculum is national, but you’ll still need to handle enrolment paperwork and adjust to a few new school processes. I’ll share how to enrol your kids seamlessly and decode these differences.

State/Territory	First year of primary school	Starting age cutoff date*	Notes
Victoria (VIC)	Prep (Foundation Year)	5th birthday on or before 30 April	Called “Prep”. This foundation year is mandatory by age 6. Most kids start in late January of the year they turn 5 (if their birthday is by 30 April).
New South Wales (NSW)	Kindergarten (Year K)	5th birthday on or before 31 July	Called “Kindergarten” (or “Kindy”), equivalent to VIC’s Prep. The later cutoff means some NSW starters are a few months younger. All children must start school by age 6.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)	Kindergarten	5th birthday on or before 30 April	Same name as NSW (Kindergarten). Cutoff date aligns with Victoria’s. An ACT child generally begins Kindergarten at age 5–6, just as a VIC child begins Prep.
South Australia (SA)	Reception	5th birthday by 1 May for Jan start; or by 31 Oct for July start	Called “Reception”. SA has two intakes: children with birthdays May–Oct start mid-year (Term 3) and do 6 terms in Reception before Year 1. Others start in Term 1 and do 4 terms.

All states require children to be in school by their 6th birthday. Cutoff dates determine the earliest start time in the year.

Source: Education NSW. Education SA

The table compares early schooling terms and age requirements across these regions. For example, a child from NSW or ACT will join Prep in Victoria, the equivalent of the Kindergarten they attended back home. Note the age cutoffs: Victoria and ACT use April 30, whereas NSW lets children start if they turn 5 by July 31. South Australia’s dual intake (Reception in Term 1 or Term 3) gives some SA kids a different first-year timeline. Knowing these differences helps you enrol at the right year level and avoid confusion. 

Transferring a student between states is less daunting with some prep. Have copies of recent school reports and your child’s immunisation record ready (Victorian schools will ask for the official Immunisation History Statement). If you’re moving mid-year, talk to the new school about which grade is appropriate. A child who did a term of “Reception” in SA might still enter Prep in Victoria. Finally, try to visit the school with your child before the first day; a short tour can make the new environment much more comfortable. 

Getting your children settled into a Melbourne school comes down to doing your homework early. While education quality is on par nationwide, the processes and terminology can differ, so reach out to your new school and complete enrolment formalities as soon as possible. That way, your kids can hit the ground running both academically and socially. After handling health cover and schools, you’ll be well on your way to feeling at home in Victoria.

Book Your Melbourne Relocation with North Removals

Here are the big takeaways for a smooth Melbourne relocation: plan your rental and utility timelines, decide early whether you’ll go car‑light or keep a vehicle, and confirm any building access rules ahead of move day. You’ll organise permits or lift bookings with your building or council; our job is to turn up on time and move you safely. Lock in dates, communicate access details, and the rest becomes a straightforward, well‑run day.

A recent example sticks with me. We moved a family from Canberra to Melbourne; they arranged the lift and parking window with the building manager. We scheduled the run to hit their slot, wrapped every piece for the goods lift, and used shoulder harnesses to glide a heavy dresser without a mark. By sunset, they had beds assembled, essentials unboxed, and dinner on—exactly how a first night in a new city should feel.

If you’re planning an interstate move to Melbourne or a regional VIC run into the city, I’d be glad to help map the logistics and deliver a calm landing. Tell me your pickup and drop‑off details, floors, and any access notes, and I’ll provide a clear, all‑in quote. When you’re ready, book your move with North Removals—I’ll make sure the truck, the team and the timing are set so your new chapter starts smoothly.