Departing Australia Permanently: A Guide to a Smooth Transition

Parting ways with Australia permanently opens up a world of endless opportunities. Whether you are leaving the country for work, love, or in need of a change, it is crucial to navigate the necessary steps to ensure a smooth transition.  

In this blog post, based on our video, we will break down seven major steps that will help you depart Australia permanently, covering everything from travel documents to notifying government agencies and financial institutions. If you have any questions along the way, feel free to reach out. Let us get started! 

Step 1: Travel Documents: Before embarking on your journey, ensure that your passport is valid for the duration of your stay abroad. Obtaining a passport while overseas can be cumbersome, so it’s best to have this in order beforehand. Additionally, make sure you have all the necessary visas and residencies organised for your new country of residence. 

Step 2: Housing Situation: If you’re currently renting a property, it’s important to cease your lease or wait for it to naturally expire. If you own your current house, consider either leasing it out or selling it, depending on your long-term plans. Making appropriate arrangements for your housing situation will provide financial stability and a clear path forward. 

Step 3: Cancel Ongoing Services: To ensure a clean break from Australia, cancel any ongoing services that tie you to the country. This includes electricity, gas, utilities, phone plans, internet services, and streaming subscriptions. This step will help you save money and sever any remaining ties to Australia. 

Step 4: Notify Relevant Government Agencies: From a tax perspective, it’s crucial to inform the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) that you have permanently left the country. This can be done by filing a tax return and indicating your departure. Additionally, remember to notify other government agencies, such as Medicare and the Australian Electoral Commission, to update your information and avoid any unnecessary obligations. 

Step 5: Notify Other Financial Institutions: Inform your bank that you are now a non-resident for tax purposes. This step ensures that your account is appropriately labeled, preventing any unnecessary charges or fees. Contact any share registers or brokers you work with to update your non-resident status. Keeping your financial institutions informed will streamline your financial affairs and avoid potential complications. 

Step 6: Manage Personal Belongings: When departing Australia permanently, consider packing up your belongings and organising a shipping company to send them to your new address. Take only what you need and sell or donate the rest, whether it’s your car, furniture, or household goods. Simplifying your belongings will make the transition easier and help you start afresh in your new home. 

Step 7: Say Your Goodbyes: Leaving Australia permanently means being away from family and friends for extended periods. Take the opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones and bid farewell before your departure. These precious moments will create lasting memories and provide a sense of closure as you embark on your new journey. 

Departing Australia permanently involves careful planning and attention to various details. By following the seven steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth transition and minimise any potential disruptions. Remember, each person’s circumstances are unique, so it is important to consider your specific situation and seek professional advice when necessary. Embrace the new opportunities that await you and make the most of this exciting chapter in your life. 

Please watch our video on this topic to gain a better insight into this. Please contact us or book an appointment to chat further on this.