Moving to Australia from Ireland
Visas, salary reality, cost of living, and everything else you need before you book that flight.
Ireland vs Australia at a Glance
The key numbers before you decide to make the move
| Category | 🇮🇪 Ireland | 🇦🇺 Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Capital | Dublin | Canberra (Largest: Sydney) |
| Population | 5.1 million | 26.5 million |
| Currency | Euro (€) | Australian Dollar (AUD) |
| Time Difference | — | +10–11 hrs (AEST) |
| Flight Time | — | ~24 hrs via Dubai/Singapore |
| Min. Wage (hourly) | €13.50 | AUD $23.23 (~€14.00) |
| Avg. 1-bed rent / mo | €1,800 (Dublin) | AUD $2,200 (~€1,330) Sydney |
| Tax (middle earner) | ~30% (PAYE) | ~25% (on AUD $80k) |
| Healthcare | HSE + private | Medicare (public) |
| Driving side | Left | Left |
| Power plugs | Type G | Type I (adapter needed) |
| Irish diaspora | — | 2.7 million Irish-born or descent |
Data 2025–2026. Exchange rates approximate. Always verify with official sources before financial decisions.
Your 7-Step Relocation Checklist
From applying for a visa to walking off the plane ready
Apply for Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
Ages 18–35. Apply online via immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. Current fee: AUD $635. Processing time: 1–4 weeks. No job offer required.
Book your flights
Dublin→Sydney from ~€750 off-peak. Book 8–12 weeks ahead. Emirates via Dubai and Singapore Airlines via Singapore are the most popular routes.
Open an Australian bank account
Open Commonwealth Bank, NAB, or ANZ before departure using their app. Bring passport + Irish address for verification.
Find initial accommodation
Book 2 weeks of hostel accommodation to arrive without stress. Then use Flatmates.com.au or Domain.com.au for share houses.
Apply for Tax File Number (TFN)
Apply at ato.gov.au within your first week. Without it, your employer withholds 47% tax. Free to apply, delivered by post in ~2 weeks.
Get an Australian SIM
Telstra (best coverage) or Optus. Pick up a SIM at the airport. Plans from AUD $30/month.
Register for Medicare (if eligible)
Ireland has a Reciprocal Healthcare Agreement with Australia. Register at a Medicare service centre with your Irish passport for access to public healthcare.
Which Visa Is Right for You?
The most common visas Irish citizens use for Australia
| Visa | Age Limit | Duration | Sponsorship | Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Most Popular417 Working Holiday | 18–35 | 1–3 years | No | AUD $635 | First-time movers, explorers |
| 482 Skilled Worker (TSS) | Any | 2–4 years | Required | AUD $1,455 | Job offer in hand |
| 189 Skilled Independent | Any | Permanent | No | AUD $4,640 | High points score (65+) |
| 190 Skilled Nominated | Any | Permanent | State govt. | AUD $4,640 | State-sponsored skilled workers |
Ready to Make the Move?
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