Let’s get going

[Wessmuts]

Good day

 

we are in the process of finalising visa applications, but we already have a signed job offer so it is jusy a matter of time.

 

My concern is the salary. I will not be working at first and my husband is on a package of 175k per year plus perks totalling 320 including 30k

super. Is this enough to live well in Rockhampton on the Capricorn coast?

 

I have looked at some of the budgets online here but still cannot get a feel for what is a good income for 2 people. I understand it depends a number of factors and I am prepared to take a lifestyle knock but I am just not sure how rough it will be. 

 

 

[Mara]

If that is $ and not R then honestly with $175,000, even if you excluded the perks, you would be amongst the  top earners in Australia.

[Wessmuts]

Hi Mara, yes aus $ but that is before tax.

 

I am also learning about salary packing so certain expenses are paid pre tax.

 

I am working on a budget and luckily we are starting in a smaller town which should make the transition easier. 

 

Thanks for the feedback and i’ll kEep working on my budget thanks

 

 

[new2forum]

That's an excellent offer, but bear in mind in terms of medical services in the Capricorn coast and most rural areas doctors don't bulk bill, meaning if you covered by the state medicare you'll have to pay around $60 for consultation. If not coveted by medicare a gp visit could be $100 even if you have private health insurance. 

 

Dental and specialist medical services aren't mostly covered by medicare and will be quite expensive. E?go even as a citizen on medicare in a capital city, to see any specialist (without having to wait months), the cost can be easily $400. E.g I saw a dermatologist the other day, even with top private health cover, I had to pay $320 for a ten minute diagnosis. 

 

I also saw saw a periodontist for my receding gum line. I've been with private health insurance for about 10 years on top cover, paying 5000$ per annum, yet even with private health insurance, they only cover $800 maximum for periodontal treatment that the specialist quoted me$3900 for 4 teeth, yet I pad about $50000 in premiums over the years! 

 

Keeping any car in oz costs a fortune regardless if it's a basic $350 for registration, $500 for insurance and $500 for third party per annum. If you have a sports or luxury car, you can double that. 

[RedPanda]

@Wessmuts, unless you have unusual expenses that offer is quite good. If you were living in Melbourne you could support two people on almost a third of that.

[Wessmuts]

Thanks @RedPanda 

That is a little more reassuring. Obviously total package is pre tax and includes the superannuation of 30k a year.

 

I have heard some horror stories about living expenses, but I hope starting in a smaller town will make things easier

 

This forum is extremely helpful 

[RedPanda]

You can always start on realestate.com.au and see what your rent/mortgage is going to look like. Then go online or use Excel sheets compiled by forumites to estimate groceries etc. Of course some things will still surprise you, but hey, at least you'll realise that you should be fine.  

[LM17]

@Wessmuts that's a excellent offer, especially straight of the plane.

Most of us must be will to accept 20-30% less than what we should be  earning while we get some Aussie experience and then work our way up again. You are very fortunate