close_game
close_game

NRI couple says moving to Australia gave them better quality of life, but at the cost of…

Sep 12, 2024 05:12 PM IST

An NRI couple talks about the difference in life in Australia vs India

In 2022, one couple left Gurgaon and moved to Australia in search of better quality of life. A little over two years later, they are already planning to return to India. In a conversation with LiveMint, the NRI couple said they found better quality of life in Australia, but at the cost of their savings and lifestyle.

An NRI couple talks about life in Melbourne vs India.
An NRI couple talks about life in Melbourne vs India.

Plagued with loneliness, high cost of living, and exorbitant healthcare in Melbourne, they are now exploring Indian cities where they can return - with Bengaluru being on the shortlist.

Cost of living

“We miss family and the general lack of community the most. Australia is a lonely country. That’s the primary reason we want to move back,” the husband, a techie, told LiveMint.

The tech professional explained that their cost of living has also gone up since moving to Melbourne.

(Also read: Bengaluru couple moves to Luxembourg for better quality of life, lower taxes)

“Also, the cost of living as a percentage of net income is higher compared to India’s. We end up spending about 80% of our household income here. Back in India, expenses were less than 30%, including rent," he said.

“Downgraded our lifestyle”

Since moving to Australia, the couple has had to cut back on holidays, eating out, and entertainment in general. Even essentials like vegetables, cooking oil etc cost 100-300% more in Melbourne, said the techie.

He explained that the increase is in part due to the fact that his wife, an HR professional, had to settle for a lower-paying job.

“She settled for a lower-paying job here as there weren’t many options for her. There are plenty of opportunities only in tech jobs, while in most other industries, employers give preference to those with local education and experience," he said. “We have downgraded our lifestyles and our savings have been hit, only to lead an unfulfilling life."

Get Latest Updates on...
See more
Get Latest Updates on Trending News Viral News, Video, Photos and Weather Updates of India and around the world
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Wednesday, October 09, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On