Thinking about moving to Perth? You’re in for a treat! Perth, known for its relaxed lifestyle and natural beauty, offers a unique blend of urban convenience and outdoor adventures. From the famous beaches to the bustling city centre, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re relocating to Perth for work, family, or a thirst for adventure, this comprehensive interstate moving guide will help you navigate the move, including finding the best interstate removalists in Perth. Let’s make your transition to this fantastic city as easy as possible.
Here are some fun facts about Perth:
- Perth is one of the world’s most isolated major cities, closer to some international destinations than other Australian cities.
- Perth is experiencing a booming gin scene, with local distilleries producing award-winning gins.
- Western Australia, with Perth at its centre, is home to over 12,000 species of wildflowers, many found in the Perth region.
- Its stunning beaches along the Indian Ocean, known as the “Sunset Coast,” offer breathtaking sunsets.
- Perth is known as the “Avocado Capital” of Australia, with a climate perfect for year-round avocado cultivation.
- Beneath the city, there’s a network of tunnels and underground spaces, including old tram tunnels and WWII bunkers, adding an element of mystery to the city’s history.
The Perth lifestyle
Perth is the largest city in its state, boasting a rich multicultural tapestry. A significant portion of Perth’s population has migrated from overseas, adding to the city’s vibrant diversity. Nestled against the stunning backdrop of pristine national parks, Perth is known for its wide, sandy beaches that stretch along its coastline.
The lifestyle in Perth is characterised by its Mediterranean climate. Its summers are hot and dry with average temperatures of around 17 degrees, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach days. Winters are mild, with cool evenings and an average temperature of 17 degrees. The city enjoys an average minimum of 19 degrees in the summer and 8 degrees in mid-winter, making it comfortable all year-round.
With an extensive coastline and natural beauty nearby, beach trips become a favourite summer activity for many Perth residents during the summer months. The city is also surrounded by well-preserved national parks, including Ku-ring-gai Chase to the north, Blue Mountains to the west, and Royal National Park to the south. Camping and hiking are immensely popular among Perth’s locals, providing a serene escape from the bustling urban areas.
Perth, a hub of diverse experiences and cultural richness, offers a wide array of attractions and events throughout the year, including:
- Perth International Arts Festival, an annual extravaganza featuring world-class performances, contemporary art exhibitions, and a diverse range of cultural experiences.
- Fringe World Festival, one of the largest and most exciting fringe festivals in the Southern Hemisphere, showcasing a mix of theatre, comedy, music, and visual arts.
- Cottesloe Beach Sculptures by the Sea is an annual art exhibition that transforms the iconic Cottesloe Beach into an open-air gallery with stunning sculptures by local and international artists.
- The Perth Royal Show, a beloved agricultural show featuring farm animals, rides, food stalls, and family-friendly entertainment.
- The Christmas Lights Trail – During the holiday season, Perth is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere in the city.
- Perth International Comedy Festival, a laugh-out-loud event features both local and international comedians, promising hilarious evenings for all.
- Perth Fashion Festival showcases the latest in fashion trends. This event attracts fashion enthusiasts from all over Western Australia.
For What’s On in Perth, visit the official tourist guide for Destination Perth here.
If you prefer tranquil strolls with a chance to encounter local wildlife, make sure to visit the Nature and Wildlife guide here.
When moving to Perth, we guarantee that there’s something for everyone.
Reasons for the move
When contemplating moving to Perth, you should consider the motivations behind it and your unique preferences and needs.
If you love exploring and want to live where there’s lots of culture and its convenient to get to the city, you might find neighbourhoods like Northbridge, East Perth, or West Perth exciting. Keep in mind that living spaces in these areas may come at a higher cost for smaller accommodations, but the perks include proximity to the city centre, buzzing nightlife, and a myriad of culture venues.
For someone moving to Perth with a family or with the preference for more spacious living arrangements without breaking the bank, consider exploring the southern or western suburbs. These neighbourhoods offer more budget-friendly and roomy housing options, although they may entail a slightly longer commute to the city. It’s essential to note that Perth’s cultural richness extends beyond the CBD. Suburban gems like Fremantle, Subiaco, and Joondalup, all within reasonable proximity to the city, boast distinct shopping districts, dining experiences, and cultural offerings shaped by their diverse communities. So, when moving to Perth, weigh your personal priorities and lifestyle preferences to make the best choices for your new adventure.
Living Costs
Now, let’s talk about living costs in Perth. Fortunately, if you’re seeking a more budget-friendly city in Australia, Perth can be a promising option as it offers a relatively more affordable cost of living. While housing costs can vary, other essential expenses like groceries, utilities, and recreational activities in Perth are often on par with or even less expensive than those in other major Australian cities.
Here are the average costs you can expect to encounter when moving to Perth, including rent, transportation, recreation and dining expenses:
Rent per month
| Item | Average price | Expected range |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | $2,500 | $1,750 – $3,000 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) outside of Centre | $1,850 | $1,500 – $2,250 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | $3,750 | $3,000 – $4,300 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) outside of Centre | $2,750 | $2,000 – $3,200 |
Transport
| Item | Average price | Expected range |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | $4.50 | $2.50 – $6 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | $175 | $95 – $210 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | $7.00 | $5.50 – $9 |
| Taxi 1km | $2.75 | $1.50 – $4.00 |
| Taxi 1 hour Waiting | $85 | $50 – $90 |
| Petrol (1 litre) | $1.90 | $1.65 – $2.45 |
Restaurants
| Item | Average price | Expected range |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | $30.00 | $15-55 |
| Meal at McDonald’s (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | $15.00 | $14-16 |
| Domestic Beer (500ml draught) | $11.50 | $8-15 |
| Imported Beer (330ml bottle) | $12.00 | $9.50-15 |
| Cappuccino (regular) | $4.50 | $4 -6.50 |
| Coke/Pepsi (330ml bottle) | $4.50 | $3-6 |
| Water (330ml bottle) | $3.75 | $3-5 |
Information: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Perth
Public Transport
Public transport in Perth is a practical and accessible way to explore the city and its surroundings. The public transport system is efficiently managed by Transperth, offering a range of options including buses, trains, ferries, and light rail to help you navigate the city with ease.
Perth utilises the SmartRider card, a convenient travel card that simplifies payments for all these modes of transport. SmartRider cards can be easily loaded with credit at various locations, including convenience stores and transport terminals. This comprehensive network extends its services not only within the city but also covers neighbouring regions like the Swan Valley and the coastal areas, making it a reliable choice for locals and tourists alike to explore Perth and its surroundings.
Helpful Hint: SmartRider cards are readily available for purchase at various locations throughout Perth, including participating newsagents, post offices, and transport terminals.
Helpful Tip: Before you set out on your adventures in Perth, it’s a smart move to plan your journey in advance. Utilise the Transperth website’s Trip Planner tool to make your travel arrangements and explore the city with ease.
Trains
Before hopping on a train in Perth, it’s a good idea to plan your journey. Perth’s train system, managed by Transperth, includes different train lines, each with its own route. Not all trains stop at every station, so it’s essential to check the train schedule and route map beforehand to ensure you’re heading in the right direction.
Perth can experience hot temperatures during the summer months, and while train carriages are air-conditioned, it’s still wise to stay hydrated. Consider carrying a bottle of water with you, especially if you’re traveling during the warmer seasons.
For safety, if you’re traveling alone after sunset, try to avoid mostly deserted carriages. While Perth is generally considered a safe city, it’s a good practice to sit in a carriage where other passengers are present. There’s typically a Train Guard carriage marked with a distinctive logo that is a safe choice.
Buses
Perth’s buses are an integral part of public transportation, run by both public and private companies. Unlike some other cities, identifying the difference between these services is not as crucial since payment methods are standardised. Passengers use the SmartRider card to access and pay for bus rides, simplifying the fare process.
When waiting for a bus, especially if there aren’t many people around, signal the driver by raising your hand, or they might drive past. If you want to get off, ensure the driver is aware by pressing the Stop button on the bus.
During busy times, especially in the city centre, Perth’s buses can be delayed. Plan extra time for your trip to make sure you arrive on schedule.
Helpful Tip: If you’re not familiar with Perth, the TripGo app is handy. It uses GPS to show upcoming bus stops and reminds you to press the Stop button at the right time.
Driving around Perth
If you’re moving to Perth from other states, you’ll need to apply for a Western Australia driver’s licence within three months of arriving. In WA, it’s crucial to always carry your driver’s licence while driving, as non-compliance can result in penalties enforced by the authorities.
These are the important things to remember while driving around Perth:
- Speed limits within residential areas are typically set at 50km/h, while on Perth’s motorways, speeds can go up to 110km/h.
- Wearing a seatbelt is mandatory when driving in Perth, with significant fines and potential license demerits for non-compliance.
- Expect heavy traffic congestion around the city during peak hours, which can extend from as early as 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm.
- Be aware of school zones with speed limits of 40km/h during specific hours, usually from 7:30 am to 9:00 am in the morning and from 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm in the afternoon. Strict regulations and penalties apply.
Road rules are established by the state government, and some driving regulations in WA may differ from those in neighbouring states, so it’s essential to be aware of local rules and regulations.
Helpful Hint: Unusual or Unknown Perth-specific Road Rules can be found here
Parking in Perth
Parking in Perth varies depending on the area. In the CBD, on-street parking can be limited and is often subject to strict time limits, requiring payment at nearby parking meters. These meters accept both coin and card payments, although card payments are becoming more common. It’s always a good idea to have change on hand, just in case.
In the central parts of Perth, you’ll find various car parks to choose from, especially around the CBD and popular areas like Northbridge. At Perth Airport, there are multiple parking options, both on and off the airport premises.
When parking outside the CBD, be sure to follow posted signs to avoid parking fines, which can be substantial. Parking must align with the direction of traffic flow, and parking violations can lead to penalties. Stay vigilant and follow the local parking regulations to ensure a hassle-free parking experience in Perth.
Employment
Perth offers diverse opportunities across various industries. When considering moving to Perth, it’s important to note that recruitment practices can vary by industry. Connecting with a local recruitment agency can provide valuable insights into industry-specific hiring practices.
In areas like hospitality, it’s common to find “apply within” signs in storefront windows. In such cases, it’s acceptable to walk in, introduce yourself, and discuss potential opportunities with a manager on-site.
For white-collar industries, job openings are typically advertised through recruiters or online platforms like Seek.com.au. In these cases, it’s essential to apply online, submitting a well-crafted CV and a customised cover letter highlighting your qualifications for the position.
Many employers in Perth are open to considering job seekers with the right working rights, and for those planning their move, securing a position prior to arrival through video interviews is also an option.
Helpful Hint: Kickstart your job search by browsing opportunities on Seek.com.au, where you can filter listings by industry and location. Consider reaching out to a local recruitment agency for personalised guidance.
Family living
Schools
In Perth, you’ll find a diverse array of schools, including public, private, faith-based, and international options, offering many choices to suit individual needs.
Compulsory schooling begins by a child’s 6th birthday. Primary education spans seven years, commencing with kindergarten and continuing through Year 6. High school is another six additional years from Year 7 to Year 12. High school graduates have a variety of options, including universities, technical and vocational colleges (TAFE), and specialised institutions.
Enrolment procedures typically vary by school. While public schools in Perth often prioritise enrolment based on geographic areas, they may still accept students from outside these areas under certain circumstances, such as available capacity. Private schools in Perth are mostly centralised within the city, and enrolment inquiries are best addressed by contacting the school’s Admissions department directly to arrange appointments.
For those seeking local public schools in Perth, visit the Department of Education’s WA School Directory here.
Pets
In Perth, responsible pet ownership is encouraged through mandatory microchipping and registration of dogs and cats. Pet owners are required to have their pets microchipped by the time they reach 3 months of age and registered with their local council by 6 months of age. Registration is an ongoing annual process, and you can register your pet through your local council’s website or by visiting their offices in person. Failure to register or microchip your pet can result in penalties, and different regulations may apply to dangerous dogs or restricted breeds.
When moving to Perth with your pet, it’s important to ensure that you have proof of microchipping and ownership for registration purposes. This documentation may include a certificate of microchipping, a bill of sale, or other evidence of ownership. It’s essential to check with your specific local council in Perth for any requirements or regulations related to pet ownership, as these can vary by council.
Helpful hint: To find out more about registering your pets within Perth, head to https://perth.wa.gov.au/forms-and-payments/residents-and-businesses/Residents/pet-registrations/pets-enquiry.
Why Grace Removals is your Top Choice for Moving to Perth
When it comes to moving to Perth, Grace Removals stands out as your premier choice among interstate removalists in Perth. With over 100 years of experience in the removals industry, Grace Removals has earned its reputation as a reliable and trusted interstate removalist in Perth. Our dedicated team of highly trained professionals specialises in interstate relocations, ensuring a seamless transition to your new home in Perth. We understand the unique challenges of moving across state borders and are well-equipped to handle them.
As one of the most experienced interstate removalists, we have assisted countless individuals and families in successfully settling in this vibrant city. Our exceptional track record, marked by positive testimonials and satisfied customers, is a testament to our commitment to professionalism and superior service.
By choosing Grace Removals when moving to Perth, you’re selecting a removalist with a proven history of reliability and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or a fresh start, Grace Removals is your trusted partner for a smooth and stress-free transition to Perth. Rely on our extensive experience, nationwide network, and comprehensive services to make your move to Perth a success. Choose Grace Removals and embark on your new chapter with confidence.
