When we moved to Australia on a 482 visa, the first admin job on my list was translation. I needed English versions of vaccine records and my driver’s licence. The government’s Free Translating Service made it easy. Here’s how I did it, and what I’d prepare before you start. What I prepared Personal documents for translation (with my name on them) Passport photo page or ImmiCard Visa grant notice and a VEVO visa details check (you can get this from Visa Entitlement Verification Online) If you’re applying for a child (under 18): ...

When it comes to finding the perfect place for our family to live in Melbourne, there’s a lot to think about. My husband and I aren’t overly picky, but as parents, we want a place that’s safe, affordable, and good for the kids. We also hope to live in a neighborhood that reflects our values: simple, close-knit, and welcoming to people from all walks of life. We moved from China with those hopes in mind, and while choosing a suburb wasn’t easy, we eventually found our balance between budget, convenience, good schools, and safety. ...

When you plan to move to Australia with your family, you’ll probably hear a lot about Sydney vs. Melbourne. We did too, before we came from China. We wondered: How does Melbourne really compare? What’s family life like here? After living here for a while, here’s what I’ve learned, and what our family honestly feels about it. Melbourne vs. Sydney: What’s the Difference? Let’s start with the big question: Melbourne or Sydney? ...