Practical things Dentists should prepare for when moving to Australia

Whether you plan to work in busy Melbourne, sunny Brisbane, coastal Perth, vibrant Sydney or regional locations in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria or Western Australia, being organised will make your transition much smoother.

If you are exploring opportunities in Australia for dentists, you can browse our extensive pages of Australian dental jobs and relocation support resources to help guide you through the process.

Sorting out housing and everyday essentials as a Dentist moving to Australia

One of the first things to organise when relocating is accommodation. Many dentists choose to arrange temporary housing while they attend interviews and view long-term options. Renting is the most common starting point, and demand varies between states and cities, so researching areas early is helpful.

Simple day-to-day tasks like grocery shopping may feel overwhelming at first. Many dentists mention that some products and brands differ from the ones they are used to, so it can take time to adjust.

Transport and driver’s licences as a Dentist moving to Australia

Australia is a large country, and outside of central Sydney or Melbourne, having a car is extremely useful. Public transport is well-connected in capital cities, but many regional and suburban dentist roles require commuting.

For dentists moving from the United Kingdom, there are helpful licence conversion benefits. For example, in Queensland, you can convert a UK drivers licence without needing to complete any additional testing. Processes differ in New South Wales, Victoria and other states, so always check requirements before travelling. It is one less task to worry about once you arrive, especially if you plan to work in Queensland, where many dentist jobs are currently available.

Bank accounts, insurance and medicare eligibility as a Dentist moving to Australia

Setting up a bank account in Australia is usually very straightforward. Most banks allow accounts to be opened online before arrival or within the first weeks of landing. You will normally need to provide identification and information about your anticipated salary.

Health insurance is another essential part of planning your move. Depending on your citizenship and visa type, you may also be eligible for Medicare, which is Australia’s public healthcare system. For example, UK citizens benefit from a reciprocal healthcare agreement that makes the process easier. International dentists from other countries should review eligibility early to avoid delays.

Decluttering and preparing to move your belongings as a Dentist moving to Australia

Many relocating dentists mention how surprising it is to realise how many possessions they have accumulated over the years. Moving overseas is a great opportunity to simplify your belongings and avoid unnecessary shipping costs. Deciding what to pack, store, sell or donate takes time, so begin as early as possible.

Looking ahead to your Dental career in Australia

Beyond the logistics, preparing to practise dentistry in Australia is incredibly rewarding. With a strong demand for dentists across the country, excellent salaries and benefits, and exceptional lifestyle options, many dentists describe the move as life-changing.

If you are considering the next step in your career, explore our range of dentist jobs across Australia, from major cities to beautiful regional locations. Our team also hosts webinars on relocating to Australia for dentists, covering dental registration, visas, lifestyle considerations and what day-to-day life is really like for international clinicians.