Choosing a destination can be one of the most difficult decisions for anyone that wants to live abroad. Also, when it comes to English-speaking countries, many people ask themselves: Australia or Ireland? If you find yourself in this difficult dilemma as you need to plan your future, here are some parameters for you to analyze and be aware of before making your final decision to live abroad.
Weather
The weather when choosing your exchange destination can be a decisive factor. After all, temperatures can often greatly influence our lifestyle.
Australia’s climate is tropical, with colder and warmer regions, with a winter below 10 degrees between June and August, as in Brazil. Also, in some Australian states, such as New South Wales, it is possible to see snow. But for much of the year, the country has a very sunny climate and a mild spring, allowing for many outdoor activities.
Ireland has a mild climate with extreme temperature changes throughout the day. Therefore, in the country, it is possible that a cloudy day is also hot. But in general, Ireland is a cold country where the winter tends to be long and has many cloudy days, during the winter temperatures can reach below -5º. In summer, temperatures are between 15ºC and 20ºC.
Accommodation
Choosing a place to live during the exchange is an arduous task, and in Ireland finding a place can be even more difficult with the housing crisis that has been plaguing the country for a few years. With many people looking for places to live and not too many places for rent available, prices tend to rise and renters become more demanding. A good solution is to look for student housing and start your housing search in advance.
Australia, on the other hand, offers different types of accommodation for different types of exchange students, but you need to be aware of the values, because depending on the state you choose, prices may vary. But the good news is that because there is a wide variety of accommodation types, you can find something that fits your budget.
Work opportunities in Australia and Ireland
In Ireland, exchange students can work 20 hours during the school year and 40 hours during vacations, provided they are enrolled in vocational or English courses lasting a minimum of 25 weeks, according to Citizens Information Ireland.
In Australia, students can start working by enrolling in language or VET courses for 14 weeks, according to the Departments of Home Affairs and Education. Australia is currently allowing students to work 40 hours during term time as well as holidays, but the rules could change in 2023.
Regarding job opportunities, both countries offer many opportunities for new migrants in restaurants, cafes or other types of services such as cleaning or construction. If you decide to go to the land of kangaroos, we at Good Day Education will help you build a career path in Australia.
Cost of living
The average cost of living in Australia ranges from AU$340 to AU$490 per week, with a minimum wage of AUD 19.84 per hour, according to the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship. In Ireland, the cost of living can cost around €720 a month. The minimum wage in the European country started to be worth € 10.50 in January 2022, the information is from the Immigration Advice Services.
Documentation
In Ireland, the student receives a temporary visa and upon entering the country, applies for the Irish Resident Permit with Irish immigration within 40 days of entering the country, according to Citizens Information Ireland. In addition, the student will need to undergo an interview and prove about €3,000 euros to be able to apply for the visa.
In Australia, it is necessary to apply for a student visa with the Australian embassy while still in Brazil. Australia requires a student to provide proof of at least AU$1,753.42 for each month they stay in the country, according to the Departments of Home Affairs and Education. Therefore, it is important that you multiply this amount according to the duration of your exchange.
Education
When it comes to education, Australia and Ireland offer high-quality education. Also, both countries offer different types of opportunities for students who intend to pursue an undergraduate, postgraduate or master’s degree. Australia, for example, offers a work permit in the field of study for up to two years.
Remember to do a lot of research before making your decision. If you’re considering Australia, we at Good Day Education can guide you and help you through every step of your exchange process. Contact us!