Making the move from South Africa to Australia as a teacher is an exciting but sometimes daunting prospect. Questions about job security, accreditation, lifestyle changes, and the reality of teaching and settling into a new country can make the decision overwhelming. In this blog, we share the first-hand experiences of a South African teacher who has successfully transitioned to teaching in Melbourne. Her insights and advice offer valuable guidance for those considering the move. Whether you're exploring your options or looking for reassurance about the process, her story will give you an authentic glimpse into what to expect. As a trusted teacher recruitment agency, we are committed to providing real stories and reliable support to help you take the next step with confidence.
Why did you contact SA-Recruitment to assist you in securing you a teaching position in Australia?
I had been doing lots of research on jobs. My husband and I had applied for Permanent Residency but had had no luck thus far and on a teacher’s group on Facebook I saw an advertisement for SA Recruitment looking for teachers in Melbourne. I decided to email them and that is how I came into contact with Irene from SA Recruitment. She connected me to a trusted recruitment partner in Melbourne and that is how I secured my position.
Could you share some travel tips about getting to Melbourne
Ok so getting from Cape Town to Australia I suggest you use a travel agent to help you get the best flights at the cheapest rates, with the best luggage deals. We wanted to break up the flight so our travel agent booked us on Turkish Airlines - he got us two 23 kg bags on Turkish airlines with a laptop bag and hand luggage. We did a tour in Turkey and then had a shower and got on the next flight. It’s a longer flight but we wanted to have a stop in between.
Before we got to Melbourne we booked a hotel at the airport just for the first night. I would highly recommend this. It helps with not having to use transport straight away, especially with all the bags. We stayed at Ibis Styles and is a short walk from the airport with your trolley. They also have a free shuttle service to and from the airport.
Buffet breakfast was only $20 and it was amazing after such a long flight!
Once a teacher gets to Melbourne - and recovered from the flight - what would be important things to get done?
I would say your first three very important things to do is the following:
1. Get a sim. Telstra seems the best all round network and if you don’t have WiFi there are free WiFi stations at all the public pay phones…. And there is a lot. You can get a sim for $2 and load as you need or go with a higher package if you choose.
2. You need a cell phone number to open a bank account. CommBank seems to be the most common. We went into a branch and had an assistant set it up.
3. Drivers - you will need to apply for a South African drivers before you leave. Once you’re here you need to go to VIC roads and get a customer number for an appointment for your drivers. This converts your drivers to an Australian one. There are no extra tests but I think the drivers appointment verifies your licence.
If your school does not offer you assistance in securing you some accommodation before you arrive, I would suggest you do an Airbnb for at least 2 weeks to a month so you have time to go look at houses or flats. Good websites to look at are Domain and RealEstate
What are your initial thoughts/impressions of your new Australian school?
I accepted a teaching position at a Government High School. They are a government based school with large amounts of funding. They have great facilities, and the staff are inviting and friendly… Australians are always willing to help and lend a hand.
What have some of the challenges been for you in settling into a new life in a new country and also adapting to a new school?
One must save and have enough funds to start here for about a month to two months. You will need money to 'live' and then also to furnish an apartment/house unless you are shipping all of your furniture across. Public transport is GREAT but if you want to go somewhere specific a car may be needed.
High School students in State schools are not like in South Africa. Many do not want to be there are forced by parents to go. Many have discipline issues, and a teacher needs to adapt.
How does the cost of living compare to South Africa?
I would times it by about 0.5. For example – milk in SA is about R30. Here it is R45 for a 2 Liter. This is the same for many products.
How do you feel about safety?
Very safe. Public transport can be taken late at night, and I walk late at night with my husband home from dinner and shops. I would say to always still be vigilant, but I do not feel unsafe.
What is the best advice you can give to teachers considering the move to Australia?
PLAN, and look into the areas you would like to teach. Also, do research on the school and their codes before interviews so you can have the best possible chance of securing the job!
Any apps etc. you could recommend to new teachers arriving in Melbourne?
For property – Domain.com and https://www.realestate.com.au
For public transport – PTV https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/
For Health insurance – Bupa https://www.bupa.com.au/
Second hand cars – Autotrader.co.au
Good grocery stores:
ALDI
COLES
WOOLWORTHS
Home needs:
K-mart
Big W
Moving to Melbourne is a life-changing experience, but it needs planning, commitment and the support of expert partners. Contact us to learn more about how you might be able to accomplish this.
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