1) Do your homework

Think about what you’re looking for and what you would like around your new home. Whether it’s schools, housing, certain kinds of employment, health care, access to public transport, access to Sydney – there’s bound to be a place that ticks all the boxes for you. Think about your spouse’s employment needs and how they can be met too.

2) Visit before you decide

There’s no substitute for spending time in an area. Get to know some of the locals. Ask them about the area – what’s good and not so good. Talk to real estate agents, school principals, hospital administrators, business owners and local Council staff. Explore the different types of lifestyle available in regional cities, provincial centres or country communities.

3) Talk to a Financial Planner

Discussing a move with a financial planner or an accountant will allow you to make decisions about whether to sell in Sydney and assist you in preparing a Budget, something which is vital to ensuring a successful move.

4) Talk to the Councils

Most Councils have staff members who can provide advice and support on relocating. They are often part of the Economic Development team and a phone call to them will unlock information, support and advice.

5) Prepare your CV

Make sure your CV and the CVs of all other family members who are moving with you are up to date. Even teenagers seeking part time employment should deal with this issue – it all ensures that you are prepared for the move.

6) Find the job

It sometimes can be preferable to find a job and then choose the community. Often people move to a favourite holiday spot only to find the right job or position is not available. If you chose the community first, travel might be required to find the right position.

Rent first if you’re not sure.

If you are in any way unsure about your move, rent before you buy. You can then spend time getting to know an area without committing to a major financial decision. And, if you decide the particular part of the State is not for you, it’s easier to explore another.

8) Be patient

Your move won’t happen in just a day. Give yourself time to build the networks and connections you need to feel at home. Once you’ve moved, make sure you immerse yourself in exploring the area, particularly on weekends and holidays, rather than living ‘between’ Sydney and your new home. You’ll be surprised how much there is to see and do in regional New South Wales and you’ll feel more at home more quickly

9) Tap into the community

Country people are a friendly lot, so becoming part of your new community should happen very quickly. Through school, work, sports clubs and service clubs, there are people ready to reach out and make you welcome. So don’t be backward in coming forward.

10) Make it happen

Big decisions such as moving are often pondered for a time. If you are struggling with housing affordability, long commute times and just the changing nature of Sydney then country and regional New South Wales is a chance for a new life and a new direction. So why not make it happen, and don’t forget we at the Foundation are here to help you. Please contact ceo@frdl.org.au if you want more information.