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New Life in Australia

New Life in Australia

By: Karen Bleakley
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About this listen

The New Life in Australia podcast is here to inspire you to follow your dreams of relocating across the world.

Host Karen Bleakley (Founder of SmartStepstoAustralia.com) moved to Australia with her family and, although it was life-changing, it wasn’t without its challenges.

This podcast is about making the relocation and resettlement process easier for you, so you can enjoy this exciting adventure.

Listen in as special guests share professional secrets and tips, learn from people who’ve made the move, and discover businesses that can help you realise your dreams. It’s all about ending the isolation, showing you what’s possible and sharing realistic expectations about starting a new life Down Under.

Tune in for inspiration, tips and actionable advice to kickstart your journey so you can create the life you've always wanted.

© 2025 New Life in Australia
Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • #45 Finding a rental in Australia: An insider's guide from Rental Search Australia
    Nov 19 2025

    With thanks to Rental Search Australia for sponsoring this episode.

    More people in this industry is great but you really need to do your research. Do some background checks by looking at reviews and social media.”

    Welcome to the New Life in Australia podcast

    In this episode, Karen chats with Jade from Rental Search Australia about everything you need to know to secure a rental in Australia. If you’re moving to Australia or planning to relocate within the country, this episode is packed with practical tips and insider advice, including:

    • The current rental market in Australia – how challenging is it really?
    • How to create a compelling rental application that stands out.
    • What life is like in Melbourne – insights into the city and lifestyle.
    • Whether you need professional help to find a rental, or if you can do it yourself.
    • Common mistakes renters make – and how to avoid them.
    • Plus, Jade shares extra tips and hacks to make the rental search process smoother and less stressful.

    Additional resources

    • Find Rental Search Australia in the Move to Australia Directory
    • Fill out Rental Search Australia's questionnaire to get started
    • Download Karen's free Relocation Dream Team download to help you do your due diligence when choosing relocation and migration services

    Found the episode helpful?

    Buy me a coffee to say thank you here!

    If you enjoyed listening, don’t forget to subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. All positive reviews would be really appreciated!

    Find all of the migration and relocation services you need in one handy place in the Move to Australia Directory.

    Find the transcript and show notes at SmartStepstoAustralia.com/episode-45

    Support the show

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    46 mins
  • #44 How to survive (and thrive) an Australian summer
    Nov 13 2025

    My husband thinks I'm bonkers but it really does cool me down!

    Welcome to the New Life in Australia podcast

    In this episode, Karen talks about how to survive and thrive in summer in Australia, including:

    • Tips and hacks to stay cool during hot weather
    • How important is air conditioning?
    • Things you don't do in summer in Australia that you used to do in the UK during summer
    • and more.

    Additional resources

    • Visit the Move to Australia Directory to find migration agents and other services to help with your move
    • Join the Move to Australia Facebook community
    • Related episode: Six tips for living with Australia's extreme weather, Enjoy Christmas in Australia

    If you enjoyed listening, don’t forget to subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. All positive reviews would be really appreciated!

    Find all of the migration and relocation services you need in one handy place in the Move to Australia Directory.

    Find the show notes and transcript at https://smartstepstoaustralia.com/episode-44

    Find all of the migration and relocation services you need in one handy place in the Move to Australia Directory.

    Support the show

    Show More Show Less
    19 mins
  • #43 Spiders, snakes and sharks: Does everything in Australia really want to kill you?
    Nov 5 2025

    The wildlife here is more incredible than dangerous - you just need to be aware of it.”

    Welcome to the New Life in Australia podcast

    In this episode, Karen talks about her experience with Australia's scary and dangerous wildlife. Including:

    • Will your house really be full of spiders?
    • Heads up: Cockroaches can fly!
    • Sharks and stingers - you're venturing into their home!
    • Awareness and knowledge is power.
    • The not-so-nice wildlife in Australia (and it's not what you think!)
    • and more

    Additional resources

    • Visit the Move to Australia Directory to find migration agents and other services to help with your move.
    • Join the Move to Australia Facebook community
    • Related episode: Bucket list experiences: The unforgettable experience of whale watching
    • Related blog posts: Should I be scared of dangerous spiders?, Find a natural mosquito repellent, Snakes, Spiders and bugs in Australia + first aid tips

    Found the episode helpful?

    Buy me a coffee to say thank you here!

    If you enjoyed listening, don’t forget to subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. All positive reviews would be really appreciated!

    Find all of the migration and relocation services you need in one handy place in the Move to Australia Directory.

    Find the AI-generated show notes at https://smartstepstoaustralia.com/episode-43.

    Find all of the migration and relocation services you need in one handy place in the Move to Australia Directory.

    Support the show

    Show More Show Less
    22 mins
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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.