Most Australians living overseas plan to return home but a relatively small number have a plan for this due to career and cost-of-living challenges.
The Advance Global Australians Report 2025 report, released today, said most of those living overseas had moved seeking better job opportunities.
Around 95 percent of the group wanted to come home but only 15 percent had a “concrete” plan to do so.
The main reason for wanting to return home was family. This was followed by social life and healthcare access.
The report is based on a study conducted by not-for-profit organisation, Advance Global Australians, which represents people regularly working abroad, and research company CoreData.
The study involved interviews with 500 Australians worldwide from September to October 2024.
“The majority find living abroad cheaper overall, with 66 percent citing cheaper transport, 55 percent noting cheaper clothing and personal care, and 55 precent finding eating out more affordable,” the report said.
“Two-thirds (68 percent) of returning Australians find the process of moving back challenging, with 14 percent rating it as extremely challenging. Barriers include rebuilding social connections and finding suitable jobs.”
Most of the respondents believed the quality of life was better abroad and they felt most at home in the UK and safest in Asia-Pacific. Housing costs were a particular impediment to returning home.
The study found that Australians were regarded as friendly, and the country was known overseas for excelling in agriculture, food, wine and sport.
“With more than one million Australians living overseas and many playing significant roles worldwide, this report provides valuable insights and highlights untapped opportunities for our country,” Advance Global Australians CEO Kate McQuestin said.
“Our people across the globe should not be ignored. They are an asset and are critical for ensuring Australia’s competitiveness, innovation, and influence in a globalising world.
“International experiences benefit both individuals and the nation. Going overseas after school or for a career opportunity is not new for Australians and many of us want our children to have the ability to do so.”
