My wife and I are considering a move to Australia with our two children (4 and 7). I am an engineer and she is a teacher. We are choosing between Brisbane and Melbourne. What are the main differences for family life?
We chose Melbourne and love it for children: lots of parks, libraries, free events and good state schools in many suburbs. Choose your suburb for the school zone, as state schools take children living in their zone. Melbourne is cooler and the weather changes quickly. Teachers are in demand in Victoria, so your wife should find work, but check her registration with the Victorian Institute of Teaching early.
Brisbane is warmer, a bit cheaper and more relaxed, with beaches an hour away. Engineering work is strong because of infrastructure projects. You will probably need a car in the suburbs. If your family likes the outdoors and does not like cold winters, Brisbane is worth a serious look.
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