Expert: Frank Denison - 2/21/2008

Question
Dear Frank,
We are an Indian family (catholic by faith) Working and living in London for the past 4 years. My wife is a nurse working in the National Health Service, I am an MBA from Charles Stuart University (studied in London)and we have 2 bright smart kids- a daughter aged 9 and son aged 4. We are thinking of moving to OZ and want to know how it would be if in Brisbane?

Few concerns i would appreciate if you could clarify.
Does Australia allow flexible working (to balance family life-have 2 kids)?
What is your personal opinion on Australian attitude towards migrant workers?
Will kids have major racial obstacles in school (they never had to in London).
We are a very forward thinking people who wants to well integrate with the native people. Are they friendly?

We would like our children (and of course us) to grow in an environment of mutual respect, decency and fear of god how do you rate Brisbane for that?

How is public transport in Brisbane-we would like to live a bit outside the city limit, though we may have to work in the city.

Lastly do you think its a good place to live and retire (if we so decide) and if not where else do you recommend?

Answer
G'day Shaju,
           Good luck if you decide to move to Australia.

Does Australia allow flexible working (to balance family life-have 2 kids)?  

Most corporations have a work / life balance policy. I think it can also be discussed when you decide on a job.

What is your personal opinion on Australian attitude towards migrant workers?   

I have found the majority of migrant workers to be equal if not better than aussie workers.

Will kids have major racial obstacles in school (they never had to in London).

I have no doubt there would be a small percentage of people who are racist, but on the whole, we are a friendly bunch of people, and your children should not have any worries.


We are a very forward thinking people who wants to well integrate with the native people. Are they friendly?

Yes, aussies are very friendly and laid back.

We would like our children (and of course us) to grow in an environment of mutual respect, decency and fear of god how do you rate Brisbane for that?

Mutual respect, decency not a problem. I dont really know what you mean when you say "Fear of god".

How is public transport in Brisbane-we would like to live a bit outside the city limit, though we may have to work in the city.

Brisbane has a very good public transport system. People travel every day from the outer limits.

Lastly do you think its a good place to live and retire (if we so decide) and if not where else do you recommend?

I love Brisbane, and I think it is a great city. We have very hot humid summers, but only cool winters. It is in a huge growth spurt, and is very vibrant. The only other city I would recommend is Melbourne. Melbourne is twice the size of Brisbane population wise, and has a better transport system. However, the climate is not as friendly.

I hope this helps. Contact me again if required.

Regards,
Frank