Expert: Frank Denison - 9/30/2008

Question
Hi there, my husband and I along with three young boys are relocating to Brisbane in November.  His job is based in Fortitude Valley.  We would really appreciate some advice on great family suburbs to settle.  I have been told to look at Forest Lake but worry about it's closeness to Inala (I have been told to steer well clear of).  We are middle income.  Also I only have my restricted drivers license, what happens in Brisbane, do I just swap it for the equivalent?

Answer
G'day Chrissy,
             Fortitude Valley is 5 mins from the city and on the northern side. Forest Lake is about 25km from Fortitude Valley, but on the South side. I agree with your statement, in regards to it's closeness of Inala.

I would look at these suburbs on the northside - Newmarket, Enoggera, Albion Eagle Junction, Toombul, Nundah Northgate Virginia, Banyo, Boondall, Sandgate Schorncliffe.

I would look at these suburbs on the southside - Mount Gravatt, Greenslopes, Carina, Camp Hill, Manly, Taringa Indooroopilly, Chelmer.

I am not sure what a restricted license is, but guessing it is for driving automatic cars only. These 2 links will help with your license query.
http://www.transport.qld.gov.au/home/Licensing/Driver_licence/
http://www.transport.qld.gov.au/Home/Licensing/Visitors_and_new_residents/

I hope the move goes well and know you will enjoy Brisbane. Just be prepared for the very humid summers.

Regards,
Frank