Expert: Frank Denison - 5/10/2010

Question
QUESTION: i am looking to move to Brisbane with my husband, daughter 13 and son 14. A good school is important. I would like a safe place not to far from the beach, and the city. We are on a budget so if there is anywhere that rent, and the cost of living is quite cheap would be brilliant.

ANSWER: Hi Martina,
         Brisbane is growing at a very fast rate, and to be close to the city and beach may be difficult.

The suburbs of Sandgate, Shorncliffe (North side), Wynnum and Lota(South side) are beachfront suburbs and are about 30 minutes to the city. They are not your classic "white sand" beaches.

If you want the pristine beaches of for example Surfers Paradise & Mooloolaba you will be over an hour from the city, and those suburbs are very expensive.

I would suggest looking at the suburbs of Shorncliffe, Sandgate, Deagon, Boondall. They all have good school options, close to a beach and city.

Regards,
Frank

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Frank

Thanks so much for getting back to me. Do you know anything about visas. My Husband and I are over 30, so a working visa is not an option? We are only at the beginning of planning our move, and are unsure of what step to take next.

Many Thanks


Martina

Answer
Hi Martina,
         I do not know much about visas. The best advice I can give you is the link to the Australian Government website. They have all the info you require, and also a list of contacts if you have any questions.

http://www.immi.gov.au/immigration/

If I can help in any other way, feel free to contact me anytime.

Regards,
Frank