The Great Escape Down Under
Imagine leaving behind the familiar streets of Scotland for the sun-kissed beaches and laid-back vibes of Australia.
That’s exactly what Kimberley Lucas did at the beginning of last year, uprooting her family of four in search of a better life in Sydney. But fast-forward to today, and the family is making the shocking decision to pack their bags and head back home.
The Harsh Reality of Living in Australia
Kimberley, a mum of two, took to TikTok to share her struggles with her 8,000 followers. And it’s clear that the move hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows. “My husband works crazy hours here compared to the UK,” she revealed. “He’s in construction and works a minimum of 50 hours per week, sometimes 60+ hours. He’s away before we wake up and usually just makes it home for the kids’ bedtime.”
The Hidden Costs of Childcare
But it’s not just the long working hours that have taken a toll on the family. The cost of childcare in Australia has been a major burden. “Childcare is so expensive,” Kimberley explained. “We are not on a permanent resident visa, so we get no help with costs. Public school is $7,000-per-year for us, and daycare is $23,700-per-year for three days a week.” In contrast, education is free in Scotland, and they receive 30 hours of nursery fees per week.
Missing Out on Family Bonding
The family also expressed concerns about their children missing out on crucial bonding with grandparents. “I miss family so much,” Kimberley said. “Just popping in for a coffee whilst the kids get spoilt at their grandparents’ house or a sleepover at their aunties. Some of my best childhood memories were with my grandparents, and I hate that my kids can’t get to experience that.”
The Struggle to Make Friends
Making friends in a new country can be tough, and Kimberley is no exception. “People are happy to talk to you, but it doesn’t seem to go any further,” she wrote. “A lot of mums seem to be a little older, which means I don’t have a lot in common – I may be a mum, but I love to go out once in a while and let my hair down.”
The Verdict: Australia Isn’t for Everyone
Kimberley’s followers flocked to the comments with messages of support, many agreeing that living in Australia can be challenging. “I’m an Indonesian who lives in Australia, and I agree. It’s hard to find genuine friends,” one commenter wrote. Another added, “Do what you think is good for you. Australia isn’t for everyone, it takes a lot of work over many years to really make Australia home.”
A New Chapter Awaits
As the family prepares to make the long journey back to Scotland, they’re no doubt feeling a mix of emotions. But one thing’s for sure – they’re not alone in their struggles.
And as one commenter so aptly put it, “Life isn’t linear, and when things no longer feel right, we should make changes. No regrets, it’s just another chapter in your story.”