Moving to Malaysia from Australia: Complete 2025 Relocation Guide for Expats
- Natural Gifts
- 1 day ago
- 14 min read
Are you considering moving to Malaysia from Australia? This comprehensive guide reveals everything Australian expats need for a successful relocation. Meanwhile, Malaysia offers 60% lower living costs than Sydney, making it increasingly attractive for Australians.
Why 4,000+ Australians Choose Malaysia (Real Numbers)
Before diving deeper, here’s what matters most. Currently, 3,000-4,000 Australians live permanently in Malaysia. Moreover, this number grows 15% annually. Therefore, let's explore why.
Actual Cost Savings: Sydney vs Kuala Lumpur (June 2025)
Expense Category | Sydney (AUD) | Kuala Lumpur (AUD) | Monthly Savings |
3BR Apartment Rent | $6,780 | $1,472 | $5,308 (78%) |
Utilities | $310 | $89 | $221 (71%) |
Groceries (Family) | $1,200 | $520 | $680 (57%) |
Transport | $217 | $16 | $201 (93%) |
Total Monthly | $8,507 | $2,097 | $6,410 |
Subsequently, annual savings exceed $76,920. Indeed, many Australians maintain better lifestyles while saving money, so the financial benefits remain compelling.
What Australians Actually Earn in Malaysia
Salary difference Australia vs Malaysia expat shows realistic figures:
IT Manager: RM 25,000-35,000/month (AU$ 8,100-11,360)
School Teacher: RM 12,500-20,000/month (AU$ 4,060-6,490)
Engineer: RM 20,000-30,000/month (AU$ 6,490-9,740)
Finance Director: RM 35,000-50,000/month (AU$ 11,360-16,230)
Step by Step Moving to Malaysia from Australia
Phase 1: Research and Planning (12+ Months Before)
Initially, research your visa options thoroughly. Furthermore, the Malaysia My Second Home visa requirements for Australia have changed significantly. Subsequently, you need either substantial investment or employment sponsorship.
Meanwhile, explore neighbourhoods through virtual tours. Additionally, connect with existing expat communities for insights. This will help you make informed decisions about location.
Phase 2: Visa Application Process
Visa Malaysia for Australian citizens falls into several categories. Tourist visas allow 90-day stays. However, long-term residence requires proper documentation.
Employment Pass Categories
Subsequently, let’s examine work permits. Malaysia’s work permit for Australians depends on salary levels:
Category I: RM 10,000+ monthly (5-year validity)
Category II: RM 5,000-9,999 monthly (2-year validity)
Category III: RM 3,000-4,999 monthly (1-year validity)
Moreover, higher categories allow family visas. Therefore, negotiate expatriate-level salaries when relocating to Australia from Malaysia.
MM2H Programme Tiers
Furthermore, the reformed MM2H requires:
Silver: USD 150,000 deposit + RM 600,000 property
Gold: USD 500,000 deposit + RM 1 million property
Platinum: USD 1 million deposit + RM 2 million property
Complete Visa Guide: Exact Requirements & Processing Times
Employment Pass: Step-by-Step Application Process
Malaysia’s work permit for Australians requires precise documentation. Here's exactly what happens:
Week 1-2: Company Initiates Process
Employer applies for Expatriate Post approval
Required: Job justification letter
Must prove: No suitable Malaysian candidate
Processing: 5-7 business days
Week 3-4: Document Preparation
Exact documents needed:
Passport copy (all pages)
Latest CV (max 3 pages)
Educational certificates (must be notarised)
Employment contract (stamped)
Company support letter
Passport photos (8 pieces, white background)
Medical report (from approved clinics only)
Week 5-6: Submission & Approval
Online submission via the ESD portal
Payment: RM 300-500 processing fee
Official timeline: 5 working days
Reality: 7-14 days, including queries
Week 7-8: Visa Endorsement
Travel to Malaysia ona Social Visit Pass
Visit the Immigration office within 30 days
Biometric registration required
Pass endorsed in the passport on the same day
Total realistic timeline: 6-8 weeks
MM2H 2025: What Changed & Real Costs
Silver Tier - Complete Breakdown
Financial Requirements:
Fixed Deposit: USD 150,000 (RM 705,000)
Property Purchase: Minimum RM 600,000
Liquid Assets Proof: USD 500,000
Monthly Income: USD 10,000
Application Costs:
Agent Fee: RM 15,000-25,000
Processing Fee: RM 1,000
Medical Check: RM 400-600 per person
Insurance: RM 3,000-5,000 annually
Hidden Costs Nobody Mentions:
Property legal fees: 1-2% of purchase price
Stamp duty: 4% for foreigners
Annual property tax: 0.1-0.25%
Maintenance fees: RM 400-800/month
Tourist to Resident: The Visa Run Reality
Many Australians start with tourist visas. Here’s the truth:
90 days of free entry
Cannot extend in Malaysia
Must exit and re-enter
Popular visa run destinations: Singapore (1-hour flight)
Cost per run: RM 500-800
Maximum runs: No official limit, but scrutinised after 2-3
Best Places to Live in Malaysia for Australians (With Real Prices)
Kuala Lumpur: Actual Condos & Current Rents
Moving from Sydney to Kuala Lumpur or moving from Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur? Here are real properties Australians rent:
Mont Kiara (Family-Friendly)
Popular Condos with Australians:
Seni Mont Kiara: 3BR (1,500sqft) - RM 4,500-5,500/month
Verve Suites: 3BR (1,300sqft) - RM 4,000-5,000/month
Arcoris: 3BR (1,400sqft) - RM 4,800-6,000/month
10 Mont Kiara: 4BR (2,100sqft) - RM 7,000-9,000/month
Why Australians choose Mont Kiara:
Garden International School: 5 minutes
Australian International School: 15 minutes
Publika Shopping Mall: Walking distance
75% residents are expats
Bangsar (Young Professionals)
Top Rentals:
Bangsar Hill Park: 2BR - RM 3,500-4,500/month
The Loft: 3BR - RM 5,000-6,500/month
Serai Suites: 2BR - RM 3,800-4,800/month
One Menerung: 3BR - RM 6,000-8,000/month
Bangsar advantages:
Bangsar Village malls: 5 minutes
APW creative hub: Walking distance
Nightlife options: Abundant
KL Sentral: 10 minutes
KLCC Area (Premium Choice)
Luxury Options:
The Troika: 3BR - RM 10,000-15,000/month
Four Seasons Residences: 3BR - RM 18,000-25,000/month
The Binjai: 4BR - RM 12,000-18,000/month
Marc Residence: 3BR - RM 8,000-10,000/month
Penang: Island Living Options
Relocating to Penang from Australia offers different lifestyle:
Tanjung Tokong (Expat Central)
The Cove: 3BR seaview - RM 3,500-4,500/month
Quayside: 3BR - RM 3,000-4,000/month
Marina Bay: 3BR - RM 2,800-3,800/month
Batu Ferringhi (Beach Living)
Eden Seaview: 3BR - RM 2,500-3,500/month
Miami Green: 3BR - RM 2,200-3,200/month
How to Secure Housing from Australia
Never pay deposits from overseas
Book serviced apartment for first month
View 10-15 properties in person
Negotiate 10-20% below asking
Standard terms: 2+1 month deposit + 1 month advance
Trusted Property Agents for Australians:
IQI Realty (English-speaking team)
Propnex Realty (Expat specialists)
Hartamas Real Estate (Australian agent available)
Malaysia Relocation Checklist for Australians
Documents Required
What to do before moving to Malaysia from Australia includes gathering:
Valid passport (18+ months validity)
Educational certificates (authenticated)
Marriage/birth certificates
Medical records
Employment contract
Pre-Departure Tasks
Furthermore, complete these essential steps:
Notify Australian Tax Office
Arrange mail forwarding
Transfer superannuation considerations
Close unnecessary accounts
Sell vehicles and large items
Moving Checklist Malaysia from Australia Timeline
6-9 Months Before
Secure job offer or initiate MM2H
Research schooling in Malaysia for Australians
Begin decluttering process
Obtain shipping quotes
3-6 Months Before
Submit visa applications
Book international movers
Start pet relocation process
Apply to international schools
1-3 Months Before
Finalize accommodation
Shipping household goods Australia to Malaysia
Purchase flight tickets
Arrange temporary housing
Cost Comparison: Daily Life Expenses
Housing Costs
Renting house in Malaysia moving from Australia offers substantial savings. Indeed, three-bedroom apartments cost:
Kuala Lumpur city: RM 4,500 (AU$ 1,472)
Sydney equivalent: AU$ 6,780
Moreover, utilities average RM 273 monthly. Therefore, total housing expenses remain minimal.
Transportation
Subsequently, consider transport options. Furthermore, public transport costs RM 50 monthly. Meanwhile, petrol prices stay below RM 2.05 per liter.
However, import car to Malaysia from Australia proves expensive. Indeed, duties exceed 150% of vehicle value. Therefore, purchase locally instead.
Groceries and Dining
Additionally, food costs vary significantly. Moreover, local markets offer exceptional value. Consequently, monthly grocery bills average RM 800-1,200.
Meanwhile, dining out remains affordable. Indeed, hawker meals cost under RM 15. Therefore, many expats eat out frequently.
Working in Malaysia with Australian Passport
High-Demand Sectors
Jobs in Malaysia for Australians concentrate in:
Information Technology
Engineering (especially oil/gas)
International education
Finance and accounting
Digital marketing
Furthermore, expatriate packages significantly exceed local salaries. Indeed, salary difference Australia vs Malaysia expat shows:
Mid-level expat: USD 71,000 annually
Local equivalent: USD 16,550
Business Opportunities
Moreover, establishing businesses remains possible. Subsequently, Sdn Bhd companies allow 100% foreign ownership. Therefore, entrepreneurial Australians find opportunities.
International Schools: Complete Fee Structure 2025/2026
Schooling in Malaysia for Australians - Actual Costs
Australian International School Malaysia (AISM)
Following NSW Curriculum - Seri Kembangan, KL
Year Level | Annual Tuition | Application Fee | Admission Fee | Total First Year |
Nursery | RM 45,760 | RM 500 | RM 5,000 | RM 51,260 |
Kindergarten | RM 56,580 | RM 1,300 | RM 10,000 | RM 67,880 |
Year 1-2 | RM 69,120 | RM 1,300 | RM 15,000 | RM 85,420 |
Year 3-6 | RM 75,640 | RM 1,300 | RM 15,000 | RM 91,940 |
Year 7-10 | RM 87,160 | RM 1,300 | RM 20,000 | RM 108,460 |
Year 11-12 | RM 97,599 | RM 1,300 | RM 20,000 | RM 118,899 |
Additional costs:
Uniform: RM 800-1,200
iPad program: RM 2,500
Bus service: RM 650-850/month
Lunch program: RM 20/day
Top KL Schools Comparison (Year 5 Example)
School | Curriculum | Annual Fee | Waiting List | Australian Teachers |
AISM | Australian NSW | RM 75,640 | 3-6 months | 70% |
ISKL | American/IB | RM 121,370 | 12+ months | 15% |
Alice Smith | British | RM 93,480 | 6-9 months | 10% |
Garden Int'l | British | RM 97,410 | 3-6 months | 20% |
Mont Kiara Int'l | American | RM 83,000 | Available | 25% |
School Application Strategy
Timeline for September 2025 intake:
Now-August 2024: Research and shortlist 3-5 schools
September 2024: Submit applications (RM 500-1,300 each)
October 2024: Entrance assessments (online possible)
November 2024: Receive offers
December 2024: Pay deposits to secure place
January 2025: Begin visa process
July 2025: Arrive in Malaysia
August 2025: Orientation week
Documents needed:
Last 2 years school reports
Birth certificate (certified)
Passport copies (all family)
Immunization records
Reference letter from current school
Special needs assessments (if applicable)
Healthcare: What Australians Actually Pay
Private Hospital Costs (No Insurance)
Common procedures at Gleneagles/Prince Court:
GP consultation: RM 80-150
Specialist consultation: RM 200-400
Blood test panel: RM 300-500
X-ray: RM 150-250
MRI scan: RM 1,800-2,500
Colonoscopy: RM 2,500-3,500
Normal delivery: RM 8,000-12,000
C-section: RM 15,000-20,000
Knee replacement: RM 45,000-60,000
Health Insurance Options
International Coverage (Recommended):
Cigna Global: USD 3,000-5,000/year family
Allianz Worldwide: USD 2,500-4,500/year family
Aetna International: USD 3,500-6,000/year family
Local Coverage:
AIA: RM 5,000-8,000/year family
Great Eastern: RM 4,500-7,500/year family
Prudential: RM 5,500-8,500/year family
Note: Local plans exclude pre-existing conditions for 5 years
Expat Life Malaysia for Australians
Subsequently, integration proves relatively easy. Moreover, English remains widely spoken. Consequently, daily communication poses few challenges.
Furthermore, the expat community actively welcomes newcomers. Indeed, social clubs and networking groups abound. Therefore, building friendships happens naturally.
Pet Relocation Guidelines
Bring pet to Malaysia from Australia requires careful planning. Furthermore, mandatory requirements include:
ISO-compliant microchip
Current vaccinations
Import permit from DVS
Health certificate
Possible 7-10 day quarantine
Moreover, engage professional pet relocators. Therefore, ensure smooth transitions for furry family members.
Property Purchase Malaysia as Australian Expat
Legal Framework
Australians can own freehold property. However, state consent remains mandatory. Furthermore, minimum thresholds apply:
General requirement: RM 1 million
MM2H participants: Lower thresholds
Purchase Process
Subsequently, follow these steps:
Engage licensed real estate agent
Sign Sale & Purchase Agreement
Apply for state consent
Pay stamp duty (4% for foreigners)
Complete transfer
Moreover, consider location carefully. Indeed, some areas restrict foreign ownership. Therefore, verify eligibility beforehand.
Applying Malaysia Visa from Australia: Practical Tips
Documentation Best Practices
Initially, prepare documents meticulously. Furthermore, authenticate all certificates. Moreover, translations might be necessary.
Additionally, create multiple copies. Indeed, immigration often requires originals. Therefore, maintain comprehensive files.
Common Pitfalls
Subsequently, avoid these mistakes:
Incomplete applications
Expired documents
Insufficient financial proof
Missing medical checks
Incorrect visa category selection
Exact Costs: Moving from Australia to Malaysia (2025 Prices)
Shipping Your Belongings: Real Quotes & Timelines
Shipping household goods Australia to Malaysia costs depend on volume:
20-foot Container (1-2 bedroom home)
Sydney to Port Klang: AUD 4,200-5,500
Melbourne to Port Klang: AUD 3,800-5,200
Brisbane to Port Klang: AUD 4,500-5,800
Transit time: 12-14 days
Door-to-door: Add 7-10 days
40-foot Container (3-4 bedroom home)
Sydney to Port Klang: AUD 7,500-9,200
Melbourne to Port Klang: AUD 7,200-8,800
Perth to Port Klang: AUD 6,500-8,000
Transit time: 10-12 days from Perth, 14-16 from East Coast
Actual Moving Company Quotes (June 2025)
Crown Relocations: AUD 8,500 (40ft, Sydney-KL)
Allied Pickfords: AUD 7,800 (40ft, Melbourne-KL)
Santa Fe Relocation: AUD 9,200 (40ft, Brisbane-KL)
Hidden charges to budget:
Origin charges: AUD 800-1,200
Destination charges: RM 2,500-3,500
Customs clearance: RM 800-1,200
Fumigation (if needed): RM 600-800
Pet Relocation: Exact Process & Costs
Bring pet to Malaysia from Australia - here's what really happens:
Timeline (Start 3 months before)
Month 3: Microchip installation (if needed) - AUD 80
Month 2.5: Rabies vaccination - AUD 120
Month 2: Apply for import permit - RM 100
Month 1: Health certificate - AUD 250
Week 2: Government endorsement - AUD 80
Week 1: Book quarantine space - RM 700
Total Costs for One Dog/Cat
Professional pet mover: AUD 3,500-4,500
DIY approach: AUD 1,800-2,500
Quarantine (7-10 days): RM 700-1,000
Airport handling: RM 300-500
Airlines That Accept Pets
Malaysia Airlines: Cargo only
Singapore Airlines: Cabin (small) or cargo
Qatar Airways: Excellent pet program
Emirates: Temperature restrictions apply
Banking Setup: First Week Essentials
Opening accounts as Australian in Malaysia:
Best Banks for Expats (2025)
HSBC Premier
Minimum balance: RM 200,000
Multi-currency accounts
Global transfers included
Australian support available
Standard Chartered Priority
Minimum balance: RM 250,000
Free international transfers
Dedicated relationship manager
Maybank Premier
Minimum balance: RM 100,000
Largest ATM network
Best for local transactions
Documents Required
Passport with valid visa
Employment letter
Proof of address (hotel okay initially)
Reference letter from Australian bank
Initial deposit: RM 1,000-10,000
Finding Jobs: Where Australians Actually Get Hired
Jobs in Malaysia for Australians - Real Opportunities
Top Hiring Companies (2025)
Technology Sector:
Intel Malaysia: 200+ expat positions
Western Digital: Hardware engineers
Dyson: R&D center in Johor
Grab: Regional tech hub
Standard Chartered: Digital banking
Oil & Gas:
Petronas: Technical specialists
Shell: Upstream operations
ExxonMobil: Project managers
Schlumberger: Field engineers
Education:
55+ international schools actively recruiting
Taylor's University: Academic positions
Monash Malaysia: Research fellows
ELS Language Centers: English teachers
Salary Negotiation: What Works
"Expat Package" Components to Demand:
Base Salary: 30-50% above local rate
Housing Allowance: RM 3,000-6,000/month
Car Allowance: RM 2,000-3,000/month
Education Support: RM 50,000-80,000/child/year
Annual Flights: 2-4 return trips to Australia
Medical Coverage: International plan
Relocation Costs: Full container + flights
Tax Equalization: Company pays difference
Real Example - IT Manager Package:
Base: RM 25,000/month
Housing: RM 5,000/month
Car: RM 2,500/month
School: RM 70,000/year per child
Medical: International coverage
Total Value: RM 450,000+ annually
Job Search Platforms That Work
Where Australians find jobs:
LinkedIn: 65% of expat hires
JobStreet: Local positions
Michael Page: Executive roles
Robert Walters: Professional services
Hays: Technical positions
Australian Networks in Malaysia:
Australia-Malaysia Business Council
Australian Alumni associations
ANZ Banking network
Big 4 accounting firms
Common Mistakes Australians Make (And How to Avoid)
Visa Mistakes
❌ Mistake: Working on tourist visa while job hunting
✅ Solution: Apply from Australia or get proper pass
❌ Mistake: Letting employer hold passport
✅ Solution: Illegal - report to embassy immediately
❌ Mistake: Not checking visa category restrictions
✅ Solution: EP Category III can't bring family
Financial Mistakes
❌ Mistake: Keeping all money in Australian accounts
✅ Solution: Local account needed for everything
❌ Mistake: Not declaring Malaysian tax residency
✅ Solution: File with both ATO and LHDN
❌ Mistake: Paying 12 months rent upfront
✅ Solution: Standard is 2+1 months only
Housing Mistakes
❌ Mistake: Renting sight unseen
✅ Solution: Serviced apartment first, then search
❌ Mistake: Not checking actual internet speeds
✅ Solution: Test during viewing - varies wildly
❌ Mistake: Ignoring maintenance fees
✅ Solution: Add RM 400-800 to budget
Emergency Contacts & Essential Services
Critical Numbers for Australians
Emergency Services:
Police: 999 or 112
Ambulance/Fire: 999
Tourist Police: +603-2149 6590
Australian High Commission Kuala Lumpur:
Main: +603-2146 5555
Emergency (after hours): +61 2 6261 3305
Address: 6 Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, 50450 KL
24/7 Hospitals (English-speaking):
Gleneagles KL: +603-4141 3000
Prince Court: +603-2160 0000
Pantai KL: +603-2296 0888
Sunway Medical: +603-7491 9191
Trusted Service Providers:
Plumber: Mr. Pang +6012-333-4455 (English)
Electrician: John's Electric +6016-222-3344
AC Repair: CoolTech +603-7890-1234
Locksmith: 24hr Keys +6012-555-6677
First Month Setup Checklist
Week 1:
[ ] Register with Australian High Commission
[ ] Get local SIM (Maxis/Celcom/Digi)
[ ] Open bank account
[ ] Find temporary accommodation
[ ] Register with local GP
Week 2:
[ ] Apply for utilities (TNB electric, Air Selangor)
[ ] Internet installation (TIME/Unifi)
[ ] Buy car or arrange transport
[ ] Join expat Facebook groups
[ ] School visits and registration
Week 3:
[ ] Secure permanent housing
[ ] Transfer funds for deposits
[ ] Register with IRB (tax)
[ ] Get Malaysian driving license
[ ] Set up Grab/FoodPanda accounts
Week 4:
[ ] Complete visa endorsement
[ ] Furnish home (IKEA/Harvey Norman)
[ ] Explore neighborhoods
[ ] Find preferred grocery stores
[ ] Connect with Australian community
Tax Guide: What You'll Actually Pay
Malaysian Income Tax (2025 Rates)
As tax resident (182+ days):
Income (RM) | Tax Rate | Tax on Income |
0-5,000 | 0% | RM 0 |
5,001-20,000 | 1% | RM 150 |
20,001-35,000 | 3% | RM 450 |
35,001-50,000 | 6% | RM 900 |
50,001-70,000 | 11% | RM 2,200 |
70,001-100,000 | 19% | RM 5,700 |
100,001-400,000 | 25% | RM 75,000 |
400,001-2,000,000 | 28% | RM 448,000 |
Above 2,000,000 | 30% | Progressive |
Real Example - RM 25,000/month salary:
Annual income: RM 300,000
Tax payable: ~RM 56,500
Effective rate: 18.8%
Monthly take-home: ~RM 20,290
Australia-Malaysia Tax Treaty Benefits
Key advantages:
Avoid double taxation on same income
Foreign income not taxed if remitted after becoming resident
Pension income may be tax-free
Capital gains on Australian property only taxed in Australia
Tax residency tie-breaker test:
Where is your permanent home?
Where are personal/economic ties closer?
Where do you habitually live?
What's your nationality?
Property Purchase: Hidden Costs Revealed
Buying RM 1 million property as foreigner:
Purchase price: RM 1,000,000
Stamp duty (4%): RM 40,000
Legal fees (1%): RM 10,000
State consent fee: RM 20,000
Loan legal fees: RM 8,000
Valuation: RM 1,500
Total costs: RM 1,079,500
Ongoing costs:
Maintenance: RM 600/month
Sinking fund: RM 200/month
Quit rent: RM 2,000/year
Assessment: RM 3,000/year
Insurance: RM 1,500/year
The Reality Check: Is Malaysia Right for You?
You'll Thrive in Malaysia If:
✓ You earn RM 15,000+ monthly (expat package) ✓ You want significant cost savings ✓ You enjoy multicultural environments ✓ You prefer warm weather year-round ✓ You value work-life balance ✓ You want domestic help ✓ You seek adventure in Southeast Asia
Think Twice If:
✗ You can't secure expatriate-level income ✗ You need four seasons ✗ You require cutting-edge public services ✗ You can't handle bureaucracy ✗ You need extensive public transport ✗ You want to work independently (need sponsor)
Your 90-Day Action Plan
Days 1-30: Research & Decide
Calculate realistic budget with our guide
Research visa options thoroughly
Connect with Australians in Malaysia via Facebook
Visit during different seasons
Check job market in your field
Days 31-60: Prepare Documentation
Start job applications or MM2H process
Gather required documents
Get quotes from moving companies
Research schools and housing
Plan exploratory trip
Days 61-90: Execute Plan
Secure job offer or visa approval
Book shipping and flights
Notify Australian authorities
Arrange temporary accommodation
Frequently Asked Questions (Quick Answers)
How much money do I need to move to Malaysia from Australia?
Minimum recommended funds:
Initial setup: RM 50,000 (AU$ 16,230)
Monthly living: RM 15,000 (AU$ 4,870) for family
Emergency fund: 6 months expenses
Visa deposits: Varies by type
Can I work in Malaysia with Australian passport?
No, you need proper work visa. Furthermore, Employment Pass requires Malaysian company sponsorship. Moreover, MM2H Platinum allows business activities. Therefore, secure job offer before moving.
How long can Australians stay in Malaysia?
Without visa: 90 days visa-free entry With Employment Pass: Up to 5 years With MM2H: 5-20 years depending on tier Student visa: Duration of studies
Is Malaysia cheaper than Australia?
Yes, approximately 60% cheaper overall. Furthermore, housing costs 75% less. Moreover, food costs 50-70% less. However, cars and alcohol cost more.
What's the best area for Australian families in KL?
Mont Kiara ranks highest for families. Subsequently, excellent schools nearby. Moreover, 75% expat population. Additionally, family-friendly facilities abundant.
Do I pay tax in both countries?
No, tax treaty prevents double taxation. Furthermore, Malaysian residents pay tax in Malaysia. However, Australian property gains taxed in Australia only.
Can Australians buy property in Malaysia?
Yes, with state approval. Furthermore, minimum RM 1 million generally. However, MM2H participants access lower thresholds. Additionally, freehold ownership possible.
What salary do I need as expat?
Comfortable living requires:
Single: RM 8,000+ monthly
Couple: RM 12,000+ monthly
Family with kids: RM 20,000+ monthly
Luxury lifestyle: RM 30,000+ monthly
Is healthcare good in Malaysia?
Private healthcare excellent, internationally accredited. Furthermore, costs 70% less than Australia. Moreover, English-speaking doctors standard. Therefore, insurance essential.
Can my kids continue their Australian education?
Yes, AISM offers a complete NSW curriculum, which leads to an HSC qualification. Moreover, Monash University Malaysia provides continuity. Therefore, a seamless education pathway exists.
How safe is Malaysia for Australians?
It is very safe, ranked 19th globally. Furthermore, violent crime is rare. The large expat community provides support. However, petty theft exists in tourist areas.
When’s the best time to move?
School year consideration:
Malaysian schools: January or September intake
AISM: January start (Australian calendar)
Best moving months: November-December or May-June
What about my pets?
Pets are welcome with the proper process. Furthermore, a 7-10 day quarantine is required. The process costs AUD 3,500-4,500 in total. Therefore, start the process 3 months early.
Do I need to speak Malay?
No, English is widely spoken. Furthermore, business is conducted in English, and government services are available in English. However, basic Malay helps integration.
Can I drive with an Australian license?
Yes, initially for 90 days. Subsequently, convert to a Malaysian license. Moreover, the process is straightforward at JPJ. Therefore, bring a certified license copy.
Ready to Make Your Move?
How to relocate to Malaysia from Australia successfully starts with proper assessment. Moreover, understanding your readiness saves time and money. Therefore, take action today.
Get Your Personalised Relocation Report:
✅ Visa pathway recommendations
✅ Salary requirements for your lifestyle
✅ Best neighbourhoods for your needs,s
✅ School matches for your children
✅ Realistic timeline and budget.t
Take our comprehensive Malaysia Relocation Assessment now. Furthermore, receive expert guidance tailored to your situation. Indeed, join thousands of Australians who've successfully made the move.
Still have questions?
Contact our Australian relocation specialists who’ve helped 500+ families move successfully. Therefore, start your Malaysian adventure with confidence today.
Last updated: June 2025. Furthermore, visa requirements and costs change frequently. Therefore, verify current information before making decisions. Additionally, this guide provides general information only. Indeed, seek professional advice for your specific situation.
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