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A Mum’s Move to Tasmania: Embracing Change Amid Rising Costs
Jess Fowler, a 34-year-old mother who spent her entire life on the Sunshine Coast, has moved her family to a rural area in Tasmania, finding both challenges and unexpected benefits in her new environment. The family made this significant change about a month ago, driven by family commitments, despite concerns from friends back in Queensland about relocating nearly 2,000 kilometres from “paradise.”
“It’s baffling to everyone why we’d leave the Sunshine Coast for Tasmania,” Fowler remarked. However, as she has settled in, she has uncovered various reasons to remain, along with some drawbacks that could deter others from making such a move.
Significant Savings on Rent
Now residing near Huonville, south of Hobart, the Fowler family enjoys a picturesque home surrounded by nature. Their relocation has led to substantial savings on rent. Jess noted that they save around $100 a week compared to their previous home on the Sunshine Coast, where rental prices are soaring. With anticipated rent increases back in Queensland, they expect to save approximately $7,800 annually by living in Tasmania.
“The rental market on the Sunshine Coast is out of control, and Brisbane’s prices are similarly unaffordable,” she expressed.
Despite the savings in rent, Jess has found that living in a rural setting does come with its own costs. The family must often drive to access services, leading to higher petrol expenses. Though Tasmania offers temporary free public transport options, these are not particularly beneficial for her family’s rural lifestyle.
Furthermore, the price of groceries is slightly higher and access to stores can be challenging in her new surroundings. After weighing the living costs between the Sunshine Coast and Huon Valley, Jess concluded that “everywhere is unaffordable at the moment.”
The Dream of Home Ownership
While the transition has introduced new financial pressures, Fowler feels optimistic about home ownership in Tasmania. She sees potential in buying a property in the future: “We realised that investing in a home is probably a better option now,” she added.
The Appeal of Tasmanian Life
Despite the variable costs, Jess is embracing the advantages of her new home. She admires the strong sense of community, the refreshing cooler climate, rich wildlife, and the slower pace of life in Tasmania, all of which contribute to her family’s satisfaction with their decision to move south.
“This place is incredibly beautiful,” Jess said, highlighting the scenic charm of her new surroundings.
In summary, while Jess Fowler’s transition from the Sunshine Coast to Tasmania reflects the complexities of Australia’s diverse cost-of-living landscape, it also embodies a family’s exploration of new opportunities and experiences. The challenges of increasing expenses in both locations serve as a reminder of the broader economic issues faced by many Australians today. Yet, amidst these challenges, the promise of a more peaceful lifestyle and the allure of home ownership keep optimism alive in their new home.
