Settling In Down Under: An Expat's Guide To Making Friends

As a British expat who has relocated to Australia for the good life, I understand the challenges of starting afresh in a new country. One of the key aspects of settling into your new life Downunder is building a supportive social network. In this blog post, I'll share some valuable tips and insights on how to make friends and feel at home in your new Aussie surroundings.

Embrace the Aussie Lifestyle 

Australia is known for its laid-back lifestyle and outdoor culture. Take advantage of this by joining local sports clubs, attending community events, or simply spending time at the beach or in parks. Aussies are generally friendly and approachable, so don't hesitate to strike up conversations with fellow beachgoers or teammates during a game of cricket.

Explore Expat Communities

Seek out expat communities and social groups in your area. There are plenty of Facebook groups dedicated to expats in Australia and they are great for finding people in the same boat, who understand the challenges of adjusting to a new country. Check out our own community fb page, Expats Downunder. Attend meetups, and share your highs and lows with these new friends, because if anyone will understand, it’s your fellow expat!

Get Involved

Consider pursuing your hobbies and interests. Whether it's joining a book club, taking cooking classes, or participating in outdoor activities like hiking or surfing, engaging in activities you enjoy is a great way to meet people who share similar interests. Look for local clubs, classes, or workshops where you can connect with others who share your hobbies.

Volunteer in Your Community

Volunteering is not only a meaningful way to give back to your new community but also an excellent opportunity to meet new people and expand your social circle. Whether it's helping out at a local charity, participating in environmental clean-up efforts, or volunteering at community events, getting involved in volunteer work can lead to meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. The SES are always recruiting volunteers.

Be Open-Minded and Approachable

Moving to a new country can be daunting, but maintaining an open-minded and approachable attitude goes a long way in making friendships. Be willing to step out of your comfort zone, initiate conversations, and participate in social activities. Most people will appreciate your efforts to connect and build friendships.

Settling into life as an expat in Australia may initially seem daunting, but with a willingness to step out of your comfort zone, you can build a fulfilling social life and make lasting friendships.  I’m not going to fluff it up, some friends will come and go to begin with, but if you keep going, the right ones will come along. By embracing the Aussie lifestyle, connecting with expat communities, pursuing your interests, volunteering, and maintaining an open-minded attitude, you'll soon find yourself feeling at home in your new Aussie surroundings. Cheers to new adventures and friendships Down Under!

Maz

Maz emigrated to Australia with her husband, Ben, and children in 2016.
Ben and Maz run The BAM Famalam, which started as a YouTube channel, sharing their Australian Lifestyle, and Emigration experience.

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