Re: Australia
Originally Posted by Asilynne
Politics: Both the Liberal and Labor parties (Liberals = moderate right.. or were, they're moving further right by the second and Labor is basically a centrist party -- these are the big two of Australian politics) are full of morons who seem to bend too easily at the knees (especially where the mining sector is concerned), the only noteworthy third party is the Greens (who would be considered far left in America, but over here they're not that far left). Voting is compulsory.
Laws: Common sense stuff, don't do things that will harm others and don't make a dick if yourself to/around the police.
Jobs: Plenty of jobs, but it depends on your qualifications - I saw you mention nursing which I believe you would have to pay for (nursing is a university course over here).
Life: It's good if you don't mind the scorching summers.
As I have never bought a car I'm not qualified to answer the question about them.
Housing: Rent is pretty pricey in the major cities, rural and regional areas however are pretty good though actually getting a place can be a pain in the arse though. Typically you apply to rent properties through a real estate agent and the rent is deducted from your bank account at whatever the agreed rate is - usually you're expected to sign a lease for a certain period of time, however it's common that if you want to stay on after a year or two you'll just keep paying the same rate and not have to sign on for a specific period of time (though you do still have to give notice for when you're leaving). Breaking a lease early will cost you money.
Utilities: Gas and Electricity are ordered from a private company, Water is usually through the regional water authority and use is restricted one way or another in most areas so I'd recommend checking with the appropriate city council (they have websites) what restrictions apply.
Health Insurance: Private Health Insurance exists here and is a viable option however getting them to pay up can be a pain in the arse, I've known people who just put money away in a spare bank account at the same rate they'd pay for insurance and just use that instead. There is a level of public cover provided by the government but you often have to pay some (or all in certain cases) of the costs of your treatment depending on your condition.
Phone and International Calls: Most telephone services in Australia are provided by Telstra or Optus though many Internet providers also on-sell their products -- some people buy through them depending on if the plan suits their needs, I personally have the most basic Telstra home phone plan as I only really need a phone line for the internet.
Internet: Most internet with decent speeds is ADSL - you can get "Naked" ADSL (meaning no phone line), but generally it's more expensive -- the government is working on a fibre optic network but it's going to be a ways off yet. Beyond that the internet here is reasonable (though probably slower than what is normal in America), there is very little Cable internet.
I suggest comparing internet prices on http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/ (though they are not 100% accurate).
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