Moving back to Ireland with 2 under 3 after 6 years in Australia

An bothar abhaile · 19-01-2014 7:19am #1

Hi all,

My husband and I are pretty much set on our decision of moving back to Galway sometime toward the end of this year with our two children (both under 3).

We have lived in Perth for over 5 years at this stage and have come to the point where we feel guilty having our children miss out on their grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles and vice versa - and of course our country, the friendly people, history and culture which is pretty much non existent here.

Australia has been great since day one and we have never said the words "I hate this place" or anything of a sort. At the end of the day, we have done our travelling, had our nights out, met lovely people along the way but now that we have our children we are more than ready to move home. We could never call Perth home - it is, for us, very difficult to get a sense of community - not knowing neighbours, postman, seeing familiar faces when out for a walk or at the shops. It's the small things that we miss greatly. Sure, the lifestyle and weather are great here but you work hard to get money in each week and the cost of living is through the roof. For us to be able to keep a mortgage paid and the bills paid, I would have to work full time and my husband would have to work FIFO (which he is currently doing on 28 days away and 5 days home with me and the kids). That is no life for a family but it is the reality of Perth.

So after my long life story above, has anyone been in a similar situation and done the move? Anyone know anyone who has done it or thinking of doing it? We would like to hear if anyone had a complete change of mind once they moved back home because once we move thats it, there will be no coming back for us!
Thanks everyone

catbear · 19-01-2014 7:51am

You're not alone in your feelings about Perth, a city designed for cars, not people!

I met an irish guy who fifos from Ireland to PNG, month on, month off and he sees more of his wife and kids than fifos within WA.

Zambia · 19-01-2014 8:11am

A few concerns.

Have you jobs to go back to?

Have you taken out citizenship? ( makes a return possible in years to come)

Have you considered other parts of Australia?

Are you really looking forward to living back in Ireland?

Basically both countries have really awesome aspects to them.

An bothar abhaile · 19-01-2014 12:50pm

Yes, we are Australian Citizens. My husband would more than likely keep the FIFO job until he would find something at home or offshore which would be a shorter swing that what he is currently doing. We can't wait to move home! We are so excited thinking of living back there again, what we're familiar with and being back where we belong but we would like to see if anyone else felt the same and had a change of heart once there.

GalwayGirl3204 · 19-01-2014 12:54pm

Hi there....

I'm sooo interested in what replys you get. We are in the same frame of mind here in Melbourne...I've 2 small kids aswell and after 7 years here I'm feeling the draw of home....it's the cost of living here that's ridiculous!!!! I absolutely love Melbourne (actually lived in Perth for a few months 10 years ago and loved it too!) but it's just so expensive now! Thinking a move to Ireland would be easier now when the kids are younger rather than later when they are real little aussies!! I've read so many stories online where people have returned and some did regret it...but others didn't . I don't think we can compare countries as they are so different in every way....weather/lifestyle/education/economy - but what was common in a few of the stories was that they were mostly families with young kids who just felt the need to be nearer to what they know and who they know best....family and friends....it's a different way of life in Ireland but who's to say it's worse or better..it's what we make of it I think...sure the weather is going to be ****ty...but I hate hate hate the summer in Melbourne haha!
If you're willing to do any work surely there are some jobs at home in Galway????
The job front is my only concern ..if we get back soon (before the property prices rise in Ireland) we're hoping to buy in Co Galway and have little or no mortgage so we can afford to do any crap job to pay the bills etc until something better comes along.
If anyone can shed some light on how much it costs to live (Bills, food, water, heating) for a small family in Galway these days that would be helpful also!!!
(Sorry an bothar abhaile I've just jumped in on your thread and I'm taking over....apologies) hope some good replys from Galwegians are forthcoming !!!!
Cheers

)

catbear · 19-01-2014 2:53pm

GalwayGirl3204 wrote: »

The job front is my only concern ..if we get back soon (before the property prices rise in Ireland) we're hoping to buy in Co Galway and have little or no mortgage so we can afford to do any crap job to pay the bills etc until something better comes along.

Don't know about CPI (consumer price index) comparisons between Aus and Ireland, I've done my comparison for my own circumstances and the recent drops in the exchange rate is tipping the scales in Europe's favour.
I wouldn't be too worried about house prices in Galway, current trajectory seems to defy whatever the property industry spews out to the media. In the end the Property Price Register is the best guide to what's really happening in irish property.
Employment is the priority.

GalwayGirl3204 · 19-01-2014 11:07pm

Thank you so much catbear....much appreciated!

)

Zambia · 20-01-2014 12:12am

The cost of living will be cheaper in Galway no question.

OP you need to go back it's pretty evident you are dying to return. Disregard reasons to stay it's your life to do with as you want.

As a family with 2 infants the lack of family support is very evident.

As long as work can be found for both cases by all means go home both of you.

In my case there is nothing for me in Ireland and after a few weeks I would be coming home to Australia.

An bothar abhaile · 20-01-2014 3:06am

Thank you for all of your replies. I am 100% convinced now that this is right decision for us. Zambia, you put a smile on my face! I agree with what you said - family support is a big thing and we are a close knit family on both sides. I have come to realise lately that life is far too short and we have to go with what makes us happy whenever possible!
I will keep you all posted before we make the move and after for those in our current position.
Have a great new year all

x

L unknown · 21-01-2014 3:59am

Hi Guys,

Following this post is certainly very interesting. I am currently debating on should or shouldn't I go back to Ireland. I have lived in Sydney for 2 years, I have a great job, but it is beyond stressful and I don't get to enjoy the finer things in life that many rave about. I have been offered a great job back at home, and I have little time to make my mind up. Initially I thought I would stay in Oz for another couple of years by that stage I will be over 30. I don't know is any time a good time to make the break!

OP, you are doing the right thing, I have always said I would like to raise my kids in Ireland , and nothing would hold me back from wanting my kids around their grandparents and family.... People always say about Australia having so much more to offer, but I don't always feel that is the case.. Can the beaches, and the weather really substitute family???

rebel333 · 21-01-2014 4:06am

Well I'm doing the exact same thing for the same reason in a few weeks time. I'm nervous but excited at the same time. I suppose if we are not happy we can always come back. The hardest thing was making the decision, now lets see how it goes!

Diddler82 · 21-01-2014 4:17am

L unknown wrote: »

Hi Guys,

Following this post is certainly very interesting. I am currently debating on should or shouldn't I go back to Ireland. I have lived in Sydney for 2 years, I have a great job, but it is beyond stressful and I don't get to enjoy the finer things in life that many rave about. I have been offered a great job back at home, and I have little time to make my mind up. Initially I thought I would stay in Oz for another couple of years by that stage I will be over 30. I don't know is any time a good time to make the break!

OP, you are doing the right thing, I have always said I would like to raise my kids in Ireland , and nothing would hold me back from wanting my kids around their grandparents and family.... People always say about Australia having so much more to offer, but I don't always feel that is the case.. Can the beaches, and the weather really substitute family???

I think you may have answered your own question!

Sometimes the lifestyle, weather and beaches cannot substitute family. An offer of a good job at home is always going to be tempting. However, I would consider changing jobs and trying to appreciate some of the things the drew you here in the first place before deciding to go home.

L unknown · 21-01-2014 4:47am

Thanks for the response..... I have limited amount of time to make up my mind on this one. I am sponsored therefore changing jobs is not really on the cards for me, but I am worried if I don't think it, I will regret it down the line...

tomaussie · 21-01-2014 6:55am

Whilst it may be great for kids to know their extended famy I think lifestyle and opportunities are also relevant.

I have a very good friend who has lived here with his wife. They went home to Ireland in about 2004 and had a child in 2010. They are now trying desperately to get back into Australia.

They don't see a future in Ireland for their kid. They feel that Ireland has changed beyond recognition from their own childhoods and don't want their son growing up there.

They are not the only couple I know with kids in Ireland who want to come here.

Galwayguy35 · 21-01-2014 7:11am

GalwayGirl3204 wrote: »

Hi there....

I'm sooo interested in what replys you get. We are in the same frame of mind here in Melbourne...I've 2 small kids aswell and after 7 years here I'm feeling the draw of home....it's the cost of living here that's ridiculous!!!! I absolutely love Melbourne (actually lived in Perth for a few months 10 years ago and loved it too!) but it's just so expensive now! Thinking a move to Ireland would be easier now when the kids are younger rather than later when they are real little aussies!! I've read so many stories online where people have returned and some did regret it...but others didn't . I don't think we can compare countries as they are so different in every way....weather/lifestyle/education/economy - but what was common in a few of the stories was that they were mostly families with young kids who just felt the need to be nearer to what they know and who they know best....family and friends....it's a different way of life in Ireland but who's to say it's worse or better..it's what we make of it I think...sure the weather is going to be ****ty...but I hate hate hate the summer in Melbourne haha!
If you're willing to do any work surely there are some jobs at home in Galway????
The job front is my only concern ..if we get back soon (before the property prices rise in Ireland) we're hoping to buy in Co Galway and have little or no mortgage so we can afford to do any crap job to pay the bills etc until something better comes along.
If anyone can shed some light on how much it costs to live (Bills, food, water, heating) for a small family in Galway these days that would be helpful also!!!
(Sorry an bothar abhaile I've just jumped in on your thread and I'm taking over....apologies) hope some good replys from Galwegians are forthcoming !!!!
Cheers )

Yeah house prices are reasonable here now, you will obviously pay a bit more to live around the city or in Oranmore but it's a buyers market at the moment.

There are also jobs if someone is prepered to work at anything.

Tigerandahalf · 21-01-2014 12:48pm

If you can get secure work in Ireland you are sorted. Yes taxes and charges have gone up and people have less money in their pockets but the majority of people are still living well - having their annual holiday, eating out and having a few drinks. If you can keep your commute short you can have a good lifestyle.
It may be obvious but check daft.ie or myhome.ie for ideas on rent. Dublin is very expensive and the cost of living there is running away with itself - 5 euro plus for a pint in many places. But outside of Dublin good value can be got.
As for Galway everyone seems to want to settle there. Lovely place but the traffic can be very bad.
In terms of bills we got our bi-monthly ESB bill the other day and it was around 400 eur. Everything in our house is off the ESB. Property tax has come in and water charges are on the way. Between the 2 you are talking between 400 - 700 eur approx per year, more expensive depending on how high your property tax is. A lot of people have got rid of Sky TV as it is too dear and they have lost some of the sports they cover. We got in a free satellite system with a once off installation cost and have all Irish and English channels. Broadband can be got in packages along with TV and phone. I simply have a Mifi dongle with vodafone that gives wifi for 20 eur a month. Mortgage or rent costs will be the biggest issue.

daftdave · 24-01-2014 4:09am

Are there social welfare restrictions on Irish citizen's returning to Ireland after an extended period of time living overseas ??

Legend100 · 24-01-2014 4:44am

yes there can be as you may not have access to welfare immediately depending on your circumstances. It all comes down to what is known as habitual residence

for you to be entitled to welfare, you need to prove to the dept of social protection that you've severed all ties with the country you are leaving and intend to move back to Ireland permanently. this would involve things like closing your australian bank account as an example (this is just one - it can be difficult to prove that you are going back for good)

http://www.welfare.ie/en/downloads/sw108.pdf

Jamie2k9 · 29-01-2014 4:28am

OP just on the jobs front Dublin, Cork and Galway are doing much better than other areas and things are starting to look up in general. Almost 1000 jobs announced in Cork in the last week alone.

As said already property prices are starting to creep up and buying in 2014 could be a good idea as it's starting to increase outside Dublin in places like Cork and Galway again but not at the rate seen in Dublin. Problem is Dublin hasn't got enough houses at the minute, imagine that!!

On taxes front, income tax, USC etc are all more less frozen with the last few years and won't be changing within the current Gov term until 2016 and its very likely a possible cut in income tax in 2016 before the election. It has being indicated so you have a good degree of clarity on that front.

On the cost of living there is much more competition around so good deals can be found on electricity, TV/phone etc. In general good prices can be found.

IMO despite the problems over the last few years it has made Ireland a better place and none of the nonsense that was going on with people over the last few years.

swimming in a sea · 31-01-2014 5:27pm

An bothar abhaile wrote: »

Hi all,

My husband and I are pretty much set on our decision of moving back to Galway sometime toward the end of this year with our two children (both under 3). We have lived in Perth for over 5 years at this stage and have come to the point where we feel guilty having our children miss out on their grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles and vice versa - and of course our country, the friendly people, history and culture which is pretty much non existent here.

Australia has been great since day one and we have never said the words "I hate this place" or anything of a sort. At the end of the day, we have done our travelling, had our nights out, met lovely people along the way but now that we have our children we are more than ready to move home. We could never call Perth home - it is, for us, very difficult to get a sense of community - not knowing neighbours, postman, seeing familiar faces when out for a walk or at the shops. It's the small things that we miss greatly. Sure, the lifestyle and weather are great here but you work hard to get money in each week and the cost of living is through the roof. For us to be able to keep a mortgage paid and the bills paid, I would have to work full time and my husband would have to work FIFO (which he is currently doing on 28 days away and 5 days home with me and the kids). That is no life for a family but it is the reality of Perth.

So after my long life story above, has anyone been in a similar situation and done the move? Anyone know anyone who has done it or thinking of doing it? We would like to hear if anyone had a complete change of mind once they moved back home because once we move thats it, there will be no coming back for us!
Thanks everyone

You better get back soon before the kids are old enough to remember the good life, as they'll sure hold it against you when they feel the misery of an Irish winter and then you'll have something to feel really guilty about.

tramoreman · 02-02-2014 7:27pm

if you are coming back make sure you have jobs lined up before you come back.

andymun · 11-03-2014 3:57am

omg my husband and i in the same position he works 3 weeks on 1 week off have 2.5 year old and 5 month old and i have made the decision in my own head to go home but now im scared im ready but scared, we have partied traveled and enjoyed every moment but no feel its time to go home however hubby will have to stay until he finds work at home, the cost of living is way too expensive but i a have been ready for some time now just need to do it best of luck to u guys

Drogheda girl

skippy2 · 12-03-2014 10:52am

OP......Your story sounds so familiar................We left AUS over 25 years ago for exactly those reasons. We did not get citizenship at the time even though we had lived there over 5 years. We had PR. We had two children born in AUS in that time so they got AUS passports.

Now 25 years later our two children are now back in AUS in the last few years and we have now decided to move back also, not just to be closer to them, but for a number of reasons, and AUS happens to suit for all those reasons. We will all still ive a fair bit from each other, thousands of miles but short interstate flights are ok as opposed to round the world ones. Ireland has been good to us in those 25 years but am i happier that we moved back and our children got to know their extended family, I really dont know.

Ireland has a lot of issues, Drink, drugs, dont start me on politics etc etc and yes i am very well aware that they exist in AUS also but i feel we have never really grown up in that respect and probably never will. Our kids are well adjusted and enjoy life but i really do not see a future for them in Ireland and i think they now realize this themselves. They are well travelled have done their time in Europe etc and see the lack of opportunity available to them in Ireland. Ireland is a small country and unfortunately still run and controlled by a lot of equally small minded people and that i hate. Ireland will also be paying for the mistakes of the last few years for a long time to come, should you bring your kids back to make them pay for that also, i'm not so sure. Should you come home to pay for it i am less sure on that one.
Should you move back....only you can decide. But keep your options open for your kids later in life. The fact ours have both AUS and Irish Passports has and will be a lifesaver for them i think.
We too lived in Perth but will now all move to the East coast (from Melbourne to Sydney to Brisbane) as Perth is just too remote.

As we start another chapter in our lives we wish you well in yours and whatever decision you make. Things change and family will eventually mean a little less maybe and your kids will eventually have their own lives. You will also have given them the opportunity to do as ours have done and never say never and hang on to your TFN you might need it again :-)

GalwayGirl3204 · 12-03-2014 11:04am

andymun wrote: »

omg my husband and i in the same position he works 3 weeks on 1 week off have 2.5 year old and 5 month old and i have made the decision in my own head to go home but now im scared im ready but scared, we have partied traveled and enjoyed every moment but no feel its time to go home however hubby will have to stay until he finds work at home, the cost of living is way too expensive but i a have been ready for some time now just need to do it best of luck to u guys

Drogheda girl

Thank you and good luck to you guys aswell......im freaking out that we're making a mistake but i also keep thinking we might regret it if we dont...time will tell...at least the kids are aussies and my husband it a citizen ( I have permanet residency) ...so we could return in the future...but it
'Ll be more likely that the kids will return!! Best of luck

GalwayGirl3204 · 12-03-2014 11:13am

Thank you so much.... everything you're saying is so true....but whatever the draw is...we're definately going back to galway!! I think maybe because I was older leaving and had establised great friendships...not to mention that all my family are in europe...the decision is made...we're going this summer so the kids can aclimatise before the winter lol...... as I said to another lady...at least we can come back in the future...we might end up retiring over here!! For the moment im happy to say goodbye to the heat. We're in Melbourne..........such a beautiful, fabulous city and the best people...but its pretty pricey now...the price you have to pay for being in one of the most liveable cities in the world. Best wishes to you and your family. I appreciate you taking the time to post.

Galwayguy35 · 12-03-2014 9:56pm

skippy2 wrote: »

OP......Your story sounds so familiar................We left AUS over 25 years ago for exactly those reasons. We did not get citizenship at the time even though we had lived there over 5 years. We had PR. We had two children born in AUS in that time so they got AUS passports.

Now 25 years later our two children are now back in AUS in the last few years and we have now decided to move back also, not just to be closer to them, but for a number of reasons, and AUS happens to suit for all those reasons. We will all still ive a fair bit from each other, thousands of miles but short interstate flights are ok as opposed to round the world ones. Ireland has been good to us in those 25 years but am i happier that we moved back and our children got to know their extended family, I really dont know.

Ireland has a lot of issues, Drink, drugs, dont start me on politics etc etc and yes i am very well aware that they exist in AUS also but i feel we have never really grown up in that respect and probably never will. Our kids are well adjusted and enjoy life but i really do not see a future for them in Ireland and i think they now realize this themselves. They are well travelled have done their time in Europe etc and see the lack of opportunity available to them in Ireland. Ireland is a small country and unfortunately still run and controlled by a lot of equally small minded people and that i hate. Ireland will also be paying for the mistakes of the last few years for a long time to come, should you bring your kids back to make them pay for that also, i'm not so sure. Should you come home to pay for it i am less sure on that one.
Should you move back....only you can decide. But keep your options open for your kids later in life. The fact ours have both AUS and Irish Passports has and will be a lifesaver for them i think.
We too lived in Perth but will now all move to the East coast (from Melbourne to Sydney to Brisbane) as Perth is just too remote.

As we start another chapter in our lives we wish you well in yours and whatever decision you make. Things change and family will eventually mean a little less maybe and your kids will eventually have their own lives. You will also have given them the opportunity to do as ours have done and never say never and hang on to your TFN you might need it again :-)

Looks like you made the right choice seeing as you seem to despise your own country so much.

Zambia · 12-03-2014 11:21pm

Galwayguy35 wrote: »

Looks like you made the right choice seeing as you seem to despise your own country so much.

Seriously wtf , stop looking for a fight

AngryHippie · 12-03-2014 11:31pm

Galwayguy35 wrote: »

Looks like you made the right choice seeing as you seem to despise your own country so much.

Absolute gobsh!te remark there to be fair.

You don't have to despise Ireland to despise the cnuts that keep getting elected and cnuts that keep voting for them.

Typical of the small-mindedness being mentioned

gozunda · 12-03-2014 11:48pm

Just my tuppence worth...you would be mad to come back. And I don't despise the country just the way it is at present.

Never have so many paid so much for so little ...

This country is fecxed. Corruption is rife in political and the public sector. Check the national papers for further details. The goverment had decided to to an leary on the citizens, in that we are being charged for everything and then charged again and again. Water, household charges, bin charges etc. then if you are lucky enough to be in employment you will be charged high levels of taxes, prsi, USC and the goverment now plan on making private health cover directly from your wages. The prsi and USC give you no rights whatsoever to medical cover - you are paying for state funded providers such as VHI and for public hospital services but turn up at a 'public' hospital and you will be charged thru the roof for everything. To get a medical card is nigh on impossible unless you are practically dead and penniless and even then they will ask for a review just in case you havn't died quickly enough. Local 'interests' under the guise of 'charitable status' are given charge of massive amounts of national and EU funds to pay those at the top massive salaries and 'provide' services, to use an Irish saying Mor Yeah....

As a young person if you are unemployed you will be 'asked' to participate in compulsory 'employment' schemes where the is a minimal payment to work full time for private employers stacking shelves or 'charitable status' organisations with dubious political connections to undertake other 'useful' jobs. Although if you are a fully qualified solicitor you can also be employed under similar 'employment' schemes.

Take my advice and give your children a chance in a country where they have a chance of a decent future.

bean14 · 12-03-2014 11:58pm

im a first time mammy of a ten week old baby girl. i am very lucky that both sets of grandparents live nearby. i really value having family close by. yes ireland isnt the best country in the world but i love the sense of community and family that i have come to appreciate in recent weeks. little things like going into a shop and somebody congratulating me. wild horses wouldnt take me away especially now i have a child. best of luck with the move

seannash · 13-03-2014 12:13am

Just to give the other side. I moved back havng lived in New York for 8 years and Australia for 1.
Hated Australia,coming from New York it just didn't appeal to me at all.
Anyway came home, got a bull**** job in a call centre.

I went from earning 1400 dollars (US) a week to earning 368 euros.
I adjusted and to be honest I'm loving it here.
There is work. It may no be what you want to do but its work and it'll keep you going.
If all the reasons you list are genuine you will make it work. You will find enjoyment in the company you keep not the extravagances your lifestyle allows you in Australia.

People keep saying he country is ****ed but to be honest I get my wage and make it work for me. I have to laugh at people saying there is not future for your kids here. Your kids are 15 years away from having o worry about there future. Who knows what will happen in those 15 years.

Just to add,I have since moved from that Job to abetter paying job. It is possible

catbear · 13-03-2014 3:58am

Was back in Ireland recently and the mood was much improved. To be honest the mood was one of the primary reasons I left a job during the gloom to come out to Aus (the pay was another but not a primary one).
One guy said to me that I was better off out in Australia as now there was property taxes and water rates being brought in. I had to explain to him his principle gripe already exists in Australia, he was shocked.
Far away hills and all that.
As for corruption in Australia, there are tax write offs like negative gearing that totally rigged against society. It might not seem like corruption but it is corrupting.

andymun · 13-03-2014 5:47am

i think we have too many options these days if for some reason i actually had o go back to ireland and had absolutely no choice it would make it easier my head is melted i must admit i feel like everyday blue skies sunshine beaches is like winning the lotto but i have nobody to share it with and, and yes all those taxes already in place and its something ireland should have done years ago maybe thats why things are as bad as they are and now bringing them in when people are broke is just a bit of a slap in the face but has to be done and i think ireland is a great place the only reason i left was to have an adventure and i did i had a ball but now with kids it makes it harder im glad to hear the mood have improved

oh such hard decisions ahead and lots of long talks

catbear · 13-03-2014 6:00am

andymun wrote: »

im glad to hear the mood have improved

oh such hard decisions ahead and lots of long talks

Dublin was upbeat although anywhere building houses was the principle employer during the bubble are pretty quiet.

Pugins · 13-03-2014 6:49am

bean14 wrote: »

im a first time mammy of a ten week old baby girl. i am very lucky that both sets of grandparents live nearby. i really value having family close by. yes ireland isnt the best country in the world but i love the sense of community and family that i have come to appreciate in recent weeks. little things like going into a shop and somebody congratulating me. wild horses wouldnt take me away especially now i have a child. best of luck with the move

You are right that having family is a fantastic plus to being at home in Ireland. But I have to say I have found a good sense of community where we are living in Perth. People on the street and in shops are always stopping to chat to us and our children. Neighbours and people on beaches and in playgrounds will start chatting to you very easily. Our eldest has started school and there is such a strong community spirit around the school. Parent helpers (volunteers) in the classroom every day for example. In 5 weeks we have had a parents coffee morning and a family picnic. There are other social events organised too. It feels like a community, much more so than at schools my nieces and nephews attend in Ireland.

mandrake04 · 13-03-2014 7:14am

catbear wrote: »

Dublin was upbeat although anywhere building houses was the principle employer during the bubble are pretty quiet.

I was listening to Morgan Kelly on Irish Breakfast radio on Monday and he says that the crisis is far from over ....it may only getting started. Small-Medium business that has been the life blood of Ireland over the last few years could be at risk if the banks call in outstanding property debts that a lot of business invested in during the boom. They can temporarily move numbers around on the ledger page but eventually will run out of paper, I don't think you don't need to be a Professor to realise that it's too soon to call a turnaround in the economy when it was predicted it would take far longer.

Upbeat may be short lived.

AngryHippie · 13-03-2014 7:26am

mandrake04 wrote: »

I was listening to Morgan Kelly on Irish Breakfast radio on Monday and he says that the crisis is far from over ....it may only getting started. Small-Medium business that has been the life blood of Ireland over the last few years could be at risk if the banks call in outstanding property debts that a lot of business invested in during the boom. They can temporarily move numbers around on the ledger page but eventually will run out of paper, I don't think you don't need to be a Professor to realise that it's too soon to call a turnaround in the economy when it was predicted it would take far longer.

Upbeat may be short lived.

Yeah, I read through a summary of his points and I'm inclined to agree. I really hope he's wrong, but jobsbridge and such are just moving furniture, not rebuilding, and if SMEs get hit with big credit calls from the banks then it'll be a other big dip, and another wave of emigration.
Things aren't that hectic here either. There are some real cracks showing in QLD, with the taper of Gladstone LNG and the same out in the Darling Downs. Not drastic, just a slow up of tenders and upcoming works. the bump is still 6 months minimum away for the Doozers.

catbear · 13-03-2014 7:27am

mandrake04 wrote: »

Upbeat may be short lived.

I wouldn't disagree with Morgan Kelly, when i read his piece about the bubble in 2006 any notion of buying a property evaporated.
I'm just glad that self perpetuating doom and gloom aura had lifted. There may be a relapse ahead but generally i think most were just fed up of constantly feeling miserable.
Joe Duffy is there for those who wish to wallow.

T-K-O · 13-03-2014 7:33am

Just like the banks will not repossess every household in arrears a similar deal will be done with SME's for their investment loans.

Investment and core loans, that's the latest story doing the rounds.

ozexpat · 13-03-2014 9:00am

first time poster been reading a bit from oz to see what mood is at home.

interesting thread pretty relevant to me out of ireland going on 9 years, 5 UK now 4 in oz, and perth resident, have perth wife, house, and now new baby...and we are planning to move to ireland "for a few years" in a few years time after have second baby...

Seems to be the consensus there's good things about both , Oz (perth) : lifestyle, sun , beaches etc...Ireland : family + friendliness.
Defo have found abroad that i was always curious to know why people like ireland and they always say the people so it is true.
I don't think people over here as friendly, then again they don't moan as much lol..

I wonder how I'll like it when I go back though (as very set on the plan and me+wife quite organised)...and whether its true like some people saying that family is the most important thing
think I will find the weather very hard to get used to again, I constantly hear about it anytime talk to anyone at home..
only time will tell i guess......

Will be great to catch up with family + friends for sure its why we going back, but going back to ireland as had enough of cost of living down under?

This seems to be a common thread here and to me is nonsense. granted me + wife in well paid jobs here , but we accepting when we move back we're going to have less spending power, because jobs if they are there don't pay that well at home.
All my irish friends here in varying professions say the same.
I remember back after a year or two in london i had phone interview for job in dublin when half though might go back...the offer was laughable compared to salaries in over the water...

of course cud be all changed now and i'm talking raimeis...

gozunda · 13-03-2014 9:22am

catbear wrote: »

Was back in Ireland recently and the mood was much improved. To be honest the mood was one of the primary reasons I left a job during the gloom to come out to Aus (the pay was another but not a primary one).
One guy said to me that I was better off out in Australia as now there was property taxes and water rates being brought in. I had to explain to him his principle gripe already exists in Australia, he was shocked.
Far away hills and all that.
As for corruption in Australia, there are tax write offs like negative gearing that totally rigged against society. It might not seem like corruption but it is corrupting.

I understand what you are saying, but actually living in Ireland and you get the full whammy of exactly how bad things are. Sure people are putting a good face on it but it doesn't change the absolute rottenness of the systems we have to work with. I don't disagree re the household charge and prsi but we are now we taxed and doubled taxed and for good measure been taxed again. Much of the money is going to bail out the banks who engaged in at best dubious practices but because the government has largely refused to do anything about the inherent corruption and instead has re floated them at the expense of services and are in the process of fleecing joe public to pay for the whole caboodle. While many have lost jobs, taken pay cuts and seen basic services already paid from the taxes paid and then taxed again for the same services.
PRSI here used to give the employed basic medical cover for dental, optical etc. that cover is gone but you still pay prsi plus USC and the health levy. My son is at the stage of emigrating due to the very few real employment opportunities other than state sponsored slavery under the new 'employment' schemes, I have seen the bad time of the last five decades and this in my opinion is the worse state I have ever seen the country in. As I said I love the country but it is sad how badly it has been asset stripped by a few vested interests who have lined their own products and those of their friends.

andymun · 13-03-2014 9:25am

i think family is so important and for me i really want my kids growing up with cousins aunts uncles and grandparents as well as being able to have time for me and my husband just knowing they kids are with family because although its about the kids but its also about you and you husband/wife i struggle not having any quality time together as he is away working but not only that the kids will make a life for themselves no matter what or where they are when they are older they might travel so having that duel citizenship is important plus you can always come back to retire maybe but its a tough one the weather is fab but family is everything

drogheda girl on a rant sorry lol

catbear · 13-03-2014 11:32am

gozunda wrote: »

As I said I love the country but it is sad how badly it has been asset stripped by a few vested interests who have lined their own products and those of their friends.

I would counter that the electorate is as culpable for the corruption. Every election you hear people ask candidates "what are you going to do for me", that's an auction of favours, a license for corruption.
Of course people didn't see it as corruption when permission was granted for building on floodplains etc.....
But that was because there was a feel good factor, everyone had money even though it was borrowed from their future.
I can see similar things happening in australia, maybe not ghost estates etc but certainly similar if not worse personal debt issues.
If the **** hits the fan will there be a chorus shouting corruption for practices like negative gearing which are acceptable during the good times?

NoCrackHaving · 14-03-2014 8:02pm

andymun wrote: »

i think family is so important and for me i really want my kids growing up with cousins aunts uncles and grandparents as well as being able to have time for me and my husband just knowing they kids are with family because although its about the kids but its also about you and you husband/wife i struggle not having any quality time together as he is away working but not only that the kids will make a life for themselves no matter what or where they are when they are older they might travel so having that duel citizenship is important plus you can always come back to retire maybe but its a tough one the weather is fab but family is everything

drogheda girl on a rant sorry lol

Just a word of advice, grandparents are certainly important but a lot of kids won't give a **** about whether they know their cousins or not. Seriously the amount of people I know who didn't like their cousins at all but were expected to be best friends just because they were related is just too high to ignore.

chickplumber · 03-11-2014 1:59am

I'm interested to know how you get on with a move back to Ireland. We're in NZ and thinking along similar lines, have two small kids here now and it's very hard to be on the other side of the world-missing home quite a bit.

colman1212 · 03-11-2014 2:54am

Was just chatting to my mate the other day who moved back to Ireland from Melbourne to get married after 5 years out here. They are living in Dublin and struggling to adjust to being back in Ireland. Also with the tax situation and Irish salaries you end up with a lot less cash in your pocket. They both work in good jobs but trying to buy the kind of place they want in Dublin is next to impossible. This would be a big thing for me.
I'm living in Brisbane and currently looking at trying to buy a property here, I see myself moving home at some stage (I'm 30 now) but it would just seem like financial suicide to do it at the moment...
I rang the bank the other day here and I can basically get a mortgage to buy the exact kind of place I want here, If I moved back to Dublin, I wouldn't have a hope...
My mate said they havent ruled out a move back to Melbourne in the new year...

daelight · 03-11-2014 6:01am

Interesting thread.. I see many more these kind of threads popping up in Aus forum lately. I wonder if this is similar for many people who emigrate to Aus, in that after 5,6, 7 or so years the call of home grows too strong to resist? I see the Canada forum full of younger people on exciting adventures as Canada is the 'new Aus' these days... I wonder how the Canada forum will be in a few years. Instead of the 'I'm heading to Canada in x weeks, any advice..' It will be 'We're heading home, any advice' ?!

Best of luck to OP and others who now have family or have been away for several years and now begin planning their exciting return home.

NoCrackHaving · 03-11-2014 2:22pm

daelight wrote: »

Interesting thread.. I see many more these kind of threads popping up in Aus forum lately. I wonder if this is similar for many people who emigrate to Aus, in that after 5,6, 7 or so years the call of home grows too strong to resist? I see the Canada forum full of younger people on exciting adventures as Canada is the 'new Aus' these days... I wonder how the Canada forum will be in a few years. Instead of the 'I'm heading to Canada in x weeks, any advice..' It will be 'We're heading home, any advice' ?!

Best of luck to OP and others who now have family or have been away for several years and now begin planning their exciting return home.

I wouldn't say 'home' is too strong to resist as in it's the time frame. If you've moved country/city/whatever, 6, 7 years begins to become **** or get off the pot time. By the time people (not all but most is fair to say) reach their late 20's/early 30's and kids and house begin to come along you need to make a medium term choice as to where you want to be and a lot of people just don't see themselves in Australia for the next 15-20 years.

rebel333 · 09-11-2014 8:16am

Well I'm back 8 months now and havnt regretted yet.. Yes I miss the weather, beaches, money but just to hear my toddler get so excited when my mum calls.. Nana nana nana.. Makes it all worth it., the help with the kids is great... The option is there to go back in time, but at the moment no regrets.. Just need to get better jobs.,

Been And seen · 06-03-2015 3:45am

Hi, I just wondered if your move back was a success?

rebel333 · 20-03-2015 10:21am

we are back now, exactly a year and I can say I love it. I miss the beaches and the weather a lot, and the outdoor lifestyle, but I love that the kids know their grandparents, and aunts and uncles and that more than makes up for it.. my husband is still in a ****ty job but its work, I went back this year and its grand..

Moving back to Ireland with 2 under 3 after 6 years in Australia

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