Are you tempted by expatriation? Are you hesitating between Australia, land of the kangaroos, or Canada, land of the maple leaf? This article will help you get a clearer picture of the lifestyles, healthcare systems… of these two countries.
A different climate in Australia and Canada
In Australia, the sun shines all year round. This is one of the main reasons why thousands of people settle here. Nevertheless, tropical areas are subject to the rainy season. It snows in winter in the Australian Alps and around Melbourne. So it’s important to choose your city according to its climate.
It’s no secret that it’s very cold in Canada’s great white north, hence the nickname. But if you’re not put off by the sub-zero temperatures, you can enjoy snow-white landscapes. You can also enjoy a beautiful summer season along the beaches of Brunswick.
Cost of living in Australia and Canada
Australia is one of the most expensive countries in the world. So you need to leave with sufficient savings. This is particularly true of accommodation, which is quite expensive in both Sydney and Melbourne. The cost of living in Canada is not as high. It all depends on where you’re going. In terms of transport, a monthly pass costs 90 euros in Montreal, compared with an average of 115 euros in Australia (the fare varies from city to city; in Melbourne, the fare is 90 euros).
The job market in both countries
Canada is one of those countries where there’s work for everyone. The country is characterized by low unemployment and one of the highest employment rates among OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) countries.
Australia’s unemployment rate is among the lowest in the world. Its job market is dynamic, and working conditions are particularly relaxed. Not every state is on an equal footing, and there are disparities between regions. Unemployment rates are highest in rural areas such as Tasmania. The capital, Canberra, has the lowest unemployment rate in the country (due to the strong presence of civil servants and expatriate workers).
Professional opportunities are therefore excellent on both sides.
Which country has the highest healthcare costs?
The Australian and Canadian healthcare systems are considered among the best in the world. The quality of care on offer is renowned, and both public and private hospitals are well equipped with innovative technologies. However, despite their reputation, they remain expensive. For example:
The cost of healthcare in Australia
In Australia, consultations must be paid for immediately.
- An emergency admission costs between AUD 230 and 900 (from €160 to €630).
- Cost per night in hospital (single room): $1,200
- Cost of appendicitis operation: $4,000
- Delivery fee: $5,000 for 3 nights
- Care rate for premature babies: $10990 / week
The cost of health care in Canada
- Emergency service: $900
- Glasses: $500
- 2nd-degree burns: up to $900
- In Quebec, consultation fees are generally in excess of $100.
- Still in Quebec, a traveler spending two weeks in intensive care after an accident would have to pay $160,000.
What Australia and Canada have in common
In both countries, the language is English. Unless you decide to travel to Quebec, where you’ll be able to communicate in French. Learning the language when you travel, whether to Canada or Australia, will help you improve your language skills.
Taking out international health insurance
The aim of international health insurance is to take the place, in the country of expatriation, of the reimbursement organization you benefit from in your home country. It is therefore essential. As we have seen, the quality of care, whether public or private, is high in Australia as in Canada. What’s more, depending on your status abroad, you may not have local insurance. The local public system is not accessible to everyone. For example, if you’re a French expatriate in Australia, you won’t be entitled to local social security (Medicare) for your first two years in the country. You’ll need to take out your own expatriate health insurance.
Mondassur, an international health insurance broker for over 15 years, can offer you the international health insurance best suited to your profile, depending on your country of expatriation, your age, your health budget and the level of coverage you wish to benefit from. Contact our advisors today, who will be happy to answer all your questions, or request your free international health insurance quote online.
Australia and Canada hold no more secrets for you! In these countries, the cost of medical care is very high.
Unfortunately, accidents and illnesses don’t just happen to other people. So if you find yourself in this type of situation, it’s essential to have an insurer to support you financially if you need medical care in these countries.
