Moving house is consistently ranked as one of life's most stressful events — but a well-organised checklist makes it manageable. This guide covers everything from booking removalists to getting your internet connected on day one.
8 weeks before moving day
- Confirm your moving date and book removalists (get 3 quotes) or reserve a hire truck
- Start decluttering — sell, donate or discard what you won't take
- Notify your landlord (if renting) of your move-out date per your lease terms
- Research your new area — schools, healthcare, transport, supermarkets
- Start collecting boxes from liquor stores, supermarkets and friends
4 weeks before moving day
Critical at this stage: Book your internet connection now. nbn connections can take 2–10 business days. Book at least 4 weeks out to ensure you're connected on or shortly after move-in day.
- Internet: Compare and book your nbn or internet plan at your new address
- Electricity: Contact your retailer or arrange a new connection at the new address. Arrange disconnection at old address for your move-out date
- Gas: Transfer or arrange new connection if gas is available at your new property
- Water: If applicable, contact your state water authority about account transfer
- Update your address with your bank accounts and credit cards
- Notify your employer of your new address for payroll records
- Update Medicare, health fund and life insurance
- Update your electoral enrolment at elections.aec.gov.au
- Notify the ATO through myGov
2 weeks before moving day
- Confirm removalist booking and provide any access instructions
- Pack non-essential items and clearly label boxes by room
- Arrange for mail redirection through Australia Post (allows 6 months)
- Notify your car insurer and state roads authority of your new address
- Update subscriptions: streaming services, magazines, gym membership
- Notify online shopping accounts (Amazon, eBay, etc.) and regular deliveries
- Confirm school enrolments if you have children
- Book a final property inspection clean if required by your lease
Moving week
- Confirm your utilities will be active at the new address on moving day
- Pack a "first night" bag with essentials: toiletries, phone charger, change of clothes, snacks, bedding
- Take meter readings at both properties on the day (photograph them with a timestamp)
- Do a final walkthrough of your old home and return all keys
- Transfer contents insurance to new address from day one
| Utility | Action needed | Lead time |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity | Transfer or new connection | 1–3 business days |
| Gas | Transfer or new connection | 2–5 business days |
| nbn internet | Book new plan at new address | 3–10 business days |
| Mobile | No action needed (SIM works anywhere) | N/A |
| Water | Notify council or water authority | Varies by state |
After you arrive: first two weeks
- Test all utilities — hot water, heating/cooling, oven, appliances
- Confirm your internet is connected and working
- Register your vehicle with the new state roads authority if moving interstate
- Update your driver's licence address (required by law in most states within 5 weeks)
- Find your nearest GP, dentist, hospital and emergency services
- Set up any security systems and confirm all locks are functioning
- Introduce yourself to neighbours
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I arrange my internet connection?
Book your nbn connection at least 3–4 weeks before your move date. Installation can take up to 10 business days and, if a technician visit is required, slots can book out quickly. For a completely new nbn connection that's never been activated before, allow 4–6 weeks.
Do I need to notify the ATO when I move?
Yes. Update your address with the Australian Taxation Office through myGov. This ensures tax notices, PAYG payment summaries and superannuation correspondence reach you. You can do this online through the ATO's online services.
Who do I need to tell when I move house?
The main organisations to notify include: your bank and credit cards, your employer, Medicare and health insurance, the ATO, electoral roll (update your enrolment online), superannuation funds, your car insurer and registration (state roads authority), your doctor and dentist, subscriptions and delivery services, and all utilities (electricity, gas, internet, water).
What happens if I move but the electricity isn't connected?
Electricity connections can be arranged quickly — often within 1–2 business days for existing properties. Contact your retailer or use a service like Pick A Deal to arrange connection before your move-in date. If you're taking over an existing electricity account, the previous tenant's account may need to be finalised first.
Should I organise removalists or rent a truck myself?
For a one or two-bedroom move, renting a truck is usually cheaper ($150–$300 for a day). For larger homes, professional removalists ($600–$2,500+) save significant stress and reduce risk of damage to furniture and walls. Get 3 quotes, read reviews and confirm insurance coverage before booking.
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