Filipinos considering migration to Australia are being encouraged to prepare carefully and understand the realities of life abroad, as community organisations and Philippine government agencies highlight the risks of misinformation and unrealistic expectations.
Jeffy Suana, a community social worker at the Australian Filipino Community Services in Melbourne, said Australia remains a positive destination for international students, but warned that a lack of accurate information can lead to financial strain and emotional stress.
“It will really make a difference when you are informed,” Suana said.
The advice forms part of ongoing efforts by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) to better equip Filipinos before they leave the country. The agency, which focuses on the welfare of Filipinos living abroad, has been working with partner organisations to provide guidance and practical information to prospective migrants.
Preparing before departure
Suana outlined several key areas that prospective students and migrants should consider before making the move.
Financial readiness is one of the most critical factors. He noted that tuition fees for higher education in Australia can range from AUD 30,000 to AUD 50,000, with additional expenses such as rent, food, and transport significantly increasing the overall cost of living.
International students are also required to show proof that they can support themselves financially, as part-time work alone may not be enough to cover expenses.
He also cautioned against the common assumption that enrolling in a course automatically leads to permanent residency or citizenship.
Prospective migrants are advised to verify study pathways and migration options through official government and university sources, rather than relying on informal advice or unverified claims.
Caution on migration advice
Suana also reminded applicants to approach migration agents with caution, noting that their services are part of a business.
“Be aware that they are doing business with you,” he said.
While some agents present success stories, he said these may not always reflect the broader realities of the labour market or the challenges migrants may face.
He encouraged independent research as a way to make more informed decisions.
Adjusting to life in Australia
Beyond financial and academic considerations, cultural adjustment can also be a challenge.
Suana said migrants may find social interactions in Australia different from what they are used to in the Philippines, where community ties and everyday conversations are more common.
“Australian society is different. You rarely find people having a chit-chat along the road,” he said.
This difference can contribute to feelings of isolation, particularly for those without an established support network.
Building connections early can help ease the transition. Suana advised migrants to reach out to friends, relatives, and community groups before arriving, as these networks can assist with housing, employment opportunities, and navigating daily life.
Supporting informed migration
The CFO said its initiatives aim to provide Filipinos with the information needed to make informed decisions about migration, while helping reduce the social and economic risks associated with moving abroad.
The agency works with various stakeholders to support Filipino migrants, including permanent residents, dual citizens, and participants in international exchange programs.
Officials said that while opportunities exist in countries like Australia, outcomes often depend on preparation and access to reliable information.
As Suana noted, migrants are more likely to succeed when they arrive with a clear understanding of both the opportunities and the challenges ahead.
