Free planning guide

Sunshine Coast relocation checklist

A practical step-by-step list for choosing an area, preparing your budget, securing a home and settling into daily life on the Sunshine Coast.

1

8-12 weeks before

Choose the right part of the Coast

Start with your weekly routine, then compare lifestyle preferences.

  • List every regular destination: workplaces, schools, family, healthcare and activities.
  • Compare the northern, central and southern Coast rather than choosing from holiday memories.
  • Test work and school journeys during weekday peak times.
  • Shortlist three suburbs and visit each in the morning, evening and on a weekend.
  • Check mobile coverage, internet options and access to shops and medical care for each address.
2

6-10 weeks before

Set a complete moving budget

Allow for the move itself and the first weeks after arrival.

  • Get written removalist or freight quotes and confirm insurance, access and cancellation terms.
  • Allow for travel, storage, cleaning and temporary accommodation if dates do not align.
  • Renters: plan for bond, rent in advance, utility connections and possible overlap between homes.
  • Buyers: obtain personal advice on transfer duty, finance, legal work and inspection costs.
  • Keep a contingency amount for urgent repairs, household items and changed travel plans.
3

4-8 weeks before

Secure your home carefully

Investigate the exact property, not only the suburb name.

  • Review council flood, storm-tide, bushfire and planning overlays for the exact address.
  • Request an insurance quote before signing, as address-specific risk can affect cost and availability.
  • For a purchase, arrange appropriate building, pest and legal checks before deadlines.
  • For a rental, confirm inclusions, pets, air conditioning, parking and responsibility for gardens or pools.
  • Read body corporate records and fees when considering an apartment or townhouse.
4

3-6 weeks before

Plan schools, care and transport

Confirm eligibility and practical travel before committing.

  • Check the Queensland school catchment map using the exact address, then contact the school directly.
  • Ask about enrolment documents, uniforms, devices, transport and before- or after-school care.
  • Map public transport options and test the real weekday timetable.
  • Arrange GP, specialist, childcare and allied-health transfers where waiting lists may apply.
  • Make a backup plan for days when traffic, storms or school commitments change the routine.
5

2-4 weeks before

Book services and prepare the move

Confirm the practical details before packing day.

  • Connect electricity, internet and other utilities for the handover date.
  • Redirect mail and update banks, insurers, licences, registrations and important subscriptions.
  • Confirm removalist arrival times, parking, lift bookings and key collection.
  • Create an essentials box with documents, medication, chargers, bedding, basic kitchenware and pet supplies.
  • Photograph valuable items and both properties before the move.
6

First month after arrival

Settle in locally

Use the first month to test routines and complete local checks.

  • Test alternative work, school and shopping routes at the times you will really use them.
  • Prepare the home for heat, humidity and storms, including drainage, ventilation and emergency supplies.
  • Meet neighbours and locate your nearest medical centre, pharmacy, evacuation information and council services.
  • Update your budget with actual transport, utilities, insurance and maintenance costs.
  • Avoid rushing large purchases until you understand how the home and location work through daily life.

Need help buying?

Get local property-search support

Home Scouts helps buyers research, assess and purchase property with independent local support.

Visit Home Scouts →

Need help renting?

Arrange a managed rental search

Executive Relocations assists relocating households with rental-property searches and settling-in support.

Visit Executive Relocations →

Keep planning

Use the checklist with these local tools

Compare suburbsEstimate relocation costsCheck commutes and schools

This checklist provides general planning information only. Confirm current costs, catchments, transport, property risks, legal requirements, finance and insurance for your circumstances and exact address.