The Carousel Moment

Every Australian Ex-Pat in the US will experience two carousel moments. The first is when you arrive and are standing at an airport carousel waiting for your bags.

In that moment a wave of emotion washes over you, a combination of excitement and cold sweat when you ask yourself the question “What have I just done?”

The other is having said goodbye to America and you are standing at an airport carousel in Australia. For many repatriating Australians, in this moment the question is “Did I pull up stumps too early?”

2024 is a critical year for Australian ex-pats living in the US who have been on the fence about repatriation. On top of all of the personal and professional challenges they have overcome since arriving, they also made it through a Pandemic.

Let’s be clear, repatriation is a permanent solution to what could be a temporary problem. Just ask the thousands of Australians who pulled the proverbial pin in 2020/2021 and now regret leaving too soon.

Therefore, one of our charitable activities in 2024 is to provide an Australian Ex-Pat in the US with as much unvarnished data to factor into any decision – cue The Clash’s 1982 hit.

If you have not done so, consider becoming a member or follow our social media to keep up with developments.


Open US Bank and Credit Card Accounts from Australia and have instant access when you land!

Step 1: Open a US bank account before you leave Australia

The Australian Community offers a convenient and efficient way to open US bank and credit card accounts from Australia, even before you get a Social Security Number.

Step 2: Fund your newly opened US account with a Preferred Rate on AUD to USD negotiated for our Members with OFX.

Register and see why our Preferred Rate beats Australian Banks and major online FOREX services to stretch your AU Dollar further!


Join The Australian Community.

Founded in 2011, we connect more Australians in America.

If you are a professional Australian taking your career to the next level, or the U.S. is the next step in your company's global expansion, we can connect you to all of the resources you need for success in America.

Learn more about the benefits of joining The Australian Community in America.

Did you find this article helpful? Would you like to make a Donation!

The Australian Community is a 501(c)(3) organization, and all donations are fully tax-deductible under the IRS Code.

General Donation

The Australian Community is a 501(c)(3) U.S. Public Charity. Its Mission is to connect Australian living in the United States through social, professional and charitable initiatives.

It is qualified to receive tax deductible donations, bequests, devises, transfers or gifts under Sections 170, 2055, 2106 or 2522 of the Code.

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