From Europe to Australia: Why I Made the Move and What I've Learned
A few years ago, I was neck-deep in Europe’s tech world, working with Meta in Berlin and Google in Dublin. On paper, it looked great: steady work, big brands, amazing cities. But something felt off. Enter Australia, land of sun, surf, and kangaroos.
Why I Moved
So, why trade stroopwafels for vegemite? For starters, I was craving more than just a career pivot. I was craving more lifestyle freedom. Australia checked every box: strong digital economy, high demand for marketing pros, an obsession with wellness, and, importantly, room to breathe. Plus, it didn’t hurt that the time zone works brilliantly if you’re juggling clients across Asia and Europe.
The Transition
I won't sugarcoat it, getting set up down under was extremely tough. Visas, ABNs, TFNs, GST, BAS, and that’s just the beginning. But step by step, I figured it out. I registered as a sole trader, got my ABN, set up Xero, and linked everything up with Wise for smoother international transfers.
Building My Business in Australia
I officially launched Dadek Digital in early 2025, and while it wasn’t all sunshine and instant success, things moved faster than expected. Having “worked at Meta and Google” on my CV opened doors. But what kept them open? Delivering actual results.
Now I partner with eCommerce brands, service providers, and ambitious startups who need more than buzzwords. They want conversions, leads, clean tracking, and someone who doesn’t flinch when the Meta UI changes overnight (again).
Tools of the trade? Meta and Google Ads, server-side tracking, GTM setups, CAPI, you name it.
Lifestyle Wins
I now live in Melbourne, which I would describe as a love child between London and Berlin, with better weather, friendlier baristas, and koalas around the corner.
Also, the food scene? Top tier. I’ve eaten more Vietnamese and Middle Eastern food in the last six months than I did in the previous five years.
And while I work with clients across the globe, I’ve found a real sense of community here from fellow freelancers to ambitious founders all trying to build something meaningful.
Lessons Learned
Starting over in a new country (for the third time) is hard. But it builds grit (and a great portfolio).
Australians value quality, so charge accordingly. Don’t undersell yourself just because you're new here.
Admin and tax stuff will never be sexy, but getting it sorted early gives you peace of mind (and better sleep).
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been thinking about making a big move, whether it’s across the globe or out of your comfort zone, here’s your sign. Australia isn’t perfect, but it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made.
The opportunities are real, the lifestyle is unmatched, and Aussies genuinely value a proper work-life balance.
Got questions? Curious about moving, setting up a business, or just want to grab a coffee? Slide into my inbox. Happy to share more.