A British woman who left the UK after becoming frustrated with what she described as a repetitive and “boring” life says she has no plans to return after building a new life in Australia.
Maisey Relph, from Swindon, Wiltshire, was earning around £21,000 a year as a wedding and events coordinator after leaving college. Although she said life in Britain was generally good, she began to feel that every day was becoming increasingly similar and wanted a change.
After spending two summers working as a sailing instructor in Greece, Maisey started looking for opportunities overseas. She applied for sailing instructor jobs in Sydney almost “for fun” before eventually deciding to take the leap.
In September 2023, she travelled to Australia on a one-way ticket for a trial shift, despite having never visited the country before and not knowing anyone there.
Nearly three years later, the 23-year-old is living in Perth and working as an end-of-life support worker. She now reportedly earns £44,605 a year, around £23,605 more than her former UK salary.
Maisey says the biggest change has not simply been financial. She describes her life in Australia as more exciting and says she has struggled to imagine returning to the routine she left behind.
Her story highlights how moving abroad can completely change someone's career, lifestyle and outlook — although experiences naturally vary from person to person.