My cousins and brother live in Melbourne. I have been there once, back in 2004. Absolutely loved the place. It made me imagine what the US must've been back in 50's and 60's when the whole country was on expansion mode with Norman Rockwellish atmosphere. About immigrating to Australia, it is definitely a personal choice. My brother says his move to australia was a lifestyle decision, not a financial one, because you can make more money in the US, simply because of the exchange rate and the number of opportunities available. But if you want a laid-back life that involves going to the beach, eating out, warm weather, friendly and even appreciative native population, welcoming government, then Australia is definitely THE place to be.