
← The Relocated South African | Emigration stories3 aug · 50 min
From Port Elizabeth to Melbourne: Building a New Life in Australia-Ep 78 with Duncan Goldsmith
<p>Duncan Goldsmith made the life-changing decision to leave South Africa in 1986—long before emigration became commonplace. Nearly four decades later, he reflects on what it really takes to build a successful life abroad.</p><p>Born and raised in Port Elizabeth, Duncan began his career in banking before an opportunity in information technology opened the door to Australia. Arriving in Melbourne with his wife, two young children and little more than determination, he embraced a country that would eventually become home.</p><p>In this candid conversation, Duncan shares the realities of emigrating before Facebook, WhatsApp and South African expat communities existed. There were no soft landings, no biltong shops and no online groups to answer questions—just the determination to make it work.</p><p>We discuss the emotional cost of leaving family behind, adapting to a new culture, raising children in a different country, Australia's work ethic, cost of living, healthcare, taxes and why many South Africans struggle because they're trying to recreate the country they left.</p><p>Whether you're considering Australia or already living abroad, Duncan's advice is practical, honest and shaped by nearly 40 years of experience.</p><p><em>"If you're looking for South Africa in Australia, you'll be disappointed. Come with an open mind and make Australia your home."</em></p><p>_______________________________________________________________</p><p>For over 30 years <strong>Sable International</strong> has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders.</p><p>Find out how Sable International can support your journey:<br><a href="https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy">https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy</a></p><p>_______________________________________________________________</p><p><strong>TIMESTAMPS</strong></p><p>00:01 – Introducing Duncan Goldsmith<br>00:30 – Growing up in Port Elizabeth<br>02:50 – Why he emigrated to Australia in 1986<br>05:38 – The emotional challenge of leaving family behind<br>09:02 – Parents, grandchildren and life across continents<br>14:07 – Why going back was never an option<br>15:30 – Starting over without a South African community<br>17:00 – The biggest mistakes South Africans make in Australia<br>20:24 – Why Melbourne became home<br>24:58 – Cost of living and buying property<br>30:37 – Healthcare, taxes and getting value for your money<br>34:20 – Do South Africans really move back?<br>37:00 – Practical advice for new migrants<br>39:30 – Safety in Australia today<br>41:30 – Should you visit before emigrating?<br>43:40 – Marriage, teamwork and adapting overseas<br>44:50 – Boks vs Wallabies: Who does he support?</p><p>_______________________________________________________________</p><p>Your documents should not slow down your new life.</p><p><strong>Apostil</strong> obtains, processes and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world.</p><p>Fast, professional and stress-free.</p><p>Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here:<br><a href="https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza">https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza</a></p><p>Documents with convenience.</p><p>_______________________________________________________________</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Connect with the podcast</strong></p><p>Website: <a href="http://www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com/">www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com</a></p><p>Podcast: <em>The Relocated South African</em> — available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms.</p><p>If Duncan's story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African considering a move to Australia—or anyone interested in what it really takes to build a successful life abroad.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>