Would you take a pay cut to move to Australia?: Netizen turns to public for career advice

A Singaporean has sought advice from the public regarding a major life decision. Claiming to have gotten an opportunity to work in Melbourne for two years, the individual asked Singaporeans if being two years behind in savings is worth the move and the experience of life outside of Singapore.

On Friday (Oct 28), an online user posted a big question on an online news forum. “Would you take a pay cut to move to Australia?” the heading read. “I’ve managed to get an internal company opportunity to move to Melbourne for work for two years. Based off Glassdoor, it looks like I’ll have to take a disposable income hit after accounting for taxes and what not.”

The individual then explained why they feel torn over the opportunity, having to weigh out the possible outcomes of taking it. “I really want this opportunity,” they said. “But it’ll be quite painful if I’m behind two years worth of savings if I decide to come back to Singapore– especially when I just passed up two job offers paying 25% more just for this opportunity.”

The individual then listed several pros of taking the opportunity, mentioning the quality of life. “I feel like I’ll be healthier and happier in Australia, and financially it’ll work out fine if I settle down there since housing and cars are cheaper anyway,” they said, before asking the public what they would do.

In response to the question, many online users encouraged the individual to take the opportunity, with many saying that the experience and growth would last a lifetime. “Take it as an investment and explore fast track career growth,” one wrote. “If that’s possible, then take the pay cut as an investment for future returns.”