Australia scores well in quality of life index

Australia has emerged as one of the top countries for quality of life in a new survey of places Britons like to emigrate to.

The country was third in the survey by NatWest, which based its findings on factors such as health and the cost of living.

Such issues were listed by respondents among the key reasons for them moving overseas, with 91 per cent of those who left Britain saying their quality of life is now better and 90 per cent saying they are better off.

More people made the move on their own initiative (53 per cent) than had to go for work reasons (47 per cent).

The head of NatWest International Personal Banking Dave Isley commented: "UK expats say they are living healthier lifestyles abroad, whilst also benefiting financially."

New South Wales is one state where those buying property in Australia may find good reasons to invest.

Stamp duty on new build homes was recently halved by the state government, saving an average of AUD11,245 (GBP5,500) on the cost of buying a home.