0:00:02 > 0:00:05If your heart's desire was to spend quality time
0:00:05 > 0:00:07with the people you love most,
0:00:07 > 0:00:10how far would you go to get what you want?
0:00:10 > 0:00:12For one family it could mean
0:00:12 > 0:00:15giving up everything they've worked hard for
0:00:15 > 0:00:19and moving to the other side of the world.
0:00:19 > 0:00:23Laura Evans is struggling to balance work with being a wife and mum.
0:00:23 > 0:00:24I think I've reached a point
0:00:24 > 0:00:27where I'm just totally burnt out by it all.
0:00:27 > 0:00:30She believes her family's future could be brighter in Australia.
0:00:30 > 0:00:32Being with my two boys is what it's all about.
0:00:32 > 0:00:35But when a trial week down under reveals the positive...
0:00:35 > 0:00:38Oh, my gosh, this looks beautiful.
0:00:38 > 0:00:41- This is very us. - Yeah, I like the look of this.
0:00:41 > 0:00:45..and negative aspects about moving to the other side of the world...
0:00:45 > 0:00:47It just affects everything, don't it?
0:00:47 > 0:00:50Of course, it's going to have a massive impact on things.
0:00:50 > 0:00:54..can Laura convince husband Andrew to buy into the life she longs for,
0:00:54 > 0:00:56or will the reality crush her dreams?
0:00:56 > 0:01:00I don't think I've ever been more confused about anything.
0:01:00 > 0:01:02It's kind of blown everything out of the water.
0:01:25 > 0:01:27Far away but familiar,
0:01:27 > 0:01:29Australia has long been the top destination
0:01:29 > 0:01:32for Brits seeking a better life abroad.
0:01:32 > 0:01:35With an average temperature of 22 degrees Celsius
0:01:35 > 0:01:39and over 30,000 miles of coastline to enjoy the sunshine,
0:01:39 > 0:01:41it's easy to understand why.
0:01:41 > 0:01:45But for many, it's not the one-way trip they intended,
0:01:45 > 0:01:47and almost half return home to the UK.
0:01:49 > 0:01:53Juggling a successful business with being a wife and mum,
0:01:53 > 0:01:57Laura Evans is desperate for more time with her family
0:01:57 > 0:02:00and thinks the solution may lie in Australia,
0:02:00 > 0:02:04the country her husband once pushed for them to move to.
0:02:04 > 0:02:07But with Andrew now settled in Wales,
0:02:07 > 0:02:10before they give up everything they've worked so hard for,
0:02:10 > 0:02:12the couple need to find out
0:02:12 > 0:02:17if moving nearly 9,000 miles from home is a realistic option.
0:02:17 > 0:02:22So will a trial week down under fuel the Australian dream for both
0:02:22 > 0:02:26or put Laura and Andrew back where they started?
0:02:26 > 0:02:29Flying from Heathrow via Singapore to Perth,
0:02:29 > 0:02:34the Evans' trip down under begins with more than 18 hours in the air.
0:02:37 > 0:02:41As the family touch down in Australia, spirits are high.
0:02:41 > 0:02:44The flight was long, but we coped pretty well.
0:02:44 > 0:02:47We had a bit of rest and we're feeling pretty good.
0:02:49 > 0:02:52Laura's full of anticipation for the week ahead.
0:02:52 > 0:02:54Finally being in Australia is an amazing feeling,
0:02:54 > 0:02:56especially as I haven't been here before.
0:02:56 > 0:02:58I can't wait to see what it has to offer us
0:02:58 > 0:03:00as individuals and as a family.
0:03:00 > 0:03:05But both Laura and Andrew know it'll be far from being a holiday.
0:03:05 > 0:03:10This week is all about me finding out whether I can get the right job,
0:03:10 > 0:03:12that we can afford the right house,
0:03:12 > 0:03:15and most importantly, I guess,
0:03:15 > 0:03:20is ensuring that we feel this is the best place we can bring Brody up.
0:03:22 > 0:03:23We both need to love it.
0:03:23 > 0:03:25So if one of us does and one of us doesn't,
0:03:25 > 0:03:27then I think the dream will be over.
0:03:27 > 0:03:30The next seven days will show the family
0:03:30 > 0:03:34if a life down under really can offer the extra time together
0:03:34 > 0:03:35they're desperate for.
0:03:37 > 0:03:39The Evans are from Cwmbran in Wales.
0:03:39 > 0:03:41They are mum Laura,
0:03:41 > 0:03:45dad Andrew and Brody, who's almost two years old.
0:03:45 > 0:03:48The trio love nothing more than spending time as a family.
0:03:48 > 0:03:49Do you want some leaf?
0:03:51 > 0:03:54But since opening her own bridal business last year,
0:03:54 > 0:03:57Laura's ideal job leaves little time for play.
0:03:57 > 0:04:01I absolutely love helping brides find their dream dress.
0:04:01 > 0:04:04That part is every girl's dream job,
0:04:04 > 0:04:07but the behind the scenes,
0:04:07 > 0:04:09the long hours, paperwork,
0:04:09 > 0:04:11it is tough.
0:04:11 > 0:04:14As a result, time with Andrew and Brody
0:04:14 > 0:04:16has become a thing of the past.
0:04:16 > 0:04:19It's stressful. It's hard. It's...
0:04:19 > 0:04:22I think it's straining Andrew and I.
0:04:22 > 0:04:25Brody and I have only each other,
0:04:25 > 0:04:29currently, over the course of the Saturday and Sunday.
0:04:30 > 0:04:33We love spending the time with each other,
0:04:33 > 0:04:38but, I guess, working, you know, a long Monday to Friday week myself,
0:04:38 > 0:04:40it's taking its toll.
0:04:40 > 0:04:42- What's this one?- Trac-ta. - Tractor, good boy.
0:04:42 > 0:04:46Brody is happiest when he's with Mummy and Daddy together.
0:04:46 > 0:04:51Not having that time with Brody that I want, it's very hard.
0:04:51 > 0:04:52Mmm.
0:04:52 > 0:04:53Sorry.
0:04:55 > 0:04:57He's always asking for Mummy.
0:04:57 > 0:05:01It's hard because, obviously, he's not at an age at the moment
0:05:01 > 0:05:04where he understands how hard Laura is working for us
0:05:04 > 0:05:06to make our lives better.
0:05:06 > 0:05:10It's an unhappy situation for everyone and Laura's had enough.
0:05:10 > 0:05:14'I think I've reached a point where I'm just totally burnt out by it all.'
0:05:14 > 0:05:17Andrew wants to spend time with his wife and Brodie wants his mummy,
0:05:17 > 0:05:19which I want to be with him, completely,
0:05:19 > 0:05:23but it's just proving impossible to do both.
0:05:23 > 0:05:25Desperate to turn things around,
0:05:25 > 0:05:28she thinks their future could be better in Australia,
0:05:28 > 0:05:30a country they first talked about emigrating to
0:05:30 > 0:05:32when they met ten years ago.
0:05:33 > 0:05:35Although Laura's never been,
0:05:35 > 0:05:38Andrew's trip there as a student left a lasting impression.
0:05:39 > 0:05:43'I fell in love with the country as soon as I arrived in Australia.'
0:05:43 > 0:05:47I loved the laid-back culture, the outdoor living.
0:05:47 > 0:05:51He told me a lot about it when we first met and I think, a little bit,
0:05:51 > 0:05:52I fell in love with his dream.
0:05:53 > 0:05:57While their vision of life in the sun never became a reality, now,
0:05:57 > 0:06:01a decade later, it's Laura who's sold on what Australia could offer.
0:06:01 > 0:06:04'More time with my family, warmer climate...'
0:06:05 > 0:06:07..better salary for Andrew.
0:06:07 > 0:06:10I could maybe just work part-time hours
0:06:10 > 0:06:12and be a mummy again to Brodie.
0:06:12 > 0:06:15While that also sounds good to Andrew,
0:06:15 > 0:06:19he's cautious about giving up their life in the UK.
0:06:19 > 0:06:23'We have a lot to lose by moving to the other side of the world.'
0:06:23 > 0:06:26There are a lot of factors and variables that we need
0:06:26 > 0:06:30reassurances on before we commit to any big decision to move.
0:06:33 > 0:06:35In addition to practical concerns,
0:06:35 > 0:06:39he worries about taking Brodie away from grandparents.
0:06:39 > 0:06:41He has become such a huge part of their lives,
0:06:41 > 0:06:44he's the first grandchild on both sides.
0:06:44 > 0:06:47MANY: Hip hip hooray! Hip hip hooray!
0:06:47 > 0:06:50We're doing it to try and better his outlook on life
0:06:50 > 0:06:53and I hope, in a way, that they understand that.
0:06:58 > 0:07:02They will respect any decision that we make,
0:07:02 > 0:07:05but I know deep down they'd be absolutely devastated
0:07:05 > 0:07:08if we decided to go to Australia.
0:07:08 > 0:07:13As an only child, Laura admits leaving her mum would be a huge wrench.
0:07:13 > 0:07:18She's my best friend and the thought of saying goodbye is...is awful.
0:07:19 > 0:07:21Sorry.
0:07:24 > 0:07:27I'm not quite sure whether Laura has really...
0:07:29 > 0:07:32..come to terms with how difficult a task that might be.
0:07:34 > 0:07:39A huge concern for me would be Laura potentially changing her mind
0:07:39 > 0:07:41once we make that move.
0:07:42 > 0:07:46'I think if there came a point where I found she was struggling and...'
0:07:47 > 0:07:53..was heartbroken without us here, I think that would change everything.
0:07:53 > 0:07:59Ultimately, though, Laura wants the chance to spend more quality time with her husband and son.
0:07:59 > 0:08:01Whether that will be in Australia
0:08:01 > 0:08:04should become clear during their seven days down under.
0:08:05 > 0:08:10It's make or break time and I think whatever decision it is that we make
0:08:10 > 0:08:12at the end of our week in Australia,
0:08:12 > 0:08:16we need to be 100% committed to that decision and then...
0:08:18 > 0:08:20..don't look back.
0:08:20 > 0:08:23It's going to be a really difficult week for us and I think,
0:08:23 > 0:08:30at the end of it, I'd be bitterly disappointed if it didn't turn out the way we hoped it would.
0:08:39 > 0:08:43For their trial week, the Evanses are staying in Secret Harbour,
0:08:43 > 0:08:46a coastal suburb less than an hour's drive south of central Perth.
0:08:46 > 0:08:49Their temporary base is this four-bedroom house
0:08:49 > 0:08:51just a stone's throw from the beach.
0:08:51 > 0:08:54It's the first taste of the life they could have
0:08:54 > 0:08:56and Laura's already impressed.
0:08:56 > 0:08:58Brodie, do you like the house?
0:09:00 > 0:09:02Wow.
0:09:02 > 0:09:03Really excited.
0:09:03 > 0:09:07- Yeah.- Are we going to go and see the house inside?
0:09:07 > 0:09:10Yeah? Let's go.
0:09:10 > 0:09:11"Well, come on then, Mummy."
0:09:14 > 0:09:16- Look at this.- Wow!
0:09:16 > 0:09:18Initial reactions are good.
0:09:18 > 0:09:21- It's open plan, it's amazing. - I can't get over the size.
0:09:21 > 0:09:24I know. It's huge, and the decor's lovely.
0:09:24 > 0:09:28- This kitchen.- Massive. - It's perfect.
0:09:28 > 0:09:30That's Laura sold.
0:09:30 > 0:09:32And the outside area has got Andrew excited too.
0:09:32 > 0:09:34This is amazing.
0:09:36 > 0:09:39- This is Daddy's cooking area. - Look.- Wow, look at that.
0:09:39 > 0:09:41Look at that pool.
0:09:41 > 0:09:47This outdoor space is the reason why we want to move to Australia, isn't it?
0:09:47 > 0:09:49This is absolutely beautiful.
0:09:50 > 0:09:54As the family settle in, though, thoughts soon turn to home.
0:09:54 > 0:09:57Being here, I think, makes you realise how far away it is
0:09:57 > 0:10:01and all I've thought about since we got here is Mum.
0:10:01 > 0:10:02What's worrying me still
0:10:02 > 0:10:06is what the job opportunities are going to be like for me,
0:10:06 > 0:10:09whether we could afford to buy a house like this.
0:10:09 > 0:10:11Fingers crossed for the best.
0:10:15 > 0:10:19Back in the UK, home for the Evanses is a four-bedroom detached house
0:10:19 > 0:10:22in a quiet cul-de-sac in Cwmbran in South Wales.
0:10:22 > 0:10:26We're both very happy here, we live in a lovely neighbourhood -
0:10:26 > 0:10:27very, very quiet, very safe.
0:10:27 > 0:10:30We've done a lot of work on the house since we've moved in.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33If they decide to give up the home they love,
0:10:33 > 0:10:35their budget for a house down under is £300,000
0:10:35 > 0:10:38and Laura knows just what she wants.
0:10:38 > 0:10:41Ideally it would be a four-bed because, hopefully,
0:10:41 > 0:10:45one day in the future we would like to expand our family.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47Somewhere quite modern. I'm not a fan of...
0:10:48 > 0:10:52..dated and properties you have to do a lot of work to.
0:10:53 > 0:10:54We have a lovely garden,
0:10:54 > 0:10:57nice and green with plenty of space for the baby to run.
0:10:57 > 0:11:01But in Australia, I'd like a garden with a big pool,
0:11:01 > 0:11:04outdoor living space where we can light the barbecue
0:11:04 > 0:11:05and we'd like the sun.
0:11:07 > 0:11:09To find out what their money could potentially buy them
0:11:09 > 0:11:13on the Perth property market, we're showing them three houses -
0:11:13 > 0:11:17two close to budget and one which could be the dream home.
0:11:17 > 0:11:20While Brodie is looked after by a childminder,
0:11:20 > 0:11:21Mum and Dad begin the search.
0:11:21 > 0:11:24First stop is the suburb of Safety Bay,
0:11:24 > 0:11:2630 miles south of Perth's centre.
0:11:26 > 0:11:30This four-bedroom property could be perfectly situated for the Evanses,
0:11:30 > 0:11:34but will they agree on it being the ideal Aussie home?
0:11:35 > 0:11:39- Excited?- Nervous, I think. - Go and have a look?- Yep.
0:11:40 > 0:11:42Wow.
0:11:42 > 0:11:45- I quite like this. - No TV in here though.
0:11:45 > 0:11:48- Maybe they just talk instead.- Yeah.
0:11:50 > 0:11:52The master bedroom's just off the main hallway.
0:11:52 > 0:11:55- Well, this is lovely. - Yeah, it's a good size.
0:11:57 > 0:12:01It's just strange having your bedroom at the front of the house.
0:12:01 > 0:12:04You might have to get used to that, Laura.
0:12:04 > 0:12:06The en suite gets the thumbs up.
0:12:06 > 0:12:10- Nice double shower. - Feels really spacious.
0:12:10 > 0:12:12- Yeah, nice and light as well. - Yeah, it's very bright.
0:12:12 > 0:12:16Sounds promising, but things look different in the kitchen.
0:12:16 > 0:12:17OK.
0:12:18 > 0:12:20It's a little bit dark, I think.
0:12:20 > 0:12:23It's quite dated, isn't it?
0:12:23 > 0:12:27- It is a bit dated. This isn't blowing me away.- No.
0:12:27 > 0:12:31Mixed reactions so far but spotting a cosy family room
0:12:31 > 0:12:32soon lifts their spirits.
0:12:32 > 0:12:37- Oh, wow.- Oh, this is nice.- This is definitely your type of room.
0:12:37 > 0:12:40- Yeah.- That log burner is incredible.
0:12:40 > 0:12:43Andrew's taken by another feature.
0:12:43 > 0:12:46- What about the bar?- Yeah. - Could see us making cocktails here.
0:12:46 > 0:12:49- This is a room that we could entertain in.- Yeah.- I like this.
0:12:50 > 0:12:53The upbeat note carries through to the garden.
0:12:53 > 0:12:56- This is amazing. - Yeah, I'm impressed.
0:12:56 > 0:13:00- Do you think this is worth moving for?- This is what I had pictured.
0:13:00 > 0:13:03This is what I would want to move to the other side of the world.
0:13:03 > 0:13:07- As long as we can afford it. - Yeah.
0:13:07 > 0:13:10Despite some disappointing features indoors,
0:13:10 > 0:13:14this property's outside living space has wowed the couple.
0:13:14 > 0:13:18But will it be within reach of their £300,000 budget?
0:13:18 > 0:13:20I think it could be a little bit over.
0:13:20 > 0:13:22Yeah, four bedrooms plus the pool.
0:13:22 > 0:13:25I think we're looking...
0:13:25 > 0:13:28at £325,000.
0:13:28 > 0:13:31- I think about £310,000.- OK.
0:13:31 > 0:13:33- Shall we find out?- Go on.
0:13:39 > 0:13:41- Ready?- Yep.
0:13:43 > 0:13:47Wow. £284,000.
0:13:48 > 0:13:52That's £16,000 below budget.
0:13:52 > 0:13:56- I'm shocked.- That's a fantastic price for this house.
0:13:56 > 0:13:58I think it's well worth it.
0:13:58 > 0:14:00With house-hunting off to a hopeful start,
0:14:00 > 0:14:03it's time to move on to the second property.
0:14:03 > 0:14:05It's in Baldivis.
0:14:05 > 0:14:0626 miles south of Perth,
0:14:06 > 0:14:09it's an affordable suburb for growing families.
0:14:10 > 0:14:13Will this contemporary four-bedroom home
0:14:13 > 0:14:15keep things moving on the right track?
0:14:17 > 0:14:21Oh, my gosh, this looks beautiful. This is very us.
0:14:21 > 0:14:23Yeah, I like the look of this.
0:14:23 > 0:14:26Sounds good so far.
0:14:26 > 0:14:27Nice double doors.
0:14:29 > 0:14:30Lovely entrance hall.
0:14:30 > 0:14:34- This looks nice.- Oh, my goodness.
0:14:34 > 0:14:36This is huge.
0:14:37 > 0:14:40The modern interior design gets a big thumbs up.
0:14:42 > 0:14:45This is a beautiful living space.
0:14:45 > 0:14:47Yeah, I love it. Just worried about the cost.
0:14:47 > 0:14:50- I know.- Let's go see the bedrooms.
0:14:52 > 0:14:54Wow.
0:14:54 > 0:14:56The master bedroom's a hit.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59I like the decor, I like the bright lights.
0:14:59 > 0:15:01And the spacious en suite impresses too.
0:15:01 > 0:15:04- It's a lovely size. - It's so different being open plan.
0:15:04 > 0:15:07- Yeah.- Quite quirky.- Yeah. - And they've got double sinks.
0:15:07 > 0:15:09Double sinks, his and hers.
0:15:09 > 0:15:12- Yeah.- Nice sized shower as well, double shower.
0:15:14 > 0:15:17Four big bedrooms means plenty of room for everyone.
0:15:17 > 0:15:20Great room for Brodie. He'd love it back here.
0:15:20 > 0:15:25- Yeah.- Especially being able to look out into the garden.- Yeah.
0:15:25 > 0:15:28A home cinema tickles Andrew's fancy.
0:15:28 > 0:15:32- Wow.- This is lovely. - Yeah, this is really quirky.
0:15:32 > 0:15:35Very chic. I like this a lot.
0:15:35 > 0:15:38Outside, things just get better and better.
0:15:38 > 0:15:41This is lovely.
0:15:41 > 0:15:44This is what I was after with outdoor living space.
0:15:44 > 0:15:46And the pool's the icing on the cake.
0:15:46 > 0:15:49- It's beautiful. - This pool is amazing.
0:15:49 > 0:15:51This is what it's about for us, isn't it?
0:15:51 > 0:15:54- Yeah. I can see us spending hours out here every evening.- Yeah.
0:15:54 > 0:15:56- It's our dream, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:15:56 > 0:16:00This home's everything Laura and Andrew could have hoped for,
0:16:00 > 0:16:03but will it be within reach of their £300,000 budget?
0:16:05 > 0:16:07I think we'd be looking at...
0:16:08 > 0:16:10..£325,000.
0:16:10 > 0:16:15I think it's going to be around the £300,000 mark.
0:16:16 > 0:16:18- Are you ready?- Yep.
0:16:23 > 0:16:27- Wow. I was right, as always. - You are right, bang on.
0:16:27 > 0:16:29It's bang on budget.
0:16:29 > 0:16:34- I'm thrilled at that.- And me. - To think that a house like this is in our budget is...
0:16:35 > 0:16:38- ..I'm amazed.- Can we buy it now? - Let's do it.
0:16:38 > 0:16:42Hold on, Laura, there's till one more house to go.
0:16:43 > 0:16:46The final stop is Secret Harbour.
0:16:46 > 0:16:49The couple may think they've already found their dream property,
0:16:49 > 0:16:53but will this spacious four-bedroom family home make them reconsider?
0:16:53 > 0:16:57- Gorgeous.- Looks posh.- Looks very grand.- It does, doesn't it?
0:16:57 > 0:17:00The front door opens onto a huge entrance hall.
0:17:00 > 0:17:04- This is lovely.- This is nice, isn't it? Spacious again.
0:17:04 > 0:17:08Once again, the master bedroom's just off the hallway
0:17:08 > 0:17:11but this time Laura doesn't seem bothered.
0:17:11 > 0:17:14- Oh, look at this bedroom. - Wow.- Wow.
0:17:14 > 0:17:17That is a big master bedroom.
0:17:18 > 0:17:23- It's pretty special. - Wait till you see the en suite.
0:17:23 > 0:17:25Wow.
0:17:25 > 0:17:28It's five times bigger than our en suite bathroom at home.
0:17:28 > 0:17:32- And the rest.- It's on another level to anything that we've seen before.
0:17:32 > 0:17:35- This is just ridiculously big. - Massive.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38The open plan living space also blows them away.
0:17:38 > 0:17:40- Wow.- Wow.
0:17:41 > 0:17:45- This is huge.- This is a big space.
0:17:45 > 0:17:47Bit overwhelming really, isn't it?
0:17:47 > 0:17:52It's... It's probably the size of our house in one room.
0:17:52 > 0:17:54Space definitely isn't an issue.
0:17:54 > 0:17:57This kitchen is the dream kitchen. It is incredible.
0:17:57 > 0:18:01- I'm a bit speechless really because it's just so big.- Yeah, no...
0:18:01 > 0:18:03The outdoors is equally impressive.
0:18:03 > 0:18:07With a fantastic pool and large al fresco entertaining area,
0:18:07 > 0:18:10it should be just what Andrew's hoping for.
0:18:10 > 0:18:14- This is lovely. - But Laura's had a change of heart.
0:18:14 > 0:18:17- I don't like it.- No?- No.- Why?
0:18:17 > 0:18:21- I never thought I'd say that but I think it's just too big.- Too big.
0:18:21 > 0:18:23I just feel that I think the move
0:18:23 > 0:18:25is going to be a massive thing if we do decide,
0:18:25 > 0:18:29it's going to be very lonely and I feel a house this big
0:18:29 > 0:18:33- would maybe make us feel even more lonely.- I can understand that.
0:18:33 > 0:18:35Although it has impressed,
0:18:35 > 0:18:39Laura's put off by this property's huge proportions.
0:18:39 > 0:18:41With £300,000 to spend,
0:18:41 > 0:18:45could the price also be too big for their budget?
0:18:45 > 0:18:47Given the size of the house and its location,
0:18:47 > 0:18:53I think probably somewhere in the region of £400,000-£425,000.
0:18:53 > 0:18:55Because of the size and the location
0:18:55 > 0:18:57I think it's going to be right up there.
0:18:57 > 0:19:00- Shall we take a look?- Let's do it.
0:19:09 > 0:19:11- Wow.- OK.
0:19:11 > 0:19:13£385,000.
0:19:14 > 0:19:17It may be £85,000 over budget
0:19:17 > 0:19:20but it's a lot less than they were expecting.
0:19:20 > 0:19:22That is a shock.
0:19:22 > 0:19:27Yeah. Yeah, I didn't think for a minute it would be under 400,000.
0:19:27 > 0:19:30- No.- I mean, it's still... It's way over our budget.
0:19:30 > 0:19:32Something this big,
0:19:32 > 0:19:35- we would never be able to afford this at home.- I know.
0:19:35 > 0:19:40Overall, it's been a positive day on the property hunt in Perth.
0:19:40 > 0:19:45House number one's gloomy kitchen may have got things off to a shaky start
0:19:45 > 0:19:49but the outside area was a winner and at £16,000 under budget,
0:19:49 > 0:19:52there'll be plenty of dosh left for DIY.
0:19:52 > 0:19:56With its modern interiors and perfect outdoor patch,
0:19:56 > 0:19:58property two was the dream home
0:19:58 > 0:20:01and could see Andrew swayed to life down under.
0:20:01 > 0:20:06House number three was a real show stopper and although Laura felt
0:20:06 > 0:20:08it might be too much for their needs just now,
0:20:08 > 0:20:12the price meant it could be something to aspire to in the future.
0:20:13 > 0:20:17So will the couple choose homes in Australia over those in the UK?
0:20:17 > 0:20:21Based on the three properties we've seen today, our vote goes to...
0:20:33 > 0:20:35Australia.
0:20:35 > 0:20:38The properties that we've viewed tick all the boxes
0:20:38 > 0:20:40and they're within our budget.
0:20:40 > 0:20:42Meant that it was a no-brainer for me, really.
0:20:42 > 0:20:44We want it to be a joint decision.
0:20:44 > 0:20:49- I want you to fall in love with the idea of moving here as much as I have, so...- I know.
0:20:49 > 0:20:52I'm so excited that you've chosen it and we're on the same...
0:20:53 > 0:20:55- ..path.- Yeah.
0:20:59 > 0:21:02A joint vote for Australia is a first step in the direction
0:21:02 > 0:21:06for Laura's dream of more family time down under.
0:21:06 > 0:21:09But Andrew still needs to be convinced he'll find work
0:21:09 > 0:21:14before committing to relocating to the other side of the world.
0:21:14 > 0:21:16Back in the UK, he's a senior accountant
0:21:16 > 0:21:19in the education department of the local council.
0:21:19 > 0:21:23I've had to work extremely hard to get to the position I'm in now.
0:21:23 > 0:21:27It's a big part of my life, so in order to make the move a reality,
0:21:27 > 0:21:30I'd need to be 100% certain I could find a role
0:21:30 > 0:21:31that I would be well suited to
0:21:31 > 0:21:34and that would enable me to provide for the family.
0:21:36 > 0:21:38Laura's pinning her hopes on working less hours
0:21:38 > 0:21:41and spending more time with Brodie down under.
0:21:41 > 0:21:44But selling up in the UK won't be easy.
0:21:44 > 0:21:46The thought of giving up my business
0:21:46 > 0:21:49to work for somebody else in Australia is heart-wrenching,
0:21:49 > 0:21:53so it has to be a really good position which I could see a future
0:21:53 > 0:21:55and be able to climb the career ladder within that.
0:21:55 > 0:21:59As the couple set out to explore work prospects in Perth,
0:21:59 > 0:22:01Laura's desire for a part-time role
0:22:01 > 0:22:04puts even more pressure on Andrew to earn a decent salary.
0:22:04 > 0:22:07It's really important that I get good news today
0:22:07 > 0:22:11in order to keep the dream alive as without that, I guess,
0:22:11 > 0:22:15we have no chance at all of making that move to Australia.
0:22:15 > 0:22:17So it really is make or break.
0:22:17 > 0:22:20We've arrange for Andrew to meet with Brett Roach,
0:22:20 > 0:22:25acting chief financial officer at the Department for Education Accountancy in Western Australia.
0:22:25 > 0:22:27- Hi, I'm Andrew.- Hi, I'm Brett.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29After a quick tour of the building,
0:22:29 > 0:22:31Brett's got some reassuring words for Andrew.
0:22:31 > 0:22:33So the things we do here, Andrew,
0:22:33 > 0:22:36are probably quite similar to the work that you do.
0:22:36 > 0:22:39All the usual finance functions that you'd be used to back home.
0:22:39 > 0:22:43- That's encouraging to hear. - It's a positive start.
0:22:43 > 0:22:47Meanwhile, Laura's visiting one of Perth's top bridal shops,
0:22:47 > 0:22:50where she's met by owner Wynne.
0:22:50 > 0:22:51- Hi, I'm Sam.- Hi. I'm Laura. - Nice to meet you.
0:22:51 > 0:22:53- I'm in a fitting. Come on in. - Thank you.
0:22:55 > 0:22:58Laura gets stuck in straightaway.
0:22:58 > 0:22:59Yes.
0:23:01 > 0:23:03She's already at ease here.
0:23:07 > 0:23:09Feels like I'm back at home in my comfort zone.
0:23:09 > 0:23:12- Yes.- It's quite nice to see somebody else take the lead.
0:23:12 > 0:23:14I think how you work is how we work
0:23:14 > 0:23:17and I think it works really, really good.
0:23:17 > 0:23:20Back across town, Brett's giving Andrew the lowdown
0:23:20 > 0:23:25on the kind of jobs he could be eligible for within the department.
0:23:25 > 0:23:26There are positions in schools,
0:23:26 > 0:23:28- looking after school finances and budgets.- OK.
0:23:28 > 0:23:32Or in central office, training school staff
0:23:32 > 0:23:35or the overall coordination of the department's finances.
0:23:35 > 0:23:38Is that something that I could potentially move into
0:23:38 > 0:23:39if we decided to move to Perth?
0:23:39 > 0:23:41Based on your skills and experience,
0:23:41 > 0:23:44I think you'd be a perfect candidate for a role
0:23:44 > 0:23:48- like a senior finance consultant or a senior budget analyst.- OK.
0:23:48 > 0:23:49Very encouraging.
0:23:50 > 0:23:54Back at the bridal shop, Laura's talking work-life balance.
0:23:54 > 0:23:57I'm a mum as well. I've gone through that whole process
0:23:57 > 0:23:59of trying to juggle work and family life.
0:23:59 > 0:24:00So we tend to sit down with each employee
0:24:00 > 0:24:04and just work out what best suits both parties,
0:24:04 > 0:24:06so that you enjoy coming to work.
0:24:06 > 0:24:08Just what Laura needed to hear.
0:24:08 > 0:24:11So what are her chances of finding work locally?
0:24:11 > 0:24:15It is a word-of-mouth scenario, so if you're good at what you do,
0:24:15 > 0:24:18a boutique, with your experience too,
0:24:18 > 0:24:21would be mad not to find a position available.
0:24:21 > 0:24:22What salary could I expect
0:24:22 > 0:24:26working in a boutique in the bridal industry such as yours?
0:24:26 > 0:24:29You'd be looking at a minimum of £34,000 a year.
0:24:29 > 0:24:34If you came in full-time, 40 hours a week, as a sales manager,
0:24:34 > 0:24:37that would be a minimum of £45,000
0:24:37 > 0:24:39plus you would find, in a managerial position,
0:24:39 > 0:24:41you would also receive commissions.
0:24:41 > 0:24:44That's a lot more than Laura currently earns in the UK.
0:24:44 > 0:24:48- Amazing. That's really good to know. Thank you, Sam.- You're very welcome.
0:24:48 > 0:24:51And with the option of less hours, it looks like a win-win.
0:24:51 > 0:24:54Today has definitely been overall good news.
0:24:54 > 0:24:57Really, really could see myself working here.
0:24:57 > 0:25:00Back at the office, Andrew's got just one more question for Brett.
0:25:00 > 0:25:04The role that you described sounds really attractive to me,
0:25:04 > 0:25:06so I guess the big question is
0:25:06 > 0:25:09what sort of salary would that kind of role attract?
0:25:09 > 0:25:14- A range of between £50,000 and £65,000 per annum.- OK.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17So you would probably start at the bottom of that range,
0:25:17 > 0:25:21then with several years of experience you could move towards the top of the range.
0:25:21 > 0:25:23That's really encouraging.
0:25:23 > 0:25:27That is substantially more than I earn currently in the UK,
0:25:27 > 0:25:28so that's a big plus.
0:25:28 > 0:25:31Thank you for all your help and advice today. Cheers, Brett.
0:25:31 > 0:25:32- Thank you.- A pleasure, Andrew.
0:25:32 > 0:25:35With encouraging news on the work front for both,
0:25:35 > 0:25:39could Laura's vision of a better life down under
0:25:39 > 0:25:41be one step closer to reality?
0:25:41 > 0:25:44Based on our job interviews today, our vote goes to...
0:25:53 > 0:25:55BOTH: Australia!
0:25:55 > 0:25:57Yay!
0:25:59 > 0:26:01The fact that for a comparable role
0:26:01 > 0:26:04to what I'm already doing at home in the UK I could earn so much more,
0:26:04 > 0:26:06it was a no-brainer for me.
0:26:06 > 0:26:10You choosing Australia has meant more to me than how my day went
0:26:10 > 0:26:12because I know how hard you've worked and trained
0:26:12 > 0:26:16for the job you do now, so as long as you're happy, I'm happy.
0:26:16 > 0:26:18Yeah. I'm really pleased.
0:26:26 > 0:26:31The week is proving very insightful for Andrew and Laura.
0:26:31 > 0:26:34Desperate for more time together as a family,
0:26:34 > 0:26:38hopefully a day sampling the lifestyle Australia offers
0:26:38 > 0:26:42will give them a further glimpse of what life could be like down under.
0:26:44 > 0:26:47Making the most of rare time together,
0:26:47 > 0:26:50the family are visiting one of Perth's aquariums
0:26:50 > 0:26:53and it looks like Brodie just can't wait.
0:26:55 > 0:26:57- Wow!- BOTH: Wow!
0:26:57 > 0:26:59Yay!
0:26:59 > 0:27:01Interesting hat, Andrew!
0:27:04 > 0:27:06Look at the turtle.
0:27:06 > 0:27:08Go give him a kiss.
0:27:08 > 0:27:11Go give him a kiss, Brodie.
0:27:11 > 0:27:13BOTH: Aw!
0:27:17 > 0:27:20Next up, it's Dad's turn to have some fun.
0:27:20 > 0:27:23As Andrew prepares to come face-to-fin with the sharks,
0:27:23 > 0:27:26Laura and Brodie watch on in amazement.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29- Daddy.- Daddy!
0:27:31 > 0:27:33Wow.
0:27:36 > 0:27:39Days out like this are few and far between back home
0:27:39 > 0:27:41and it's gone down well with the whole family.
0:27:41 > 0:27:45- What did you think? - HE BABBLES
0:27:45 > 0:27:49I think that's Brodie-speak for, "Great day, Mum."
0:27:52 > 0:27:54But for Laura, the day has also been a reminder
0:27:54 > 0:27:58of how little time she has with Andrew and Brodie back home.
0:27:58 > 0:28:02It's been so nice to be together as a family.
0:28:02 > 0:28:06- Yeah.- I think it's made me realise how much I've missed you both.
0:28:06 > 0:28:09- I know.- And I miss being a part of him.- Yeah.
0:28:10 > 0:28:13Don't be silly. OK?
0:28:13 > 0:28:17It's strengthened her resolve to move the family to Australia.
0:28:17 > 0:28:22I think it's put into perspective how our lives need to change
0:28:22 > 0:28:26and how I need to make a difference in my life and I need to do it now.
0:28:28 > 0:28:31But the afternoon's also given the couple a painful reminder.
0:28:31 > 0:28:34Days like this will mean leaving loved ones at home.
0:28:35 > 0:28:38It makes me feel that maybe we're being selfish.
0:28:43 > 0:28:47It's going to be really tough in order to make that decision
0:28:47 > 0:28:52based on the fact that we are leaving so many close people behind in the UK.
0:28:52 > 0:28:54I just hope they know how much we love them
0:28:54 > 0:28:57and that we'll always be a part of each other's lives
0:28:57 > 0:28:59no matter where we are, I suppose.
0:28:59 > 0:29:02- Thank you.- Cheers.- Cheers. - Thank you.
0:29:03 > 0:29:07The day's provided Laura and Andrew with plenty of food for thought.
0:29:07 > 0:29:09But based on lifestyle alone,
0:29:09 > 0:29:13has it paved the way for a unanimous vote for Australia?
0:29:13 > 0:29:16Based on our day out today, our vote goes to...
0:29:28 > 0:29:29BOTH: Australia.
0:29:31 > 0:29:33That was an easy decision today, I think, really.
0:29:33 > 0:29:37For me, there's nothing more important than having the three of us together as a family.
0:29:37 > 0:29:39I just loved every minute of it.
0:29:39 > 0:29:41Being with my two boys is what it's all about
0:29:41 > 0:29:45and you voting Australia again is an amazing feeling.
0:29:54 > 0:29:58A reminder of the lifestyle he first glimpsed over ten years ago
0:29:58 > 0:30:01has secured another vote for Oz from Andrew.
0:30:01 > 0:30:05And it looks like Laura's dream could be inching closer.
0:30:05 > 0:30:10But for the move to be feasible, the family finances will have to add up.
0:30:10 > 0:30:13A large part of that would be the value of their UK property,
0:30:13 > 0:30:17which they think is worth around £260,000.
0:30:17 > 0:30:20While Brodie's looked after by a childminder,
0:30:20 > 0:30:23the couple find out if two local estate agents agree.
0:30:23 > 0:30:27- OK.- Yeah.- Let's have a look at these valuations.- Yeah.
0:30:33 > 0:30:36- Look at the weather.- Yeah. Raining.
0:30:38 > 0:30:40Nice bright entrance hall.
0:30:40 > 0:30:45Tile flooring that leads into the downstairs toilet.
0:30:45 > 0:30:46Very nice.
0:30:49 > 0:30:53Nice spacious lounge, feature fireplace with slate-effect hearth.
0:30:53 > 0:30:58- Love the fireplace.- Double glazed window at the front and attractive wood-effect flooring. Very nice.
0:31:00 > 0:31:03- It's weird to think that's our house.- I know.
0:31:05 > 0:31:08This is a great kitchen. I really like what they've done with this space.
0:31:08 > 0:31:11They've obviously opened up through to the dining room,
0:31:11 > 0:31:14which really lends itself to being a great useful room for the family.
0:31:14 > 0:31:17We're going to miss that kitchen if we decide to come here!
0:31:22 > 0:31:24Oh, this is really lovely.
0:31:24 > 0:31:28I can see this room belongs to a little boy called Brodie
0:31:28 > 0:31:32and I think they've decorated it beautifully. It's really cute.
0:31:32 > 0:31:34He loves that room as well, doesn't he?
0:31:38 > 0:31:41Really nicely decorated master bedroom. Well furnished.
0:31:41 > 0:31:45You can tell these guys are quite glamorous from the decor.
0:31:46 > 0:31:50In today's market I would value the property at £245,000.
0:31:50 > 0:31:52If the owners wanted a cheaper quick sale,
0:31:52 > 0:31:55I'd market the property at £235,000.
0:31:55 > 0:32:00In today's market, I would value this property at £240,000.
0:32:00 > 0:32:05- No way.- For a quick sale, I would value this property at £230,000.
0:32:05 > 0:32:07Laura's devastated to realise
0:32:07 > 0:32:11the valuations are £15,000 lower than expected.
0:32:11 > 0:32:14Just affects everything, don't it?
0:32:14 > 0:32:18Of course, it's going to have a massive impact on things but...
0:32:18 > 0:32:20So much relies and rides on...
0:32:21 > 0:32:23- ..our house being sold.- Yeah.
0:32:23 > 0:32:27And it just feels like everything is stacking up against us now.
0:32:27 > 0:32:29Yeah.
0:32:29 > 0:32:31- It's one minor...- I know. - ..setback.
0:32:33 > 0:32:36Making the books balance is now key.
0:32:36 > 0:32:41We've prepared a comparison of the family's cost of living in the UK and Australia.
0:32:41 > 0:32:43First up is the weekly food shop.
0:32:43 > 0:32:48Potato waffles, only 85p at home in the UK. £2.93.
0:32:48 > 0:32:51Wow! £2.08 difference.
0:32:51 > 0:32:54Again, something we go through quite a lot of at the moment,
0:32:54 > 0:32:59a weekly amount of nappies cost in the UK is £4 per week.
0:32:59 > 0:33:01£9.47 a week in Australia.
0:33:01 > 0:33:04More than double.
0:33:04 > 0:33:07So far, it's a lot cheaper at home.
0:33:08 > 0:33:10Totting everything up,
0:33:10 > 0:33:13the couple discover the weekly shop down under doesn't come cheap.
0:33:13 > 0:33:18OK, so that would be more expensive here in Australia
0:33:18 > 0:33:20by £55.66 per week.
0:33:22 > 0:33:25- That's over £200 more a month. - That's a big difference.
0:33:26 > 0:33:29It's a huge hike.
0:33:29 > 0:33:32Basing their sums on the second property they saw and loved,
0:33:32 > 0:33:37the couple would also face a mortgage increase of more than £400 a month in Australia.
0:33:40 > 0:33:42While some outgoings would be cheaper,
0:33:42 > 0:33:46when the couple compare their total spends down under with the UK,
0:33:46 > 0:33:48it's not good news.
0:33:49 > 0:33:51£572 per month...
0:33:53 > 0:33:55..worse off here in Australia.
0:33:55 > 0:34:01- That's massive.- Yeah. - It is another mortgage to us.- Yeah.
0:34:01 > 0:34:07Overall, the couple would have to find an extra £7,000 per year to live in Australia.
0:34:07 > 0:34:10Laura's dream could be fading fast.
0:34:10 > 0:34:14But both Andrew and Laura could earn more in Australia.
0:34:14 > 0:34:17Building in the option of Laura working a three-day week,
0:34:17 > 0:34:22would they be better or worse off if they made the move down under?
0:34:22 > 0:34:26We would be £675 better off per month here in Australia.
0:34:28 > 0:34:29Well...
0:34:30 > 0:34:33- It's amazing news, isn't it? - Laura can't believe it.
0:34:33 > 0:34:37- I could be a mum again. - Yeah, of course you could. Yeah.
0:34:38 > 0:34:40It just means I can be...
0:34:41 > 0:34:43- ..be with Brodie.- Yeah.
0:34:43 > 0:34:46And we're still better off financially as well.
0:34:46 > 0:34:49- And that is what it's all about. - Yeah. And time together as a family, so...
0:34:49 > 0:34:52With such a positive result, are they both convinced?
0:34:52 > 0:34:55Based on our reality check today, our vote goes to...
0:35:05 > 0:35:07BOTH: Australia!
0:35:09 > 0:35:11Straightforward one for me, really.
0:35:11 > 0:35:14Yeah, it was the easiest decision I think I've made all week,
0:35:14 > 0:35:16you choosing that as well...
0:35:16 > 0:35:18I know it was a big moment for you.
0:35:18 > 0:35:22- Yeah.- I'm pleased we've both chosen the same.- Yeah, me too.
0:35:30 > 0:35:32With Andrew's fourth vote for Australia,
0:35:32 > 0:35:36it looks like Laura's dream could be within grasp.
0:35:36 > 0:35:41But moving across the world would mean breaking close bonds with loved ones and for Laura,
0:35:41 > 0:35:46the prospect of saying goodbye to her mum could prove too much to bear.
0:35:46 > 0:35:50We've prepared a DVD of messages from family and friends back in the UK.
0:35:50 > 0:35:54While Brodie takes a nap, the couple sit down to watch them.
0:35:54 > 0:35:55SIGHS
0:35:57 > 0:35:58- Hi, Laura, Andrew.- Hi, guys.
0:36:00 > 0:36:03- Hi, Andrew. Hi, Laura. - Hi. Andrew, Laura.
0:36:03 > 0:36:06Laura is my daughter. She's not only my daughter, she's my best friend.
0:36:06 > 0:36:11She's an amazing young woman and I'm immensely proud of her.
0:36:11 > 0:36:14Andrew's my brother. And we're really, really close.
0:36:14 > 0:36:17Laura is my best friend. We speak a lot on the phone.
0:36:17 > 0:36:20A lot on the phone and every day.
0:36:20 > 0:36:22I've known Andy for 20 years now. We are best mates.
0:36:22 > 0:36:24If he was to go to Australia,
0:36:24 > 0:36:26it would be a big loss for me in terms of a friend.
0:36:26 > 0:36:29They really... They bounce off each other,
0:36:29 > 0:36:33they love each other dearly and they definitely live for each other.
0:36:34 > 0:36:38As a family, they are a wonderful unit. They support each other.
0:36:38 > 0:36:41They have a great love for one another.
0:36:41 > 0:36:43They try to do the best for Brodie.
0:36:43 > 0:36:46They've got good friends.
0:36:46 > 0:36:48Brodie is a gorgeous little boy.
0:36:48 > 0:36:51He's a little whirlwind but a darling at the same time.
0:36:51 > 0:36:53Our Brodie, our prince.
0:36:55 > 0:36:57He's our world.
0:36:57 > 0:37:00He's brought so much love to us and he's completed us as a family.
0:37:02 > 0:37:04Sorry.
0:37:05 > 0:37:07Ah, come on.
0:37:07 > 0:37:10When we first heard that Andrew and Laura and Brodie might be moving
0:37:10 > 0:37:13to the other side of the world, it was a big shock to us.
0:37:14 > 0:37:16We are close friends with them,
0:37:16 > 0:37:18we do see them on a regular basis and we just realised
0:37:18 > 0:37:21that we wouldn't have that friendship any more.
0:37:23 > 0:37:27It did upset me because we are so close to each other,
0:37:27 > 0:37:30so I knew I'd not be able to see him,
0:37:30 > 0:37:33probably only see him once a year, maybe once every two years.
0:37:33 > 0:37:35So that's hard to try and sink in for me.
0:37:35 > 0:37:37As she is my only one...
0:37:38 > 0:37:42..it'd be a real wrench for me.
0:37:43 > 0:37:47A real heartbreaker, and she knows that.
0:37:47 > 0:37:49And especially now with Brodie as well.
0:37:51 > 0:37:54My heartbreak must not spoil their future.
0:37:55 > 0:37:58Because it is their future.
0:37:58 > 0:38:01And they go with my love and my blessing.
0:38:02 > 0:38:05Laura, she's been there for me since day one, so, you know,
0:38:05 > 0:38:08it is going to be tough. I am going to really miss her.
0:38:08 > 0:38:11My brother isn't just my brother, he's my best friend.
0:38:11 > 0:38:15It would be very upsetting as well, missing out on Brodie getting older.
0:38:15 > 0:38:17It will hurt not seeing them as often as we do,
0:38:17 > 0:38:21because we do have such an influence on each other's lives.
0:38:22 > 0:38:25It's quite upsetting to think that we might not see Brodie growing up,
0:38:25 > 0:38:27because we're his godparents.
0:38:29 > 0:38:32Look, you mustn't cry. She told you not to cry.
0:38:32 > 0:38:37I love him. He's my little man. He's everything to me.
0:38:37 > 0:38:40Since he come along, our family have become very close.
0:38:43 > 0:38:45Going away, oh...
0:38:46 > 0:38:50Whichever you decide, Laura, whether it's the UK or Australia,
0:38:50 > 0:38:53I will 100% support you. Love you lots. Mwah!
0:38:53 > 0:38:57I would be absolutely gutted if you were to decide to stay out there
0:38:57 > 0:38:59but you've got to do what's best for you
0:38:59 > 0:39:02and I'm fully behind your decision on what you think is the best.
0:39:02 > 0:39:04Obviously, if you do decide to go,
0:39:04 > 0:39:07we will miss you like crazy but will support you all the way.
0:39:07 > 0:39:10I hope that you've enjoyed your time there
0:39:10 > 0:39:13and I certainly hope it's everything that you've wished for.
0:39:13 > 0:39:18And whatever you decide to do, you know that we will support you...
0:39:19 > 0:39:21..and I just want your dreams to come true.
0:39:21 > 0:39:23And I send you all my love.
0:39:23 > 0:39:27Because you are always in my heart, all of you.
0:39:27 > 0:39:29God bless. I love you.
0:39:32 > 0:39:34Oh, God.
0:39:37 > 0:39:39That was harder for me than I was expecting.
0:39:41 > 0:39:43- SNIFFS - You all right?
0:39:45 > 0:39:47- And poor Mum.- I know. Well, she's...
0:39:49 > 0:39:51- I'm all she's got.- I know.
0:39:54 > 0:39:56I just don't want them to hurt.
0:39:56 > 0:40:00They are going to hurt. I'm saying it's all well and good...
0:40:01 > 0:40:03..working through the numbers and the figures
0:40:03 > 0:40:06- but you can't really put a price on...- No.
0:40:06 > 0:40:08..on any of those guys.
0:40:08 > 0:40:10I think it's absolutely changed things.
0:40:13 > 0:40:16I don't think I've ever been more confused about anything.
0:40:20 > 0:40:23The thought of leaving loved ones in the UK
0:40:23 > 0:40:26is often the toughest hurdle to overcome
0:40:26 > 0:40:30when contemplating emigrating to the other side of the world.
0:40:30 > 0:40:34Andrew and Laura now face a massive decision.
0:40:34 > 0:40:37Will they stick with their life in Wales
0:40:37 > 0:40:39or pursue a new one in Australia?
0:40:41 > 0:40:42Their trial week down under
0:40:42 > 0:40:46has more than lived up to Laura's expectations.
0:40:46 > 0:40:48It's been a dream come true.
0:40:48 > 0:40:50I know we could make the most incredible life here
0:40:50 > 0:40:52as a family of three.
0:40:52 > 0:40:54But the impact of messages from home
0:40:54 > 0:40:57has stopped the couple in their tracks.
0:40:57 > 0:40:59It has hit home really hard today
0:40:59 > 0:41:02that we're going to be so far away from our loved ones
0:41:02 > 0:41:04and that's going to be very,
0:41:04 > 0:41:07very difficult to cope with, I think.
0:41:07 > 0:41:12To see Andrew cry today is something I really didn't expect.
0:41:12 > 0:41:16Taking Brodie away from... especially his grandparents,
0:41:16 > 0:41:19would be an awfully selfish thing for Laura and I to do.
0:41:19 > 0:41:21That aspect, I guess, is...
0:41:22 > 0:41:26..is probably the biggest thing that...is holding me back.
0:41:26 > 0:41:28As the final vote approaches,
0:41:28 > 0:41:31both Andrew and Laura are feeling the pressure.
0:41:31 > 0:41:33In my mind, I was...
0:41:33 > 0:41:35kind of felt I knew where I was at
0:41:35 > 0:41:38and how I felt about a move to Australia
0:41:38 > 0:41:41and it's kind of blown everything out of the water.
0:41:41 > 0:41:43At this moment in time,
0:41:43 > 0:41:46I'm really not too sure which way this vote is going to go.
0:41:48 > 0:41:51It's going to be tough.
0:41:51 > 0:41:55Having fallen hook, line and sinker for what Australia could offer them
0:41:55 > 0:41:59as a family, will the pull of home be too much to bear
0:41:59 > 0:42:03as the couple decide on which side of the world their future lies?
0:42:11 > 0:42:13BOTH: Australia!
0:42:13 > 0:42:17Aw! I didn't think you'd choose that.
0:42:17 > 0:42:19No? It would have been an easy decision,
0:42:19 > 0:42:22had we not seen the messages from home.
0:42:22 > 0:42:26I know how much they love us and we love them all so much
0:42:26 > 0:42:30and I hope one day, that they get to come and visit us here
0:42:30 > 0:42:35and see how amazing Australia is and to realise why we chose Australia.
0:42:35 > 0:42:37Seeing the two of you so happy this week,
0:42:37 > 0:42:39you know, it means the world to me
0:42:39 > 0:42:41and, you know, that's the most important thing.
0:42:42 > 0:42:45I'd do anything, you know, to have that for the rest of our lives.
0:42:45 > 0:42:46Yay!
0:42:52 > 0:42:54Andrew's chance to show Laura and Brodie
0:42:54 > 0:42:58the country he first experienced over ten years ago
0:42:58 > 0:43:01has certainly been eventful.
0:43:01 > 0:43:04We wish the whole family the very best of luck
0:43:04 > 0:43:08as they contemplate the next chapter in their lives.