0:00:02 > 0:00:05If you were struggling to find work in the UK,
0:00:05 > 0:00:10would you consider moving your family over 10,000 miles away
0:00:10 > 0:00:14from loved ones in search of regular work and a better life?
0:00:14 > 0:00:18Jimmy has found it impossible to get work as a bricklayer in Leeds
0:00:18 > 0:00:22and has brought the family to the edge of financial ruin.
0:00:22 > 0:00:24Moneywise in the UK has been a massive struggle.
0:00:24 > 0:00:29At one point we was at the brink of having to sell the house.
0:00:29 > 0:00:34He dreams of a place he can work and build a future for his children,
0:00:34 > 0:00:37but wife Nicola won't be going anywhere if the sums don't add up.
0:00:37 > 0:00:40- Can't do it.- It's not even workable.
0:00:40 > 0:00:43This could be enough to just stop it all now.
0:00:43 > 0:00:48And the thought of leaving her family, who live on the same street, is terrifying.
0:00:48 > 0:00:51Knowing if I need them...
0:00:51 > 0:00:54they're not going to be here.
0:00:55 > 0:01:01Leaving behind their life in Leeds will be too difficult if they can't see a future in Australia.
0:01:01 > 0:01:07When emotions are running high, they have to make the hardest decision they'll ever have to face,
0:01:07 > 0:01:09whether to go where they're wanted down under.
0:01:30 > 0:01:38With its hot climate and over 10,000 beaches, Australia is a popular destination for Brits.
0:01:38 > 0:01:42Over 35,00 people emigrate there every year.
0:01:42 > 0:01:46We're giving one family the chance to see if their dream of a new life down under
0:01:46 > 0:01:49really could give them a better future.
0:01:49 > 0:01:51They've got just one week to find out.
0:01:54 > 0:01:57Bricklayer Jimmy Cliff and his wife Nicola live in Leeds
0:01:57 > 0:02:03with their three sons, Conner aged 9, Reese who's 7 and Ethan aged 6.
0:02:04 > 0:02:09They dream of a better quality of life, but there's one key reason they're considering a move.
0:02:10 > 0:02:14I have been out of work for quite a while due to the recession.
0:02:14 > 0:02:20Jobs are few and far between, and there's maybe 40, 50 bricklayers going for the same job.
0:02:20 > 0:02:24Scaffolding earns him less than half the money he'd get as a brickie,
0:02:24 > 0:02:27and they've really struggled to make ends meet.
0:02:27 > 0:02:33At one point we was at the brink of having to sell the house due to financial issues.
0:02:33 > 0:02:39And that's probably what helped give us the drive to go and try to move to Australia.
0:02:39 > 0:02:44There is a lot of pressure because at the moment I feel like I'm letting everyone down.
0:02:44 > 0:02:47Jimmy's brother moved to Australia two years ago,
0:02:47 > 0:02:51and he hopes following him could give them all a new lease of life.
0:02:51 > 0:02:54But he had to talk Nicola round first.
0:02:54 > 0:02:58When Jimmy first mentioned about going to Australia...
0:02:59 > 0:03:01..it just didn't appeal to me at all.
0:03:01 > 0:03:04I've never really wanted to go anywhere else.
0:03:04 > 0:03:10But with the situation over here being financially hard and struggling...
0:03:10 > 0:03:11er...
0:03:11 > 0:03:15he sort of convinced me that it would be a good thing to do.
0:03:15 > 0:03:18LAUGHTER
0:03:18 > 0:03:22I want to go to give the boys as good a start as they can.
0:03:22 > 0:03:25I'm worried that over here by the time they get out of school,
0:03:25 > 0:03:31there'll be nothing for them, no jobs, nowhere to make their own way in life.
0:03:31 > 0:03:35But Nicola struggles with the thought of leaving loved ones behind.
0:03:35 > 0:03:39I would find it the hardest to make the move. I definitely know already...
0:03:39 > 0:03:44I get butterflies thinking about leaving everything behind.
0:03:44 > 0:03:48Jimmy's nan brought him up, so leaving her would be a huge wrench.
0:03:48 > 0:03:51The hardest person for me to leave is my nanna.
0:03:51 > 0:03:56Knowing that if I did leave her, I'd never see her again, maybe... is very worrying for me.
0:03:56 > 0:03:58I'd find it very hard to leave her behind.
0:04:04 > 0:04:08It's vital that the Cliffs find out
0:04:08 > 0:04:11if Australia will live up to their dreams.
0:04:11 > 0:04:15Without the lifestyle they long for or work for Jimmy,
0:04:15 > 0:04:20the heartache of leaving loved ones behind might be too much.
0:04:20 > 0:04:24They have just one week to make up their minds.
0:04:26 > 0:04:29Jimmy's bricklaying experience is in demand all over the country,
0:04:29 > 0:04:32but it's vital they end up in the right area.
0:04:32 > 0:04:37We could send them to Perth which boasts more hours of sunshine than any other state capital.
0:04:37 > 0:04:43The average family home is expensive at more than £300,000.
0:04:43 > 0:04:46However, Western Australia is expected to experience
0:04:46 > 0:04:52a 17% decline in new construction projects in 2010 and 2011,
0:04:52 > 0:04:55so Jimmy might not find work easy to come by.
0:04:55 > 0:05:00Alternatively, we could send them to Adelaide where over 2,000 Brits settle each year.
0:05:00 > 0:05:06Here, there should be plenty of jobs available as the building industry is enjoying a small boom.
0:05:06 > 0:05:11Houses are cheap too, with an average price of £255,000.
0:05:11 > 0:05:14This could be the affordable option they're looking for.
0:05:14 > 0:05:19Their final potential destination is the Gold Coast. Here, they'd be near to Jimmy's brother,
0:05:19 > 0:05:23but with property prices averaging £296,000,
0:05:23 > 0:05:29affording the kind of home they'd even consider leaving Leeds for might be a real problem.
0:05:31 > 0:05:36Three very different options, each with plenty to offer.
0:05:36 > 0:05:41Taking everything into account, we've decided that Adelaide would suit them best.
0:05:41 > 0:05:44There should be plenty of jobs for Jimmy.
0:05:44 > 0:05:48Property prices are reasonable and there's lots of beaches to keep the children happy.
0:05:48 > 0:05:53Over the next week, the Cliffs will trial every aspect of Australian life
0:05:53 > 0:05:57to see if it really could offer them a better future.
0:05:57 > 0:06:01They'll discover that finding the right property in Australia could be a challenge.
0:06:01 > 0:06:04At the moment it's making me doubt even wanting to come out.
0:06:04 > 0:06:09Jimmy will find out if bricklaying jobs will be easier to find than in the UK.
0:06:09 > 0:06:11So if you can wall them straight and wall a few down,
0:06:11 > 0:06:15- you've got a chance of making a bit more money?- Yeah, definitely.
0:06:15 > 0:06:19But Nicola struggles with the thought of leaving the family she's so close to.
0:06:19 > 0:06:22The biggest worry about this week is going to be that here...
0:06:22 > 0:06:25we're kind of stuck by ourselves.
0:06:25 > 0:06:28They'll all struggle with hearing what their loved ones think.
0:06:28 > 0:06:29Don't leave!
0:06:29 > 0:06:33But at the end of their week, they'll have to decide if they should stay in the UK
0:06:33 > 0:06:40with everyone they know, or cross the world in search of a new life and a better future.
0:06:40 > 0:06:44After spending 23 hours flying over three continents,
0:06:44 > 0:06:48the Cliff family arrive in Adelaide, 10,000 miles from Leeds.
0:06:51 > 0:06:56And the realisation of just how far they've come has hit home.
0:06:56 > 0:07:00It's not was easy as you'd think. It's not a journey you'd want to do every year.
0:07:00 > 0:07:04And it is rather hard to believe that we've actually got here at the moment!
0:07:04 > 0:07:10No... The lads don't... The two little ones don't even realise they're in Australia at all.
0:07:10 > 0:07:16They might not be interested right now, but it's not just Nicola and Jimmy who need to be convinced.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19It's important the boys can settle too.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22The first test is their home for the week.
0:07:22 > 0:07:25It's in the popular-but-affordable area of Brompton,
0:07:25 > 0:07:28less than 15 minutes from the centre of town.
0:07:29 > 0:07:34Family-friendly with three bedrooms, a large living space and even a pizza oven,
0:07:34 > 0:07:36they should be able to settle in here.
0:07:38 > 0:07:41Come on, then! Let's see what we've got.
0:07:41 > 0:07:45- Four beds!- Oh, wow!
0:07:45 > 0:07:46Their own bed each.
0:07:46 > 0:07:48I'm going to get to sleep downstairs!
0:07:48 > 0:07:52The boys seem happy, but Nicola's not impressed.
0:07:52 > 0:07:58It's be a starter place. I don't think I could see myself moving into it permanently.
0:07:58 > 0:08:02As a base to come over and start afresh, it'd be OK.
0:08:02 > 0:08:07They've got some serious issues they need to address as quickly as possible.
0:08:07 > 0:08:13I need to see if work's a definite possibility out here for me,
0:08:13 > 0:08:16whether I'll be able to cope with the weather,
0:08:16 > 0:08:17whether I could earn enough money.
0:08:19 > 0:08:24With so much to find out, they'll need to get plenty of rest for the week ahead.
0:08:24 > 0:08:29At the end of it, they'll have to make the decision one way or the other and it won't be easy.
0:08:34 > 0:08:39Back in the UK, the Cliffs live in a three-bedroomed semi-detached house in Leeds.
0:08:39 > 0:08:43They're in the process of renovating but have already put in lots of effort
0:08:43 > 0:08:45to make it a home to be proud of.
0:08:45 > 0:08:49However with only three bedrooms, Reese and Ethan have to share.
0:08:49 > 0:08:55They'd consider a renovation project in Australia if it meant they could get enough space,
0:08:55 > 0:08:59but, even then, it's going to be a difficult search.
0:08:59 > 0:09:03Finding the right house in Adelaide is essential,
0:09:03 > 0:09:04but which would suit them best?
0:09:04 > 0:09:08Suburbs like Prospect are only 15 minutes from the city centre
0:09:08 > 0:09:14and offer classic 1940s housing. But what you gain in convenience and location, you do pay for.
0:09:14 > 0:09:20This three-bedroom home offers a beautiful finish, separate office and a pool,
0:09:20 > 0:09:23but it's on the market for £420,000.
0:09:23 > 0:09:28City living might just prove too expensive for the Cliff family.
0:09:32 > 0:09:35Another option would be to look in the countryside
0:09:35 > 0:09:37where property is generally cheaper
0:09:37 > 0:09:39and comes on larger plots.
0:09:39 > 0:09:44However, staying within easy driving distance of the city dramatically raises the price.
0:09:44 > 0:09:48Crafers West is only 30 minutes from the centre,
0:09:48 > 0:09:53and this impressive three-bedroom home would give spacious living areas and even a pool,
0:09:53 > 0:09:59but the price tag of £355,000 would mean taking a huge mortgage.
0:10:02 > 0:10:07Almost everyone's Australian dream involves access to the sand and sea.
0:10:08 > 0:10:13This £375,000 home in West Beach, only 25 minutes from town,
0:10:13 > 0:10:17would be something to aim towards in the future. It's got a stunning living space,
0:10:17 > 0:10:20three big bedrooms and a large garden,
0:10:20 > 0:10:23but a commute of just over an hour would be too much for Jimmy.
0:10:26 > 0:10:33With finances so tight, they're happy to consider any area as long as they can afford it.
0:10:33 > 0:10:39With a maximum budget of £200,000 to spend, we're going to show them three houses,
0:10:39 > 0:10:43one in the city, one by the coast and one in the country
0:10:43 > 0:10:46to give them a realistic idea of what's available.
0:10:46 > 0:10:48First up, the city.
0:10:48 > 0:10:53Property number 1 is located in the north-western suburb of Pennington.
0:10:53 > 0:10:58With industrial areas close by, property is generally cheaper than the city average.
0:10:58 > 0:11:00This three-bedroom house is under budget at...
0:11:06 > 0:11:09Hallway's a bit wider than ours anyway!
0:11:09 > 0:11:13They'll need any money that's left over to update it...a little.
0:11:13 > 0:11:16It's not as...long as ours is, though.
0:11:16 > 0:11:20- The window's a nice size. - Yeah, lets plenty of light in.
0:11:20 > 0:11:23With five of them to fit in, space is an issue straightaway.
0:11:23 > 0:11:27- This is...- A lot smaller. - ..Very small.
0:11:27 > 0:11:29Nicola isn't being won over.
0:11:29 > 0:11:33- It's an all right size.- Yeah. - Depends what the other rooms are like.
0:11:33 > 0:11:37- For a first bedroom to look at... it's all right, isn't it?- Mmm.
0:11:37 > 0:11:41Conner wants to upgrade from the boxroom he has in Leeds.
0:11:41 > 0:11:44Would you prefer a bedroom as big as this?
0:11:44 > 0:11:45- Er, yeah.- Yeah.
0:11:45 > 0:11:49They need to see something special to win them over,
0:11:49 > 0:11:51but this bathroom doesn't stand a chance.
0:11:51 > 0:11:54- Small bathroom. - There's no bath space.
0:11:54 > 0:11:57It's kind of affected the whole view of the whole house.
0:11:57 > 0:11:59And it's all going downhill.
0:11:59 > 0:12:02This is a real disappointment.
0:12:02 > 0:12:04It's far too small.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07Really...dull.
0:12:07 > 0:12:11Dull is one word for it and they're really not impressed by what they can afford here.
0:12:13 > 0:12:16The entire garden's under cover,
0:12:16 > 0:12:21- but for a family with young children, this just doesn't work, does it, whatsoever?- No.
0:12:21 > 0:12:25A big disappointment, really, by the time we've gone through the whole house.
0:12:25 > 0:12:32Well, depending on land prices, you would probably be better knocking this house down and rebuilding.
0:12:32 > 0:12:35You'd have more to show for your money than what this actually offers.
0:12:35 > 0:12:38I can safely say I just don't like it.
0:12:38 > 0:12:42Property 1 has been a major shock and they're not happy.
0:12:42 > 0:12:47They wouldn't leave Leeds for this, so let's hope property 2 can turn things around.
0:12:47 > 0:12:53In the popular-but-affordable of Seaford, this house is only a short stroll to the beach,
0:12:53 > 0:12:58and offers them five bedrooms, a decent-sized living space and an even bigger garden,
0:12:58 > 0:12:59all for...
0:13:01 > 0:13:04Nicola needs to see a vast improvement,
0:13:04 > 0:13:07and they're feeling a little more positive.
0:13:08 > 0:13:14It's different. This is more like a room size we'd want for a living room. Yeah.
0:13:14 > 0:13:16First impressions, it's a lot better.
0:13:16 > 0:13:18But it doesn't last long.
0:13:19 > 0:13:21Yeah, the kitchen obviously needs to change.
0:13:21 > 0:13:24It's a lot smaller than I thought.
0:13:24 > 0:13:27It'd all need ripping out and starting again, so...
0:13:27 > 0:13:31With two small bedrooms, they're struggling to imagine living here.
0:13:31 > 0:13:33- Another bedroom. - Another room, but...
0:13:33 > 0:13:39- there's not enough space in any of the rooms to fit a full-sized family.- A double bed in!
0:13:39 > 0:13:44- I don't think it's showing any value for money whatsoever.- No...
0:13:44 > 0:13:49- They seem to be putting a price on sunshine more than property, don't they?- Yeah.
0:13:49 > 0:13:51Not happy.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54The master bedroom doesn't impress either.
0:13:54 > 0:13:57It's a bit small if it's the main bedroom, though.
0:13:57 > 0:14:02- It is, isn't it?- Not really what I was hoping for at all.
0:14:02 > 0:14:07Starting to worry a little bit about the house prices.
0:14:07 > 0:14:11- You're just not getting... - You're not getting as much as you... as I originally thought.
0:14:11 > 0:14:14At the moment it's making me doubt even wanting to come out.
0:14:14 > 0:14:19The reality of what they can afford is hitting home...and it hurts!
0:14:19 > 0:14:25- I really don't like this property at all.- No.- Only thing it's got going for it is the garden.
0:14:25 > 0:14:28- The house...- But it's not enough to draw you to it.
0:14:28 > 0:14:32- No.- Unfortunately this one's just not for us.
0:14:32 > 0:14:38I didn't think we had that low a budget, but it's proving to be working against us at the moment.
0:14:38 > 0:14:42Property 1 and 2 have totally failed to impress.
0:14:42 > 0:14:47Each would require more work than they'd imagined and their dream is slipping away.
0:14:47 > 0:14:51Property 3 surely can't fail to impress.
0:14:51 > 0:14:56Located in the country suburb of Happy Valley, this house is just over budget at...
0:14:59 > 0:15:01..but has four bedrooms,
0:15:01 > 0:15:04a large living space and an office.
0:15:07 > 0:15:11The boys are bored of house-hunting, so they get to burn off some energy in the garden
0:15:11 > 0:15:13while Jimmy and Nicola explore on their own.
0:15:13 > 0:15:18- Looks so much better already.- It does, doesn't it?- Whitewashed walls.
0:15:18 > 0:15:24- Looks fresher.- It's nice. - Plenty of potential, and it's decent enough to work with, isn't it?
0:15:24 > 0:15:27You could cope with it for quite a while before you did owt with it.
0:15:27 > 0:15:31So it's not the fixer-upper they wanted, but it doesn't seem to matter.
0:15:31 > 0:15:34- This is much better, isn't it? - This is a lot nicer.
0:15:34 > 0:15:37I really do like this.
0:15:37 > 0:15:40This is nice.
0:15:40 > 0:15:42It's not as big as I'd hoped.
0:15:42 > 0:15:46You're going to struggle if we put the sofas in the way we have at home.
0:15:46 > 0:15:48Yeah, we'll give it an 8 out of 10.
0:15:48 > 0:15:53It's a huge improvement. There's three decent-sized rooms for the children
0:15:53 > 0:15:57and, if the master bedroom impresses the Cliffs, we might just have a winner here.
0:15:57 > 0:16:01- Now, this is better.- Oh, wow, yeah! - This is far better.
0:16:02 > 0:16:06- Four rooms.- Four decent-sized rooms. - Decent double room.
0:16:06 > 0:16:08Yes, this is perfect.
0:16:08 > 0:16:11Couldn't expect anything more.
0:16:11 > 0:16:15Just a slightly lower price... so we can afford it.
0:16:15 > 0:16:19It was all going so well, but £5,000 over budget could be a problem.
0:16:19 > 0:16:22The garden's nice, plenty of room...
0:16:22 > 0:16:29- garden shed to keep all the tools in.- Yeah, I think this... this is perfect, isn't it?
0:16:29 > 0:16:31It ticks most of the boxes.
0:16:32 > 0:16:36- It's ticked every box, bar price... - Yeah.- Hasn't it?
0:16:36 > 0:16:39But Nicola's still having doubts.
0:16:39 > 0:16:46At the moment I'm still in two minds as to whether or not this would be the perfect idea to come out here.
0:16:48 > 0:16:52The Cliff family has seen three properties in three very different areas.
0:16:52 > 0:16:58Whilst the first two were a little under budget, they were a huge disappointment.
0:16:58 > 0:17:03Property number 3 was almost perfect for them, but it would stretch their budget ever so slightly.
0:17:03 > 0:17:06Nicola wanted a house she'd be happy to bring her boys up in.
0:17:06 > 0:17:11They need to have seen enough to make them consider leaving their home in Leeds.
0:17:11 > 0:17:12It's time to vote.
0:17:13 > 0:17:19Today's been a day of mixed emotions, looking at houses here in Australia.
0:17:19 > 0:17:22It seems properties a bit further afield from the city
0:17:22 > 0:17:26are a bit more reasonably priced and better value for money.
0:17:26 > 0:17:32So our vote for the property in Australia versus the UK is...
0:17:37 > 0:17:39- Australia! - UK!
0:17:44 > 0:17:49If I could guarantee we'd have a bit more money to come over with
0:17:49 > 0:17:52and maybe look at the more expensive property, the last one,
0:17:52 > 0:17:56then I would definitely have chosen Australia.
0:17:56 > 0:18:01As it stands at the moment, I wouldn't want to give up what I already have
0:18:01 > 0:18:03for a whim that we possibly can't have.
0:18:03 > 0:18:09Property 3 might have won Jimmy over but Nicola's struggling to see the dream.
0:18:09 > 0:18:11They hoped for far more from the properties here,
0:18:11 > 0:18:16but seeing them for themselves has brought the reality of their situation home.
0:18:20 > 0:18:25The houses they can afford in Australia haven't blown the Cliffs away.
0:18:25 > 0:18:33Money is a huge issue, and it's essential that Jimmy finds regular work and earns a good wage.
0:18:33 > 0:18:37If he can't, then the whole move might fall apart.
0:18:39 > 0:18:43Back in Leeds, Jimmy has struggled to find work as a bricklayer.
0:18:43 > 0:18:46Nicola's had to become the family's main breadwinner,
0:18:46 > 0:18:52but Jimmy dreams of being able to return to the job he loves and becoming the provider again.
0:18:52 > 0:18:56I miss bricklaying terribly. It's... I have a lot of pride in my work.
0:18:56 > 0:19:01I always feel when a job's done... to be able to look back on
0:19:01 > 0:19:05and know that I've left something, some mark on the world.
0:19:05 > 0:19:07Things need to look up in Australia.
0:19:08 > 0:19:11Jimmy's spent the last six months labouring as a scaffolder,
0:19:11 > 0:19:15and, although he's grateful for the work, finances have been tight.
0:19:15 > 0:19:18Moneywise in the UK has been a massive struggle.
0:19:18 > 0:19:23I was out of work for the best part of a year.
0:19:23 > 0:19:28If I hadn't had that bit of work then, I honestly think we would have lost the house.
0:19:28 > 0:19:33Just finding out that work would be relatively easy to come by
0:19:33 > 0:19:36would go a long way to convincing Jimmy it's the right move to make.
0:19:37 > 0:19:41We've arranged for him to meet with Jason McKenzie who owns a local bricklaying company
0:19:41 > 0:19:45to find out more about what he could expect from working here.
0:19:45 > 0:19:48- Jason?- Jimmy. How are you doing? - Hi. Nice to meet you.
0:19:48 > 0:19:53Jason's putting Jimmy to work with two local lads, Reg and Ben.
0:19:53 > 0:19:56It's like sharper sand than what we use.
0:19:57 > 0:19:59Is that the size you normally would do in the UK?
0:19:59 > 0:20:03What they'd tend to do is, if you've got land like the size of this house,
0:20:03 > 0:20:07they would probably try to squeeze two or three houses on one plot.
0:20:11 > 0:20:16Jimmy's keen to find out exactly how the different climate would affect work.
0:20:17 > 0:20:19What days do you work here? Is it...?
0:20:19 > 0:20:23Most people if they want to work the year round, they can just about get away with it.
0:20:23 > 0:20:26Summer can be pretty hot. You know, you can get mid-40s.
0:20:26 > 0:20:30I dread to think what it could be like in the middle of summer here.
0:20:30 > 0:20:33- An extra 10 degrees. - In January you wouldn't want to be standing about in this.
0:20:33 > 0:20:38I've always had problems with the cold. I've never really liked working in the cold.
0:20:38 > 0:20:42I'd much rather be warm and sweaty than cold and shivering.
0:20:42 > 0:20:44I don't think there's owt worse than being cold.
0:20:47 > 0:20:50Whilst Jimmy's getting to put Australian bricklaying to the test...
0:20:50 > 0:20:55with money tight, Nicola wants to see what Adelaide has to offer free of charge.
0:20:56 > 0:21:00Bike South Australia rents a range of free-to-hire bikes
0:21:00 > 0:21:04from their central office, and the boys are keen to give BMX-ing a try.
0:21:05 > 0:21:09Nicola's priorities are to make sure that Conner, Reese and Ethan will be happy and settled,
0:21:09 > 0:21:12and free activities are a real bonus.
0:21:14 > 0:21:16It's a perfect day out, really.
0:21:16 > 0:21:22Nice, sunshine, couldn't ask for anything more. It reminds you of why you want to be here!
0:21:22 > 0:21:25But their money worries are a real threat to Jimmy's dream.
0:21:26 > 0:21:3090% of the reason we've considered applying for a visa over here
0:21:30 > 0:21:34was to help Jimmy be able to stay in the work that he loves.
0:21:34 > 0:21:38But the biggest worry about this week is going to be
0:21:38 > 0:21:44if we find out Jimmy can't earn as much as he'd need to to replace both the wages,
0:21:44 > 0:21:50so...if his salary doesn't cover it, there's not really much hope.
0:21:52 > 0:21:57And the idea of leaving her close-knit family terrifies Nicola.
0:21:57 > 0:22:02I know if everything falls under us, my mum and dad are still there to pick it up.
0:22:02 > 0:22:07Here...we're kind of stuck if it all falls.
0:22:07 > 0:22:08I think it's just...
0:22:09 > 0:22:14..knowing if I need them... they're not going to be here.
0:22:15 > 0:22:17Nicola's heart is torn.
0:22:17 > 0:22:23If she won't ever get over the trauma of leaving loved ones, she'll never settle in Australia.
0:22:26 > 0:22:31Back at the building site, Jimmy's really taking to working in the dry heat,
0:22:31 > 0:22:37but if he can't afford to support the family here, he'll be back scaffolding in freezing Yorkshire.
0:22:37 > 0:22:40What kind of money would we be talking roughly for me
0:22:40 > 0:22:42if I was coming over here working in Australia?
0:22:42 > 0:22:49With residential, we'd probably start around 27 dollars Australian per hour,
0:22:49 > 0:22:51that kind of range, right up to 35.
0:22:51 > 0:22:56It just depends what sort of quality the person brings to the table as far as work skills...
0:22:56 > 0:22:59So if you can wall them straight and wall a few down,
0:22:59 > 0:23:02- you've got a chance of making a bit more money?- Yeah, definitely.
0:23:02 > 0:23:07That works out between £600-£850 a week,
0:23:07 > 0:23:11almost £100 more than Jimmy could earn in the UK.
0:23:11 > 0:23:15From what I've seen, you've got all the qualities there, so...yeah.
0:23:15 > 0:23:18Keep in touch and we'll definitely go from there.
0:23:18 > 0:23:23- All right, thanks a lot, mate.- All right.- Looking forward to meeting you again.- All right.- Thank you.
0:23:23 > 0:23:28It's a huge weight off Jimmy's mind, and I think I know which way he might vote.
0:23:28 > 0:23:31I'd a really great day.
0:23:31 > 0:23:33I'd a wonderful experience walling again.
0:23:33 > 0:23:36The wages, I'm very impressed with. I should be able to make a decent living
0:23:36 > 0:23:41for me and my family. So my final decision is going to be...
0:23:44 > 0:23:45Australia!
0:23:47 > 0:23:50I can't see any reason at the moment why I couldn't live out here.
0:23:50 > 0:23:53I'd be absolutely delighted to get back into walling again.
0:23:53 > 0:23:57Today's let me do something that I haven't done for quite a while.
0:23:57 > 0:24:00It's a job that I do enjoy,
0:24:00 > 0:24:05and, yes, I'd love to be able to say that I could get a permanent career walling over here in Australia.
0:24:07 > 0:24:11Jimmy's dream of finding regular work and a good wage looks possible.
0:24:11 > 0:24:15Now, there's the small matter of convincing Nicola and the children.
0:24:15 > 0:24:20The Cliff family from Leeds have already had a draining week.
0:24:20 > 0:24:25The found out that it was virtually impossible to get a house with enough space on their budget.
0:24:25 > 0:24:31Jimmy was excited to discover that he'd be able to return to the job he loves and earn more money,
0:24:31 > 0:24:34but if it isn't enough to live off the dream could shatter.
0:24:34 > 0:24:37They have to find out if the lifestyle would suit them,
0:24:37 > 0:24:43but it might not be enough when the pain of leaving loved ones breaks their hearts.
0:24:43 > 0:24:44Don't leave!
0:24:44 > 0:24:49They've only got a few days left until they have to make the biggest decision of their lives.
0:24:53 > 0:24:56That's great news on the work front.
0:24:56 > 0:25:03But if they can't envisage the children being happy and settled, the whole move could be off.
0:25:05 > 0:25:10Nicola and Jimmy want to make sure that their three sons get the most from their time here.
0:25:10 > 0:25:14Getting up close to some of the Aussie wildlife is top of their list of priorities,
0:25:14 > 0:25:19so we've brought them to Glenelg Marina to take a ride on a catamaran
0:25:19 > 0:25:21and possibly see some dolphins.
0:25:24 > 0:25:28There's an age restriction to swim with the dolphins,
0:25:28 > 0:25:30so whilst Conner and Jimmy get to put on the wetsuits,
0:25:30 > 0:25:35Nicola, Reese and Ethan are tasked with spotting the elusive creatures,
0:25:35 > 0:25:38and it's not long until they get lucky.
0:25:38 > 0:25:40- - Dolphin! - Where? - Have you seen one?
0:25:40 > 0:25:42- There! - Two!
0:25:42 > 0:25:47OK, guys, we've got a good-sized pod up ahead of us just here! It's all happening straightaway.
0:25:58 > 0:26:02Jimmy and Conner are taking to the water well,
0:26:02 > 0:26:05but, for Nicola, thoughts of what she would be giving up are never far away.
0:26:07 > 0:26:10I'd love to bring the whole family with me.
0:26:10 > 0:26:11Er...
0:26:11 > 0:26:16it'd make any move ten times easier for me!
0:26:16 > 0:26:19But unfortunately it's not the case...
0:26:19 > 0:26:24er...and they will have to be left behind.
0:26:25 > 0:26:27They want to move, not only for Jimmy to find work,
0:26:27 > 0:26:31but to give their boys a better lifestyle and future.
0:26:31 > 0:26:35They'll all need convincing to take the plunge and make the move,
0:26:35 > 0:26:38but, first, it's time to get back into the water.
0:26:38 > 0:26:39They've seen some more dolphins!
0:26:41 > 0:26:43Stop!
0:26:43 > 0:26:47Here they come! There they are, guys, right there!
0:26:55 > 0:26:59Jimmy hopes the trip will leave the whole family with positive memories.
0:26:59 > 0:27:03Er...certainly never imagined to be able to swim with dolphins this soon
0:27:03 > 0:27:05in getting to Australia whatsoever.
0:27:05 > 0:27:08The only thing that can maybe beat this
0:27:08 > 0:27:12is if we actually get to say that we've done it whilst we lived in Australia.
0:27:12 > 0:27:15Conner and Jimmy might have had all the fun in the water,
0:27:15 > 0:27:19but on the surface Reese and Ethan are taking charge.
0:27:19 > 0:27:22Let's hope skipper Steve is keeping a close watch over them!
0:27:22 > 0:27:25We're heading towards those buildings. We're looking pretty good, I reckon.
0:27:25 > 0:27:27Left hand down.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29Beautiful. Done well.
0:27:29 > 0:27:31Come on, Ethan, you've got to give his boat back.
0:27:32 > 0:27:38With three energetic boys, finding the outdoors life was key for Nicola,
0:27:38 > 0:27:43and whilst trips like this wouldn't happen every weekend, it might just help persuade them
0:27:43 > 0:27:46that moving to the other side of the world wouldn't be too bad.
0:27:46 > 0:27:48- Enjoy the rest of your stay. - Thank you.
0:27:48 > 0:27:50Safely back on dry land,
0:27:50 > 0:27:54it's time for the Cliff family to decide if the lifestyle has met their expectations.
0:27:54 > 0:28:01We've just had a wonderful day out and our decision on the lifestyle in the UK and Australia is...
0:28:06 > 0:28:07Australia!
0:28:09 > 0:28:13I'm surprised you voted Australia, Ethan. I thought you were going to vote UK.
0:28:13 > 0:28:15Was it sailing the boat that changed your mind?
0:28:15 > 0:28:17- Mm-hm.- Yeah!
0:28:17 > 0:28:19I think the kids have started to realise
0:28:19 > 0:28:23that there's more out there than they actually thought there was,
0:28:23 > 0:28:30and I think that's definitely helped in forcing their decision into picking Australia.
0:28:30 > 0:28:34So, after a tiring day on the water, the Cliffs have been convinced
0:28:34 > 0:28:37that their lifestyle could be better in Australia.
0:28:37 > 0:28:42But only time will tell if it's enough to persuade them to make the move permanently.
0:28:52 > 0:28:55The Cliff family have fallen for the lifestyle down under,
0:28:55 > 0:29:03but they'll never be able to afford it unless they can get a really good price for their home back in Leeds.
0:29:05 > 0:29:09With the boys playing outside, Nicola and Jimmy get to see if their house
0:29:09 > 0:29:13really is worth the £150,000 they hope for.
0:29:13 > 0:29:16We've sent two estate agents round to see if that's realistic.
0:29:19 > 0:29:21Modern kitchen.
0:29:22 > 0:29:24Compact.
0:29:24 > 0:29:26- That's a nice way to put "small"! - Small.
0:29:28 > 0:29:29Beautiful lounge.
0:29:29 > 0:29:30Dining room...
0:29:32 > 0:29:33..contemporary.
0:29:33 > 0:29:36French doors.
0:29:39 > 0:29:44This property has a newly modernised fitted kitchen with a rear double-glazed window,
0:29:44 > 0:29:45view to the rear back garden.
0:29:45 > 0:29:47STAIRS CREAK
0:29:47 > 0:29:49- It creaks! - I know, I was thinking that.
0:29:49 > 0:29:51- Good-sized master bedroom. - Better put a carpet on!
0:29:53 > 0:29:55A large front window.
0:29:57 > 0:29:58Storage space.
0:30:05 > 0:30:07Unusual style of bathroom.
0:30:14 > 0:30:16Good-sized double bedroom.
0:30:17 > 0:30:19Wooden floors.
0:30:19 > 0:30:20Cluttered!
0:30:20 > 0:30:23Typical kid's room.
0:30:23 > 0:30:26More interested in the layout.
0:30:26 > 0:30:28This is the boxroom of the property
0:30:28 > 0:30:32which is used as a bedroom at present but ideally it could be used as a study room.
0:30:32 > 0:30:37Time to find out if it's really worth £150,000.
0:30:37 > 0:30:42We've got a three-bed semi-detached, very good size, ideal for first-time buyers, young families...
0:30:42 > 0:30:49very close to public transport links, good amenities, local schools... very good access.
0:30:49 > 0:30:51I reckon I would keep the price at £149,000
0:30:51 > 0:30:55but for a forced sale we'd look at 145,000.
0:30:55 > 0:30:59I would value this house in the region £160,000.
0:30:59 > 0:31:04For a quick sale, I would put it in the region of £155,000.
0:31:04 > 0:31:06It's worth a little more than they thought,
0:31:06 > 0:31:10but having seen the property in Australia they were hoping for a better price.
0:31:10 > 0:31:12I were kind of hoping it would go for a bit more,
0:31:12 > 0:31:17but I suppose with the way house prices have dropped at the moment, it's more what I were expecting.
0:31:17 > 0:31:22Yes, I do like the house, it's home, but...
0:31:22 > 0:31:26building a home for your family is one of the easiest, to be honest...
0:31:26 > 0:31:32It's providing a lot of other things for your children that are harder than creating a home, isn't it?
0:31:32 > 0:31:36After scrimping and saving to pay the bills in the UK,
0:31:36 > 0:31:41they need to know they can afford a better future in Australia or the move could fall apart.
0:31:41 > 0:31:46Nicola hopes not to work while the boys settle in, but they need to know if that's realistic.
0:31:46 > 0:31:52We've prepared a cost comparison so they can work out if they really can make Jimmy's wage stretch.
0:31:54 > 0:31:58- OK, so...I'll have a look. - I'll do the calculating.
0:31:58 > 0:32:00Yeah. I can have my tea. That's cheaper.
0:32:00 > 0:32:03Soups...
0:32:03 > 0:32:05That's, like, triple.
0:32:05 > 0:32:06Or your bananas.
0:32:06 > 0:32:0927p for ours, £1.73 for theirs.
0:32:09 > 0:32:11Yeah.
0:32:11 > 0:32:13- That's not good news. - That's not a good start, is it?
0:32:13 > 0:32:16We're £50 down a week already.
0:32:17 > 0:32:23- What's next?- OK. Let's have a look at the property prices... since we've just seen that.
0:32:24 > 0:32:26Monthly repayments...
0:32:26 > 0:32:30for property 3 which was the one we liked...
0:32:31 > 0:32:32Yeah...
0:32:32 > 0:32:34- I mean, them two...- 1,000 a month.
0:32:34 > 0:32:35That's not good.
0:32:35 > 0:32:37So we've got 1,050.
0:32:39 > 0:32:41Plus...55.
0:32:41 > 0:32:43160.
0:32:43 > 0:32:46Plus 160.
0:32:47 > 0:32:4920. So...
0:32:49 > 0:32:532,865.50.
0:32:53 > 0:32:57- We already know there, we can see! - We're already down, so...
0:32:57 > 0:33:01- Minus...- Take away 2,447...
0:33:01 > 0:33:06- so we are down...- £483.
0:33:06 > 0:33:08Worse off.
0:33:09 > 0:33:11- Can't do it.- It's not even workable.
0:33:11 > 0:33:14It kind of says you have to go back to work, doesn't it,
0:33:14 > 0:33:18for us to be able to make ends meet here whatsoever?
0:33:21 > 0:33:26I certainly thought we would have had more chance...than that.
0:33:26 > 0:33:32With a huge drop in their finances, the dream life has turned into an economic nightmare.
0:33:32 > 0:33:36If we can't afford a home... we want...
0:33:37 > 0:33:43..and...the only compromise is... putting up with the house
0:33:43 > 0:33:48that I can't stand to be in 24 hours a day with the kids, then...
0:33:48 > 0:33:51- that's just not even an option.- No.
0:33:51 > 0:33:55I... This could be enough to just stop it all now.
0:33:55 > 0:33:59This is going to make their final decision even tougher,
0:33:59 > 0:34:03but for now they've got to pull themselves together to vote on the cost of living.
0:34:03 > 0:34:06Today's been one of the most important things we've had to consider,
0:34:06 > 0:34:09and, unfortunately, it's been rather disappointing...
0:34:09 > 0:34:11So our decision is...
0:34:14 > 0:34:15UK!
0:34:15 > 0:34:18Finances are essential wherever you are
0:34:18 > 0:34:21and if the sums don't work... there's not a lot we can do.
0:34:21 > 0:34:25Unfortunately, with Nicola trying not to go to work,
0:34:25 > 0:34:29it still pushes Australia slightly out of our budget.
0:34:29 > 0:34:32It is definitely hanging in the balance now
0:34:32 > 0:34:35as to whether or not we'd choose to come out here.
0:34:40 > 0:34:44For the Cliff family, moving to the other side of the world
0:34:44 > 0:34:48means facing the heartache of leaving loved ones behind.
0:34:48 > 0:34:54After seeing their messages, can they tear themselves away?
0:34:54 > 0:34:56We've prepared a DVD for them to view.
0:35:00 > 0:35:03Hi, Nicola, Jimmy. Hi, kids.
0:35:03 > 0:35:04Hey, guys.
0:35:04 > 0:35:06Very outgoing...
0:35:06 > 0:35:08..isn't he, Jimmy? - Yeah. - Very outgoing.
0:35:08 > 0:35:11If you want anything, you've only got to ask him.
0:35:11 > 0:35:16I've three boys and I've always had a soft spot for Jimmy.
0:35:16 > 0:35:18He loves his boys, he loves his wife...
0:35:18 > 0:35:21and the rest of his family.
0:35:21 > 0:35:24The children are fantastic, Conner, Reese and Ethan.
0:35:24 > 0:35:28They're all loveable children. I always get a kiss and a cuddle.
0:35:28 > 0:35:30Conner is...
0:35:30 > 0:35:34he can be really loud at times, but really funny.
0:35:34 > 0:35:37When we play football, he, like, dances when we're trying to get the ball.
0:35:39 > 0:35:41They're in and out the house...
0:35:41 > 0:35:43constantly playing...
0:35:43 > 0:35:47the cousins are always on the computer with each other. They're always asking to go down there
0:35:47 > 0:35:50or come up here.
0:35:50 > 0:35:54Nicola is very sensitive and a homely kind of person.
0:35:54 > 0:35:57She's more of the...
0:35:57 > 0:36:00..the lynchpin than David and I are. - Hmm.
0:36:00 > 0:36:03She's very close to us.
0:36:03 > 0:36:06And I think if she did go, then...
0:36:06 > 0:36:10she's be thinking about us all the time.
0:36:10 > 0:36:12- It would leave a big hole. - Yes.
0:36:12 > 0:36:18I'm not one of the weekend grandmas. The children and Nicola and Jimmy have always been around.
0:36:18 > 0:36:23Can't imagine... I can't imagine not having them here.
0:36:23 > 0:36:26Wake up one morning and it'll be, "Where's Uncle Rich and Auntie Theresa?"
0:36:26 > 0:36:29"They're back home in England." "Oh, when can we go and see them?"
0:36:29 > 0:36:32"When's Conner, Reese and Ethan coming over?"
0:36:32 > 0:36:35"Well, they're not. You might see them at Christmas."
0:36:38 > 0:36:40Don't leave!
0:36:42 > 0:36:46We'll miss them, really, really miss them.
0:36:46 > 0:36:50But, by the same token, I wouldn't want to stand in their way.
0:36:52 > 0:36:54Give it a good try.
0:36:54 > 0:36:57You...give it a go...
0:36:57 > 0:36:58and see how you go on.
0:36:58 > 0:37:04When you make the decision, you make it for you as a family.
0:37:05 > 0:37:08It's because it's what you want to do.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11Whatever you decide, me and your dad...
0:37:11 > 0:37:13Don't worry about us.
0:37:13 > 0:37:16We'll be sat here waiting for you when you come home, though.
0:37:16 > 0:37:18We certainly will.
0:37:21 > 0:37:25The messages have reminded them of what moving would really mean.
0:37:25 > 0:37:30For one member of the family, the thought of leaving is too much.
0:37:34 > 0:37:36Come here, bud.
0:37:40 > 0:37:44Seeing their son so upset has taken Nicola and Jimmy aback.
0:37:44 > 0:37:49I'm a little bit surprised that he's getting so emotional.
0:37:49 > 0:37:52It's quite upsetting to see, to be honest.
0:37:52 > 0:37:56It makes me feel slightly guilty that he's feeling like this,
0:37:56 > 0:38:02but I do think he would adapt and I do think he would be OK if we chose to come out here.
0:38:02 > 0:38:06I think leaving life behind, basically,
0:38:06 > 0:38:11and starting again would be the hardest decision anyone would have to make.
0:38:11 > 0:38:18You know, I think it's just the initial saying goodbyes and leaving certain people behind
0:38:18 > 0:38:23- that are the issues more than owt. - It is the hardest choice we've ever had to make...
0:38:23 > 0:38:27as a family, as individual...people...
0:38:27 > 0:38:32Dragging your family to the other side of the world isn't really an easy choice to make.
0:38:38 > 0:38:42Emotions are running high for the Cliff family
0:38:42 > 0:38:45and the reality of making the move has hit home.
0:38:45 > 0:38:53Can they really face leaving behind everything they have in the UK? It's decision time.
0:38:53 > 0:38:56Jimmy Cliff needed to make a drastic change
0:38:56 > 0:39:00after 18 months' struggling to find work as a bricklayer in Leeds.
0:39:00 > 0:39:06At one point we was at the brink of having to sell the house due to financial issues.
0:39:06 > 0:39:08He had to try to persuade his wife Nicola.
0:39:08 > 0:39:13But everything fell apart when they saw the kind of properties they could afford.
0:39:13 > 0:39:19I want to be happy in the home. At the moment it's making me doubt even wanting to come out.
0:39:19 > 0:39:23Jimmy discovered that he could get regular work and a good wage,
0:39:23 > 0:39:28but to achieve the home they want it just wouldn't be enough.
0:39:28 > 0:39:30- Can't do it.- It's not even workable.
0:39:30 > 0:39:34This could be enough to just stop it all now.
0:39:34 > 0:39:41They fell in love with the lifestyle but the pain of leaving loved ones threatened to overpower them.
0:39:41 > 0:39:42Don't leave!
0:39:42 > 0:39:47With all this in mind, the Cliff family are faced with the hardest decision of their lives.
0:39:50 > 0:39:53Jimmy has found what he's looking for.
0:39:54 > 0:39:56This, to be fair, is the dream.
0:39:56 > 0:40:01It's beautiful here. The kids are loving every second of it.
0:40:01 > 0:40:05There is a fear of making the wrong decision, but...
0:40:07 > 0:40:10..that's life...in general.
0:40:10 > 0:40:13There's no guarantees...it's just...
0:40:13 > 0:40:15where your heart takes you, I suppose.
0:40:15 > 0:40:20But Nicola is far from convinced they can afford it at all.
0:40:20 > 0:40:25It's a terrifying thought to think that we'd be stuck at the other side of the world,
0:40:25 > 0:40:29not being able to, potentially, feed the children...
0:40:30 > 0:40:34..and get them the basic things that they need.
0:40:34 > 0:40:39There's no good having a beach and the sea if you can't provide food on the table.
0:40:40 > 0:40:45Jimmy regrets not spending his mum's last moments with her.
0:40:45 > 0:40:49When I lost my mum. I kind of beat myself up in a way...
0:40:49 > 0:40:51because with never saying goodbye there,
0:40:51 > 0:40:55I kind of vowed to myself that I wouldn't let that happen again.
0:40:55 > 0:41:01If he moves to Australia, he fears he might never again see the grandmother who brought him up.
0:41:01 > 0:41:08I always thought I'd be, you know, if worst comes to worst, I would be there at the side of my nanna.
0:41:08 > 0:41:14At the end of the day, I've got my family to care for now, and I need to do what's best for those.
0:41:14 > 0:41:16It doesn't mean I love her any less.
0:41:17 > 0:41:20Nicola's heart is torn in two.
0:41:20 > 0:41:23Australia has a lot to offer...
0:41:24 > 0:41:27..but the UK has my life...
0:41:27 > 0:41:30and the last 30 years have been there...
0:41:30 > 0:41:37and I don't think you can ever really imagine leaving it behind
0:41:37 > 0:41:40and just not having everyone and everything you knew.
0:41:40 > 0:41:44But it's time for them to face the harsh reality.
0:41:44 > 0:41:49When it comes to it, they need to know they really can leave everyone they love behind
0:41:49 > 0:41:51in search of a better future in Australia.
0:41:51 > 0:41:53How will they vote?
0:41:56 > 0:42:00It's been a really hard week, we've had a lot of highs and lows.
0:42:00 > 0:42:03The lifestyle here in Australia is incredible,
0:42:03 > 0:42:06but unfortunately it does come with a price.
0:42:06 > 0:42:09So our final decision is...
0:42:11 > 0:42:13- Australia! - UK!
0:42:14 > 0:42:18Conner, Reese and Ethan still haven't been convinced.
0:42:18 > 0:42:21I would have chosen Australia.
0:42:21 > 0:42:24It's just seeing all the emotions that our family's had...
0:42:24 > 0:42:27and it's made me change my idea.
0:42:27 > 0:42:29But Nicola's come round,
0:42:29 > 0:42:34and despite leaving everyone she's willing to give it a go.
0:42:34 > 0:42:36I do think it's the best thing for everyone.
0:42:36 > 0:42:42If we can work our way round the money, there is a lot of places in Australia, so...
0:42:42 > 0:42:46maybe we have to look a bit wider afield,
0:42:46 > 0:42:49but I do think we could make it work.
0:42:49 > 0:42:52I am glad we're on the same page! Makes a nice change!
0:42:52 > 0:42:53Yuk!
0:42:54 > 0:42:59After a rollercoaster week, Nicola and Jimmy have some persuading still to do.
0:42:59 > 0:43:05But if they're determined there's a chance that their Australian dream might just become a reality.
0:43:11 > 0:43:15Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:43:15 > 0:43:19E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk