0:00:06 > 0:00:10Convincing someone you love to move halfway around the world
0:00:10 > 0:00:14is a tough enough task - but when two members of your family
0:00:14 > 0:00:17have big worries about uprooting their lives,
0:00:17 > 0:00:20it could be a recipe for heartbreak.
0:00:20 > 0:00:24Craig Hoe's work is ruining his family life.
0:00:24 > 0:00:28I've missed so much up to now, I don't want to miss any more.
0:00:28 > 0:00:32But can he convince them moving to Australia is the answer?
0:00:32 > 0:00:36If this is Australian life, then you can keep it, because I don't want it.
0:00:36 > 0:00:40Especially when it comes at the risk of tearing the family apart.
0:00:40 > 0:00:45When I know that I'm not going to see you again till...
0:00:45 > 0:00:49It really tears at my hear...
0:01:12 > 0:01:16With its 30,000 miles of coastline and sunny climate,
0:01:16 > 0:01:20Australia has long been a favourite destination for Brits
0:01:20 > 0:01:23dreaming of a new life abroad.
0:01:23 > 0:01:28But leaving behind everything you know to start again so far from home
0:01:28 > 0:01:31can turn a simple dream into the hardest challenge of your life.
0:01:31 > 0:01:35Ahead of the Hoes are some huge decisions,
0:01:35 > 0:01:39as they experience the reality of life in Australia.
0:01:39 > 0:01:42At the end of their week, they'll face a challenging choice -
0:01:42 > 0:01:46whether to stay in the UK or make the move for good.
0:01:47 > 0:01:52After flying 10,000 miles and crossing three continents,
0:01:52 > 0:01:54the Hoes touched down in Brisbane.
0:01:56 > 0:02:00It's the furthest they've ever been from family in the UK.
0:02:00 > 0:02:04Even so, they're excited, if a little confused.
0:02:04 > 0:02:08We set off on Saturday, at... About one o'clock?
0:02:08 > 0:02:11..one o'clock in the afternoon. And we're now Monday morning.
0:02:11 > 0:02:15Wha... Whe... Are we Monday? I don't know where we are!
0:02:15 > 0:02:19But the long journey has also been a rare treat.
0:02:19 > 0:02:23It would have been the longest time we've spent together as a family
0:02:23 > 0:02:25for a long time - which I enjoyed, it was good.
0:02:25 > 0:02:28I enjoyed that time spent together,
0:02:28 > 0:02:31sat, not being able to get away from each other!
0:02:31 > 0:02:34However, the thought of family and friends they'd be leaving behind
0:02:34 > 0:02:36is already hitting home.
0:02:36 > 0:02:39Because of what we're doing, it felt like we were going.
0:02:39 > 0:02:43It felt like the first cut-off, and it was hard.
0:02:43 > 0:02:46It was hard to do that.
0:02:46 > 0:02:50So what it would be like if we do it for good...
0:02:50 > 0:02:52I can't imagine.
0:02:52 > 0:02:55I was already thinking about what I was leaving behind
0:02:55 > 0:03:00before I'd even set off, before I'd even got in the car. So, yeah...
0:03:00 > 0:03:05It's an emotional start, and there's still seven days to go.
0:03:05 > 0:03:11Back in the UK, the Hoe family live in the village of Hedon, near Hull.
0:03:11 > 0:03:14There's Craig and Lisa, who are 36,
0:03:14 > 0:03:16Ellie, who's 16,
0:03:16 > 0:03:20and Lilly and Poppy, aged nine and seven.
0:03:20 > 0:03:24Craig has a plumbing business. Lisa works part-time as a hairdresser.
0:03:24 > 0:03:27However, providing their family with a comfortable life
0:03:27 > 0:03:29has come at a high price.
0:03:29 > 0:03:34I can leave at seven in the morning, the kids will be in bed.
0:03:34 > 0:03:38Then I can get in maybe ten o'clock at night, and they're back in bed.
0:03:38 > 0:03:42It seems to be at the point at the minute where
0:03:42 > 0:03:45we're just living together, but separate lives.
0:03:45 > 0:03:50Desperate for a better quality of life with his family,
0:03:50 > 0:03:53Craig thinks the answer is to move to Australia.
0:03:53 > 0:03:57The reason for the move is hopefully to spend more quality time
0:03:57 > 0:04:00before the girls grow up - and I just miss everything.
0:04:00 > 0:04:05I've missed so much up to now, I just don't want to miss any more.
0:04:05 > 0:04:09Moving to the other side of the world is a massive undertaking,
0:04:09 > 0:04:12and it raises plenty of questions.
0:04:12 > 0:04:16It's like trying to fix something that isn't broken.
0:04:16 > 0:04:19Why? We've got a lovely life, lovely home, nice lifestyle.
0:04:19 > 0:04:22It's that itch you can't scratch,
0:04:22 > 0:04:24there's just something there, we have to...
0:04:24 > 0:04:27It's that nagging in the background that...
0:04:27 > 0:04:31It's your fault, you put it there. Yeah. It's all your fault.
0:04:31 > 0:04:36But the girls aren't convinced by the idea of a new life Down Under.
0:04:38 > 0:04:41It's all a big...fuzz.
0:04:41 > 0:04:45I'd love to try it, but it's whether I'd like it or not.
0:04:45 > 0:04:49And being away from family and friends, like -
0:04:49 > 0:04:52it's a bit out of my comfort zone.
0:04:52 > 0:04:56I don't exactly really, really, really, really want to go,
0:04:56 > 0:04:59because of all the members of the family.
0:05:01 > 0:05:04There's even more pressure on Ellie,
0:05:04 > 0:05:08as she'd be leaving behind her biological father.
0:05:08 > 0:05:13I'll miss my dad, I'll miss my Nana, I'll miss my best friend so much,
0:05:13 > 0:05:16words can't even describe, like...
0:05:18 > 0:05:21I'm crying now. Erm...
0:05:21 > 0:05:24I'm not sure, I just...
0:05:24 > 0:05:29I'd try and make new friends, but they'd never replace
0:05:29 > 0:05:31what I've got here.
0:05:31 > 0:05:33So...
0:05:33 > 0:05:35It's a massive dilemma for Ellie.
0:05:35 > 0:05:39The whole move could end up resting on her shoulders.
0:05:39 > 0:05:44You'd feel like we was abandoning her and leaving her behind.
0:05:44 > 0:05:50Say, right, you stay here, we're going over to start a new...
0:05:50 > 0:05:54You just couldn't do that. You can't leave one of your kids. No.
0:05:54 > 0:05:59And the children aren't the only concern. Lisa has another big worry.
0:05:59 > 0:06:03People say they go, and they have this big party, but
0:06:03 > 0:06:06I don't even know if I could have a party
0:06:06 > 0:06:09and say goodbye to all those people.
0:06:12 > 0:06:17I won't be able to be there if they need me, and that'll be really hard,
0:06:17 > 0:06:21because I'll just feel like I'm letting them down.
0:06:22 > 0:06:25I wish I could just pick them all up
0:06:25 > 0:06:27and take them with me -
0:06:27 > 0:06:31but it's our dream, it's not theirs.
0:06:32 > 0:06:36The Hoes are in an agonising position.
0:06:36 > 0:06:38Even with her doubts about Australia,
0:06:38 > 0:06:42both Craig and Lisa want a better future for their children.
0:06:42 > 0:06:45But if moving Down Under runs the risk of splitting the family,
0:06:45 > 0:06:48that's the last thing they'll be giving them.
0:06:52 > 0:06:57The Hoes want to see if Queensland's Gold Coast could offer them
0:06:57 > 0:06:59an ideal location for a new start.
0:06:59 > 0:07:02It's Australia's sixth largest city,
0:07:02 > 0:07:04and should have plenty of work,
0:07:04 > 0:07:07housing and lifestyle possibilities.
0:07:08 > 0:07:12But selling it to Lisa and Ellie could be a big ask for Craig.
0:07:13 > 0:07:19With this in mind, the Hoes speed off to their base for the week.
0:07:21 > 0:07:25They'll be staying in a four-bedroom house in the area of Pacific Pines.
0:07:25 > 0:07:28Hopefully it'll get them off to a good start.
0:07:28 > 0:07:31Whoo-hoo, it's nice and warm!
0:07:31 > 0:07:34Have a look...
0:07:34 > 0:07:38Very nice. Rocking horse! Oh!
0:07:38 > 0:07:42It looks like there's something for everyone.
0:07:42 > 0:07:45You've got your walk-in wardrobe. Ye-hey!
0:07:45 > 0:07:47That is ace.
0:07:47 > 0:07:49I'm happy.
0:07:49 > 0:07:51Spot on.
0:07:51 > 0:07:54Those are very positive sounds,
0:07:54 > 0:07:57and these are two very happy girls.
0:07:58 > 0:08:00Mine!
0:08:00 > 0:08:04Not Mummy's, not Daddy's, mine!
0:08:04 > 0:08:08Craig and Lisa also seem to have found what they're looking for.
0:08:08 > 0:08:12Look at that view! Wow!
0:08:12 > 0:08:16It is like living the dream, isn't it? Look at it.
0:08:16 > 0:08:21It's like what we pictured, isn't it? Perfect. It is.
0:08:21 > 0:08:24No, it's better than I imagined.
0:08:24 > 0:08:28The house is certainly a great start for their Australian adventure.
0:08:28 > 0:08:31However, Ellie is aware that her decision
0:08:31 > 0:08:34will affect everyone else's future.
0:08:34 > 0:08:38Mum's been talking to me about it a lot, asking if I'd want to go,
0:08:38 > 0:08:41but I don't know, I don't... I haven't...
0:08:41 > 0:08:43This is the first time I've been,
0:08:43 > 0:08:47so I just need to know what's what, really.
0:08:47 > 0:08:50I'm just scared of making the wrong decision.
0:08:50 > 0:08:54With so much to deal with over the coming week,
0:08:54 > 0:08:57there will be difficult decisions for everyone.
0:09:01 > 0:09:02Like most new arrivals,
0:09:02 > 0:09:06the Hoes are keen to find their perfect Aussie home.
0:09:06 > 0:09:10But with high property prices and low exchange rates,
0:09:10 > 0:09:13the reality of what's affordable could be very different.
0:09:13 > 0:09:17So, will they be in for a nasty surprise?
0:09:20 > 0:09:24In the UK, they live in a four- bedroom detached house near Hull,
0:09:24 > 0:09:27that they've made into a home they love.
0:09:27 > 0:09:30For Lisa to give it up for a house in Australia,
0:09:30 > 0:09:32there's one feature it must have.
0:09:32 > 0:09:36If there was a choice, pool or walk-in wardrobe,
0:09:36 > 0:09:40I would be having the walk-in wardrobe! We'll go to the beach.
0:09:40 > 0:09:44I was like, "Mum, you can get a walk-in wardrobe here."
0:09:44 > 0:09:48She was like, "No, but I like Australian walk-in wardrobes."
0:09:48 > 0:09:52I was like, "Mum, they're exactly the same." What's the difference?!
0:09:52 > 0:09:54Exactly!
0:09:55 > 0:10:00To help find their ideal home, we're going to give the Hoes a taste
0:10:00 > 0:10:02of the Australian property market.
0:10:02 > 0:10:05We'll show them three different properties,
0:10:05 > 0:10:10ranging from their dream home to what they can afford.
0:10:10 > 0:10:14Then we'll reveal the price of each house. First up,
0:10:14 > 0:10:19in Upper Coomera, which is just a short drive to the beaches,
0:10:19 > 0:10:23Brisbane, and close to parks and shopping centres.
0:10:23 > 0:10:26It could have everything the Hoes want from a house,
0:10:26 > 0:10:29but will it be to their taste?
0:10:30 > 0:10:33Nice, isn't it? No, not really.
0:10:33 > 0:10:36I don't think Lisa's impressed,
0:10:36 > 0:10:39Let's have a look at the rest. Not what I was thinking.
0:10:39 > 0:10:42It needs a bit of work, doesn't it? It's not the work.
0:10:42 > 0:10:46I just don't like the layout. I... It's dark.
0:10:46 > 0:10:51It's a terrible start, but at least it does have a walk-in wardrobe.
0:10:51 > 0:10:56That isn't a walk-in wardrobe - it's not what I was thinking.
0:10:56 > 0:10:58I don't like it.
0:10:58 > 0:11:02OK. And the style isn't quite to Lisa's taste, either.
0:11:02 > 0:11:06It's old-fashioned, it's like a nana's house.
0:11:06 > 0:11:08Coming down? Yes!
0:11:08 > 0:11:12OK, OK! What about the rest of the house?
0:11:13 > 0:11:17A lot smaller, aren't they? Small-sized rooms.
0:11:17 > 0:11:21I feel claustrophobic in here. I just...need a shower.
0:11:21 > 0:11:24Is this the bedroom, or...?
0:11:24 > 0:11:27This will be the fourth bedroom, won't it? I think so.
0:11:27 > 0:11:31It's got to be. Can't use this as a bedroom!
0:11:31 > 0:11:33This is the size I want my wardrobe to be!
0:11:33 > 0:11:37Clearly, this isn't their dream home.
0:11:37 > 0:11:39Even Craig is struggling with this property.
0:11:39 > 0:11:42The pool's not helping.
0:11:42 > 0:11:46Even with my vision, and what I can do with places, but it's not...
0:11:46 > 0:11:48Girls, what do you think?
0:11:48 > 0:11:51Would I move to Australia for a house like this?
0:11:51 > 0:11:54It's not the Australian dream, more a nightmare, this house.
0:11:54 > 0:11:58It's a bad start for Craig - this house is not to their taste.
0:11:58 > 0:12:02But can the price make a difference? Is this all they can afford
0:12:02 > 0:12:05on their ?250,000 budget,
0:12:05 > 0:12:08or is their ideal home still within their reach?
0:12:08 > 0:12:12See what it's worth. Do you want to have a guess or...?
0:12:12 > 0:12:14Just open it.
0:12:18 > 0:12:20So... 200 and... 247,000.
0:12:20 > 0:12:24That's similar to... 250? Yeah.
0:12:24 > 0:12:26250 grand for this. Yeah.
0:12:26 > 0:12:30I couldn't spend another minute in it, let alone a lifetime.
0:12:30 > 0:12:32No. No. No way.
0:12:32 > 0:12:34It's...
0:12:34 > 0:12:36It's awful. Yeah.
0:12:36 > 0:12:38I didn't think it were that much. No!
0:12:38 > 0:12:42That's a blow. It's nearly as much as their UK home is worth.
0:12:42 > 0:12:48Does this mean the right home will be too much for their budget?
0:12:49 > 0:12:53The next house is in the area of Coombabah. It's close to the beach,
0:12:53 > 0:12:57and has plenty of outdoor space for the Aussie lifestyle.
0:12:57 > 0:13:01After the disappointment of the first property,
0:13:01 > 0:13:04can this house lift their spirits?
0:13:06 > 0:13:09Don't like it again. It's quite small again, isn't it?
0:13:09 > 0:13:14A lot smaller than the other one, isn't it? Is that a kitchen?
0:13:14 > 0:13:18That's the kitchen. It doesn't even look like a kitchen.
0:13:18 > 0:13:22It isn't on a par with what we've got at home.
0:13:22 > 0:13:24Oh, dear. Another disappointing start.
0:13:24 > 0:13:28And the bedrooms aren't helping.
0:13:28 > 0:13:31Can't believe how small the bedrooms are.
0:13:31 > 0:13:33They're just so small.
0:13:33 > 0:13:37It's not small where you can cope with it, it's just too small.
0:13:37 > 0:13:40I wouldn't be able to have a bedroom this size.
0:13:40 > 0:13:43But all the bedrooms are this size. Yeah.
0:13:43 > 0:13:47Do you want this bedroom, Libs? No.
0:13:48 > 0:13:53If this is Australian life, then you can keep it, because I don't want it.
0:13:53 > 0:13:57It's going from bad to worse. No-one can see the point
0:13:57 > 0:14:01in making the move for this house.
0:14:01 > 0:14:04There's no pool, and it's really dark.
0:14:04 > 0:14:07We're coming here to have a better lifestyle,
0:14:07 > 0:14:10and so that we can spend more time as a family.
0:14:10 > 0:14:13We couldn't relax in somewhere like this.
0:14:13 > 0:14:16I wouldn't want to spend time as a family - I would be fed-up.
0:14:16 > 0:14:19Yeah. However much I want to make the move,
0:14:19 > 0:14:22I wouldn't bring them across if this was all we could afford.
0:14:22 > 0:14:27However much it would shatter the dream that I have to come,
0:14:27 > 0:14:28I couldn't do it to them.
0:14:30 > 0:14:33Is there any chance of the price helping?
0:14:33 > 0:14:36With everyone so disheartened by the size of this house,
0:14:36 > 0:14:38could Craig's dream be over?
0:14:39 > 0:14:42Time to find out what it's worth.
0:14:44 > 0:14:46BOTH: 270.
0:14:46 > 0:14:51That's ?22,000 over what they hope to get for their home in the UK.
0:14:51 > 0:14:56When I think what I could buy at home for that, it's a no-brainer.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59I wouldn't feel happy living here.
0:14:59 > 0:15:03I would... I would be on the first plane back home.
0:15:03 > 0:15:06With such disappointment over the first two properties,
0:15:06 > 0:15:08Craig really needs to find a house
0:15:08 > 0:15:11that his family can see themselves living in. Fast.
0:15:11 > 0:15:15Everything hinges on the last property.
0:15:15 > 0:15:20Returning to where they started, the last house is also in Upper Coomera area.
0:15:20 > 0:15:23However, it's a different proposition from the first one.
0:15:23 > 0:15:29It's a new build on a new development and Craig's last chance of convincing the family.
0:15:29 > 0:15:33This is what I expected. Yes!
0:15:34 > 0:15:36ALL: Oh!
0:15:37 > 0:15:39Ha-ha-ha. Now you're talking.
0:15:39 > 0:15:41Wow!
0:15:41 > 0:15:45It seems the Hoes have finally arrived. Buy it!
0:15:45 > 0:15:46ELLIE GIGGLES
0:15:47 > 0:15:49CHILDREN LAUGH Oh.
0:15:49 > 0:15:53My goodness. It's amazing, isn't it?
0:15:53 > 0:15:55Ah!
0:15:55 > 0:15:57With four bedrooms and two receptions,
0:15:57 > 0:16:02this house is sounding like it could be right up their street.
0:16:02 > 0:16:04I love it.
0:16:04 > 0:16:05It's fab.
0:16:05 > 0:16:07This is the Aussie dream.
0:16:07 > 0:16:10Yeah. Defo. This is what we were thinking.
0:16:10 > 0:16:12It's perfect.
0:16:14 > 0:16:17Upstairs, things get even better.
0:16:17 > 0:16:20Oh! LAUGHTER
0:16:20 > 0:16:21This is my room!
0:16:21 > 0:16:24And Lisa's found just what she's always wanted.
0:16:24 > 0:16:26LISA GASPS
0:16:26 > 0:16:29Walk-in wardrobe. I am happy now.
0:16:30 > 0:16:32I'm hyperventilating!
0:16:34 > 0:16:36We can all have a double bed each!
0:16:37 > 0:16:39Do you like it? Yes.
0:16:40 > 0:16:43This is the dream house.
0:16:43 > 0:16:46Suddenly, it seems everything is looking very different.
0:16:46 > 0:16:50Look at this! Have the Hoes finally found their dream house?
0:16:50 > 0:16:53It's gorgeous. Look at the view. I just love it.
0:16:53 > 0:16:57If we came out, this is what we'd be living in.
0:16:57 > 0:17:01By hook or by crook, it's just... This is what we're coming for.
0:17:01 > 0:17:05We look out of upstairs windows, we look at cooling towers
0:17:05 > 0:17:09and wind turbines and sewerage treatment plants.
0:17:09 > 0:17:13It's just... It's like another world.
0:17:13 > 0:17:14It is like another world.
0:17:14 > 0:17:17This house has got everyone singing a very different tune
0:17:17 > 0:17:21from the first two, but can they afford it?
0:17:21 > 0:17:25If it's out of their reach, could it end Craig's hopes of emigrating?
0:17:25 > 0:17:27Time to find out the price.
0:17:27 > 0:17:28I don't want to know.
0:17:37 > 0:17:40That's ?70,000 over their budget.
0:17:40 > 0:17:44I thought it would be a lot more than that, to be fair. I did. A lot more.
0:17:44 > 0:17:46Despite appearing to be out of reach,
0:17:46 > 0:17:51the Hoes are convinced this is the house for them.
0:17:51 > 0:17:53You always want to do better in life
0:17:53 > 0:17:58and the other houses, I wasn't doing better, it was a step back,
0:17:58 > 0:18:01not a step forward, whereas this is a step forward.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04I'd move here tomorrow. Me, too.
0:18:04 > 0:18:05I don't want to leave!
0:18:05 > 0:18:08It's a huge relief to Craig and a big comeback for his hopes.
0:18:08 > 0:18:12I'm off the ropes. I'm coming back fighting. I'm happy.
0:18:12 > 0:18:14I'm happy.
0:18:14 > 0:18:15See you soon, house.
0:18:15 > 0:18:17HE CHUCKLES I know!
0:18:18 > 0:18:21The first house was a bad start for everyone,
0:18:21 > 0:18:24even though it had a walk-in wardrobe.
0:18:24 > 0:18:28The second fared no better and didn't lift their spirits.
0:18:28 > 0:18:32But the third house was a completely different story
0:18:32 > 0:18:33and gave everyone fresh hope,
0:18:33 > 0:18:35although it could be a struggle to afford.
0:18:38 > 0:18:43Is Craig's hope of emigrating in with a fighting chance? It's time to find out.
0:18:44 > 0:18:46My vote goes to...
0:18:49 > 0:18:52..Australia! Australia. Australia.
0:18:52 > 0:18:57Everybody shows Australia. Based on the last property. Yeah. Not the first two, definitely.
0:18:57 > 0:19:01I'd really want the UK, if it was the first two. If we can live in a house like the last one,
0:19:01 > 0:19:03definitely Australia.
0:19:07 > 0:19:10That's a great start for Craig's hopes.
0:19:10 > 0:19:13But it comes with a serious price tag
0:19:13 > 0:19:18if Lisa and Ellie won't consider Oz without a dream house to sweeten the deal.
0:19:18 > 0:19:23That would mean both Craig and Lisa finding decent work prospects
0:19:23 > 0:19:25and salaries.
0:19:26 > 0:19:30Being self-employed, Craig has to work very long hours,
0:19:30 > 0:19:35missing out on family life, something he's desperate to avoid in Australia.
0:19:35 > 0:19:37If it's the same hours I'm working back home,
0:19:37 > 0:19:41that's not going to give me the family time that I want.
0:19:41 > 0:19:45It's just geography, it's not going to make a better lifestyle for us.
0:19:47 > 0:19:52We've arranged for Craig to work with Stuart, who has a similar business on the Gold Coast.
0:19:52 > 0:19:54It's a day of getting back to basics.
0:19:54 > 0:19:57It's like the good old days, fetching and carrying.
0:19:57 > 0:20:01The lackey, heh?! I haven't been one of them for a while.
0:20:01 > 0:20:06It might be fine for a day, but Craig is concerned about his long-term prospects.
0:20:06 > 0:20:08If we did make the move over,
0:20:08 > 0:20:11would the job opportunities be there, do you think?
0:20:11 > 0:20:16At the moment, the way things are, I'd say it'll be pretty tough.
0:20:16 > 0:20:18Yeah. At the moment.
0:20:18 > 0:20:22They seem to think that things will pick up in the next 18 months
0:20:22 > 0:20:25and the housing market will pick up again. Yeah.
0:20:25 > 0:20:29Once the housing picks up again, not a problem.
0:20:29 > 0:20:31That doesn't sound great.
0:20:31 > 0:20:34In the UK, Lisa is a self-employed hairdresser.
0:20:34 > 0:20:37After her disappointment with property,
0:20:37 > 0:20:39what she can earn could make all the difference.
0:20:39 > 0:20:44If we need where I have to work more, I think, to get that home,
0:20:44 > 0:20:50then, yeah, I would put in them extra hours just for that walk-in wardrobe!
0:20:50 > 0:20:53She's having a try-out at a large salon in a mall.
0:20:53 > 0:20:56It's quite different to what she's used to.
0:20:56 > 0:21:02Lisa, have you ever worked in a big chain before, or in a big company?
0:21:02 > 0:21:08No, I rent a chair in a salon, so I pay rent and whatever I earn is mine.
0:21:08 > 0:21:11'The different working style also means a difference in pay.'
0:21:11 > 0:21:16Are the wages pretty good? Yeah, definitely.
0:21:16 > 0:21:20Um, you know, from your first years to your seniors,
0:21:20 > 0:21:24definitely between 15 to 20, I think, an hour.
0:21:24 > 0:21:27'That's ?10-?12 an hour, a lot less than Lisa brings home in the UK,
0:21:27 > 0:21:31however there is a silver lining.'
0:21:31 > 0:21:36Price-wise, if you were to do a semi, how much would you charge?
0:21:36 > 0:21:39For that, you're probably looking at 99.95.
0:21:39 > 0:21:44In England, I would charge 45 for that, so,
0:21:44 > 0:21:46it's like a ?20 difference.
0:21:46 > 0:21:48OK.
0:21:48 > 0:21:53It is more expensive to get your hair done here than there.
0:21:53 > 0:22:00So earning potential is obviously going to be more here. Definitely. Which is good.
0:22:00 > 0:22:03That sounds more encouraging for Lisa.
0:22:03 > 0:22:08Across town, Craig is keen to find out about his earning potential.
0:22:08 > 0:22:13Salary-wise, do you know roughly what...? You'd probably get work...
0:22:13 > 0:22:17If you worked for someone you're probably looking at around 60 grand a year.
0:22:17 > 0:22:19That's around ?37,000,
0:22:19 > 0:22:22more than Craig takes home in the UK.
0:22:22 > 0:22:27But would it mean an end to the gruelling hours that come with being self-employed?
0:22:27 > 0:22:31You'll be in that situation. Nothing changes when you work for yourself.
0:22:31 > 0:22:33That's the nature of the beast.
0:22:33 > 0:22:36If you want quality time with your wife and kids,
0:22:36 > 0:22:38you'd probably work for someone
0:22:38 > 0:22:42and you'd probably start at seven, knock off three, four o'clock.
0:22:42 > 0:22:44Weekends are yours, your after hours are yours.
0:22:46 > 0:22:49That's just what Craig wanted to hear. There she goes.
0:22:49 > 0:22:51Lovely.
0:22:53 > 0:22:55Done. All right. Excellent.
0:22:56 > 0:22:57First bit of Aussie plumbing!
0:23:01 > 0:23:03So a good day for Craig,
0:23:03 > 0:23:07but how will Lisa vote after her first experience of work in Australia?
0:23:09 > 0:23:12Based on the salon I was in today
0:23:12 > 0:23:16and the earning potential here...
0:23:18 > 0:23:20..I would go with...
0:23:24 > 0:23:25..UK.
0:23:27 > 0:23:32The wages are a bit rubbish, really, compare to the UK,
0:23:32 > 0:23:35compared to what I earn at home when I work for myself.
0:23:37 > 0:23:39I prefer my UK salon.
0:23:39 > 0:23:42That's a setback for Craig's hopes of convincing Lisa to emigrate.
0:23:42 > 0:23:46How does he feel about working in Australia?
0:23:46 > 0:23:50Based on what I've found out today on job prospects
0:23:50 > 0:23:55and whether there's work out there for me and the lifestyle which I'm seeking,
0:23:55 > 0:23:57I am voting for...
0:23:57 > 0:23:59..Australia.
0:23:59 > 0:24:05For me, to be able to finish work and have a happy medium with the family is not possible at home.
0:24:05 > 0:24:08At the end of the day, it's going to be worth it.
0:24:08 > 0:24:13The lure of more time with his family has persuaded Craig that Australia is the place to be.
0:24:13 > 0:24:17But he still has to convince Lisa.
0:24:21 > 0:24:25The promise of a better work-life balance has won Craig over,
0:24:25 > 0:24:28but Lisa's doubt keeps growing.
0:24:28 > 0:24:34What may help is her and Ellie speaking to a family who have been through the same dilemmas.
0:24:36 > 0:24:39Craig and Lisa are off to see the Wilsons.
0:24:39 > 0:24:41They're old friends who emigrated two years ago
0:24:41 > 0:24:46and they've laid on a traditional British welcome with an Aussie twist -
0:24:46 > 0:24:47tea and cakes by the pool.
0:24:49 > 0:24:53And thoughts soon turn to being so far from loved ones.
0:24:53 > 0:24:57My dad came over and I had to go to work the day he left
0:24:57 > 0:25:02because I could see in his eyes he was getting upset and I was. I just had to go.
0:25:02 > 0:25:07I can't imagine. You've left them, and that would be really hard,
0:25:07 > 0:25:12then you get them back for a bit and then they've got to go again. I just can't imagine.
0:25:12 > 0:25:18I don't miss... I don't miss anything about England, nothing,
0:25:18 > 0:25:20apart from my family.
0:25:20 > 0:25:22But, at the end of the day, my family's here
0:25:22 > 0:25:26and we've done it for a better lifestyle.
0:25:27 > 0:25:31By the pool, Ellie is also sharing her worries with Ruby.
0:25:31 > 0:25:35I'm just worried that I won't make friends if I do come here. I know I've got you,
0:25:35 > 0:25:38but it's like other friends, with college and stuff.
0:25:38 > 0:25:41Are they real friendly, is it easy?
0:25:41 > 0:25:44I thought the same, "I'm never going to make any friends."
0:25:44 > 0:25:47But I did and they're, like, really nice.
0:25:50 > 0:25:54But at the table, Lisa's doubts are growing.
0:25:54 > 0:25:57Part of me feels like, "Yes, let's do it,"
0:25:57 > 0:26:03because I don't want to live life without regrets, I don't want to wake up in 15 years' time.
0:26:03 > 0:26:07You've got to do it for yourself. You just do feel guilty. You do feel like...
0:26:07 > 0:26:10You'll have weeks where you'll be good and you're on a high
0:26:10 > 0:26:13and then you'll go downhill.
0:26:13 > 0:26:16You're putting too much pressure on yourself.
0:26:16 > 0:26:20Life is for living, at the end of day, and this is what it's all about.
0:26:20 > 0:26:26This visit to close friends has shown that the ups and downs of moving so far from home.
0:26:26 > 0:26:30Will it help or hinder Craig's desire for a new life down under?
0:26:30 > 0:26:32See you later.
0:26:36 > 0:26:38With Lisa missing home,
0:26:38 > 0:26:42some quality time together could be very welcome for the Hoes.
0:26:42 > 0:26:47For them, moving to Australia has always been about finding a better quality of life.
0:26:47 > 0:26:50So it could be a big step forward
0:26:50 > 0:26:53if the Gold Coast can deliver the lifestyle they want.
0:26:55 > 0:26:58They've come to Currumbin Animal Park to see
0:26:58 > 0:27:02if Australia can give them the time together they want.
0:27:04 > 0:27:08Libby would like to be a zookeeper when she grows up
0:27:08 > 0:27:09and she's showing early promise.
0:27:12 > 0:27:13Smile, Lise!
0:27:13 > 0:27:17It's like you've been separated at birth!
0:27:17 > 0:27:22For the girls, this is a rare treat, not just because of the wildlife.
0:27:23 > 0:27:26It's really nice having time to spend with Dad
0:27:26 > 0:27:32because we don't really get to do that much in England
0:27:32 > 0:27:37cos his job's so full on, cos he works for himself.
0:27:37 > 0:27:40Does it look like Daddy having a sleep? Yeah!
0:27:44 > 0:27:47It seems Craig's plan has worked a treat.
0:27:47 > 0:27:50Today has won everyone over.
0:27:50 > 0:27:52To be here and to see all of this
0:27:52 > 0:27:55and to see Craig with the girls has just been fantastic.
0:27:55 > 0:27:57I didn't think it would be...
0:27:57 > 0:28:01It's just been fantastic.
0:28:01 > 0:28:04I think I want to live in Australia.
0:28:04 > 0:28:08However, there are still worries about one member of the family.
0:28:08 > 0:28:12Ellie said she felt under pressure before we even came.
0:28:12 > 0:28:17She feels like she would be quashing our dreams, really.
0:28:17 > 0:28:20My dream is that we're all together and happy
0:28:20 > 0:28:26and we wouldn't be if one of us was at the other side of the world.
0:28:26 > 0:28:30But Ellie's doubts have reminded them of just how big a price
0:28:30 > 0:28:33they may have to pay if they do choose to make the move for good.
0:28:41 > 0:28:43Australia.
0:28:43 > 0:28:45Australia. Australia. Australia.
0:28:45 > 0:28:46Woohoohoo!
0:28:46 > 0:28:48LAUGHTER
0:28:48 > 0:28:50I knew you were going to do something.
0:28:50 > 0:28:52MAKES MONKEY NOISES
0:28:52 > 0:28:53No, don't you dare!
0:28:53 > 0:28:55That's a resounding yes
0:28:55 > 0:28:58and it's made Lisa realise something has to change.
0:28:58 > 0:29:01Listening to Libby earlier,
0:29:01 > 0:29:04saying that it was lovely spending time with dad.
0:29:04 > 0:29:07It chokes me up. It's really sad
0:29:07 > 0:29:10that she's finding this really special
0:29:10 > 0:29:14cos she should have done a lot more of this at her age.
0:29:16 > 0:29:19But even though she voted for the Australian lifestyle,
0:29:19 > 0:29:24Ellie is still feeling the weight of the decision riding on her shoulders.
0:29:24 > 0:29:26I feel a bit under pressure that...
0:29:26 > 0:29:32it's about me. If I want to move, then they'll go.
0:29:32 > 0:29:35But if I don't want to, then they won't. It's a bit...
0:29:37 > 0:29:40..daunting to think that the decision is on me.
0:29:40 > 0:29:42Cos that's not what I want.
0:29:42 > 0:29:44I don't want to stand in their way
0:29:44 > 0:29:47but it looks like I've got no choice.
0:29:50 > 0:29:55The benefits of the Gold Coast lifestyle are a much-needed boost for the Hoes' spirits.
0:29:55 > 0:30:00But it also gave them a glimpse of the future they could enjoy as a family.
0:30:00 > 0:30:02However, Ellie's worries remain
0:30:02 > 0:30:05and there's another obstacle in their path.
0:30:05 > 0:30:10The Hoes' house in the UK is a modern, four-bedroom detached property
0:30:10 > 0:30:11that they've lovingly extended,
0:30:11 > 0:30:14and believe to be worth around ?250,000.
0:30:14 > 0:30:17They'll need to get every penny to be able
0:30:17 > 0:30:22to afford the kind of house they'd love in Australia.
0:30:22 > 0:30:27So, we sent round two estate agents to give us their professional opinion.
0:30:29 > 0:30:32A lovely remodelled kitchen.
0:30:32 > 0:30:34Very clean lines.
0:30:34 > 0:30:36'Modern, contemporary.'
0:30:38 > 0:30:42Oh, he wiped his feet. Nice man!
0:30:42 > 0:30:46Well, this is a very nice modern living space.
0:30:46 > 0:30:49The feature fire really sets the room off.
0:30:52 > 0:30:55A very nice, elegant bedroom.
0:30:55 > 0:30:58Lovely decor.
0:30:58 > 0:31:02Wow! Now this is a bathroom!
0:31:02 > 0:31:04Absolutely fantastic.
0:31:04 > 0:31:07A lovely place to stretch out. Fabulous.
0:31:07 > 0:31:09All my hard work, there. Look, look.
0:31:09 > 0:31:13'I'd put it on the market for ?195,000, and for a quick sale,'
0:31:13 > 0:31:17I'd be looking between ?180-185,000.
0:31:17 > 0:31:20That's over ?50,000 less
0:31:20 > 0:31:23than they were hoping for. That's a shock, innit?
0:31:23 > 0:31:26In the current market place,
0:31:26 > 0:31:29'I'd suggest an asking price of about 220,000'
0:31:29 > 0:31:34with a "for sale" value of probably 210.
0:31:34 > 0:31:40I thought when we got it done before it was miles more than that. It was, but the house prices have dropped.
0:31:40 > 0:31:42Oh, that's rubbish.
0:31:42 > 0:31:47We'd have to re-evaluate and assess what property we could afford to buy,
0:31:47 > 0:31:50and how that would affect us. Yeah.
0:31:50 > 0:31:55The low value of their house has come as a real blow to the Hoes.
0:31:55 > 0:31:59Their dream life in Australia is now hanging in the balance.
0:31:59 > 0:32:02We've prepared a breakdown of living costs
0:32:02 > 0:32:05to see if there's any way of affording the move.
0:32:07 > 0:32:10There's nothing on here
0:32:10 > 0:32:12that is anywhere near the price.
0:32:12 > 0:32:16It's all at least double, if not triple.
0:32:16 > 0:32:19It's ridiculous.
0:32:19 > 0:32:22You're looking at a good, what, ?60 more, aren't you, on the shop?
0:32:22 > 0:32:27Yeah...per week.
0:32:27 > 0:32:29That's my shoe money gone out the window.
0:32:29 > 0:32:33The day-to-day costs are coming out higher than back home.
0:32:33 > 0:32:38Craig could earn slightly more in Australia, but how will the figures add up?
0:32:40 > 0:32:42Shall I press it? Yeah.
0:32:42 > 0:32:49?1,670.58p...
0:32:49 > 0:32:51overdrawn!
0:32:51 > 0:32:54Well, it's...
0:32:55 > 0:32:58So, to live here, to live the dream...
0:32:58 > 0:33:01That would cost us 1,670 quid a month more.
0:33:01 > 0:33:03Yeah.
0:33:03 > 0:33:08Doing the maths has highlighted just how difficult this move would be.
0:33:08 > 0:33:12Could Lisa and Craig afford to live in Australia?
0:33:12 > 0:33:15Time to vote on the cost of living.
0:33:15 > 0:33:20Our vote goes to....
0:33:23 > 0:33:26..the UK. The UK.
0:33:30 > 0:33:32Based on the figures that we've got in front of us,
0:33:32 > 0:33:35and on going for the property that we've looked at,
0:33:35 > 0:33:38I'd have to vote - even though I want to move out here -
0:33:38 > 0:33:40I can't...
0:33:40 > 0:33:44I couldn't say Australia for that because it's just not,
0:33:44 > 0:33:47it doesn't make financial sense.
0:33:49 > 0:33:52Yeah.
0:33:52 > 0:33:54Seeing their living costs in black and white
0:33:54 > 0:33:58has shaken even Craig's confidence about the move.
0:33:58 > 0:34:01But the biggest challenge facing the Hoes is dealing
0:34:01 > 0:34:04with the pain of leaving loved ones behind.
0:34:04 > 0:34:09Lisa and Craig know that seeing messages from home could be a painful experience for the children.
0:34:09 > 0:34:14But they've decided to watch it together, as a family.
0:34:17 > 0:34:21Hi! Hi, guys! I hope you're having a fantastic time.
0:34:21 > 0:34:25'Hi, guys. I hope you're having'
0:34:25 > 0:34:30the best ever time and it's everything you expect.
0:34:33 > 0:34:36Ellie, the firstborn, is just....
0:34:36 > 0:34:39I'm so proud of her. She's just...
0:34:39 > 0:34:41She's amazing.
0:34:41 > 0:34:44And Libby...
0:34:44 > 0:34:48She's just a miniature Lisa - loves adventure.
0:34:48 > 0:34:51And Poppy, the little dancer, that's what I call her.
0:34:51 > 0:34:55I couldn't wish for three more beautiful grandchildren.
0:34:55 > 0:34:58I was gutted to hear
0:34:58 > 0:35:01that they may be going to Australia to live.
0:35:01 > 0:35:05Obviously I don't want them to.
0:35:05 > 0:35:08They're my world, em...
0:35:08 > 0:35:11I'll miss them loads and loads.
0:35:11 > 0:35:14I hope you're having a fantastic time,
0:35:14 > 0:35:17but I hope you're not enjoying it too much.
0:35:22 > 0:35:27For my own reasons, you know I don't want you to go. I'll miss you all like crazy.
0:35:27 > 0:35:30I love you all so much. I love you all.
0:35:30 > 0:35:33I love you all lots.
0:35:36 > 0:35:41Hey, bro, come back to England, mate.
0:35:44 > 0:35:46She's my best friend.
0:35:52 > 0:35:56'I take you for granted'
0:35:56 > 0:36:00but when I know that I'm not going to see you again...
0:36:03 > 0:36:05..it really tears at me.
0:36:08 > 0:36:13Nana's just being silly again, as usual.
0:36:13 > 0:36:16I do love you all...so much.
0:36:20 > 0:36:23I can't go on.
0:36:23 > 0:36:26THEY SOB
0:36:35 > 0:36:39Watching their loved ones was a harrowing reminder
0:36:39 > 0:36:42of all they stand to lose should they decide to move.
0:36:42 > 0:36:45If they can't cope with the pain of leaving,
0:36:45 > 0:36:49then it will mean walking away from their dream forever.
0:36:49 > 0:36:53With their future in the balance, it's time to make the final choice.
0:36:53 > 0:36:56It's been a challenging week for everyone.
0:36:56 > 0:37:02Craig and Lisa have fallen for the lifestyle they could lead in Australia,
0:37:02 > 0:37:05but as the final vote approaches, are they certain where their future lies?
0:37:05 > 0:37:08For Craig, it's all been about a better family life.
0:37:08 > 0:37:12I feel guilty that when we're back in the UK
0:37:12 > 0:37:16that I don't get to spend as much quality time with them as I'd like.
0:37:16 > 0:37:20When I was growing up, my dad worked away a lot. I didn't see him a lot,
0:37:20 > 0:37:23and I just don't want that to happen with my kids.
0:37:23 > 0:37:28But Ellie is afraid of leaving behind the people she loves.
0:37:28 > 0:37:32It's not as easy to leave your friends as it sounds.
0:37:32 > 0:37:34It's not just round the corner.
0:37:34 > 0:37:36It's the other side of the world.
0:37:36 > 0:37:40I don't really know what I'd do without my friends that I've got now.
0:37:40 > 0:37:42And Lisa is stuck in the middle.
0:37:42 > 0:37:46I do feel really torn
0:37:46 > 0:37:49between the UK and Oz.
0:37:49 > 0:37:53You know, Craig really wants this, but I feel torn between Australia
0:37:53 > 0:37:58and the life I've got. I really don't know.
0:37:58 > 0:38:02So, after a week of tough choices,
0:38:02 > 0:38:04when it comes to the crucial final decision,
0:38:04 > 0:38:06which way will they go?
0:38:07 > 0:38:10We've had a brilliant week. We've had our highs and lows.
0:38:10 > 0:38:15We're going to make the vote on where we want to live,
0:38:15 > 0:38:19whether it be the UK or Australia, so on that I'm voting for...
0:38:19 > 0:38:22Australia. Australia.
0:38:24 > 0:38:26Australia.
0:38:29 > 0:38:30Australia.
0:38:34 > 0:38:39What's the matter? I just feel really bad. Why?
0:38:39 > 0:38:43I don't know. I just feel really torn.
0:38:43 > 0:38:47I'm surprised with your vote, obviously,
0:38:47 > 0:38:50but I'm glad you're willing to give it a try.
0:38:50 > 0:38:52And I love you!
0:38:53 > 0:38:56The Hoes' week showed that the journey to a new life
0:38:56 > 0:38:59is fraught with pain and challenges.
0:38:59 > 0:39:01Even though they all agreed on Australia,
0:39:01 > 0:39:05they're aware of the sacrifices they still have to make.
0:39:08 > 0:39:11The family faced a truly difficult decision Down Under,
0:39:11 > 0:39:15but were they able to stick with their choice?
0:39:15 > 0:39:17'A month after they returned, I travelled to Hull
0:39:17 > 0:39:21'to meet up with Lisa and Craig.' Hi. Nice to see you both.
0:39:24 > 0:39:27Tell me how the week was for the two of you.
0:39:27 > 0:39:29For me, I loved it. I just felt
0:39:29 > 0:39:33like I belonged. I felt like I...
0:39:33 > 0:39:37It was like Craig stepped off the plane, and for him,
0:39:37 > 0:39:40he said, "I feel like I've just come home."
0:39:40 > 0:39:42But it wasn't quite the same for you, was it?
0:39:42 > 0:39:45Not at all. I'm a bit of a control freak.
0:39:45 > 0:39:47There, I felt like a fish out of water.
0:39:47 > 0:39:51I said to Craig, "I'm still not there yet. I'm still not where you are."
0:39:51 > 0:39:55And he just said, "Look, I'm not happy," and it shocked me.
0:39:55 > 0:39:58I sat back and I was like, "You know, if he's not happy,
0:39:58 > 0:40:03"then we need to do something about it."
0:40:03 > 0:40:05You know, it's his life as well as ours.
0:40:05 > 0:40:09Now I know it was critical that your eldest daughter, Ellie,
0:40:09 > 0:40:12felt comfortable about possibly making the move.
0:40:12 > 0:40:15And there was a big question mark.
0:40:15 > 0:40:18It was such a big thing, wasn't it,
0:40:18 > 0:40:22for her to see Australia, to see it?
0:40:22 > 0:40:26But I think she sees more opportunity there.
0:40:26 > 0:40:29She absolutely... She cried in the airport.
0:40:29 > 0:40:33As we were leaving, she was like, "I don't want to go. Please, I don't want to go back."
0:40:33 > 0:40:36I really didn't expect that. I really didn't expect her
0:40:36 > 0:40:40to like it as much as she did, to the point where she was upset.
0:40:40 > 0:40:45So, it's cards on the table time. Craig, I'm going to start with you.
0:40:45 > 0:40:47How definite is this move?
0:40:47 > 0:40:49For me, 100% cos I still feel it's the right move
0:40:49 > 0:40:51for us as a family.
0:40:51 > 0:40:53Lisa?
0:40:53 > 0:40:56I am... 100%, I know it's the right thing to do.
0:40:56 > 0:41:00The future for the girls is there.
0:41:00 > 0:41:04It's so much better. I know it's the right thing to do,
0:41:04 > 0:41:09for Craig as well. So...
0:41:09 > 0:41:10I'm 100%.
0:41:12 > 0:41:16It looks as if Ellie's now very much on board with the move.
0:41:16 > 0:41:19But there's one vital piece of the jigsaw remaining.
0:41:19 > 0:41:22Australia brought home
0:41:22 > 0:41:25just how much Lisa would miss her family and friends.
0:41:25 > 0:41:28So I've invited her cousin, Kelly,
0:41:28 > 0:41:32to help her take that final big step.
0:41:32 > 0:41:36So, a lot of this move, in a funny way,
0:41:36 > 0:41:39does depend on your thoughts on them going out, and really,
0:41:39 > 0:41:43in a way, whether it's with your blessing.
0:41:48 > 0:41:50It's tough, isn't it?
0:41:52 > 0:41:55That's how much family means.
0:41:55 > 0:41:59It's just going to be hard to go.
0:41:59 > 0:42:02We've seen how the whole family have voted,
0:42:02 > 0:42:06but because you are so much part of their lives,
0:42:06 > 0:42:09we would actually like you to be part of that vote as well,
0:42:09 > 0:42:13cos I know, especially for Lisa, it's critical.
0:42:13 > 0:42:17So, I know this is going to be really hard.
0:42:23 > 0:42:26So, Kelly, the whole family moving out to Australia...?
0:42:31 > 0:42:34Regretfully...
0:42:36 > 0:42:38Just for them. Obviously, for me...
0:42:38 > 0:42:42I want them here. 110%, I want them to stay.
0:42:42 > 0:42:44That's true friendship, isn't it?
0:42:44 > 0:42:48And guess who's going to be the first person coming to visit?!
0:42:48 > 0:42:52She'll be saving up for her air fare.
0:42:55 > 0:42:59Well, emotions are still running high in that household,
0:42:59 > 0:43:03but Lisa and Craig are united in what's best for their girls.
0:43:03 > 0:43:05And that's a new life in Australia.
0:43:05 > 0:43:08I think if they get their way,
0:43:08 > 0:43:11they're going to be heading Down Under in literally a few months' time.
0:43:22 > 0:43:24Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:43:24 > 0:43:27E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk