Gabriel Filer, 34, successfully paid off over $90,000 in student debt by living with his parents for several years. This financial discipline enabled him to fulfill his dream of moving to Australia. Filer relocated to Sydney in April 2024, where he now enjoys a higher salary and a more fulfilling lifestyle.
Growing up in Middletown, Connecticut, Filer always had aspirations of exploring life beyond his hometown. A trip to Australia in 2019 solidified his desire to move there, especially as civil unrest and the pandemic prompted him to reconsider his future in the United States.
Before making the move, Filer was determined to pay off his student loans, build an emergency fund, and save for relocation costs. By August 2023, he had successfully eliminated his debt, achieving this milestone less than four years after committing to an aggressive savings strategy.
Filer graduated in 2013 with a degree in community, environment, and planning, followed by a Master’s in city and regional planning in 2016. After returning home, he resumed living with his parents, which played a crucial role in his financial recovery.
In January 2020, Filer began setting aside $1,000 monthly from his salary as an urban planner. He increased his contributions to his savings and brokerage accounts, ultimately paying off $65,600 of his student loans by October 2021. The temporary pause on student loan payments during the pandemic allowed him to save significantly.
Filer tracked his expenses meticulously, using the Apple Notes app to monitor bills and spending. This disciplined approach enabled him to save a substantial amount from his monthly salary, which averaged around $3,400 between 2021 and 2023.
After clearing his debt, Filer focused on saving for his visa fees and relocation expenses. By April 2024, he had accumulated over $38,000 for these costs. He enlisted the help of an immigration lawyer to navigate the complexities of applying for permanent residency in Australia, finding the support invaluable.
Upon arriving in Sydney, Filer leveraged connections made through virtual volunteering for an Australian nonprofit to secure professional references. Within two months, he landed a job as a grants officer in the education sector, earning 113,575 AUD, approximately $73,700, which is more than his previous salary in the United States.
Initially renting an apartment for $1,645 per month, Filer found the cost of living in Australia much more reasonable compared to major cities in the US. By June 2025, he completed the down payment on his own unit, marking a significant milestone after years of living with his parents.
Filer appreciates the lifestyle changes he has experienced in Australia. He notes that the work-life balance is far superior to what he encountered in the US. “When I finish work, I don’t feel guilty about leaving,” he remarked, contrasting it with his previous experiences.
Reflecting on his journey, Filer stated, “Moving to Australia was a dream come true. I just needed the courage to step out of my comfort zone and go for it.” His story exemplifies how strategic financial planning and determination can lead to significant life changes.
