‘We’re giving up a lot’: South African family prepares to return home from Australia
After two-and-a-half years in Melbourne, Roxy and her family are preparing to return to South Africa. She says her children’s struggle to feel a sense of belonging has made the decision necessary, despite her deep attachment to life in Australia.
A South African family is preparing to return home after living in Australia for two-and-a-half years. Roxy, the mother, has made the tough decision to return to South Africa with her children, despite loving her time in Melbourne. Initially, they believed the move would provide their children with better opportunities, security, and an improved quality of life.
However, they soon discovered that feeling like they belonged was equally important to their children's happiness. Roxy admits she had fallen in love with Australia's lifestyle, independence, and freedom, which she had embraced - from rooftop bars and restaurants to sports events and travel. The financial benefits of living in Australia were also significant.
However, the reality of returning to South Africa has left her facing a difficult decision. While she loves her family and misses her loved ones, she is concerned about the challenges South Africa faces, including crime, security issues, and infrastructure problems. Roxy acknowledges that living in Australia has changed her perception of these issues, making them more apparent.
Despite the emotional weight of the decision, she hopes the joy of being reunited with her family will eventually outweigh the sadness. The family aims to return to South Africa before Christmas to celebrate the holidays together.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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