A trend has emerged on social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, where American content creators living in Australia share their observations about life in the country. These videos often feature creators discussing differences between Australian and American customs, such as coffee culture or petrol payment methods.
Lex B, an American content creator based in Brisbane operating under the profile 'Lex In Wonderland,' noted the increasing prevalence of this content.
Migration Motivations and Political Context
The article references a hypothetical scenario in 2025, stating that it marked one year since Donald Trump's re-entry into the White House for a second term, during which time he conducted military strikes and captured Venezuela's president. This hypothetical political climate has been cited in media reports as a factor for some Americans considering emigration. Publications like CNN, Reuters, and The New Yorker have covered the topic of Americans seeking to leave the United States, with New York Magazine publishing an article titled 'The Case Against Leaving Trump's America.'
Gallup and Monmouth polls referenced in the article indicate a desire among some Americans to leave the country permanently, with one in five Americans expressing this sentiment in a recent Gallup poll, rising to 40% among younger women. A long-running Monmouth poll showed that the desire to leave the US had tripled since the 1970s.
Lex B, 38, moved from Texas to Australia over a year prior due to her husband's work opportunity. Her content primarily focuses on Australian life, nature, and culture, avoiding political topics. She has documented experiences such as reviewing Australian shops, trying local confectionery, and participating in cultural activities. B stated that her family's focus shifted from 'perfection' to 'connection' since relocating, attributing this to Australia's emphasis on work-life balance.
Relocation Trends Among High-Net-Worth Individuals
David Lesperance, a tax and immigration specialist, assists high-net-worth Americans with international relocation. He observed a shift in client motivations, with non-financial reasons now predominating over financial considerations. Lesperance stated that clients cite various events, including domestic law enforcement actions, political protests, and controversies surrounding public figures, as factors influencing their desire to leave the US.
He reported that following a hypothetical assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in September of the referenced 2025 timeline, six of his clients, including both Republican and Democratic political donors, proceeded with plans to leave the country. Australia was identified as a top consideration due to its perceived ability to replicate lifestyles.
Australian Interest in American Perspectives
Ramya Vairavan and her family moved from San Francisco to Sydney, attributing the move to a job offer for her husband. Vairavan noted that despite her personal reasons, some individuals associated their move with the US political climate. She also observed that Australian audiences show interest in content from Americans living in Australia, seeking insights into their perceptions of the country.
Nikki Kelly, a student from Utah in Perth, stated that creating 'American in Australia' content is straightforward. Her posts sometimes feature observations framed as grievances, such as a video about a road speed hump that gained 33 million views. Kelly acknowledged that such content can generate high viewership.
The 'Australia Effect' on Social Media
Near the end of the article's referenced 2025 timeline, a social media trend known as 'the Australia effect' emerged. This trend involved content creators from various nationalities showcasing an aesthetic 'glow-up' and perceived restorative qualities associated with moving to Australia. Additionally, American travel bloggers have created content reviewing Australian food and destinations, attracting significant viewership.
Lex B reported receiving support from Australian online users, stating it demonstrated the community-focused nature of Australians. She noted her increasing adaptation to Australian life, exemplified by her account of a kookaburra taking a hot chip from a child's hand.