Dreaming Of Moving To Australia? Let This Story Tell You What To Expect

Moving to Australia – Ever wondered what it takes to chase a dream halfway across the globe? Imagine leaving everything behind for a fresh start in South Australia, facing culture shock, job rejections, and the daunting task of building a new life.

As humans, it’s important that we make each other feel seen and heard for the stories we carry. It’s time we start conversations that encourage us to ask the tough questions, step into someone else’s shoes, and gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives. Only then can we truly embrace our own journey and be proud of how far we’ve come!

That’s exactly what one inspiring individual did, and her journey from navigating the challenges of immigration to founding a compassionate care platform is a story you wouldn’t want to miss. Get ready to be captivated by her resilience, her passion for giving back, and the raw, honest insights she shares about turning hurdles into triumphs. We’re interviewing Moira Lewis today, an immigrant who moved to Australia at the age of 23, survived the hurdles life threw at her and has created an impact with her experiences in this land down under.

What Made You Move To Australia?

I was drawn to South Australia for its opportunities and promise of a fresh start. It felt like a place where I could build a meaningful life while contributing to the community. The slower pace and welcoming environment made it appealing compared to bigger cities. I wanted a place that aligned with my personal and professional goals, and South Australia fit that vision.

Moving to Australia – Was It Easy At First?

Not at all—it was challenging in many ways. Adjusting to a new culture, understanding how things work here, and dealing with homesickness were difficult parts of the transition. There were moments when I questioned my decision, but with time, perseverance, and a lot of learning, I found my footing. Those tough early days made the victories that followed even sweeter.

Was It Easy To Meet New People?

It took time and effort to build connections. I had to push myself to attend events, start conversations, and put myself out there—something that wasn’t always comfortable. Slowly, I met wonderful people who became friends and a support system. They made settling in much easier and reminded me that building relationships takes patience.

What Did You Expect Before Moving, And Did That Expectation Meet Reality?

I expected things to fall into place quickly and easily, but the reality was more complicated. Life here came with its share of challenges, from finding stable work to navigating new systems. However, what I didn’t expect was the immense personal growth that came with these hurdles. Looking back, I’m grateful for the lessons that helped shape me into who I am today.

Moving to Australia – Was It Easy To Find A Job Here?

Not initially—it required resilience and adaptability. I faced rejection before finding the right fit, which was frustrating but taught me perseverance. I realized how important it is to network and gain local experience. Those early hurdles motivated me to build something meaningful, which eventually led to the creation of Lewis Aid.

What Was Your Profession Back In India?

In India, I worked in roles that were centered around compassionate care and providing support for individuals. These experiences gave me valuable skills in service delivery, problem-solving, and understanding people’s needs. I realized early on that supporting others was my passion. That passion became the foundation for what I do today.

What Do You Do For Work, And Did You Find It Easy To Get Your First Job?

I’m the founder of Lewis Aid, a platform that provides compassionate care for individuals in complex situations. Finding my first job here wasn’t easy—it took persistence and a willingness to learn. However, my past experiences and passion for making a difference drove me to keep going. Eventually, I decided to create something meaningful and lasting through Lewis Aid.

You Give Back To The Community A lot. Could You Tell Me A little about what motivates you To Do That?

I’ve always believed that care isn’t just transactional—it’s transformational. My own challenges navigating life and supporting vulnerable individuals have shown me the power of compassion. Even small acts of kindness can completely change someone’s day or outlook. That belief continues to motivate me to give back and build a community where no one feels invisible.

One cause that is especially close to my heart is supporting survivors of domestic violence. I’ve met so many women who have suffered in silence, carrying pain that the world doesn’t see. Many of them feel trapped—physically, emotionally, or financially—without a clear way out. I understand that struggle because, like most women, I’ve had my own battles too. We all carry burdens that we don’t always talk about. That’s why I’ve dedicated myself to not only helping survivors rebuild their lives but also working on prevention. Through DV prevention training, I aim to educate and empower women so they can recognise the warning signs early, understand their rights, and find the courage to seek help.

The road to healing isn’t easy, but I’ve seen the incredible strength of survivors who refuse to let their past define them. Helping these women find their independence, regain confidence, and step into a future where they feel safe and valued is what drives me every day.

We All Know That It Gets Rough As An Immigrant To Just Survive In This Country, But What Kept You Going? What Is It That Still Keeps You Going?

There were times when it felt overwhelming, but my desire to make a positive impact kept me going. The moments when I saw someone smile or find hope because of my work reminded me why I started this journey. Knowing that even small efforts can lead to big changes gives me purpose. That purpose still drives me to wake up every day and do what I do.

I also realized, much later in life, the importance of quality friendships. In the beginning, I had a lot of friends, but over time, I learned that having a few genuine, supportive people is far more valuable than a large circle. Surrounding myself with people who uplift me, rather than those who simply take up space, has been one of the most important lessons I’ve learned.

What Advice Would You Like To Give Young Women Before They Move From Their Countries To Australia?

Be prepared for challenges, but remember they are temporary. Trust yourself, stay open to new experiences, and never hesitate to seek help or build connections. Finding a supportive community can make a world of difference. Most importantly, don’t give up—every step forward brings you closer to success.

Take care of yourself along the way. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Treat yourself, do what you love, and invest in the things that bring you joy. Be independent, take charge of your life, and prioritise your well-being. Stay active, exercise, and build a lifestyle that makes you feel strong—both physically and mentally. When you look after yourself, you’re in a better position to navigate life’s challenges and support others.

Moving to a new country isn’t only about surviving – Its about thriving!

Breaking The Silence On DV

Beyond physical harm, the mental toll of domestic violence is immense. Many survivors struggle with anxiety, depression, and PTSD long after leaving abusive situations. Mental health challenges are something I personally understand, and I know how isolating they can feel. That’s why I advocate for mental health awareness and emotional healing as part of my work. Survivors don’t just need safety—they need support, counselling, and the reassurance that they are not alone.

The road to healing isn’t easy, but I’ve witnessed the incredible strength of women who refuse to let their past define them. Helping them find independence, regain confidence, and step into a future where they feel safe and valued is what drives me every day.

In 2017, I won the title of Mrs. India South Asia, and since then, I’ve used that platform to raise awareness about domestic violence, particularly within the South Asian community. Many women from our culture face financial and emotional abuse, often without realizing it because these issues are deeply ingrained and rarely discussed. By shedding light on these hidden forms of control, I hope to empower more women to recognize abuse, seek support, and take control of their futures. Representation matters, and I want to use my voice to break the silence around these critical issues.

Moira’s Ongoing Impact

And that’s just a glimpse into Moira’s incredible journey. Beyond her work with Lewis Aid, she’s a powerhouse of community support, serving as President of the Rotary Club and spearheading vital projects from mental health awareness and domestic violence victim support to youth leadership and safe driving programs. Her dedication to alleviating the pain of fibromyalgia, coupled with her wide-reaching community initiatives, truly embodies the spirit of making a difference. Moira’s story is a powerful reminder that even amidst personal challenges, it’s possible to build a life of purpose and profoundly impact the lives of others.

About Lewis Aid

Lewis Aid offers first aid training in Mawson Lakes, with a mission to equip everyone with life-saving skills. They offer courses in CPR, First Aid, Childcare First Aid, Medication Administration, and Mental Health. Contact them at 102, 2-6 Goodall Parade Mawson Lakes, info@lewisaid.com.au, or +61 421 927 978.

https://www.lewisaid.com.au

If you are a human working towards a cause that is about to create a impact, feel free to get in touch for us to have a chat about how we can write your story.