Downsizing Checklist Australia 2025 | Everything You Need to Plan a Successful Move

The Complete Australian Downsizing Checklist (2025)

Downsizing is one of the most significant life transitions of later life. Whether you're moving to a smaller home, apartment, retirement village or relocating closer to family, this checklist covers every step.

Phase 1: Financial Planning (6–12 months before)

• Get your current home appraised by 2–3 local agents to understand realistic sale value
• Research the cost and stamp duty on properties you're considering buying
• Calculate your total transaction costs — agent fees, stamp duty, legal fees, moving costs (use our Downsizing Cost Calculator)
• Understand how sale proceeds will affect your Age Pension (proceeds exempt from assets test for 24 months)
• Explore the Downsizer Super Contribution (age 55+, up to $300,000 per person from sale proceeds)
• Consult a financial adviser specialising in retirement planning before making decisions
• If considering a retirement village, get independent legal advice on the contract

Phase 2: Property Decisions (3–6 months before)

• List your non-negotiables: location, size, access requirements, pet-friendliness
• Consider future mobility needs — single-level, step-free access, wider doorways
• Research local community, transport links, proximity to healthcare
• Get building and pest inspections on any property before purchasing
• If buying into a strata property, review 2 years of strata meeting minutes and the financial statements
• Confirm your solicitor or conveyancer is engaged for both the sale and purchase

Phase 3: Decluttering & Preparation (2–3 months before)

• Start with one room at a time — don't try to do it all at once
• Three-box method: keep, donate/sell, discard
• Consider an estate sale or auction service for furniture and valuables
• Digitise important documents and old photos before discarding originals
• Involve family members in decisions about sentimental items early
• Contact charities for furniture donations — many offer free collection

Phase 4: The Move (1 month before)

• Get 3 removalist quotes — specify fragile items, stairs, long carries
• Confirm moving date aligns with settlement dates on both properties
• Book a cleaning service for after you vacate
• Update address with ATO, Medicare, Centrelink, banks and superannuation funds
• Redirect mail through Australia Post (up to 12 months)
• Arrange utilities disconnection/connection

Phase 5: After the Move

• Notify My Aged Care of your address change if receiving services
• Update estate planning documents (will, powers of attorney) with your new address and situation
• Review your home and contents insurance for the new property
• Report the property sale to Centrelink within 14 days
• Explore the Downsizer Super Contribution with your financial adviser if eligible

The Downsizer Super Contribution

If you are 55 or older and have owned your home for at least 10 years, you may be able to contribute up to $300,000 ($600,000 per couple) from your home sale proceeds into superannuation — outside the normal contribution limits. This is one of the most significant tax planning opportunities available to older Australians. Always get financial advice before acting.

This checklist provides general guidance only. Individual circumstances vary. Always seek independent financial, legal and tax advice specific to your situation before making downsizing decisions.