Hi Richard,

I grew up in Sweden, traveled around Europe and spent almost a decade in Los Angeles before moving to Australia.

Pros: Great climate (choices range from tropical to Mediterranean), vast areas of uninhabited natural beauty, good balance between "welfare state" and free enterprise, great capital cities in most states with fantastic food, arts, culture and sporting events. A lot of talented people in all of these areas. Increasingly vibrant and multi-cultural society.

Depending on your point of view: Caught in a time-warp and physically isolated from the rest of the world.

Cons: Racist/redneck tendencies, lack of support for lateral and unique thinkers, obsession with fast food culture. General complacency in politics and society. A lot of talented people leaving due to lack of opportunity.

That's my take in a nutshell. I'm a full-time musician and street performer in Adelaide, and I feel like I see the best and worst of this place on a regular basis. I've left several times, but I have to say I've always been happy to come back. Oh, and the South Australian wine regions - Barossa Valley, Clare, McLaren Vale, Coonawarra are all world class.

Good luck,
Andy

http://www.reverbnation.com/andysalvanos