Before You Move (2-4 Weeks Out)
- Compare energy providers – set up electricity and gas for move-in day (AGL, Origin, Energy Australia all service Fitzroy)
- Book internet installation – NBN connections take 5-10 business days. Check available speeds at your new address on nbnco.com.au
- Set up mail redirection – Australia Post redirect starts at $37.50 for 1 month
- Notify important contacts – bank, employer, Medicare, ATO, Electoral Commission
- Research local council – Fitzroy falls under City of Yarra
- Transfer or get Myki – add money before your first commute
- Find a local GP – inner-city clinics often have wait lists, register early
Moving Day Essentials
- Removalists or DIY – tight streets and permit parking make professional removalists worth it
- Parking permit for truck – apply to council at least 48 hours ahead for temporary loading zone
- Meter readings – photograph gas and electricity meters on arrival
- Condition report – if renting, document EVERYTHING with timestamped photos
- Keys and access – collect from agent/landlord, test all locks
- Emergency contacts – save local police station numbers
First Week in Fitzroy
- Update your address on MyGov, Medicare, bank, and licence (VicRoads online)
- Register to vote at new address (AEC requires notification within 8 weeks)
- Get a parking permit – essential in {name}, apply via council website ($80-120/year)
- Set up bins – check which day is your collection day via council app
- Find your nearest – supermarket, pharmacy, medical centre, post office
- Test your commute – do a trial run to work at peak time before your first day
Local Services to Set Up
| Service | Where in Fitzroy |
|---|---|
| Supermarket | Coles/Woolworths within walking distance |
| Post Office | Check auspost.com.au for nearest |
| Medical Centre | See our Fitzroy medical guide |
| Library | Local branch likely within walking distance |
| Gym | Multiple options on the main strip |
Cost of Moving to Fitzroy
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Removalists (2-3br) | $500-1,200 |
| Bond (4 weeks rent) | $2438 |
| First month rent | $2554 |
| Utility connections | $50-150 in fees |
| Internet setup | $0-99 (provider dependent) |
| Parking permit | $80-120 |
| Address changes | Free (online) |
| Total move-in costs | $3,586+ |
Tips from Fitzroy Locals
- Get the parking permit sorted before anything else – street parking is brutal
- Explore the back streets for hidden cafes and shops
- Download the council’s app for bin days, local alerts, and community events
For a full guide to what Fitzroy is like, see our honest guide and cost of living breakdown.
Information current as of April 2026. Council boundaries, services, and fees may change. Check your specific council website for the latest.
Fitzroy Moving Costs and Local Data
Fitzroy is a compact inner-Melbourne suburb, so moving costs are often shaped less by distance and more by access. Narrow terrace streets, clearways, tram corridors and limited parking can add time to loading and unloading. If you are moving from another inner suburb such as Carlton, Collingwood, Brunswick or Richmond, the drive may be short, but allow extra time for lift bookings, permit checks and one-way street access.
The housing mix also affects how you pack. ABS 2021 Census data shows Fitzroy had 10,431 residents, 6,011 private dwellings, and an average household size of 2 people. Apartments made up 59.4% of occupied dwellings, while terraces, townhouses and semi-detached homes made up 36.5%. Separate houses were only 3.2%, far below the Victorian figure of 73.4%. That means many Fitzroy moves involve stairs, shared entries, small lifts, permit parking or tight rear-lane access.
Renters should budget carefully. Fitzroy’s 2021 median weekly rent was $451, compared with $370 across Victoria. The suburb also had a much higher rental share: 58.8% of occupied dwellings were rented, compared with 28.5% across Victoria. This makes early bond, condition report and utility planning especially important. Source: ABS 2021 Census QuickStats: Fitzroy.
Fitzroy Move-In Checklist
Confirm building access
- Ask the agent or building manager about lift bookings.
- Check whether removalists can use the front entry, rear lane or basement.
- Photograph tight corners, stairwells and doorways before moving day.
Plan parking
- Check City of Yarra parking signs outside both properties.
- Ask whether a temporary parking permit or works zone is needed.
- Avoid peak clearway periods on nearby arterial roads such as Johnston Street, Brunswick Street, Smith Street and Alexandra Parade.
Book services early
- Arrange electricity and gas connection for the day before move-in.
- Transfer internet at least two weeks ahead, especially for apartments where technician access may be required.
- Update your address with banks, Medicare, VicRoads, insurers and subscriptions.
Prepare for apartment or terrace constraints
- Measure fridge, washing machine, sofa and bed-frame access.
- Disassemble bulky furniture before the truck arrives.
- Use stackable crates rather than oversized boxes where stairs are involved.
Rental handover
- Complete the condition report before unpacking fully.
- Photograph walls, floors, appliances, windows, keys and meters.
- Lodge bond paperwork and keep digital copies of all receipts.
Local Moving Tips
Fitzroy is easiest to move into outside hospitality peak times. Brunswick Street, Gertrude Street and Smith Street can be busy from late afternoon through dinner service, especially Thursday to Sunday. For less disruption, aim for a weekday morning.
If your property is near tram stops, confirm whether movers can legally stop nearby. A cheaper removalist quote can become expensive if the truck has to park one or two blocks away and carry items by hand. For small apartments, a two-person crew may be enough; for upper-floor terraces or no-lift buildings, three movers can reduce fatigue and speed up the job.
FAQ
How early should I book removalists for a Fitzroy move?
Book 2-4 weeks ahead, or earlier if moving at month-end. Fitzroy has a high renter population, so lease changeover periods can be busy.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Fitzroy?
Possibly. Many streets have permit zones, metered parking or time limits. Check City of Yarra rules and ask your removalist whether they need guaranteed truck space.
What should renters prioritise before moving in?
Prioritise the bond, condition report, utilities and internet. Take dated photos before placing furniture, especially in older terraces and apartments where existing wear can be easy to miss.
