Matt Cameron packed up and left Australia two years ago. He has zero regrets. Picture: Instagram
An Aussie businessman who left the country for a more affordable and luxurious life in Bali says he has sold every single property in his portfolio and others should do the same.
Former property developer Matt Cameron, 46, documents his life in Bali on Instagram and says he has no regrets about packing up and leaving Australia because he is now far better off financially.
Cameron left Australia two years ago after deciding it was time to escape skyrocketing rents and huge Aussie taxes.
He now showcases on social media his life in Bali, which includes a luxury villa and staff comprising chefs, cleaners, a driver and security.
Cameron said his choice to leave Australia was one many others were starting to make as well.
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Cameron says he sold off all his Australian properties after crunching the numbers. Picture: Instagram
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“They are going where the numbers make sense and they do not get emotional, nor are they blindly patriotic,” he told the Daily Mail.
“When I took into account all the various taxes, charges and fees when purchasing, holding and selling property, I was lucky to make three to four per cent on assets.
“There is no point building a portfolio that cannot even keep up with inflation.”
Cameron offloaded his property portfolio after a business audit showed him exactly how much money was going into maintaining the assets.
“Capital appreciation and headline returns … mean nothing once you factor in the ridiculous amount of interest you pay on the loan,” he said.
“Borrow $1 million, pay the bank $2 millions – what you think is ‘profit’ is not profit at all once you calculate the interest.”
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Cameron now lives a luxury lifestyle in Bali. Picture: Instagram
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“Australia is one of the highest taxed and most over-regulated countries in the world, and it’s well known for being a nanny state. The numbers do not stack up if you want to build real generational wealth.”
Cameron believes it is cheaper to build a luxury villa in Bali than it is to renovate an apartment in Sydney. And he is not alone.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, more than 30,000 Australians left than returned in 2022–23, followed by over 24,000 in 2023–24, the highest net departures in nearly a decade.
Estimates suggest as many as 10,000 Australian live in Bali on a permanent or semipermanent basis.
With more Aussies relocating overseas, experts fear a “brain drain”, a loss of talent to countries offering a better lifestyle and financial freedom.
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Cameron has been living in Bali for two years. Picture: Instagram
Simone Collins, founder of Our Year in Bali says motivations for the move are changing.
“Before, it was all about adventure,” she told Daily Mail.
“Now, it’s about survival. Families are coming to Bali because they’re overwhelmed by the cost of living in Australia, especially childcare, housing, and everyday expenses.”
Ms Collins told the outlet that she’s seen a surge in inquiries from young families and retirees alike, particularly from Sydney and Melbourne.
“People are exhausted. They’re working long hours, paying high taxes, and missing time with their kids. In Bali, their money goes further, and they get their time back,” Ms Collins said.
“Food is at least 30 to 40 per cent cheaper. Transport, domestic help, and childcare are dramatically more affordable.
“Even if housing costs are similar, you’re getting a villa with a pool and staff, not a cramped apartment.”
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