Assuming your children are also US citizens, they can enter Australia on an Electronic Travel Authority which will allow them to visit for 3 months.

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/electronic-travel-authority-601

Getting back and forth from the US is straight forward, although the number of flights have not recovered,.. but it is a long trip. Crossing the Pacific on a non-stop flight is about 14 hours or so.


I am going to assume you are not living in Hawai'i or Guam... and thus would be importing from the continental US... in which case, it would be considered Importing a Dog from a group 3 country.

https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/cats-dogs/step-by-step-guides/category-3-step-by-step-guide-for-dogs

Unless you happen to be a film-star, bringing a dog into Australia without following these steps will result in it being euthanised on arrival.

 

Assuming your children are also US citizens, they can enter Australia on an Electronic Travel Authority which will allow them to visit for 3 months.

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/electronic-travel-authority-601

Getting back and forth from the US is straight forward, although the number of flights have not recovered,.. but it is a long trip. Crossing the Pacific on a non-stop flight is about 14 hours or so. I am going to assume you are not living in Hawai'i or Guam... and thus would be importing from the continental US... in which case, it would be considered Importing a Dog from a group 3 country.

https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/cats-dogs/step-by-step-guides/category-3-step-by-step-guide-for-dogs

Unless you happen to be a film-star, bringing a dog into Australia without following these steps will result in it being euthanised on arrival.

Thank you for all of the information. The part about our dog is distressing.

 

Your anxieties about this exciting opportunity for your husband! Moving to Australia for two years with your kids in college and a furry family member can be a big decision, but it can also be an incredible adventure. Here's my take on your concerns:
Distance from Kids:

• It's not uncommon for expat families to be separated while one parent works abroad. Technology makes staying connected easier than ever, with video calls, messaging apps, and shared calendars. You can plan regular visits, and your kids can come to Australia during their breaks.
• Consider the time difference and schedule your calls accordingly. Early mornings for you might be evenings for them, creating opportunities for shared activities like virtual cooking classes or movie nights.
• Focus on quality time over quantity. When you do visit each other, make the most of it by creating lasting memories and traditions.

 

If your kids are in college (or "uni", as we'd call it here) then they're past the age where they need looking after. After I moved to Australia, I talked to my mother on the phone and she said that she missed me... and I pointed out that I was talking to her more often than when I lived in the same city as her.
I feel that a lot of this is in our heads...

 

Relocating to Australia because of your partner's job presents incredible opportunities, yet I can’t shake the anxiety of being away from your children. Travelling between the United States and Australia may involve lengthy trips, however, can be managed with routine trip alternatives. Your kids can visit during college breaks, and getting a tourist visa for them is quite simple. While Australia imposes stringent quarantine regulations for animals, many animals can be successfully relocated with careful prep work. It would be beneficial to obtain from your partner's employer for relocation assistance and tailored recommendations. All the best with your decision!