Hi there
I am the mum of 3 (on sunday) year old twins and I absolutely adore it here. It has a heap of advantages over australia and of course some short falls. But in terms of an expat assignment it is great. you will find a constant stream of friends and family from oz coming many because they would never come here if you weren't here or they are off to europe. For the family there are usually cheap airfares and sometimes even ff ones.
Pretty much everything you have at home is here in terms of groceries and anything I can't get (like cheery ripes) I just get sent over. They have the koala brothers, new macdonalds farm banana's in pjs, playschool etc on tv.
The one hardship is backyards but there are plenty of
condo living advantages if you decide not to go down the house route.
Live in helpers, domestic workers or maids a sensitive issue among expats but can make life easier meaning you have a built in baby sitter in case you need and some extra time to spend with hubby rather than 10pm ironing!
Great holiday options abound all on your doortep and the entire region it seems loves kids so it is lovely
Preschool is funny over here. By three many have their kids attending 5 days a week and some (the few it seems) don't have their kids at school at all. The Australian school has great nursery which does a 5 day fortnight. You will here it is a lng way from where your hubby is working but hey it is only 45 mins coast to coast here!!! There ae quite a few other options inc montessori, reggio emilia and encyclopedic curriculums I have just found that waiting lists tend to abound.
Congrats n making the move you will love it...and scream in desperation as well sometime ; )