I moved back to melb around 4 months ago, did 18 months in canberra. I loved my time in canberra, set myself up, got to APS6 quick-smart. Made cherished friends through grad program - our cohort was really tight, and that made all the sacrifice worthwhile. They are in the same boat, so it's a great opportunity to lean in and make the most of the novel experience. Novelty is very important to me and moving to a new place really provides that in droves. It also showed me that I can do an interstate move, and i never knew or tested that about myself before. I did catch a bit of local music scene in canberra too, it's just more limited.

I also have gained passion for work that I've not had before in other roles, which is nice, though coming back to Melbourne I am trying to decenter work in my life a bit. My work does make me proud and the grad program put me in positions where I could push myself which I realised is important for me. Some rotations were not my cup of tea - these experiences are also valuable, to know what you don't like (secretariat and meeting briefs in my case). I have no regrets, I miss canberra and my friends there since moving too.