When Matt and his partner boarded a plane to Hong Kong seven years ago, parenthood wasn’t on the horizon. In fact, moving overseas wasn’t even part of the plan. But like many expat stories, theirs began with a surprise - a chance job offer that reshaped their lives.

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In this episode of The Aussie Expat Podcast, Matt opens up about his journey from Sydney to Hong Kong, the challenges and opportunities of expat life, and the life-changing experience of becoming a father through surrogacy.

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Life as an Expat in Hong Kong

Matt describes his early impressions of Hong Kong as “living on campus” - fast-paced, close-knit, and full of opportunities. What was meant to be a two-year adventure stretched into seven, shaped by friendships, work opportunities, and the city’s unique community spirit.

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The Turning Point: Starting a Family

After losing his partner’s mum, the couple felt the urgency of life’s shortness and decided to pursue parenthood - something they never thought possible growing up. They explored adoption and altruistic surrogacy before deciding on the US pathway. The journey was long and complex, with multiple failed transfers, emotional highs and lows, and the weight of financial strain.

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Yet, through perseverance and the support of their surrogate and her family, Matt and his partner welcomed baby Harriet into the world.

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Parenthood Abroad

Adjusting to life as new dads in Hong Kong hasn’t been without challenges - from being far from family to navigating childcare with the help of a trusted helper. But Matt highlights the joy of raising Harriet in a supportive expat community, where friendships become family.

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Lessons Learned

Matt shares candid advice for others considering surrogacy or expat parenthood:
Trust the right people, and filter out the noise.
Don’t announce too early - the journey is long and unpredictable.
Protect your heart, but stay hopeful.
Remember: no two paths are the same.

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Closing Reflections

Looking back, Matt reflects that all the stress, uncertainty, and setbacks fade when you’re holding your healthy child. Parenthood has shifted his focus from holidays and property goals to building a future for Harriet.
His story is a reminder that expat life isn’t just about new jobs and new cities - it’s about love, resilience, and the families we build along the way.

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