Here's a fantastic post on how to obtain an E3 visa: http://www.geoffmcqueen.com/2011/09/28/e-3-visa-for-australi.... It's a founder-orientated post but certainly covers a few key points.

I moved to SF 3 months ago from Sydney and have found the place very cheap to live. SF is viewed as very expensive by most Americans, however, it's got nothing on Sydney or Melbourne. I.e. my currently monthly rent is $845 p.m. for a room in Dogpatch.