Moving to Australia from NZ: A Complete Guide for New Zealanders

For many New Zealanders looking to improve career prospects, salary, and lifestyle, relocating to Australia from New Zealand is a popular option. New Zealand and Australia have a strong partnership, so relocating to Australia is easier compared to relocating to other countries. With comparable culture and work environments, Australia is a preferred destination for many Kiwis.  

Job opportunity is one of the primary reasons why New Zealanders relocate to Australia. Australia is experiencing a skills shortage across a variety of industries such as construction, mining, healthcare, hospitality, engineering, and IT. Additionally, the cost of living is high, but wages in Australia are generally higher than in New Zealand, so many New Zealanders are positively impacted by this change. Furthermore, many New Zealanders enjoy Australia's warm climate and a wide range of lifestyle options, from the coast to the city.

New Zealand citizens are eligible for the Special Category Visa (Subclass 444). This visa is automatically issued upon entry into Australia with a New Zealand passport. It facilitates Australians and New Zealanders' ability to work and study freely in the country. In spite of the privileges of the visa being temporary, the rights immigrants are often afforded under a Permanent Residency Visa are not available. This means government aid, educational loans, and other social security options tied to the visa are not available. 

Obtaining a Permanent Residency Visa, on the other hand, would mean long-term plans for the individual. Australia has many options to immigrate through permanent residency and citizenship by way of skilled and employer-sponsored visas. These would provide the individual with far more access to social security benefits and educational opportunities than the temporary visa would.

New Zealand citizens working in Australia do not need to apply for a work visa, but will need a government-issued Tax File Number, which permits tax collection and work authorization. Setting up an Australian bank account is often necessary, and ensuring that your educational qualifications are recognized in Australia streamlines employment opportunities. Most Australian employers consider New Zealand qualifications, but a few protectively licensed fields may need extra documents.