Everything You Need to Know About Moving to Australia
Moving from New Zealand to Australia has long been a popular choice for Kiwis, with the two countries sharing close cultural ties, ease of movement, and a shared commitment to high standards of living. As of 2023, approximately 586,020 New Zealand citizens reside in Australia, making them the fourth-largest migrant community in the country. This figure represents a 2.9% increase over the past decade. Additionally, in the year leading up to March 2024, New Zealand experienced a record net migration loss of 52,000 citizens, with many relocating to Australia.
This trend continues to grow as people seek new job opportunities, warmer climates, and exciting experiences across the Tasman. This article outlines the essentials of making the transition to Australia, covering work, healthcare, housing, and lifestyle considerations to help you make an informed, confident move.
Working in Australia
The Australian job market is competitive, with opportunities in sectors like construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality. Many New Zealanders find full-time work quickly, benefiting from the high employment rate among Kiwi migrants. For those entering the workforce, popular job sites like Seek, Indeed, and LinkedIn offer a range of job listings and resources. Networking through these platforms and tailoring your CV to meet Australian job standards can increase your chances of securing employment.
Visas & Residency in Australia for New Zealanders
New Zealand citizens enjoy relatively straightforward entry to Australia. A valid passport is required, and upon arrival, New Zealanders are granted a Special Category Visa (SCV), allowing indefinite residence, study, and work privileges. This arrangement reflects the close ties between the two countries, making Australia an ideal destination for New Zealanders who want to experience a similar lifestyle with expanded opportunities.
For more permanent residency options, Kiwis can explore various pathways, such as transitioning to a permanent visa through the Australian Home Affairs Department. Some work visas offer a pathway to citizenship, making it easier for those planning a long-term stay to establish themselves as permanent residents.
Healthcare in Australia
Australia’s healthcare system is divided into public and private services. Through the public Medicare system, New Zealanders who have a valid SCV and plan to stay for six months or more can access subsidised medical care and public hospital treatment. Private health insurance, covering additional services like dental, optical, and ambulance care, is also widely available. Depending on the state, ambulance services may be free, as in Queensland and Tasmania, or require separate insurance.
Australian Taxation and Banking
When working in Australia, it’s essential to apply for a Tax File Number (TFN), which is used by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to manage income tax. New Zealanders can obtain their TFN online, streamlining the tax process and ensuring compliance. Australia also has a 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST) applied to most goods and services. In terms of banking, the country’s “Big Four” banks—Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, Westpac, and NAB—are popular choices, though smaller banks are gaining traction due to lower fees.
Renting and Owning Property in Australia
Whether renting or buying, finding a home is usually done through real estate agents and online platforms like Realestate.com.au and Domain. Renting often requires an upfront bond and monthly payments while purchasing a home involves considerations such as mortgage options, legal fees, and stamp duties. Eligible New Zealanders can apply for the First Home Owner Grant, making homeownership more accessible. Before deciding, it’s also helpful to explore cost-of-living calculators, as rental prices vary significantly across cities and regions.
Cost of Living in Australia
Australia is known for its high cost of living, particularly in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. While wages in Australia generally align with these costs, it’s worth budgeting for housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation, as these can be considerably higher than in New Zealand. Recent data shows inflation slowing to 2.8% as of late 2024, though core inflation remains elevated at 4.6%, with housing costs driving much of the expense, especially in cities like Sydney, where the average weekly rent reaches $745, Sydney stands as the most expensive capital city in Australia for renters. The Australian government offers resources like MoneySmart to help new residents manage their finances and compare the cost of living in different regions.
Cost of Relocating to Australia
Relocating to Australia involves several key expenses beyond the usual moving costs, such as visa fees, transport of personal belongings, housing deposits, and permits. Grace Removals simplifies this transition with comprehensive moving packages tailored to individual needs, including pet transport and assistance with vehicle import compliance to meet Australian standards. Moving with pets, for instance, requires specific permits and careful handling, and Grace Removals is equipped to ensure your furry family members make the journey safely and comfortably.
Managing Relocation Costs
What sets Grace Removals apart is its deep-rooted history in Australia. Established in Australia, Grace has grown to include offices across the country, ensuring seamless, localised support. This national presence means your move is managed consistently from start to finish, creating a “Grace-to-Grace” relocation. With Grace Removals, you have on-the-ground assistance at both departure and arrival locations, contributing to reduced relocation costs and offering peace of mind as you settle in.
Whether you’re moving to bustling cities like Sydney or Melbourne, or heading to other major hubs like Brisbane, Canberra, Perth, Adelaide, or Darwin, Grace Removals provides all the insights, resources, and support needed to make your new city feel like home. With expertise at every step, Grace Removals ensures a smooth, efficient, and reliable moving experience tailored to Australia’s unique relocation requirements.
Expat Communities in Australia
New Zealanders are among the largest expat communities in Australia, with significant populations in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. Queensland alone houses nearly 40% of New Zealanders in Australia, especially in cities like Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Local Kiwi communities and social groups offer support networks, and cities often host cultural events celebrating New Zealand heritage, making it easy for newcomers to stay connected to their roots. Several online resources, such as InterNations, Expat Forum, and British Expats, provide additional support and networking opportunities for expatriates in Australia, helping newcomers connect with others and navigate life abroad.
Schools & Childcare in Australia
Australia mandates school attendance from age five through to Year 10, with options for continuing education until age 17. New Zealand children are eligible for public schooling at primary and secondary levels, with additional private schooling options available for those seeking specific educational philosophies. For those interested in tertiary education, Australian universities rank highly, and financial assistance is available through programs like HELP for eligible students. Public schools are generally zoned by suburbs, whereas private schools may have more flexible admission policies.
Getting Around Australia
Australia’s public transport system is well-developed in urban areas, with buses, trains, and trams widely available. The network varies by state, with cities like Sydney and Melbourne leading in coverage and availability. Public transportation services are accessible in major cities, but regional and rural areas may have limited options, making car ownership practical.
Transferring a New Zealand driver’s licence is relatively straightforward, with requirements varying by state. For instance, you can visit Service NSW in New South Wales, VicRoads in Victoria, Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads, Service SA in South Australia, or similar licensing authorities in other states such as Western Australia, Tasmania, the ACT, and the Northern Territory. You’ll typically need proof of identity, your New Zealand licence, and proof of residency, plus an eyesight test in some states.
Plan Your Move with Grace Removals
Moving from New Zealand to Australia is an exciting opportunity, whether for work, lifestyle, or personal growth. With the right planning and resources, this transition can be seamless and enjoyable. Grace Removals, a trusted name with over 40 branches across Australia and New Zealand, offers complete relocation services, including secure transport of your belongings and expert support for every step of the journey. Start your move with Grace Removals and experience a hassle-free transition to your new Australian home. Visit Grace Removals to learn more about their relocation services and make your move with confidence.
