Melbourne, Australia, stands as one of the most exciting and dynamic cities in the world, attracting people from across the globe — including New Zealanders — with its rich culture, employment opportunities, world-class education, and diverse neighbourhoods. However, while the city offers a wealth of potential, it’s important to weigh both the advantages and challenges before making the move. Here’s a deep dive into the key aspects of relocating to Melbourne, particularly for New Zealanders considering calling this vibrant city their new home.
Housing: Renting vs. Buying
Melbourne’s housing market is diverse, reflecting a city that caters to various lifestyles. For New Zealanders, whether you’re renting or buying, it’s essential to understand the nuances of Melbourne’s real estate landscape.
Renting
As of December 2024, rental prices have been rising, though in some areas, it’s actually cheaper to buy than rent. For an individual, the average monthly rent in Melbourne is AUD$1,609.70, while a family of four can expect to pay about AUD$5,782.80. While renting gives you flexibility — particularly if you’re uncertain of where to settle — it can also add financial pressure due to high rental prices in popular neighbourhoods. If you’re finding rental costs difficult, you may find that renters are better off buying in the long run, as current trends reported by ABC News suggest it may be more financially viable, with analysis showing buying might be more affordable than renting in some areas of Melbourne.
Buying
As Melbourne’s real estate market is currently experiencing fluctuations, potential buyers may find opportunities for more affordable properties in the coming year. The median dwelling price is currently AUD$793,000, but with house prices expected to stall in 2025, there could be opportunities for long-term investment.
Cost of Living: Is Melbourne Affordable?
While Melbourne ranks as the second most expensive city in Australia after Sydney, the overall cost of living can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle. According to Expatistan, Melbourne is considered quite costly.
Utilities
Monthly utility bills, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, typically average around AUD$250 for a standard apartment. Internet services add another AUD$80 per month. So, alongside rent or mortgage payments, it’s important to budget for these expenses.
Groceries and Dining
An individual’s weekly grocery bills can range between AUD$80 to AUD$150 depending on shopping habits. Dining out in Melbourne can be affordable, with meals at inexpensive restaurants starting at AUD$20, while a more lavish dinner at a mid-range restaurant averages AUD$100 for two.
Transportation
Public transport is an efficient mode of getting around Melbourne. With the Myki card system, it’s easy to navigate the city’s extensive train, tram, and bus networks. A monthly pass costs about AUD$160. New arrivals will benefit from exploring the Myki transport system. However, driving a car in Melbourne comes with added expenses like fuel, insurance, and parking fees. Depending on your location and work arrangements, it’s advisable to consider which transport option aligns with your lifestyle.
Schools: Education in Melbourne
Melbourne’s education system is renowned for its high standards, whether you’re looking at public or private schooling options. For families moving from New Zealand, the city’s strong academic environment is one of the key attractions.
Public Schools
Melbourne has a robust network of government schools that are free for New Zealand citizens and permanent residents, though international students might pay additional fees. These schools offer high academic performance, extracurricular activities, and the option to continue education through the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), which is accepted globally.
Private Schools
Melbourne also boasts prestigious private and independent schools, such as those in sought-after areas like Hawthorn, Brighton, and Kew. Though tuition fees at these schools can be quite high, the specialised curriculums and co-curricular options are often seen as well worth the expense.
Tertiary Education
The University of Melbourne, Monash University, and RMIT University make Melbourne a university hub. These institutions are consistently ranked among the top universities in the world. For those interested in scholarship opportunities, Study Australia Scholarships are available.
Employment: Thriving Opportunities and Economic Landscape
Melbourne’s labour market continues to grow, making it an attractive destination for skilled workers from New Zealand. As of October 2024, Victoria’s employment rate rose by 3.5%, and the unemployment rate in Melbourne was 4.2% (June 2024 data), suggesting a relatively healthy job market. The state of Victoria is experiencing job growth across several sectors, particularly healthcare, education, professional services, and information technology.
New Zealanders entering the Melbourne workforce benefit from the strong Trans-Tasman Relationship, which makes access to employment opportunities relatively straightforward.
Expat Communities: A Welcoming Network for Kiwis
One of Melbourne’s key attractions for New Zealanders is the established and thriving Kiwi expat community. With many New Zealanders already living and working in Melbourne, it is a city where locals are familiar with your cultural background, making the transition easier.
Kiwis can tap into a variety of networks, including online forums, social clubs, professional networks, and community events. The New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) platform offers support for businesses and individuals looking to connect. Additionally, public events such as ANZAC Day and rugby match screenings keep the Kiwi culture alive in Melbourne’s social calendar.
On a practical level, New Zealanders benefit from the Trans-Tasman agreement, giving them easier access to many roles without the visa restrictions that might affect other international workers.
The Verdict: Is Melbourne Right for You?
For New Zealanders considering moving to Melbourne, there are numerous benefits, but it’s also important to be prepared for some of the costs and complexities associated with the move. The housing market presents both opportunities and challenges, the cost of living can add up, but the educational opportunities for families are excellent. Employment prospects are generally strong, particularly in areas like healthcare and IT. For Kiwis, Melbourne’s expat communities offer a sense of home in a new city, but navigating the cultural and logistical aspects of the move requires some effort.
Ultimately, the decision to relocate to Melbourne will depend on your personal circumstances and priorities. If you are seeking a vibrant city full of opportunities and a place that is welcoming to Kiwis, Melbourne could be your ideal destination. To get more insight on the city’s unique qualities, you can explore resources such as Live in Melbourne.
Ready To Move To Melbourne?
If Melbourne feels like the right destination for you, Grace NZ is here to make your move to Melbourne as smooth as possible. With our expert relocation services, we’ll guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your belongings arrive safely, your transition is seamless, and you feel at home in no time. Whether you need assistance with packing, moving, or even navigating local regulations, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch with us today at 0800 472 2369 and let Grace NZ make your move to Melbourne a reality!
