Kiwis coming to Australia
Discover a smooth and fun journey as you make Australia your new home.
Let us help with your relocation into Australia.
Discover a smooth and fun journey as you make Australia your new home.
Stories of New Zealanders (often referred to as “Kiwis”) relocating to Australia are quite common due to the close geographical, cultural, and economic ties between the two countries. For many Kiwis, moving to Australia represents a chance for better job opportunities, higher wages, and an overall improved standard of living. Below are a few notable stories and trends related to Kiwis moving to Australia
2023 marks a milestone year in the trans-Tasman relationship.
50 years ago, we agreed the Trans-Tasman Travel Agreement, which enabled the free movement of citizens between our two countries.
In June, Qantas launched another trans-Tasman travel route – creating the first ever Australian flight to New York via Auckland. Instead of transiting in Los Angeles, passengers can now fly from Sydney, through Auckland, and on to New York. The tourism benefits for both countries are substantial.
Prime Minister Albanese reflected the special bond Australians and New Zealanders share – and the spirit of the Trans-Tasman Travel Agreement –when he announced in April a direct pathway to Australian citizenship for New Zealanders who already call Australia home.
From 1 July 2023, New Zealand citizens living in Australia will have a direct pathway to Australian citizenship. All Special Category Visa holders will be able to apply directly for citizenship without becoming permanent residents first, as long as they meet a four-year residence and other eligibility requirements.
These changes will mean the many Kiwis already living and working in Australian communities can enjoy the benefits of citizenship.
Reference: H E Harinder Sidhu, Australian High Commissioner to New Zealand
If you plan to work and live in Australia, there are things you’ll need to sort out as soon as you arrive, like your tax, healthcare and driver licence.
Apply for a tax number
You need to get a Tax File Number (TFN) as soon as you get to Australia so you can receive an income.
Apply for health cover
If you’re an NZ citizen, you qualify for enrolment in the Medicare programme, which gives you access to Australian healthcare, including cheaper doctor’s visits and medicines.
How to enrol in Medicare if you’re a New Zealand citizen(external link)
Check the driver licence regulations
Your NZ licence is valid for 3 months in Australia. After 3 months, you need to obtain a driver licence. Each Australian state has its own driving and licensing laws, so the process depends on where you live.
The benefits of living in Australia for Kiwis
Financial Benefits
Higher Salaries: Many Kiwis move to Australia in search of higher wages. On average, salaries in Australia tend to be higher than in New Zealand, especially in industries like healthcare, engineering, IT, and construction. This can make a significant difference in both short-term income and long-term savings.
Job Opportunities: Australia offers a larger, more diversified job market, particularly in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Sectors such as finance, mining, healthcare, and technology often offer better employment prospects.
Lower Taxes (In Some Cases): While Australia’s overall tax system is similar to New Zealand’s, higher earners may find tax breaks in some regions or industries, especially if moving to less populous states or capital cities with incentives for specific sectors.
Work-Life Balance
Workplace Flexibility: Many Australian employers, especially in industries like tech, finance, and media, offer flexible work arrangements, including remote work and flexible hours, which can improve work-life balance.
Paid Leave Entitlements: Australia generally has better leave entitlements than New Zealand, including annual leave, sick leave, and parental leave. This can provide a better balance between work and personal life, especially for those with young children or those who need health-related time off.
Lifestyle
Outdoor Lifestyle and Climate: Australia’s climate is generally warmer than New Zealand, especially in regions like Queensland. With more sunny days, there are ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach visits, barbecues, and outdoor sports, which appeal to Kiwis who enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Diverse and Multicultural Society: Australia’s large cities, particularly Sydney and Melbourne, are cultural melting pots. Kiwis often appreciate the diversity of food, cultural events, and the international vibe in these cities.
Excellent Healthcare System: Australia has a world-class healthcare system (Medicare), which provides residents access to free or subsidized healthcare services. This can offer peace of mind, especially for families or retirees.
Retirement and Future Planning
Superannuation System: Australia’s superannuation system (mandatory retirement savings) is considered one of the strongest in the world. The government requires employers to contribute to their employees’ retirement savings, which can be beneficial for Kiwis looking to save for retirement.
Warmer Climate for Retirement: Many Kiwis move to Australia in their later years to enjoy a warmer climate and a more relaxed lifestyle. Areas such as the Gold Coast or parts of New South Wales are popular with retirees due to the warm weather, affordable lifestyle, and strong expat communities.
Better Investment Opportunities: Australia’s larger financial and property markets can offer more investment opportunities for those planning for retirement. Property, for instance, is often seen as a more lucrative long-term investment in Australia compared to New Zealand.
Cultural and Social Integration
Shared Culture and Language: New Zealand and Australia share many cultural similarities, making it easier for Kiwis to adapt socially and professionally. Both countries have a similar lifestyle, love for sports (especially rugby), and a common history.
Welcoming Community: Australians generally have a positive view of Kiwis, and many New Zealanders report feeling well integrated into Australian society. There are large Kiwi communities in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, making it easy to meet fellow New Zealanders and create a sense of belonging.
Easy Migration Process: New Zealanders can live and work in Australia without needing a visa under the Trans-Tasman Travel Agreement. This ease of movement allows for quicker relocation and settlement
Summary
– Better job prospects and higher wages.
– Warmer climate and abundant outdoor lifestyle opportunities.
– Work-life balance improvements, with paid leave and flexible work options.
– Better healthcare and a robust superannuation system for retirement.
– Shared cultural similarities and easy migration process..