Moving to Australia: The Ultimate Guide & Checklist for Kiwis

1. Visas: Navigating Your Pathway to Australia 

For New Zealanders, the visa process is often more straightforward than for other nationalities. Thanks to the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, Kiwis can easily enter Australia without needing a visa under the Special Category Visa (SCV). This allows New Zealand citizens to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.

However, if you’re planning to settle permanently or need a different visa type for specific circumstances, it’s essential to explore additional options. One popular route is the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), designed for individuals with qualifications and experience in an occupation in demand in Australia. To learn more about visa options and requirements, visit this guide on visas.

For further details on the process, the Australian Embassy in New Zealand provides comprehensive resources and FAQs about visa requirements.

2. Job Opportunities: Australia’s Booming Job Market 

Australia’s job market is among the strongest globally, with high demand across various sectors. Moving to Australia allows Kiwis to expand their career options in fields like healthcare, IT, finance, or engineering. Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane offer plenty of job opportunities, especially in healthcare, technology, and construction. With a growing need for skilled workers, New Zealanders can easily fill these roles. To find job openings and connect with employers, visit Workforce Australia, a central hub for job seekers.

Many expatriates also find the work culture in Australia similar to New Zealand, easing the transition to new roles. Moreover, Australia’s strong economy provides job opportunities and the potential for higher salaries and career growth.

3. Schools: Ensuring Your Children’s Education 

Australia offers various schooling options, including public and private schools, as well as specialised institutions. Each state has its own education system, so research the best options in your area of relocation. Many families prefer living near top-rated schools, so consider the proximity of potential homes to these schools.

Public schools in Australia are high-quality and free for residents, including New Zealand citizens. If you prefer private education, there are many private schools offering tailored learning experiences. For more information on schools, check local education websites and school rankings in your chosen region.

4. Healthcare: Accessing Medical Services with Medicare 

Australia has an excellent healthcare system, and as a New Zealand citizen, you are eligible to apply for Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system. Medicare provides access to free or subsidised treatment by doctors, specialists, and in public hospitals. To register for Medicare, visit Services Australia, where you can apply online or find a local service centre.

It’s important to keep in mind that while Medicare covers many healthcare expenses, some services, such as dental and optical care, may not be fully covered. Many expats opt for private health insurance to cover these additional costs. Once you’ve settled in, you’ll want to visit a local GP for a health check and to register for a Medicare card, which can be done after you’ve arrived.

5. Cost of Living: Understanding Your Budget 

The cost of living in Australia varies greatly by city and lifestyle. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are often more expensive, especially for housing, food, and transportation. However, they offer excellent job opportunities and amenities, making them popular with expatriates.

Rent is usually the largest expense. While vacancy rates in Sydney and Melbourne have improved, competitive rental markets persist in desirable areas. For more affordable options, consider regional areas like Adelaide, Perth, or smaller towns, where rent and living costs are lower.

In Sydney or Melbourne, a single person might pay AUD 1,500 to AUD 2,500 per month in rent, depending on location and accommodation type. Utilities, groceries, and transportation can add an additional AUD 500–1,000 monthly.

Use comparison tools like Numbeo’s for a detailed cost of living analysis. Some regional cities are more affordable, and higher salaries can offset increased costs.

Ensure you budget carefully and consider using online calculators to estimate expenses.

6. Cost of Relocating: How Much Should You Budget? 

The cost of relocating from New Zealand to Australia can vary based on the amount of belongings you need to move, the moving company you choose, and any additional services you require. On average, moving costs for a standard 3-bedroom home from New Zealand to Australia can range from AUD 4,000 to AUD 8,000 or more.

Several factors can influence these costs, including:

• Moving Company Fees: It’s essential to choose a reliable moving company that specialises in international moves. Crown Relocations is one of the market leaders in Trans-Tasman relocations, offering a range of services including packing, transport, and storage. You can find more details on your move from New Zealand to Australia here.
• Additional Costs: Don’t forget to factor in costs for extra services such as pet transport, which can be a significant additional expense for animal lovers. We at Crown Relocations also offer pet transport service to make the process easier.
• Customs and Import Duties: Be prepared for customs clearance fees and import duties for certain items, such as vehicles or household goods.
• Temporary Accommodation: You may need to arrange for temporary accommodation when you first arrive, adding to your moving expenses.

7. Expat Communities: Finding Your New Home Away from Home 

Australia is home to a vibrant expat community, with thousands of New Zealanders making the move each year. For many, the social and cultural integration process is made easier by connecting with others who are in the same boat. Whether you’re looking to make new friends or simply seek advice from fellow Kiwis, there are plenty of expat networks to tap into.

One great resource is InterNations, a global network that connects expatriates in Australia. Here, you can find events, local meetups, and forums where you can connect with other Kiwis and international expats. Many cities in Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, have well-established expat communities that offer support, friendship, and valuable tips to help you settle in.