Moving to Australia from NZ can be an exciting prospect for many Kiwi’s. The stats show that every year up to 45,000 New Zealanders move to Australia seeking better lifestyle, employment or housing opportunities. But there are several things you’ll need to consider when moving to Australia from NZ.
In this article we will help you prepare for a move to Australia from NZ.
1. Preparing to move
Moving to Australia from NZ is a big life change, so it’s important to plan ahead and seek assistance with your move. Ausmove are NZ’s leading personalised mover to Australia. Ausmove are well versed in every aspect of the moving process. Whether you have a few furniture items, some cartons, or a six-bedroom household with artwork, antiques, vehicles and pets, they can get you there safely, on time and on budget.
Once you have your household items sorted you need to ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay in Australia. New Zealand citizens do not need a visa to enter Australia but will need a valid passport.
While New Zealand citizens do not require a visa to enter Australia under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, if you plan to stay longer than 3 months or wish to work or study in Australia, you may need to apply for the appropriate visa. This could include a Work Visa, Student Visa, or other types depending on your circumstances.
2. Finding a place to live
Once you have decided which of Australia’s many great cities you would like to live in you will need to research the area where you plan to move. Consider factors such as cost of living, housing market, employment opportunities, schools, healthcare facilities, and climate. Australia has a diverse range of housing options to suit various lifestyles, preferences, and budgets.
Detached houses, also known as single-family homes. These are standalone dwellings typically located on their own land. Apartments are also very popular, and are mostly located in urban centers. Apartments offer a more compact and low-maintenance housing option compared to detached houses. Lastly, Townhouses are multi-level dwellings that share walls with adjacent units. They offer a balance between the space of a detached house and the convenience of an apartment. Townhouses are common in both urban and suburban areas, often forming part of residential developments or complexes.
To start looking for accommodation in your chosen city or region you can search online through real estate websites like www.realestate.com.au or work with a local real estate agent.
3. Employment in Australia
For New Zealanders seeking employment in Australia, there are several key things to know. The first is that there is an agreement between New Zealand and Australia called the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement. This agreement allows New Zealand citizens to live and work in Australia indefinitely. This means you generally do not need to apply for a visa before entering Australia.
Australia offers a wide range of employment opportunities across various industries. Research job markets and employment trends in your field to identify potential opportunities. Online job boards like www.seek.com.au allow you to see what type of jobs are available or you might choose to work with a recruitment agency.
New Zealand citizens working in Australia under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement are considered non-residents for tax purposes. This means you will not be eligible for certain tax benefits or concessions available to Australian residents.
Don’t forget to register with local authorities, open a bank account, obtain a tax file number, so you can start exploring your new job opportunities.
4. Education
New Zealand citizens have certain privileges when it comes to studying or attending school in Australia, thanks to the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement we mentioned earlier. Here’s what New Zealanders need to know about studying in Australia.
Australia offers a diverse range of educational institutions, including universities, schools, and English language colleges. You will need to research different institutions and courses to find the best fit for your educational goals.
Tuition fees for international students in Australia can vary depending on the institution, course, and level of study. New Zealand citizens may be eligible for domestic fee status or Commonwealth-supported places for higher education courses, but this depends on specific residency criteria.
Once you’ve decided on what suits you best, you can apply directly to the institution you’re interested in attending. Make sure to check application deadlines and requirements, which may include submitting academic transcripts, English language test scores, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
5. Transportation
Public transportation is available in most major cities and will play an important part in your new life in Australia. Most major cities have extensive train networks that connect suburbs to the city center and other key destinations. Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide have well-developed train systems. Some cities, such as Sydney and Canberra, also have light rail systems.
Bus services complement train networks and provide coverage to areas not serviced by trains. Bus routes cover suburban areas, and many cities also have dedicated bus lanes to improve efficiency.
Melbourne is known for its extensive tram network, which covers the central city and many inner suburbs. Trams provide a convenient and environmentally friendly way to travel within the city.
Cities situated along the coast or rivers, such as Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Perth, often have ferry services. Ferries offer scenic transportation options and can be an efficient way to travel between different parts of the city, particularly areas near the water.
You may also consider owning a car, especially if you’re living in a more rural area.
Moving to Australia from NZ
Moving to Australia can be a complex process, so it’s important to plan ahead and seek assistance where needed. Ausmove are experts in relocation services from New Zealand to Australia. For detailed information on Ausmove’s services and expertise visit Moving to Australia from NZ or call (09) 360-4777.
