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Are you thinking about making the move across the ditch from New Zealand to Australia? Well, if you do, you will join 598,000 Kiwis who currently live in the Great Southern Land.
Often drawn by better job opportunities, warmer weather, and a fresh start, the great thing about moving to Australia as a Kiwi is that it is one of the simplest international moves you can make.
That said, there are still a few things you need to do if you want to make such a relocation smoother, simpler and less stressful.
This guide will highlight six of the most prominent ones.
No visa needed thanks to the Special Category Visa (SCV)
Before we highlight what you need to do, it is worth pointing out that New Zealand citizens don’t need to apply for a visa before moving to Australia.
Under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, Kiwis are automatically granted a Special Category Visa (SCV) (also called Subclass 444) when they arrive in Australia.
This visa allows you to live, work and study in Australia indefinitely, provided you meet basic health and character requirements. It’s worth noting, though, that the SCV doesn’t grant permanent residency. Therefore, you might want to explore other visa options if you’re planning to stay for the long haul or want access to certain government benefits.
That said, for most people starting out, the SCV is more than enough to hit the ground running.
How to make the move simpler
If you do want to make the move across the ditch, here are some of the main things you can do to make the process simpler.
1. Open a Westpac bank account before you go
One of the best things you can do before leaving New Zealand is to get your banking sorted. Most Australian employers and landlords will ask for your bank details pretty early on. So, having an account ready to go makes life a lot easier.
Thankfully, it is easy to open a Westpac bank account online while you’re still in New Zealand. That means you can transfer funds ahead of time and walk off the plane when you land in Australia, safe in the knowledge you are ready to go.
2. Get Medicare for New Zealanders in Australia
After arriving in Australia, it is very important to sort out your healthcare. As a Kiwi, you can enrol in Medicare, which gives you access to Australia’s public healthcare system.
To do this, you will need to visit a local Medicare office with your passport and proof of New Zealand citizenship. Once you’re signed up, you will be able to access subsidised GP visits, prescriptions and hospital care.
While you’re waiting to be processed, it’s a good idea to consider short-term private health insurance. Doing this can offer you peace of mind, especially if you’re travelling with family or have pre-existing health concerns.
3. Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN)
If you’re planning to work in Australia, you’ll need a Tax File Number (TFN). This is a personal reference number that the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) uses to manage your tax and superannuation.
The process of applying for a TFN is simple and free. Once you are in Australia, you can do it online. However, you’ll need your passport and visa details.
It is important to make this a priority because without a TFN, you might be taxed at the highest rate. Additionally, once you receive your TFN, give it to your employer as soon as possible. This will ensure you avoid overpaying tax from your first pay packet.
4. Finding Work in Australia as a New Zealander
While they might give them curry every now and then about jandals and their habit of calling everyone bro, Australians love hiring Kiwis. Therefore, if you’re looking for casual work, skilled employment, or a full-time corporate role, the Australian job market should present you with decent opportunities.
A good place to start your job hunt is by using platforms like Seek, Indeed, or Jora. However, it is also worth signing up with recruitment agencies in your field.
Additionally, if you currently work for a company with offices on both sides of the Tasman, consider asking the management there about the possibility of internal transfers. It would be a much easier way to start your Aussie chapter if you had the security of a job to go to.
5. Prepare for the Cost of living in Australia vs New Zealand
One of the biggest questions Kiwis ask about moving across the ditch relates to money. More specifically, the cost of living in Australia vs New Zealand.
The truth is, this really depends on where you move and how you live. For instance, in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, living costs can be pricey, particularly when it comes to rent, petrol, dining out and groceries. That said, wages tend to be higher.
On the other hand, places like Hobart, Adelaide or regional areas such as Moreton Bay in Queensland, and the Riverina in New South Wales, may offer a more affordable lifestyle.
Overall, you might find that groceries and fuel are often cheaper in Australia. But other things like childcare and utilities might be a bit more. For this reason, it is important to budget for a few extra expenses in your first few weeks, just to be on the safe side.
6. Renting a home in Australia
Talking of renting. Finding a place to live can be one of the more stressful parts of relocating to Australia.
According to Forbes, the median weekly rent across the country is $665 a week. Additionally, renting a home in Australia involves lots of paperwork and plenty of competition, especially in popular cities.
You’ll usually need to provide real estate companies with proof of income, a photo ID, and a copy of your most recent rental history. If you’re new to the country and don’t have local references, a letter from your NZ landlord or employer can help you find somewhere to rent.
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