A Guide for Kiwis Moving to Australia in 2026

Moving to Australia has always been one of the most popular pathways for New Zealanders, and in 2026, it’s easier and more rewarding than ever. From improved residency pathways to booming job markets and cheaper cities compared to Auckland, thousands of Kiwis are planning the move.

This guide covers everything you need to know before relocating where to live, how much it costs, school systems, visas, healthcare, jobs, and what’s changing in 2026.

Visas & Residency: What’s New for 2026

The relationship between NZ and Australia continues to strengthen, making it easier for Kiwis to live and work across the Tasman.

Key points for 2026:

• No visa needed to move or work: As a New Zealand citizen, you receive an SCV (Special Category Visa – Subclass 444) on arrival.
• Faster pathway to Permanent Residency: Recent changes allow Kiwis who have been living and working in Australia for a few years to transition more easily to PR and eventually citizenship.
• Children born in Australia: Kids born to Kiwi parents in Australia may automatically qualify for citizenship depending on length of residence.

Ausmove Tip:
While arriving is easy, having the right documents (passport, job contract, rental references, bank statements) will make settling in smoother.

Cost of Living: How Australia Compares in 2026

While cost of living varies city to city, many Kiwis still find Australia more affordable than NZ in areas like housing, groceries, and transport.

General 2026 trends::

• Rent is still cheaper in Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane, and Hobart compared to Auckland.
• Higher average incomes, especially in healthcare, trades, engineering, and mining.
• Groceries and petrol tend to be cheaper across most states.
• Childcare is expensive but offset by government subsidies for residents.

Ausmove Tip:
If affordability is your priority, consider Adelaide, Perth, the Sunshine Coast, or regional QLD/NSW.

Best Places for Kiwis to Live in 2026

Here’s where most relocating New Zealanders are choosing to settle:

Brisbane & Gold Coast (QLD)
Warm weather, booming job market, coastal lifestyle, family-friendly.

Sunshine Coast (QLD)
Great for families and outdoor lovers. Safe, relaxed, and growing fast.

Perth (WA)
Strong salaries, especially for trades/mining. Affordable housing.

Melbourne (VIC)
Culture, coffee, sport, excellent schools, and a huge Kiwi community.

Sydney (NSW)
High-paying jobs and iconic lifestyle, but more expensive.

Adelaide (SA)
Safe, affordable, excellent schooling, and consistently underrated.

Ausmove Tip:
Choosing the right place depends on your job, family needs, climate preferences, and budget.

What to Bring and What to Leave Behind

Shipping your belongings is often cheaper than rebuying everything in Australia, especially furniture, outdoor gear, and sentimental items.

Worth bringing:

• Beds, couches, tables, appliances
• Tools & equipment
• Sports gear
• TVs + electronics (voltage is the same)
• Personal items & heirlooms

Better to buy in Australia:

• Whiteware if outdated
• Large potted plants (won’t pass biosecurity)
• Cheap flat-pack furniture (often cheaper in AU)

Ausmove Tip:
Many Kiwis choose a 20ft container for a full household move.

Job Market in 2026: Where Kiwis Are In Demand

Australia’s economy in 2026 shows strong growth across:

High-demand industries:

• Construction & trades
• Healthcare & aged care
• Engineering
• Education
• Hospitality & tourism
• IT & cybersecurity
• Mining & energy (WA, QLD, NT)

Why Kiwis do well:
Hiring managers value NZ work ethic, communication, and cultural fit.

Ausmove Tip:
Most employers hire quickly you don’t need a job before moving, but it helps with rental applications.

Healthcare for Kiwis in Australia

New Zealanders have access to Medicare, Australia’s public health system.

You’ll need:

• Passport
• Proof of NZ citizenship
• Address in Australia
• Medicare enrolment form

Most GP visits cost $30–$80.

Renting & Housing in 2026

The rental market is competitive in major cities, but much easier in suburban and regional areas.

To secure a rental quickly, bring:

• NZ rental references
• Employment details
• Proof of income/funds
• Photo ID
• A short “rental cover letter”

Ausmove Tip:
Rent is typically paid weekly, and the bond is usually 4 weeks rent.

Schools & Education

Australia’s school system is similar to New Zealand’s easy for Kiwi kids to adjust.

Types of schools:

• Public (free or low cost)
• Catholic schools
• Independent/private schools

Ausmove Tip:
Your suburb determines which public school you can attend, so choose housing accordingly.

Driving, Cars & Transport

NZ licences are valid in Australia. You can convert to an Australian licence easily.

Car buying is easier because:

• More supply
• Often cheaper than NZ
• Lower depreciation

Public transport varies Melbourne & Sydney excellent, Perth & Brisbane improving, regional areas lower coverage.

Culture & Everyday Life

Australia is familiar to Kiwis but comes with differences:

• Hotter summers
• More diverse cities
• Larger distances between regions
• Sports culture dominates
• Work-life balance varies by state
• Aussie humour is similar but more direct

Most Kiwis say the move feels like “a bigger, warmer NZ with more opportunities.”

Why 2026 Is a Great Time to Move

With improved residency pathways, strong job markets, and cities that offer great weather and affordability, 2026 remains one of the best years for Kiwis to make the move.

Whether you’re seeking better career prospects, family opportunities, or a lifestyle upgrade, Australia has a place that feels like home with sunshine to spare.

Ausmove makes relocating simple and stress-free. From organising shipping and navigating customs to managing timelines and delivery, they understand every step of the journey ensuring your belongings arrive safely and your move starts smoothly.

Ready to find out your exact cost? Request a FREE quote from Ausmove or call (09) 360-4777 today.