Are you thinking about moving to Australia?
In 2023, 13,400 New Zealanders moved to Australia so you are not alone. In this article we will tell you what you need to do (and think about) before you decide to pack up the house and move to Australia.
What are your Visa requirements when moving to Australia?
As a New Zealand citizen, you can enter Australia and apply for a visa upon arrival under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement. However, if you plan to stay long-term or work, you might need a different visa. New Zealanders don’t always have the same rights as Australians.
New Zealand and Australia are close friends and allies. A unique arrangement allows freedom of movement between the two countries – the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement.
Immigration status can affect rights
It’s also important that New Zealanders choosing to live in Australia know their immigration status, for example, if they are an Australian permanent resident, citizen, or on a visa.
This can affect your rights. New Zealanders may not be able to get Australian social security payments if they run into financial hardship, even if they’ve paid tax in Australia. New Zealanders’ visas (and so their ability to live in Australia) can be canceled if Australian authorities assess that they do not meet the relevant character requirements. Read more information here.
How much money will you need to move?
The amount of money you’ll need to move to Australia from New Zealand and support yourself will depend on several factors such as your lifestyle, location in Australia, accommodation choices, and personal spending habits. Here is what you need to know;
Renting costs vary widely across Australia. In major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, rent can be quite high, while regional areas or smaller cities might offer more affordable options.
Living Expenses will include groceries, transportation, utilities (electricity, gas, water), internet, and mobile phone bills. These costs can also vary significantly based on where you live and your personal consumption habits. You will also need to think about set-up costs, this includes things like rental bond (usually 4-6 weeks’ rent), and settling in costs if you need to buy any further household items specific to your new home.
To give a rough estimate, consider budgeting at least AUD $5,000 to AUD $10,000 for initial set-up costs and another AUD $2,000 to AUD $4,000 per month for living expenses, depending on your location and lifestyle. This is a general guideline and actual costs can vary widely. It’s always a good idea to research specific costs in the area you plan to move to and to have a financial buffer to ensure a smooth transition.
What are your healthcare options in Australia?
As a New Zealand citizen moving to Australia, you are eligible for some level of coverage under Australia’s public health system, Medicare. Here are the key points to consider regarding health insurance in Australia:
New Zealand citizens moving to Australia are generally covered by Medicare under the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA). This agreement allows you access to medically necessary treatment in public hospitals and subsidized medical services. While Medicare covers many healthcare services, there are limitations. For example, it does not cover all medical services, dental care, ambulance services, or private hospital care.
While not mandatory, many people in Australia, including New Zealanders, choose to take out private health insurance to cover services not included in Medicare, such as dental, optical, and certain elective procedures. Private health insurance can also provide more choices and shorter waiting times for non-emergency treatments.
Before you move, it’s advisable to research your specific healthcare needs and consider whether private health insurance would be beneficial for you based on your circumstances and the level of coverage you desire beyond what Medicare provides.
What Australia laws will you need to comply with?
As a New Zealand citizen living in Australia, you’ll need to adhere to various laws and regulations that apply to all residents in Australia. Here are some key areas to be aware of:
Employment, ensure you have the appropriate work rights depending on your visa status. Adhere to Australian workplace laws and regulations regarding pay, conditions, and safety.
Taxation, you are required to pay taxes on income earned in Australia. Familiarise yourself with Australian tax laws, including filing requirements and deductions.
If you plan to drive in Australia, check the requirements for converting your New Zealand driver’s license to an Australian one (if necessary) and familiarise yourself with Australian road rules.
It’s important to stay informed about any changes in Australian laws and regulations that may affect you. Seeking advice from relevant authorities or legal professionals can help ensure you comply with all applicable laws while living in Australia as a New Zealand citizen.
Moving you to Australia from New Zealand
Moving to Australia from New Zealand? 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 the following page: https://ausmove.co.nz/services/ or call (09) 360-4777.
