Moving to Australia from NZ: What to do + Checklist

Are you a New Zealander planning on moving to Australia? Moving can be both exciting and overwhelming, whether you’re looking for new employment possibilities, a change of scenery, or an adventure in a different nation. But fret not! We’ll give you a step-by-step checklist and vital recommendations to ensure a smooth and successful transition to your new life in Australia.

Visas:

• Research and apply for the appropriate Australian visa.
• Learn about the immigration procedure and any extra requirements.

You are eligible for a Special Category Visa (SCV) upon arrival in Australia as a New Zealand citizen. This visa allows you to live and work in Australia indefinitely. However, it is important to conduct research to determine whether there are any other visa choices or restrictions that may be applicable to your individual situation. 

Finances:

• Assess your financial condition and the cost of living in Australia.
• Consider foreign exchange rates as well as any tax consequences.
• Moving your money to Australia

Begin by assessing your financial condition and developing a complete budget that includes the cost of living in your Australian city.

Consider creating an Australian bank account before your relocation to simplify your financial operations and prevent unnecessary fees. This allows you to get your wage, pay bills, and manage day-to-day expenses without having to rely on overseas transactions.

We understand the importance of getting the most value for your money while avoiding unnecessary costs. 

Xe money transfer is a trusted global payments and foreign exchange specialist to provide highly competitive exchange rates, learn more about NZ money transfer.

Accommodation:

• Explore different neighbourhoods and housing possibilities in your preferred Australian city.
• Consider issues such as closeness to amenities, transportation, and safety.
• If you require temporary housing throughout your transition, look into it.

Investigate various neighbourhoods in your selected city to find the greatest fit for your needs. Reach out to local community groups or forums that specialise in neighbourhood suggestions to find hidden gems. They can provide vital insights and lesser-known facts about the finest places to live that may not be obvious in online lists.

When it comes to the entire moving process, one part you can relax about is carrying all of your belongings. You can reduce the stress and difficulty of packing, transporting, and unpacking your belongings by hiring a trustworthy moving company.

By leaving the moving procedure to specialists, you will be able to concentrate on other elements of your relocation, such as settling into your new job and exploring your new surroundings. This peace of mind enables for a more seamless transition and a new beginning in your new Australian home.

Healthcare and Insurance:

• Understand the Australian healthcare system and your Medicare eligibility.
• To assure comprehensive coverage, look into private health insurance options.
• Transfer your medical data and medicines to your new healthcare practitioner.

Understanding your healthcare options and receiving insurance coverage are very important for your health. To have access to subsidised services, apply for a Medicare card: citizens, permanent residents, and some visa holders are all eligible for Medicare coverage. However, it is crucial to understand that Medicare may not cover all medical procedures, and certain treatments may have waiting periods.

Even if you are eligible for Medicare, consider joining a private health fund as soon as possible. You may be able to circumvent waiting periods for specific services and receive access to additional benefits that Medicare may not completely cover by doing so.

Support Network:

• Seek advice and support from local expat communities, social media groups, and forums.
• Attend networking events and meetups to meet others who share your interests.
• Join clubs or organisations that are connected to your hobbies to broaden your social circle.

Building a support network is critical for a successful adjustment while moving to a new country. While traditional paths like local communities and social groups are excellent places to start, there is more you can do to broaden your relationships. Try joining online forums or social media groups that are tailored to your interests or hobbies. Engaging in niche groups not only allows you to connect with like-minded people, but it also opens the door to deeper connections. For example, if you are passionate about a certain sport or activity, look for local groups or organisations where you can meet others who share your interests. As you settle into your new Australian home, these groups can provide a sense of belonging and support.

Change of Address and Notifications:

• Notify relevant companies, such as banks, government institutions, and utility providers, of your address change.
• Set up mail forwarding or select a trusted contact in New Zealand to receive mail.
• Update your subscription, membership, and online account contact information.

Utilities and Services:

• Arrange for the disconnection of utilities in New Zealand and the setting up of services in Australia.
• Evaluate the internet, phone, and utility companies in your new neighbourhood.
• Notify service providers of your relocation and schedule installations or transfers.

Setting up utilities and services is a critical part of your relocation from New Zealand to Australia. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition:

• First, arrange for the disconnect of New Zealand utilities such as power, gas, water, and internet services.
• Contact the service providers ahead of time to schedule the disconnect and settle any overdue bills.
• Next, look into internet, phone, and utility service providers in your new Australian home. Try out digital platforms or mobile apps that enable you to compare and configure different services at the same time.

Transportation and Driving:

• Learn about local transport choices in Australia, such as public transport and ridesharing services.
• Determine whether you need to apply for an Australian driver’s licence by researching the prerequisites.

When it comes to transportation in Australia, New Zealanders seeking to relocate should be aware of certain essential driver’s licence considerations.

To begin, your New Zealand driver’s licence is often accepted in Australia, allowing you to drive for a limited time upon arrival. If you intend to stay for an extended period of time, you need to transfer your licence to an Australian one.

To convert your licence, go to your new Australian state or territory’s licensing authority or transport department. They will walk you through the procedure and supply you with the relevant forms and documentation. It’s important to note that each state or territory may have slightly different procedures, so be sure you know what’s required in your location.

Before you relocate, consider getting an International Driving Permit (IDP). Although it is not required to have an IDP to drive in Australia, it serves as an official translation of your licence into other languages. It may be useful if you intend to travel within Australia or to other countries where an IDP is necessary or recommended.

Pet Considerations:

• Research quarantine and import requirements for bringing pets to Australia.
• Schedule veterinary appointments for necessary vaccinations, microchipping, and documentation.
• Look into pet-friendly accommodations and services in your new location.

Are you ready to make the move from New Zealand to Australia a breeze? Get a free quote today and let us handle the details. The Moving Company’s team is here to provide a smooth and stress-free relocation.