If you are a New Zealand citizen, you are legally able to work in Australia now. If you are not a New Zealand or Australian citizen, you may need to apply for a work visa (see visas).
Hunting for jobs in Australia is very similar to hunting for jobs in New Zealand. The majority of jobs are advertised online, mostly by recruitment companies but also by individual employers.
If you want to know your tax obligations in Australia you should read our Australian Tax – what you need to know page. On this page you can find out the current Australia tax rates, work out what tax you owe using a Comprehensive Australian Tax Calculator and how to find an Australian Tax Agent/Accountant.
If you have a job and need a TFN you will need to apply for a TFN number when you arrive in Australia. You are not able to apply from New Zealand. Apply online here: https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals/tax-file-number/apply-for-a-tfn/foreign-passport-holders,-permanent-migrants-and-temporary-visitors—tfn-application/.
For general information on employment in Australia, career advice, resume templates, salary surveys and more visit http://www.employmentguide.com.au.
Like New Zealand, it is extremely worth while registering with a recruitment agency. They will help you find a new job and can even find you a job while you are still in New Zealand. Please find below some of the recruitment agencies in Australia and their specialities:
Healthcare workers are highly sort out in Australia. Nurses, Midwifes, Doctors, Allied Health and Aged Care Professionals are all in high demand.
Healthcare Australia can help you get placed depending on your wants and needs (https://www.healthcareaustralia.com.au/).
For general information on employment in Australia, career advice, resume templates, salary surveys and more visit http://www.employmentguide.com.au.
If there is anything else you would like to know about, please ask me a question using the below comment system and I will do my best to find the information you need.
Hi… I’m JJ Smith.
I’m the creator and editor of Moving to Australia and have been for 10 years! I know everything there is to know about New Zealanders moving their families and life to Australia. Either from first hand experiences and research or through the questions from visitors to this website… and I’m here to help!
Design by ThemeShift.
nigel_nz
January 18, 2019 at 3:13 amHi there, I’m planning to move to Australia soon and I have been applying for jobs whilst I’m still here in NZ, as I wanted to take the less risky approach. I noticed that some recruiters aren’t interested once they found out that the application came from overseas. It feels like your application automatically takes a back sit, unless you have local contact details. Most of the people I knew gave up their jobs, went to Australia, applied and got a job. On the other hand, I know a few lucky people (only 2) who got a job in Aus while still here in NZ.
I guess it is normal and locals will be given priority over overseas applicants, but this is just my observation and I might be wrong. What do you think? It might really be better to take the risk and go to Aus. Finding a job in Aus while in NZ might be like trying to win a lottery.
JJ Smith
March 20, 2019 at 10:46 pmHi Nigel,
Sorry for the delay in replaying. Your enquiry got lost over the school holidays.
Honestly if I was you I would keep an eye out for cheap flights and I would visit the city you are planning on moving to in Australia and go see recruitment companies that recruit in your industry and discuss your situation with them. This will show you are serious and get someone else helping you find a job. Of course could call some companies first and see if you can get anywhere.
However, if you can stay with friends and do really want to live in Australia… then just do it! Make the move and do some serious job hunting as soon as you arrive.
Make sure you read this article helping you increase your success in the Australian job market: https://www.movingtoaustralia.co.nz/expats-increase-your-success-in-the-australian-job-market/.
Please feel free to email me back any further questions you have.
Ramari
January 14, 2019 at 12:56 amHi
I am a qualified NZ Teacher looking to relocate to the Gold Coast Australia. Do I need further qualifications to work in the GC and teach?
JJ Smith
January 21, 2019 at 9:06 pmHi Ramari,
Thank you for your comment.
I’ve looked into teaching in Australia as a New Zealander and have found out that all states have their own set of rules.
Have you seen the this site for teaching in Queensland – https://teach.qld.gov.au/?
Here is the link to the eligibility page: https://teach.qld.gov.au/apply-to-teach/teacher-eligibility.
To be eligible to be employed as a teacher in any Queensland school, you need to obtain teacher registration from the Queensland College of Teachers (QCT). The QCT is a separate authority to the department and manages all teacher registrations in Queensland, including state and non-state schools. Here’s the registration page: https://teach.qld.gov.au/study-teaching/professional-requirements/teaching-registration.
This would be a great way to start, as they might be able to help you find employment too. Please let me know how you get on.
Good luck with your move.
Ata
November 10, 2018 at 2:02 amHi there! I’m not sure if this is still being looked at as the latest replies are from 2013 but worth a shot. I’m looking to move over to Australia (Melbourne) next year in April/May and I was wondering how early I should start looking at jobs.
JJ Smith
December 3, 2018 at 1:16 amHi Ata,
Thank you for your comment and yes I’m still here helping kiwis moving to Australia.
Personally I would start looking now to get a feel of the Australian job market. It is more competitive than NZ, but other than that pretty similar.
Most companies will expect you to have to give two weeks to a months notice, depending on the industry you are in, so start at least six weeks before you move.
If you haven’t already have a read of this post: https://www.movingtoaustralia.co.nz/expats-increase-your-success-in-the-australian-job-market/.
I also recommend listing with recruitment companies in your field, as they will not only be able to help you find a job, but help you along the way.
Good luck with your move.
CJ
August 28, 2018 at 11:36 pmHi,
I am a New Zealand Citizen. I have a B.Ed from an Australian University. Would this help me to find employment in Australia?
Thanks
CJ
JJ Smith
September 5, 2018 at 9:29 pmHi CJ,
Thanks for your comment.
Possibly. Unfortunately there are too many other variables for me to comment.
Make sure you put your best foot forward when appying for jobs and if you are not currently living in Australia start job searching to see what you need to secure the job you want.
Good luck.
Paea
February 23, 2015 at 9:28 amHi, been thinking about moving to Australia for a few years now but finally decided its time to actually do some research. Im looking at moving some time this year, have been managing a Finance Branch for 3-4 years now. Currently studying to become an AFA. I love my job, boss and staff but at the end of the day, I have a family to support. Are there any vacancies in Brisbane to do with Finance, Credit controlling, customer service, management, call centres. Please advise 🙂 Thank You
JJ Smith
February 23, 2015 at 9:28 amHi,
Thank you for your enquiry.
Unfortunately at this stage we are not partnered with a recruitment company so I can’t help you.
However, I recommend you contact Robert Walters in Australia http://www.robertwalters.com.au/. They should be able to help you.
Any feedback you could give us would be greatly appreciated.
Michael Fisher
November 6, 2014 at 7:38 amI might be moving to Australia in August 2015 on a 1 year work visa. I have a Class-A CDL in the state of WA, USA with doubles/triples , and tankers endorsements. I was curious if you knew of any programs that would help me acquire employment before I left the states for Australia?
any info would help.
Thanks,
Michael Fisher
JJ Smith
November 6, 2014 at 7:55 amHi Michael,
Thank you for your enquiry.
Sorry I do not know of any licence conversion type programs you would need to do.
However, I do recommend you contact Robert Walters (http://www.robertwalters.com.au/) in Australia and see what they recommend and if they can even help you find employment.
Good luck with your move.
Georgia
April 9, 2014 at 4:30 pmAt what point before moving over do you recommend we start applying for jobs?
We leave NZ on May 25th.
JJ Smith
April 10, 2014 at 4:39 amHi Georgia,
It’s a hard question to answer. I recommend getting in touch with a recruitment company that definitely recruits in your industry and covers the location you are looking at heading to ASAP and ask them.
Otherwise it wouldn’t hurt to start looking and applying as each job will be different. You would also gain valuable information on the Australian job market, which can only be beneficial.
Good luck with your move.
Julie Sutton
March 10, 2014 at 5:03 amHello, I heard that Kiwi’s can apply, or aren’t allowed to work for the Australian Government. Is this true or is it just selected government departments Kiwi’s, being non-citizens, can’t work for?
JJ Smith
March 15, 2014 at 10:09 amHi Julie,
Thank you for your comment.
I have not been able to find a definitive answer to your question.
I contacted an Australian government department and got the below reply:
Dear MTA,
Thank you for contacting Australian JobSearch.
If you want to migrate to Australia, you can apply through the General Skilled Migration or other migration programs.
For information on migration, including having your skills assessed, see the Department of Immigration and Border Protection http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/
You can phone the visa enquiries phone line on 131 881 (within Australia) or visit the Department of Immigration and Border Protection website at http://www.immi.gov.au
Alternatively you can contact your local embassy who will be able to assist you with further information:
http://www.immi.gov.au/contacts/overseas/
If you have any further questions please call the Department enquiry line on 1300 363 079.
Kind Regards,
Australian JobSearch
Job Seeker Hotline: 13 62 68
Employer Hotline: 13 17 15
I recommend that you call any of the above.
Let me know if you find out if you can or can’t for sure.
Thanks
Doreen
June 29, 2013 at 11:56 amHI,
I’m planning to Re-locate to Brisbane with my 6 year old son for better career in the future for me and better son and life style both for me and my son. I have worked in the customer services, medical and finance industry. I don’t know where do I start from. How can I secure a job before selling and moving to Brisbane for good. Please help me with some advice.
JJ Smith
July 3, 2013 at 6:17 amHi Doreen,
Thank you for your comment.
The OZ Jobs Expo is coming up again in November. This is always very good for either securing a job or finding a recruitment company that you can register with. Please find below some useful links to their website:
Register with OZ Jobs Expo: http://www.ozjobexpo.com/visitor-registration
Search Jobs: http://www.ozjobexpo.com/jobs-in-australia
Search Exhibitors: http://www.ozjobexpo.com/australian-employers
I would search in the exhibitors for recruitment companies, as they would be able to help you find a job from NZ. Also try SkilledMigrantJobs.com.
Good Luck.
JJ Smith
May 7, 2013 at 8:43 amHi Ellie,
Thank you for your enquiry.
Yes it would be as tough in Australia as it is in New Zealand to find a job and it is definitely easier for skilled workers to find jobs in Australia.
The big difference is between the countries is the Australian government will not support you while you are looking for a job.
I recommend you start looking on the Australian job listing websites and contacting recruitment companies and see how you go. If you can find a job in Australia, it is very likely to be better paid than it is in New Zealand.
I also recommend moving in or close to family so that you have support if you need it.
Good Luck!
Claire
March 18, 2013 at 2:40 pmHi there,
I am thinking about moving to Darwin or Perth either at the end of this year or for early next year. I am a primary school teacher and have tried to do some research (and then got confused) about whether or not my NZ registration is recognised in Australia particularly the Northern Territory or Western Australia, do you know if I can or do I need to do some up-skilling courses?
Any help would be much appreciated.
Thanks,
Claire
JJ Smith
March 25, 2013 at 11:56 pmHi Claire,
Thank you for your comment.
Most states and territories in Australia (except New South Wales) have a trans-Tasman mutual recognition agreement with New Zealand, meaning the teacher is able to apply for registration with the state’s representative body. More information can be found at the individual states teacher registration board website. Here is the link for Northern Territory & Western Australia:
– http://www.trb.nt.gov.au/forms/form-b/mutual-recognition-principle
– http://www.trb.wa.gov.au/registration/application-forms/mutual-recognition1/
Good luck.
Zoe
January 14, 2013 at 11:13 amhi there , my partner and i and our 3 children are moving to Australia in april this year and i was wondering what are the steps you have to take when getting a job can you apply from n.z? and do i have to live in ozzy for 3months to be able to apply for a house ??
JJ Smith
January 14, 2013 at 11:14 amHi Zoe,
Thank you for your comment.
You can apply for a job from NZ and there are a number of companies that can help you with this. I recommend going to the OZ Job Expo in March (https://www.movingtoaustralia.co.nz/jobs/oz-jobs-expo.html) and see who can help you there.
However, you can also contact recruitment companies in Australia with a current CV and see what they have to say.
You can also apply for accommodation from NZ, but it would be easier once in Australia. It can depend greatly on where you find a job, so it might pay to get this first. You can find more information on rentals on https://www.movingtoaustralia.co.nz/Australia-real-estate/buying-renting-a-house-in-Australia.
Good luck.
Kind Regards,
MTA Team
Vanessa Natusch
October 8, 2012 at 1:25 pmHi,i am looking to move it Brsibane and i am looking for jobs in advertsing/medi a, what sites would recommend to search for that location?
Thanks
JJ Smith
October 10, 2012 at 8:35 amHi Vanessa,
Thank you for your comment.
Because of the industry you are looking for work in, I recommend trying all the standard recruitment/job listing sites, but also contact the below:
Zinc Recruitment – http://www.zincrecruitment.com.au
Glenda Stenner Recruitment Pty Ltd – http://www.glendastenner.com/
MAARS – http://www.maars.com.au/
Good luck.
Thanks,
MTA Team
Bob
October 4, 2012 at 7:53 amAre their any restrictions to finding a job being bankrupt in NZ? i have put in a request to move to Aus and if successful, i would like to find a job.
JJ Smith
October 4, 2012 at 2:31 pmHi Bob,
Thank you for your comment.
I have done some research, as I did not know much about bankruptcy, and have discovered that you are able to find a job in Australia, like NZ.
However, there are some industries that you cannot be employed in. Please see below:
http://www.bankruptcyadvice.com.au/BANKRUPTCY.html
Will bankruptcy affect my employment?
The Bankruptcy Act does not restrict employment BUT typically a bankrupt will not be employed in certain industries such as the Police Force or as a security guard. A bankrupt cannot hold certain licenses, such as a liquor license, tax agents license, real estate (principal) license, builders license, finance brokering license etc. A bankrupt cannot be a director of a company without approval of the Court.
The best way to get a feel for the job market in Australia, for your circumstances, would be to call a recruitment company that you have had previous experience in or for the field you would like to move into. They will be able to give you further advice.
Good luck and please let me know if there is anything else I can help you with.
Kind Regards,
MTA Team
Angela
September 28, 2012 at 10:02 amHi I have a bachelour of applied science degree and currently work in local Government and was wanting to know what recruitment agency suits me..
JJ Smith
September 28, 2012 at 2:33 pmHi Angela,
Thank you for your comment.
I do recommend the APS jobs website: http://www.apsjobs.gov.au/. This website is your gateway to working in the Australian Public Service (APS).
APS jobs will help you discover the flexible and diverse career paths the public service has to offer by linking you to vacancies in the APS, the Australian Parliamentary Service and many other Australian Government agencies. From entry level to leadership roles across a wide range of profession, new positions are advertised on APS jobs every day.
Good luck and please let me know if there is anything else I can help you with.
Kind Regards,
MTA Team
Mandy
September 26, 2012 at 7:30 amHi, great website with heaps of really useful information.
My husband, 4 kids and I are planning to move to Perth early next year for more opportunities for us all, better quality of life, better weather etc. Which recruitment company would be best for my husband to register with to get into a mining or mining related role?
JJ Smith
September 27, 2012 at 10:08 amHi Mandy,
Thank you for your comment on http://www.movingtoaustralia.co.nz.
Please find below a few companies that you should check out. The top one is NZ based so would be worth talking to:
– skilledmigrantjobs.com/
– westjobs.com.au/jobseeker/mining-jobs-no-experience.html
– http://www.infomine.com/careers/
– http://www.dtworkforce.com/
– http://www.rockpeople.com/
– http://www.miningpeople.com.au/about.aspx
If you have any feedback after going through the process of finding a mining job, please email me back so I can share it with our visitors and help them too.
Please note: that the OZ Jobs Expo is coming up in Auckland on the 17th and 18th of November at the ASB showgrounds. If you are in Auckland I recommend checking it out, as there are companies there wanting to hire.
Good luck and let me know if there is anything else I can help you with.
Kind Regards,
MTA Team
Regina Borrell
September 22, 2012 at 12:05 pmHi,
My husband and I are interested in moving to Melbourne Australia. Wanting a better and enjoyable lifestyle for ourselves and 3 younger children aged 7,3,19months – ultimately we both want better paid jobs. We currently have family staying in Mt Waverly and we absolutely love the area. My husband is a Banking consultant with Westpac NZ on a salary approx 58k with 7 years banking experience and myself a Sales/ Account Manager for OfficeMax on a 55k base with 7 years sales experience. Is there an employment agency in the area that we can register with? or any advice you can offer that would be useful to us. Anything regarding expected salary for similar jobs, agencies, working areas, traveling distances, rent around mt wavely etc.
Look forward to your response
JJ Smith
September 19, 2012 at 4:25 amGood morning Regina,
Thank you for your comment on Movingtoaustralia.co.nz.
There are a number of recruitment companies in the Mt Waverly area. I recommend you go through their websites and see which few best suits your needs and appeal to you. Then contact them directly in hope of registering with them. They will be able to give you realistic wages expectations and job availability. With your experience I do not see you having any problems getting a job and earning more money in Australia.
Robert Half International (banking) – http://www.roberthalf.com.au
Manpower – http://www.manpower.com.au
Scope Employment Futures Mt Waverley – http://www.scopevic.org.au
Excel Recruitment – http://www.excels.com.au
Max Recruitment – http://www.maxr.com.au
BND Recruitment – http://www.bndrecruitment.com.au
Kandil Consulting Group – http://www.kandil.com.au
Workforce Extensions – http://www.workforcexs.com.au
Alliance Recruitment Mt Waverley – http://www.alliancerecruitment.com.au
PeopleCo. – http://www.peopleco.com.au
Regarding renting in Mt Waverly, I recommend looking for prices etc on realestate.com. au (http://www.realestate.com. au/rent/in-mount+waverley,+vic/list-1?source=location-search). You can then contact the listing companies regarding renting a home/apartment from NZ. There is always the option of getting a short term rental and make the long term decision when in Australia, as you normally have to apply and them sign up for a year (six months if lucky).
You should also read the Wikipedia page on Mt Waverly as this lists schools, transport, geography, sport and more in the area:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Waverley,_Victoria
Please let me know if there is anything else I can help with and how you get on.
Kind Regards,
MTA Team
Jerome
September 20, 2012 at 6:27 pmHey guys,
Just a general enquiry. I’m thinking of making the move to Australia. To better my Life style and maybe start a new career. I’m currently studying to become a personal trainer. Would you by any chance have any info in maybe getting into the gym industry or being a personal within Melbourne.
JJ Smith
September 25, 2012 at 4:28 amGood morning Jerome,
Thank you for your comment on https://www.movingtoaustralia.co.nz.
I have done some research into personal training jobs in Melbourne Australia and have found the below sites which will help you:
http://www.sportspeople.com.au – sport specialised recruitment company. I recommend contacting them direct as they will be able to give you a better idea of what your expectations should be.
http://www.seek.com.au – general listings for the sport and recreation industry, in Melbourne.
http://www.simplyhired.com.au – general listings for the sport and recreation industry, in Melbourne.
http://www.jobseeker.com.au – general listings for the sport and recreation industry, in Melbourne.
Good luck and I hope the above helps.
Kind Regards,
MTA Team
Cara
July 7, 2012 at 4:20 amHi, Im looking at moving to Australia. I have an assault charge and a DIC will this effect me moving? Also in regards to any debt owing in New Zealand ie: taxes or accounts sent to Baycorp will this be checked up on and would i be stopped from moving because of debt? I am getting a one way ticket to Melbourne and have been told they will check everything like this. Is s this correct? Will it not be worth me going? Cara
Caroline
July 5, 2012 at 9:12 amHi there
I am moving to Nerang , Gold Coast area with my bf. He is currently residing there at the moment. He has a NZ Security Licence however he is needing help with getting this transferred to a QLD security license. Could you assist with any useful options?
JJ Smith
July 9, 2012 at 9:16 amHi Caroline,
Thank you for your enquiry and sorry for the late reply.
I could not find the answer to your question online, so you will need to contact The Australian Security Industry Association Ltd (ASIAL) and ask them (http://www.asial.com.au/ContactUs).
Good luck.
Eduardo Jr
March 16, 2012 at 9:00 pmHi,
Me and my wife are planning to migrate to either NZ or AU depending on the results of my IELTS exam. In case I won’t pass all the modules but I will pass the overall band score of 7, I will decide to migrate to NZ.
My question is. If you are holding a permanent resident visa. Are we legally allowed to work in AU.
Appreciate your advise.
Best Regards,
Eduardo Jr.
Krystal
March 14, 2012 at 5:33 amMe and my partner are looking to re-locate although there is so much information we’re not sure where to start.
He is currently employed in the rigging industry and myself in customer service.
Is there any help out there to point us in the right direction to start?
JJ Smith
March 14, 2012 at 5:33 amHi Krystal,
Thank you for your enquiry.
Can you please give me some more information about what you and your partner are tying to archive with your move and I will be able to point you in the right direction.
For example, what is the most important thing you want to get out of your move, e.g. money, lifestyle, etc? Is there a particular state in Australia that interests you? Where do you live now and what do you like dislike about it?
I look forward to being of assistance.
Kris
November 9, 2009 at 11:19 pmHi there,
I am looking to re-locate to Brisbane, in the following areas, Richlands/Fores t Lake/Wacol, so it would be great if you could let me know what the names of the local papers so i can look up the classifieds.
Thank You
JJ Smith
November 16, 2009 at 10:19 amHi,
The best and easiest way to search the classifieds within all the local papers is through news.com.au or follow the above link.
This way you do not need to contact the local paper directly, as most of the local papers are published by Quest Community Newspapers.
Please let us know if you need further information and if the above info was helpful.
Rachel
October 30, 2009 at 1:42 pmHiya, i currently work for nz government in the tax department, but i have heard that in aus i would need to be a australian citizen to work for the ATO, is this correct? also someone mentioned i could possibly work in federal taxes?
JJ Smith
November 4, 2009 at 10:42 amHi Rachel,
I have searched the ATO’s website can not find an answer to your questions, or an email contact, so I recommend you call them directly on +61 2 6216 1111 or write them a letter (http://www.ato.gov.au/corporate/content.asp?doc=/content/49441.htm&mnu=36385&mfp=001/001).
Sorry that we cannot be of more assistance.
Good luck.
Sharn
October 29, 2009 at 8:14 amHi, just enquiring whats some names of recruitment agency’s in Australia? I’m looking at moving over from Auckland. Thanks
JJ Smith
October 29, 2009 at 9:29 amHi Sharn,
Thank you for your enquiry.
It does depend on what sort of job you are looking for and in what industry.
I have added to the content above some names of the recruitment agencies in Australia and their specialities.
For general information on employment in Australia, career advice, resume templates, salary surveys and more visit http://www.employmentguide.com.au.
Let us know if you need further information and if the above info was helpful.