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An Auckland early childhood teacher shares how Victoria’s financial incentives, relocation support and improved career opportunities helped make her family’s move to Australia a reality.

For many New Zealand early childhood teachers, the idea of moving to Australia is appealing. Better pay, strong demand for qualified teachers, and new career opportunities can make Victoria an attractive destination.

However, relocating internationally can be expensive, particularly for families.

For Carlene, an early childhood teacher from Auckland, financial support from the Victorian Government played an important role in making the move possible. Through Victoria’s Early Childhood Teacher Incentives program, she received a total of AUD $17,000 in support, including a $9,000 individual incentive and the maximum $8,000 relocation supplement.

For a family of six, that financial assistance helped ease the costs of relocating from New Zealand to Victoria and establishing a new life in Australia.

Now, after nearly two years living and working in Melbourne, Carlene says the move has delivered more than financial benefits.

“I’ve learnt more here than I ever expected.”

Her story provides an honest insight into the opportunities, challenges, and support available to New Zealand early childhood teachers considering a move to Victoria.

Why Victoria Is Investing in Early Childhood Teachers

For New Zealand teachers considering a move to Victoria, financial incentives are only part of the picture. The Victorian Government has also announced a significant package of workforce reforms designed to strengthen the early childhood sector and improve career opportunities for educators and teachers.

These reforms include a commitment to supporting pay parity with Victorian government school teachers for early childhood teachers, alongside an average proposed pay increase of around 39 per cent over four years for educators. Additional changes may include removing barriers to wage progression, introducing new leadership allowances, and aligning leave provisions with government schools.

The Move Started With Research

Before relocating, she took time researching Victoria’s early childhood teacher incentives, registration requirements, and employment opportunities.

Like many Kiwi teachers, she initially explored the move cautiously before fully committing.

I went through all the applications and requirements before I seriously thought about relocating.

The process itself was comprehensive, particularly gathering documents and navigating all the requirements from New Zealand. But once approved, she quickly secured a teaching role in Melbourne close to extended family.

With a teaching position secured, family support nearby, and financial assistance available to help with the transition, the family felt confident taking the next step

In July 2024, the family officially made the move from Auckland to Melbourne’s southeast.

“The Centres Here Operate Differently”

Like many New Zealand educators, she initially assumed early childhood centres in Australia would feel very similar.

Instead, she discovered Victoria’s sector operates quite differently — especially around staffing structures, systems, compliance, and programming responsibilities.

One of the biggest adjustments was understanding the distinction between early childhood teachers (ECTs) and educators.

Unlike in New Zealand, where teams often hold similar qualifications, Victorian early childhood centres distinguish between ECTs, who are degree-qualified, and educators, who typically hold certificate or diploma-level qualifications. 

I just assumed everyone working in the centre had the same qualifications because that’s what I was used to in New Zealand.

Instead, she found herself leading programmes and rooms much more independently than expected.

While the transition initially felt overwhelming, she says the Victorian system ultimately helped her become a far stronger and more confident teacher.

Melbourne Centres Helped Her Grow Professionally

One of the most positive parts of her experience has been the professional development she gained working in Melbourne centres.

It’s taught me a lot — not so much in my actual teaching, but in how to run programmes better and more efficiently.

She spoke highly of the systems, structures, and operational processes she’s been exposed to in Victoria, saying they’ve given her a much deeper understanding of how centres function behind the scenes.

Australia’s strong focus on policies and procedures, documentation, compliance, health and safety, programming systems, and team structures played a significant part in her professional growth.

Australia does those things really well.

Importantly, she says supportive colleagues made a huge difference.

One experienced Victorian ECT in particular helped guide her through the transition and explained how different centres operate across Melbourne.

Early Childhood Teaching in Melbourne Isn’t Easier — But It Can Be Rewarding

One thing she was very honest about is that teaching in Melbourne isn’t necessarily “easier” than in New Zealand.

The expectations can be high.

But for teachers willing to adapt, she believes the experience can be incredibly valuable professionally.

I thought I already knew quite a lot, but this experience has taught me so much.

She says many Victorian centres provide opportunities for teachers to take ownership of programmes, develop leadership skills, and build confidence in ways that can accelerate career growth.

And financially, the move has also been significant.

The pay difference has been huge for our family.

Early childhood teachers from New Zealand who make the move to Victoria can take advantage of the Early Childhood Teacher Incentives program – making the transition more financially appealing. 

Eligible teachers who are not currently working in Victoria’s early childhood sector may receive an individual incentive of AUD $9,000 (before tax) when they take up a role at a service delivering, or planning to deliver, a funded kindergarten program.

On top of this, location-based incentives of up to AUD $50,000 (before tax) are available for roles in areas experiencing the greatest demand for qualified teachers. If you meet the eligibility criteria for both the individual and location incentives, you may be able to receive both payments.

Finally, the Victorian Government also offers a relocation supplement of between AUD$1,000 and $8,000, helping to offset the cost of moving, depending on your individual circumstances. Further information is available at Financial support to study and work in early childhood | vic.gov.au.

A Better Balance for Her Family

Beyond work, the move also created positive changes for their family life.

After initially staying with relatives, the family secured a rental property and settled into a rhythm that now works well for both parents and their four children.

The children adjusted well to Victorian schools, and she says the opportunities available through public schools have impressed her.

They’re doing swimming lessons, excursions, sports — there’s just so much available.

Combined with improved finances, the family now feels able to enjoy life more fully without the same financial pressure they experienced in New Zealand.

Her Advice for Other Kiwi Teachers

While she’s incredibly positive about the move overall, she also stresses the importance of realistic expectations.

Moving countries, adjusting to different centre structures, and learning new systems takes flexibility, patience, and support.

But for teachers willing to embrace change? She believes Melbourne can offer incredible opportunities both personally and professionally.

If you’re open to it, I think you’ll enjoy the move.

Thinking About Teaching in Melbourne?

For Kiwi early childhood teachers considering Australia, Melbourne continues to be one of the most popular destinations — particularly for teachers wanting:

• Improved pay
• Career growth
• Leadership opportunities
• Professional development
• Family support networks
• Better work opportunities for partners
• Access to Victorian teacher incentives

And while every experience is different, stories like this show that for many Kiwi teachers, the move can become far more than just a financial decision.

It can become a professional turning point.

Find Out More

If you’re a New Zealand-trained kindergarten teacher considering a move to Victoria, there is a range of support and information available to help you understand registration, employment pathways, and what to expect when working in the Victorian kindergarten system.

To find out more about opportunities to work in Victorian kindergartens, including registration requirements and workforce initiatives such as financial incentives and relocation support, visit Teach kindergarten in Victoria, Australia: a guide for international teachers | vic.gov.au and explore the kindergarten workforce information available for overseas-trained teachers.

The department also works with a panel of expert early childhood recruitment agencies, so you can contact one of the agencies or register your interest to connect with a recruiter.

You can also find practical guidance, real-life case studies, and step-by-step resources here on Moving to Australia that will help you plan your move with confidence.

You can also read our original teacher story here: One Kindergarten Teacher’s Journey to Victoria.

Community, schools, support and finding friends… Setting up a new life takes time and effort.

Moving to a new country is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Once your visas, flights, and boxes are sorted, the real adventure begins: settling into your new life in Australia. One of the biggest challenges newcomers face is building a sense of community.

Luckily, Australians are known for being friendly and welcoming. Community is strong here; you simply need to find your niche.

Another cool thing about Australia is that, because the population is much larger, there are far more extracurricular options. Start exploring what’s available in your area, and you’ll soon find like-minded people in your community.

Editor’s note: if you have anything to add about where newly arrived New Zealanders can meet people and build a community, please leave a comment below. Thanks.

In this post, you will find helpful information on the following:

• Finding Your Community
  • Local Clubs and Sports Teams
  • Adventure, Hiking and Running Groups
  • Hobby and Craft Groups
  • Theatre, Music and Cultural Groups
  • Faith & Spiritual Community
  • Playgroups and Parent Networks
  • Schools and Education
• Doctor, Dentist and Well-being
  • Finding a Doctor (GP)
  • Dentists & Specialists
• Mental Health and Support
• Practical Everyday Essentials
• Tips for Finding Your Niche

Finding Your Community

When you don’t know anyone, taking the first step can feel daunting. But almost every Australian suburb has multiple ways to connect. 

Local Clubs and Sports Teams

Community sport is part of everyday life. Whether it’s football, netball, cricket, swimming, tennis, martial arts or social walking groups, clubs exist for both children and adults. Joining a local team is one of the fastest ways to meet people.

You can usually find clubs by:

• Searching your suburb name + sport
• Checking your local council website
• Looking at community noticeboards or Facebook groups.

Adventure, Hiking and Running Groups

Australia’s outdoor lifestyle makes it easy to stay active while meeting people.

• Bushwalking & Hiking: National parks and coastal tracks are popular social spaces. Many areas have organised bushwalking clubs you can join.
• Running Communities: Parkrun operates free, weekly 5km runs across Australia. They’re welcoming, beginner-friendly, and a fantastic way to meet locals.
• Outdoor Fitness Groups: Many beaches and parks host early morning boot camps or yoga sessions.
• Adventure Clubs: Surf lifesaving clubs, mountain biking groups, and kayaking clubs are common in coastal regions.

If you enjoy an active lifestyle, you’ll likely find your people quickly. 

Hobby and Craft Groups

Not into sport? There are endless other options:

• Craft circles, sewing groups, and art classes
• Book clubs at local libraries
• Community theatre and choir groups
• Photography clubs
• Gardening groups

Websites like Meetup or Eventbrite list local events, and most suburbs have active Facebook community pages. 

Theatre, Music and Cultural Groups

If you enjoy the performing arts, volunteering or joining a local theatre or choir group is a fantastic way to meet people while expressing your creative side.

Australia has a strong grassroots arts culture, and most suburbs or regional centres have opportunities to get involved, on stage or behind the scenes.

Editor’s note: I love culture; art galleries, theatre productions, sculpture walks and everything in between. One thing I loved about living in Brisbane was the local theatre scene. They put on hilarious productions (Australians are known for their great sense of humour) that were completely entertaining and affordable to attend. Shout out to PIP Theatre!

• Community Theatre: Many towns have amateur dramatic societies producing plays and musicals throughout the year. You don’t need professional experience; enthusiasm is usually enough.
• Choirs and Music Groups: From contemporary vocal groups to classical choirs and local bands, there are options for all ages and abilities.
• Cultural Associations: Multicultural communities are active across Australia, with language groups, cultural festivals and heritage organisations welcoming newcomers.
• Volunteering Backstage: Lighting, costume design, set building and front-of-house roles are excellent ways to contribute if performing isn’t your thing.

You can find groups by:

• Searching your suburb name + “theatre group” or “choir”
• Checking your local council website
• Visiting community noticeboards
• Joining local Facebook community groups

Creative communities tend to be warm, inclusive and social; rehearsals often turn into dinners, friendships and long-term connections. If sport isn’t your niche, the arts might be exactly where you’ll feel at home. 

Faith & Spiritual Community

For many people, faith is an important part of feeling grounded, especially when living in a new country.

Australia is culturally and religiously diverse, and most suburbs have places of worship representing a wide range of faiths, including churches, mosques, temples, synagogues and meditation centres. These communities often provide much more than weekly services; they host social gatherings, youth groups, playgroups, volunteer programs and cultural celebrations.

If faith is important to you, it can be one of the fastest ways to build meaningful connections.

You can find local faith communities by:

• Searching your suburb name + your faith or denomination
• Asking in local Facebook community groups
• Checking community noticeboards
• Visiting your local council website
• Even if you’re not religious, many faith-based organisations run community events, support services and family activities that are open to everyone.

Finding a spiritual home can provide comfort, familiarity and a strong sense of belonging as you settle into life in Australia. 

Playgroups and Parent Networks

For families with young children, playgroups are invaluable.

Playgroup Australia connects families with local playgroups across the country. School communities are also powerful support networks. Once your child starts school, friendships often form quickly for both children and parents. 

Schools and Education

Education is central to settling successfully.

• Public schools are government-funded and generally based on residential zones.
• Private and independent schools offer alternative programs and fee structures.
• Visiting schools in person helps you get a feel for the culture and expectations.
• Joining school parent groups (often on Facebook) helps you stay informed and connected.

Schools in Australia often foster strong community involvement through sports carnivals, cultural events, and volunteering opportunities. You can read more about finding a pre-school, kindergarten, or school here. 

Doctor, Dentist and Well-being

Now onto the practical services we all need in life… 

Finding a Doctor (GP)

General Practitioners (GPs) are your first point of contact for healthcare. You can search for local doctors through:

• Healthdirect Australia
• Local community groups are also excellent for recommendations (search Facebook). 

Read more about finding a local Australian GP. 

Dentists & Specialists

Search online or ask neighbours and school parents for trusted local providers. Word-of-mouth is powerful in Australian communities.

We are also incredibly lucky to have Google reviews, so search for providers in your local area.

Editor’s note: I was honestly wondering the other day, how did we find quality providers before the internet and in particlular Google reviews??? The biggest ad in the white pages! 

Mental Health and Support

Moving to a new country can feel isolating at times. If you need support:

• Beyond Blue offers free 24/7 mental health support. This s**t is real! Please ask for help if you need it.
• Lifeline provides 24/7 crisis support. Need help now! This is where you go. You are amazing! If you’re going through a hard time, get help, get better and live, because people love you.

Many workplaces also offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) in Australia are employer-funded, confidential, and professional counselling services designed to support staff and their immediate family members with work-related or personal issues. These, often voluntary, programs offer 24/7 access to qualified psychologists and counsellors for matters like stress, mental health, financial issues, and family problems. 

Practical Everyday Essentials

Settling becomes easier once daily life is organised:

• Child Care, Housekeeping & Pet Sitters – Care.com Australia: Platforms like Care.com and Juggle Street operate in Australia, and local Facebook groups often share recommendations.
• Utilities & Internet: Most providers allow online setup before you move in. If you get a home quickly, then you won’t have the paperwork you need to go directly, so go through a company like Compare & Connect. Read more.
• Transport: Public transport systems are state-run. For example, in Victoria, Public Transport Victoria provides journey planning tools and information. Google Maps is good at recommending public transport, which helps. Otherwise Google! 

Tips for Finding Your Niche

The biggest shift when moving countries isn’t logistical — it’s social.

At first, you may not know anyone. That’s completely normal. But community in Australia tends to form around shared interests:

• Sport
• School
• Outdoor activities
• Volunteering
• Faith groups
• Creative hobbies

Australia offers adventure, open space, beaches, bushland, vibrant suburbs and close-knit communities. Once you find your rhythm and your people, it begins to feel like home.

• Start small: Attend one event. Join one group. Show up consistently. Over time, those small steps build a real connection.
• Volunteer: local charities and community groups always welcome helping hands.
• Be curious and open: Australians are generally friendly, and most people will respond positively if you reach out.
• Leverage online communities: Facebook groups, Reddit threads, or local forums can help you find nearby events and people with similar interests.

Settling into Australia is as much about routines as it is about relationships. Take the time to explore your community, get involved, and don’t hesitate to ask for support. Soon, you’ll find your niche, your favourite local spots, and a network of friends and neighbours that make your new home feel truly yours.

You might be interested in…

The below posts might interest you:

• Find a house to buy or rent in Australia
• Moving to Australia process
• Everything money

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