● Relocation guide
Everything a Kiwi tradesperson needs to know before crossing the Tasman.
As a New Zealand citizen, you automatically receive a Special Category Visa (subclass 444) on arrival. It lets you live, work and study in Australia indefinitely with no application, no fee, and no time limit. You can start work the day you land.
Major Australian cities like Sydney and Brisbane are broadly comparable to Auckland for rent and groceries, but wages are 30–50% higher for skilled trades. Regional centres (Mackay, Karratha, Townsville) often have lower living costs and higher pay. Petrol and alcohol are cheaper. Healthcare is covered under the reciprocal Medicare agreement.
Australian sites are highly regulated. Toolbox talks every morning, mandatory PPE, strict drug and alcohol testing, and a strong safety culture. Pay is weekly or fortnightly. Most permanent roles include super, a tool-of-trade vehicle, and paid annual leave. RDOs (rostered days off) are common.
A White Card (Construction Induction Card) is mandatory for anyone entering an Australian construction site. It's a one-day online or in-person course costing around $50–$120 AUD. You can complete it before you fly over — providers like AlertForce and Urban E-Learning are RTO-accredited and recognised nationally.
FIFO (fly-in-fly-out) roles are common in mining and resources, typically 2-weeks-on/1-week-off rosters in WA and QLD. Flights, accommodation and meals are covered. Residential roles are based in a single city or town with normal Monday–Friday hours. FIFO usually pays more; residential offers more stability and family time.
Get on the bench. We'll guide you through visa, flights, White Card and the role itself.