Deciding between Australia and New Zealand? This comprehensive comparison helps you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Australia | New Zealand |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 26 million | 5 million |
| Job Market | Larger, more diverse | Smaller, competitive |
| Cost of Living | Higher (Sydney, Melbourne) | Lower overall |
| Salaries | Generally higher | Lower but proportional |
| Points Required | 65+ (competitive 80+) | 160+ |
| Processing Time | 12-18 months | 8-14 months |
Points System
Australia
- Minimum: 65 points
- Competitive: 80-95 points
- More complex calculation
- State nomination adds 5-15 points
New Zealand
- Minimum: 160 points
- More straightforward
- Job offer crucial
- Regional bonuses available
Job Market
Australia
Advantages:
- Larger economy
- More job opportunities
- Higher salaries generally
- More multinational companies
Popular Cities:
- Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
- Mining sector (Perth)
- Diverse industries
New Zealand
Advantages:
- Easier to get first job
- Smaller pool of applicants
- Growing tech sector
- Work-life balance focus
Popular Cities:
- Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch
- Growing startup scene
Cost of Living
Australia
- Sydney/Melbourne: High
- Brisbane/Perth: Moderate
- Regional areas: Lower
- Healthcare: Medicare (free)
New Zealand
- Auckland: Moderate-High
- Wellington/Christchurch: Moderate
- Regional areas: Lower
- Healthcare: Public system
Quality of Life
Australia
- Excellent climate (varies by region)
- World-class beaches
- Multicultural society
- High living standards
- Good education system
New Zealand
- Stunning natural beauty
- Outdoor lifestyle
- Less crowded
- Strong community feel
- Excellent education
Pathway to Citizenship
Australia
- PR required first
- Must live 4 years
- 12 months as PR
- Citizenship test required
New Zealand
- PR required first
- Must live 5 years
- At least 240 days/year
- English requirement
Which to Choose?
Choose Australia if:
- Want higher salaries
- Seeking larger job market
- Have high points score
- Like bigger cities
- Want warmer climate
- Have in-demand occupation
Choose New Zealand if:
- Prefer smaller country
- Like outdoor lifestyle
- Have lower points (under 80)
- Want work-life balance
- Easier entry pathway
- Love nature/adventure
Can't Decide? Try Both!
Trans-Tasman Agreement:
- Australian PR holders can live/work in NZ
- NZ citizens can live/work in Australia
- Flexibility to try both
Next Steps
- Calculate your points for both countries
- Research job market in your field
- Check occupation lists
- Consider lifestyle preferences
- Assess processing times
- Review costs
Use our dual-country assessment tool to compare your chances for both Australia and New Zealand.
