The Migrant Experience in Australia & New Zealand: What to Expect

Moving to a new country is an exciting opportunity for career growth and personal development. For migration-ready professionals considering Australia or New Zealand, understanding both the challenges and rewards of settling in these countries can help set the right expectations. While migrants generally report positive experiences, there are hurdles to overcome. Here’s a breakdown of the biggest struggles and most pleasant aspects of life in both Australia and New Zealand.

Biggest Struggles

Australia

1. Finding Affordable Housing – High demand and rising costs make securing suitable accommodation a significant challenge.[1]
2. Securing Employment – Older migrants, particularly those over 45, often face difficulties finding work.[5]
3. Language and Communication Barriers – Even for English speakers, cultural differences in workplace communication can be an adjustment.[1][5]
4. Racism and Discrimination – Some migrants report experiences of bias, particularly in employment and housing.[1][5]
5. Lack of Australian Work Experience – Employers often prioritize local experience, making job searches harder for newcomers.[5]
6. Skills and Qualifications Recognition – Some overseas qualifications are not recognized in Australia, requiring retraining or additional certifications.[5]

New Zealand

1. Language Difficulties – Particularly challenging for Pacific migrants adjusting to an English-speaking environment.[4]
2. Finding Suitable Employment – Those with limited education or qualifications face more difficulties securing work.[4]
3. Adapting to a New Tax System – New tax regulations can be confusing for first-time filers in New Zealand.[3]
4. Distance from Home or Family – The geographical isolation of New Zealand makes travel back home expensive and time-consuming.[3]
5. Obtaining a Driver’s License – The process for license conversion or requalification can be complex for some migrants.[3]

Most Pleasant Experiences

Australia

1. Climate and Natural Beauty – The sunny weather and stunning landscapes enhance outdoor living.[2][3]
2. Multicultural Society – Australia’s diversity promotes a rich cultural experience and social harmony.[2]
3. Welcoming Local Communities – Many migrants feel embraced by friendly and inclusive communities.[2]
4. Beach Lifestyle and Outdoor Activities – The outdoor culture encourages an active and social lifestyle.[2]
5. Career and Personal Growth Opportunities – A strong economy and thriving job market support long-term success.[2]

New Zealand

1. High Life Satisfaction – 93% of migrants report being satisfied or very satisfied with their new life.[3]
2. Feeling Settled – 87% of migrants feel at home in New Zealand.[3]
3. Positive Experiences for Children – 94% of migrants say their children are happy and well-adjusted.[3]
4. Strong Sense of Identity and Belonging – The cultural environment fosters a sense of community and inclusion.[8]
5. Feeling Safe and Secure – New Zealand ranks highly for safety and quality of life.[8]

Both Australia and New Zealand offer welcoming environments and opportunities for professional and personal fulfillment. While the journey has its challenges, a well-prepared migrant can navigate these hurdles and build a successful life in their new home.

Sources

[1] https://www.roads-to-refuge.com.au/settlement/settlement-challenges.html
[2] https://www.smartmoveaustralia.gov.au/migrant-stories
[3] https://www.mbie.govt.nz/dmsdocument/2731-new-faces-new-futures-7-migrants-settlement-experiences-and-outcomes-pdf
[4] https://www.mbie.govt.nz/immigration-and-tourism/immigration/migration-research-and-evaluation/migrant-and-community-experience-of-migration
[5] https://www.aph.gov.au/parliamentary_business/committees/house_of_representatives_committees?url=ewr%2Fowk%2Fsubs%2Fsub33.pdf
[6] https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/settlement-services-subsite/files/settlement-experiences-of-new-migrants.pdf
[7] https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/living-in-new-zealand-permanently/information-for-refugees-and-asylum-seekers/experiences-of-refugees-in-new-zealand
[8] https://www.mbie.govt.nz/dmsdocument/2688-new-land-new-life-longterm-settlement-refugees-main-report-pdf
[9] https://www.msd.govt.nz/documents/about-msd-and-our-work/publications-resources/research/diverse-communities-migrant-experience/migrant-experience-report.pdf
[10] https://pure.bond.edu.au/ws/portalfiles/portal/28916545/Green_Thesis.pdf