Benefits to help with the cost of moving to Australia?

Question

I'm a permanent New Zealand resident looking to move to Australia for Work/Study. What kind of benefits are available to assist me with the financial blow involved in relocating?

graciedeska · Answer

Hi there, 
Not many, if any, unfortunately. Unless you go through the Australian citizenship process (which takes about 3-4 years), you are unable to receive any social security payments in Australia from Centrelink. If you are a New Zealand citizen or have a permanent Australian visa then you can get some Family Assistance payments if you have children: http://www.familyassist.gov.au/
My advice is that you should wait to move until you have the money necessary to get established in Australia, as you will find it pretty hard to get any financial help here.