When Joe and Elvie, both 22, relocated from New Zealand to Sydney in April, they lacked pre-arranged jobs or a social network. Their decision was driven by a desire for what they perceived as greater opportunity and momentum in Australia, a perspective that contrasts with many Australians who consider leaving their home country for career advancement.
"I feel like maybe people in Australia don't realise how connected they are," Elvie told the Daily Mail. "There are lots of things here that you don't get in New Zealand, even just shops or businesses. Having access to all of that definitely puts Aussies in a better place."
While many Australians look to destinations like London, New York, Singapore, and Dubai for higher salaries and faster career progression, Joe and Elvie found these opportunities in Sydney. The couple met while studying at the University of Otago in Dunedin.
"Growing up here, you probably overlooked a lot of opportunities," Joe said. "I'm sure we grew up in New Zealand and overlooked some opportunities over there too, but people just want to get out of their hometown."
Elvie reported a significant wage difference, stating she was earning minimum wage in marketing in New Zealand and now earns three times more in Australia. Joe is currently working in laundry delivery in Sydney while pursuing a career in the energy sector, viewing his current role as a stepping stone. "The prices and expenses in New Zealand weren't necessarily higher than Sydney, but we get paid a lot more here," Elvie explained. She also noted that groceries, petrol, gas, and public transport were more expensive in New Zealand.
Despite Sydney's high rent, the couple found that their higher wages made living costs more manageable. They noted specific price differences, such as butter being significantly cheaper in Sydney compared to New Zealand, where it could cost up to $11. Raspberries were $3 in Sydney versus $9 in New Zealand, and grapes were also notably cheaper.
Joe believes New Zealand has better meat, but overall, the couple has been surprised by Sydney's fast pace and the visibility of career opportunities. "I imagined there would be a lot more going on, events-wise, a lot more money to be made, and better weather," Elvie said. "So far, all that's been true. The hustle and bustle vibe is definitely more compared to New Zealand, where it's all a bit slow. There are not many risk takers."
Elvie also observed a different work culture in Australia. "People here definitely work a lot more. I felt more pressure to be putting in more hours," she said. "But it seemed like a very positive work culture too. There seemed to be a lot of ambition here. Everyone I'm around is striving to be better."
This environment, she finds, is motivating and makes career progression feel attainable, fostering networking opportunities that were less available in New Zealand. Australia's proximity to global companies and larger industries is an advantage that Elvie feels many locals may take for granted.
The adjustment to social life in Sydney presented challenges. "Back home, you probably pass someone on your street and give them a quick smile, but here everyone keeps to themselves unless you put yourself out there," Joe said. To build a community, Joe joined a bouldering gym, recognizing the effort required outside of work to feel at home in a new city.
While they miss family, quieter beaches, and a slower pace of life, Joe and Elvie do not question their decision. "I'm learning a lot more, and I feel like there's a lot more room for growth," Elvie said. "I'm making connections that I otherwise wouldn't make in New Zealand. Right now, it's definitely been worthwhile."
For Joe and Elvie, the move represents access to career paths, professional networks, and opportunities they hadn't envisioned early in their careers. Their experience highlights that while Australia faces cost-of-living challenges, it also offers significant professional advantages that can be overlooked by locals.
