What Paperwork Do NZ Teachers Need to Teach in Australia?

If you're a New Zealand teacher planning to move across the ditch to teach in Australia, you might be wondering where to begin with the paperwork. We’ve been there – and we know that getting everything sorted can feel like a full-time job in itself. But don’t stress. Here’s a practical guide to the key documents and requirements you’ll need to gather, broken down in simple terms by teachers who’ve already made the move.

Teacher Registration
– Every Australian state or territory has its own teaching registration authority.
– For early childhood and primary teachers in Victoria, this is the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT).
– You’ll need certified copies of your degree certificate, transcript, ID (such as passport), and sometimes evidence of practicum.
– If you haven’t taught full-time for at least two of the last five years, you’ll likely apply for provisional registration.
– You’ll also need references from teaching colleagues or mentors.

Qualification Assessment (if required)
– If your qualification isn’t already recognised by ACECQA (for early childhood) or the relevant teacher registration board, you may need a formal assessment.
– This can involve submitting transcripts, course outlines, practicum evidence, and proof of English language competency (if required).
– Many NZ teaching qualifications are already recognised, but double-checking saves time later.

Working With Children Check (WWCC)
– This is mandatory in every state or territory where you plan to work with children.
– In Victoria, you apply online and verify your ID at an Australia Post branch.
– It’s free if you’re volunteering, or there’s a small fee for employment use.
– Some employers won’t let you start until this is processed, so do it early.

Police Checks
– A New Zealand police vet or Ministry of Justice check is often required.
– You may also need an Australian Federal Police check, especially if applying for certain visas or centre approvals.
– Some services request an international criminal history check that covers any countries you’ve lived in over the past 10 years.

Tax File Number (TFN)
– Once you arrive, apply for a TFN through the Australian Tax Office.
– You’ll need this for your employer to pay you correctly and for tax purposes.
– It’s a simple online application, but it can take a few weeks to process.

Visa and Residency Documents
– New Zealand citizens can live and work in Australia on a Special Category Visa (subclass 444), granted on arrival.
– While this gives you the right to work, you might need to provide proof of your residency status for certain registrations.
– You don’t need to apply for this visa before leaving NZ – it’s automatic for eligible citizens.

Medicare Enrolment
– As a Kiwi, you’re entitled to enrol in Medicare.
– You’ll need to visit a Medicare office in person with your passport and proof of address.
– This gives you access to subsidised healthcare while you live in Australia.

ID and Banking
– Open an Australian bank account (some banks let you do this before arriving).
– You’ll need an Australian address and ID to activate it fully.
– An Australian phone number is also useful for job applications and registrations.

Extra Tips
– Keep digital and physical copies of all your documents.
– Scan everything and back it up – you’ll be surprised how often you need to resend the same documents.
– Having certified copies in advance can save you last-minute stress.

It might feel like a lot, but once the paperwork is out of the way, you’ll be free to focus on what you do best – teaching. We’re here to help you through every step of the journey. Get in touch if you’d like personalised support or just need to talk to someone who’s done it.