Documentation Needed When Moving to Australia

Moving to Australia can be a complex process, and arriving without the necessary documentation can cause significant stress and delays. To help you navigate this transition smoothly, we've compiled a comprehensive guide on the essential documentation you need. Being well-prepared will give you an edge in Australia's competitive job and rental markets.

General Preparation

Organise all your important documents both digitally and in paper form. Having these ready will save you from last-minute scrambles and help you present a strong application in competitive situations.

Key Documents for Moving to Australia

Personal Documents:

• Passport: Ensure it’s valid and up-to-date.
• Birth Certificate: An official copy is essential.
• Name Change Certificate: If applicable, have this ready.
• Driver's Licence: An international driving permit might also be useful.
• Photo ID: If you don’t have a driver’s licence, a government-issued photo ID will suffice.
• Bank Statements: Provide statements from the last three months.
• Rental References: Obtain a written reference from your previous landlord, including their contact information.
• Character References: At least one professional and one personal reference.
• Proof of Bond Repayment: Documentation showing your last rental bond was repaid in full, or an explanation if it wasn’t.

Children's Documents:

• Passport: Make sure it’s valid.
• Birth Certificate: Have an official copy for each child.
• Immunisation Records: Up-to-date vaccination records are crucial.
• School Reports: Include the most recent reports, ideally the last term or end-of-year report.
• Proof of Residency: Required for school enrolment, unless you have an NZ passport.
• Baptismal Certificate: If applicable.
• Court Orders: Any relevant legal documents.

Proving Your Identity: 100 Points of Identification

In Australia, you’ll need to provide a total of 100 points of identification documents for various applications, including rental agreements and driver’s licences. At least one document must be a primary form of ID with a photograph.

100 Points ID Check:

• Passport and Visa: 40 points
• Driver's Licence: 40 points
• Photo ID (e.g., university ID): 30 points
• Birth Certificate: 30 points
• Pay Slips: 20 points
• Medicare Card: 20 points
• Landlord Reference: 20 points
• Bank Statement: 10 points
• Utility Bill: 10 points

Preparing for the Australian Rental Market

The rental market in Australia is highly competitive. Prepare the following documents before you arrive to enhance your chances of securing a rental property:

• Bank Statements: Last three months.
• Rental References: Written reference and contact details of your previous landlord.
• Proof of Bond Repayment: Ensure you have this document or an explanation if the bond wasn’t repaid.
• Identification Documents: Ensure you meet the 100 points requirement.

Homeowners in NZ: Rental Documentation Tips

If you’ve been a homeowner in New Zealand and lack rental references, consider the following:

• Personal or Work References: These can demonstrate your reliability.
• Financial Proof: Show your financial stability by transferring funds to an Australian bank account and providing proof of savings.

Schools, Doctors, and Dentists

Before leaving New Zealand, gather the following records for a smooth transition to Australian schools and healthcare providers:

• Medical Records: Include any relevant medical history and test results.
• Dental Records: Obtain records from your dentist.
• School Reports: Notify your child’s current school and collect the necessary reports and any other relevant educational records.

By preparing these documents in advance, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the administrative challenges of moving to Australia. This foresight will save you time and reduce stress, allowing you to focus on settling into your new life.

For more detailed advice on moving to Australia, feel free to contact us or visit our website.