Migration comparison
New Zealand to Australia Salary Comparison Calculator
Compare your New Zealand income with an Australian salary offer after tax, super, rent and currency conversion.
Short answer
The closely linked trans-Tasman labour market makes this the most like-for-like move. Australia charges no tax to $18,200, then 15% to $45,000 and 30% to $135,000, plus a 2% Medicare levy, with 12% super paid on top. This tool converts at about NZ$1 = A$0.92 and compares net income both ways.
Your current situation
Your Australian offer
Current net (AUD)
$33,284
$2,774/mo
Australian net
$74,080
+ $11,400 super
Brisbane living costs
$39,120
$3,260/mo
Disposable after costs
$34,960
Australia, per year
Minimum Australian salary to match your current net income
$36,000
Australia and New Zealand have closely linked labour markets and the Trans-Tasman arrangement. Compare super vs KiwiSaver and city rents carefully. New Zealand has no compulsory income tax-free threshold and no general capital gains tax. Australia has an $18,200 tax-free threshold and a different bracket structure.
Tax: New Zealand vs Australia
New Zealand has no compulsory income tax-free threshold and no general capital gains tax. Australia has an $18,200 tax-free threshold and a different bracket structure.
Pension vs superannuation
KiwiSaver is typically 3% employee + 3% employer. Australian super is 12% and generally cannot be accessed until preservation age.
Healthcare differences
New Zealand funds healthcare through general taxation. Australia applies a 2% Medicare levy, and NZ citizens have specific Medicare access rules.
Rent, cities and the real result
Australia and New Zealand have closely linked labour markets and the Trans-Tasman arrangement. Compare super vs KiwiSaver and city rents carefully. A higher Australian salary can be offset by big-city rent - compare disposable income, not gross. Use the cost of living calculator for your destination city.
Frequently asked questions
How much do I need to earn in Australia to match my New Zealand salary?+
Enter your current salary below and the tool estimates the minimum Australian salary needed to match your current net income. Remember rent and healthcare also differ.
Are the tax figures exact?+
No. The New Zealand tax model is simplified and the currency rate is indicative. This is a financial comparison estimate, not tax or migration advice.
Does the comparison include super?+
Yes - Australian super of 12% is shown separately, and you can mark whether the Australian offer includes it.
Sources & methodology
- ATO - Personal income tax: new tax cuts (15% rate from 1 July 2026)
- Income Tax Rates Act 1986 (legislation.gov.au)
- ATO - Study and training loan repayment thresholds and rates
- ATO - Super guarantee
- ATO - Contribution caps
- ATO - Payday Super and the annual maximum contribution base
- ATO - Medicare levy
- ATO - Medicare levy surcharge income thresholds and rates
- Fair Work Ombudsman - Pay slips
- How we calculate these estimates
Last updated 13 August 2026. Figures use the 2026-27 financial year.
Related calculators & guides
Could you be better off in Australia?
Compare your destination city's living costs to see the real picture.