A community worker on Queensland’s Gold Coast says she has conversations 'a couple of times every day' with New Zealanders whose move to Australia has gone wrong. In some cases, the only option left is for them to go home. More than 40,000 New Zealand citizens moved to Australia in the past year, with over 100 leaving daily. The majority were aged 18–35, but the journey often led to crises as families struggled to adapt. A center helps those in need, feeding over 250 people weekly and offering 154 jobs. However, rising living costs erode savings, forcing many to leave. Experts warn that while wages are higher in Australia, the cost of living is still a challenge. Some experts argue that the gap between Australia and New Zealand is narrowing as both countries recover from recent hardships. Recruitment experts emphasize that staying put requires careful planning, while others stress the importance of adapting to new environments. Personal reflections highlight the complexities of migration, urging thoughtful consideration before making such choices.
