Kiwi's Perspective on Life in Australia: 'No More Mold Poisoning'
Lucy Griggs, a 24-year-old social media manager from Wellington, shared her experiences after relocating to Australia with 1News' Polly Wenlock.
Griggs is among the thousands of New Zealanders making the move to Australia, as indicated by Stats NZ data released this month, revealing a net migration loss of 46,400 Kiwis in the September 2025 year. This was primarily due to a record number of departures (https://www.1news.co.nz/2025/11/13/record-number-of-new-zealanders-leave-country/) of 72,700 Kiwis, mainly across the Tasman.
'Why did I move? Why wouldn't I?'
Griggs relocated to Brisbane in March and has no regrets, citing opportunities, a positive culture, and reasonable pay as key factors in her decision. She contrasts her previous life in New Zealand, where she lived paycheck to paycheck and struggled to save for the future while missing out on present joys.
'In New Zealand, I was constantly trying to save for the future, but it came at the cost of enjoying the present. At my age, I realized I had no chance of owning a house in New Zealand. I believed Australia would offer more opportunities to save and indulge a bit more,' Griggs explains.
She emphasizes the fair value for her work in Australia. 'I don't earn more here; I earn what I should. Now, I can afford to save and enjoy life's little luxuries.'
However, life in Australia isn't without its challenges. Griggs acknowledges the difficulty of finding employment, a common concern before her move. 'There are more jobs, but there are also more people, especially with more Kiwis moving here. Applying for entry-level jobs on Seek can result in 500 other applicants for the same role.'
To stand out, Griggs advises a personal touch. 'I've found jobs through networking and in-store applications. My first job was at a supermarket, and I got it by applying in person, the same with my current retail position.'
'I know many people who have moved here. At first, I thought I was unique for making the move... now, there are so many Kiwis here, staying home is more distinctive.'
'I'm not paying for mold poisoning anymore'
Housing and grocery shopping are starkly different between New Zealand's capitals and Queensland. 'Rent is still expensive in Brisbane, but I pay the same for an air-conditioned, clean share-space with two others as I would for a moldy, damp, cold flat in Wellington. I'm not paying to get mold poisoning anymore,' Griggs says.
The most noticeable cost difference is in food. 'Groceries are definitely cheaper here. The biggest reaction from Kiwis when they first come over is, 'Wow! I can't believe fruit is so cheap!''
Griggs highlights the smaller luxuries that living in Australia allows her to enjoy. 'A punnet of strawberries, which might cost $5 in NZ, is $2 here—that was the biggest shock of my life. I can afford strawberries! They're no longer a luxury fruit for me.'
Despite her newfound ability to enjoy her daily life, Griggs admits, 'I'm not the best with budgeting. But I can afford to go out and socialize here. I don't feel judged for not using my money wisely, as it seems everyone here does the same—going out for casual drinks and dinners.'
'Chasing opportunities is standard practice here'
As a young creative, Griggs found a sense of community in the positive environment offered by Australian culture. 'Just existing here is motivating. The moment I moved, I saw people starting their own companies, incentives.'
In her view, the startup mindset in Australia puts the country far ahead for those seeking creative or new roles. 'Entrepreneurship felt unachievable back home, requiring a wealthy background or a $50,000 loan with no support until success. Here, it's all about connections, sharing tips and clients, and everyone supports each other, creating a positive environment.'
Griggs identifies this as a typical cultural difference that surprised her.
'When I first moved here, I felt a bit insecure due to the attitude difference. New Zealand has a 'be humble' culture, which made it hard to find motivation or opportunities after university. Australians seem so confident in everything, even in their attire. It was a bit intimidating, with everyone in athletic wear, very fit, and some not genuinely so.'
Once she adapted to the Australian attitude, Griggs saw its positive effects. 'I felt no shame pursuing a career as a social media manager and starting a professional Instagram and portfolio (https://lucygriggs.my.canva.site/?utmsource=ig&utmmedium=social&utmcontent=linkinbio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnva1kraqu9i-jDv2wZ512-hVdlXKmqe9IWTid1-Sh8QJCJd9OGG6kulWnoaem_5JGxvKUihhkvo39tAfpWWQ). I felt no fear of being judged. The Australian attitude is 'Oh you want to do that? OK, so do it!''
What would make her return to NZ?
Is there anything that would entice her to go back home? Griggs says, perhaps...
'The scenery, nature, and native bird songs are what make New Zealand home to me. I miss nature, the rivers, and hiking. If I were to move back, I'd likely choose the South Island for its scenery. The good news is, since I've been in Australia, I haven't seen any snakes and have only encountered two baby huntsman spiders, still massive but not as bad as I was warned.'
Ultimately, it's not personal. 'I loved the experience of being raised in New Zealand, and I'd want the same for my kids if I started a family. Could I afford it? Maybe not.'
