We're looking at moving to Melbourne, I am a born and raised New Zealander currently living in the UK with my British husband and our two kids (both born in England). My Husband would probably stay at home with kids whilst I work but with long term plan of him finding work. My occupation is on the CSOL list (if thats any use).

I know I (and the kids) will get automatic entry, but where does that leave my husband? I have lived in Australia but not prior to Feb 2001 so am not an eligible NZ citizen

First off would my husband even be allowed entry into Australia to work? if so what visa?

Help??

Hi Gracie
I am just knocking off for the day but there is a visa for partners of New Zealand holders that might suit your needs. Pop onto the DIBP web site and look up the 461 visa.
I also have some information on my web site

He would have to get a visa. The NZ partner visa mentioned is probably the quickest and easiest option. But it is a temporary visa and always will be and indeed you and the children will also only ever be temporary residents if you only rely upon the NZ passports.

So as your occupation is on the CSOL, you could also look into skilled migration and tha way secure permanent resident visas for all of you.

Thank you both, I really appreciate it, very helpful!

Thats a very good option of securing permanent residency on skilled migration , just need to cover all my options, so if that failed and we had to rely on our NZ passports, would my husband be immediately sent back to the UK at the end of 461 visa? (after 5 years)

Re skilled migration on my CSOL occupation, you have to be nominated by a state or territory right?

Thanks again.

The 461 is renewable.

If the occupation is only on the CSOL the yes sponsorship is required, by a state or an employer. What about your husbands occupation, is that on the lists, makes sense to look into both and decide who the better applicant would be.

Thank you very much, I will also look into my husband's occupation as well.

Grace - do you and the kids have British passports. If not do make sure you get them before you leave the UK as once you have left you will not be easily able to return to live.