Australian Paramedics Choose New Zealand for Skills and Lifestyle Over Higher Pay
Aussie ambos: The migrant trend turning the transtasman flow on its head
Image: Nzherald
A growing number of Australian-trained paramedics are relocating to New Zealand for better work opportunities and lifestyle despite lower pay. This trend is reversing the traditional migration flow, with around 52 Australian-trained paramedics currently working for Hato Hone St John across various regions in New Zealand.
- 01In 2024, 30,000 more people left New Zealand for Australia than arrived, primarily young adults aged 20 to 39.
- 02Hato Hone St John has hired approximately 13 Australian-trained graduate paramedics in the past 17 months, accounting for 17% of total hires through their Tertiary Employment Pathway.
- 03Australian paramedics report a broader scope of practice in New Zealand, allowing for more treatments and interventions without oversight.
- 04Around 80% of Australian paramedics remain with St John after two years, with some settling long-term in New Zealand.
- 05Fewer than 2% of New Zealand's frontline paramedics moved to Australia in the last year, indicating a one-sided migration trend.
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A notable trend is emerging as Australian-trained paramedics are increasingly opting for jobs in New Zealand, defying the long-standing migration pattern where New Zealanders move to Australia for better pay. Currently, over 50 Australian-trained paramedics are working for Hato Hone St John in various regions across New Zealand. Paramedics like Sarah Guy and Camara Cosier have cited the broader scope of practice and improved work-life balance as key reasons for their move, despite accepting lower salaries compared to their Australian counterparts. In 2024, New Zealand experienced a net outflow of 30,000 people to Australia, predominantly among young adults aged 20 to 39. However, the interest from Australian paramedics is growing, with Hato Hone St John reporting that 17% of their new hires are from Australia. The trend is characterized by a competitive job market in Australia, prompting some graduates to seek opportunities in New Zealand. While some New Zealand paramedics do migrate to Australia, the numbers are minimal, with less than 2% making the switch in the past year.
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The influx of Australian-trained paramedics into New Zealand is enhancing the local healthcare workforce and providing patients with diverse medical expertise.
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