G’day mates! Does tending patients amidst spectacular ocean vistas and laidback Antipodean vibes sound enticing? For vets, nurses, and techs who are thinking of stretching their professional horizons down under, abundant job opportunities await, catering to both urban pet owners and rural livestock enterprises. Read on for a look at the logistics to ensure your Aussie and Kiwi dreams transition seamlessly from fantasy to reality.
The Land of Plenty…of Open Vet Positions
Australia and New Zealand boast bustling veterinary sectors that are facing chronic skills shortages as demand outweighs local graduate supplies. Both nations enthusiastically welcome immigrant vets and nurses to fill gaps, whether for city clinics or large animal rural practices.
Getting Your Foot In The Door Down Under
While the countryside might be beautiful, don’t expect the visa process itself to be a walk in the park! Navigating immigration policies takes patience and persistence. Before you can start work as a vet in New Zealand or Australia, you’ll have a number of steps to take care of, from skills assessments to visas, regulations and sponsorships. Here’s what to expect and the key links you need to visit to prepare for work in each country:
Australia
Australasian Veterinary Board Council
The Australasian Veterinary Board Council (AVBC) is the only assessing authority that can get you into the country if you want to work as a vet in Australia. It will assess your skills and qualifications for the occupation of “Veterinarian” (ANZSCO Code 234711) for migration purposes and label you as “suitable” or “not suitable” according to its requirements.
Department of Home Affairs
To work as a vet in Australia, you’ll also need a work visa. There are different visa options depending on your plans—visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs to get the details.
New Zealand
Veterinary Council of New Zealand
To work as a vet in New Zealand, you legally have to be registered with the Veterinary Council of New Zealand. You’ll need a current practising certificate from them before you arrive.
New Zealand Immigration
The New Zealand Government has an informative site on immigrating to NZ, where you can find out more about why New Zealand is a great place to work and live. One of the main draws, especially for vets who are looking for a better work-life balance, is that Kiwis really know how to relax and enjoy life. New Zealand is also a beautiful place to bring up children in safety and freedom.
Interested? Supporting vets in transitioning to work abroad is our speciality—get in touch for a chat about how we can help you!
