Bonds Forged By Times Says Gerry Brownlee

In an opinion piece for The Australian, New Zealand Minister for Foreign Affairs Gerry Brownlee discusses “the truly unique” trans-Tasman relationship and the new pathways to Australian citizenship opening this month which New Zealanders may be eligible for.

“New Zealanders who uproot their families and move across the Tasman are motivated, educated and hit the ground running. They are big contributors to the Australian economy. Most are in full-time employment – earning above-average wages and paying more taxes than the average,” Brownlee argues.

“The contribution made by New Zealanders is recognised by Australians. This year’s Lowy Institute poll recorded that 53 per cent of Australians felt New Zealand is Australia’s best friend. The result demonstrates the continued strength of trans-Tasman bonds exactly 176 years after New Zealand was split from the colony of New South Wales on 1 July 1841.

“It is hard to think of any other two countries in the world that can boast a 176-year uninterrupted history of facilitating the free movement of each other’s citizens to live, work and study across borders.

“There have, however, been real impediments to applying for Australian citizenship for New Zealanders who moved to Australia after 26 February 2001, and have been living long-term on the temporary visa all New Zealanders receive. The Australian government’s decision to remove many of those obstacles by creating a new pathway to Australian citizenship, specifically for New Zealanders, will make a meaningful difference for the thousands of Kiwis who call Australia home.

“I encourage all of them to understand their visa status, to investigate the new pathway to Australian citizenship opening this month and, if eligible, apply.”

Original article by Gerry Brownlee, The Australian, July 5, 2017.