Kiwis moving to Australia expected to halve

12:00 PM

The number of Kiwis moving to Australia is expected to halve, if a new welfare agreement between the New Zealand and Australian government goes ahead.

The deal would cut permanent residency rights for New Zealanders, putting them on equal footing with other migrants.

Without permanent residency, Kiwis would not be entitled to any of the welfare benefits they currently get, such as free health care.

New Zealanders unsuccessful in gaining residency are expected to return here if they get ill or lose their jobs.

National leader Jenny Shipley believes the deal has come about because Australia is angry at our new softer immigration laws.

- IRN