The festive season is here—and for many New Zealand-trained teachers, summer break is the perfect time to plan something exciting. If you've been thinking about teaching in Australia, starting your preparation now gives you a significant advantage. 

At HARKE Recruitment, we work with hundreds of NZ-trained teachers every year. The teachers who secure the best opportunities are the ones who start preparing 6-12 months before recruitment opens—not the ones who scramble when positions are already posted. 

Here's how to do it right. 

1. Understand the Timeline 

When does Australian recruitment happen? 

Recruitment for 2026 and 2027 teaching positions typically occurs in these windows: 

Mid-2026 (May-July): Peak recruitment for Term 1 2027 positions (January/February 2027 start) 

Throughout 2026: Ongoing opportunities for mid-year starts, fixed-term contracts, and unexpected vacancies 

Early 2027 (January-March): Late Term 1 2027 opportunities and early planning for 2028 

Why December 2025 is the perfect time to start: 

By beginning your preparation now—during your summer break when you have time to think clearly—you'll be ready when recruitment opens rather than rushing through the process later. 

What "being ready" means: 

• Your teacher registration is processed (takes 4-12 weeks) 
• Your CV is updated to Australian format 
• You understand which states and school types suit you 
• You're connected with specialist recruiters who can fast-track you to opportunities 

By mid-2026 when roles are actively being posted, you're positioned to move quickly while others are just starting their research. 

2. Confirm Eligibility and Start Registration 

To teach in Australia, you'll need: 

✓ A recognised teaching qualification (NZ teaching degrees are recognised) 

✓ Valid work rights (Australian or NZ citizenship provides automatic work rights; other visa holders need work permission) 

✓ Teacher registration with the relevant state or territory authority 

State Registration Boards: 

• NSW: NESA (NSW Education Standards Authority) 
• QLD: QCT (Queensland College of Teachers) 
• VIC: VIT (Victorian Institute of Teaching) 
• NT: TRBNT (Northern Territory Teacher Registration Board) 

Processing times: 4-12 weeks depending on the state and whether you have full NZ registration 

Mutual Recognition: New Zealand teachers with full registration are eligible for mutual recognition in most Australian states, which streamlines the process significantly. 

Why start registration in December 2025: 

If you start your registration application now, it will be processed by early-mid 2026—right when recruitment activity increases. If you wait until roles are posted, you'll be waiting on paperwork while other candidates are already interviewing. 

HARKE can advise you on the right pathways for each state and help you understand which registration timeline suits your preferred start date. 

3. Prepare Your Australian-Style CV 

Australian schools prefer concise, evidence-based CVs that highlight practical impact and achievements—not just duties and responsibilities. 

Key differences from NZ CVs: 

Focus on outcomes, not just activities 
Instead of: "Taught Year 5 literacy"
Write: "Implemented targeted literacy intervention resulting in 85% of students achieving above expected progress in writing" 

Include specific examples 

• Student achievement data 
• Wellbeing initiatives you've led 
• Classroom innovations or programs 
• Collaboration with colleagues or community 

Highlight transferable skills 
If you've completed a practicum or teaching in New Zealand, emphasise how those skills translate to the Australian context: 

• Understanding of curriculum frameworks (Australian Curriculum is similar to NZ Curriculum) 
• Experience with diverse learners 
• Classroom management in various contexts 
• Use of data to inform teaching 

Keep it concise 
Australian CVs are typically 2-3 pages. Focus on your most recent and relevant experience. 

Why prepare your CV in December 2025: 

You have time to think strategically about how to present your experience. You can refine it without deadline pressure. And when opportunities arise, you're ready to apply immediately. 

4. Research Lifestyle and Location Options 

Teaching in Australia offers an incredible variety—from coastal & regional Queensland to vibrant Melbourne to remote Northern Territory communities. 

What to consider: 

Climate & Lifestyle: 

• QLD: Subtropical/tropical, beach and regional lifestyle, outdoor focus 
• NSW: Temperate, urban Sydney or regional options, strong cultural scene 
• VIC: Four seasons, arts and coffee culture, diverse regional areas 
• NT: Tropical, adventure-focused, unique cultural experiences 

School Types: 

• Government schools: Largest sector, diverse student populations 
• Catholic schools: Values-based education, strong communities 
• Independent schools: Varied philosophies (faith-based, Montessori, Steiner, etc.) 

Cost of Living: 

• Metro Sydney/Melbourne: Higher housing costs, more services 
• Regional areas: Lower cost of living, smaller communities, often housing subsidies available 
• Remote/NT: Highest salaries, significant relocation support, unique lifestyle 

Salary Expectations: 

• NSW: $85,000 - $125,000 + superannuation 
• QLD: $78,000 - $116,000 + superannuation 
• VIC: $79,000 - $125,000 + superannuation 
• NT: $85,000 - $131,000 + superannuation 

Your NZ teaching experience counts toward salary placement on Australian scales. 

Why research locations in December 2025: 

Summer break gives you time to properly research without pressure. You can explore different regions, understand what each offers, and make informed decisions about where you'd actually want to live—not just where a job happens to be. 

5. Connect with HARKE Early 

Our consultants specialise in guiding NZ-trained teachers through every step of the transition process. 

How we support you: 

-Eligibility checks: We confirm your registration pathway and timeline for your target state 

-CV preparation: We review your CV and provide feedback to ensure it's competitive in the Australian market 

-Market insights: We share which states, regions, and school types have strong demand in your subject area 

-School matching: When roles become available, we connect you with schools that match your preferences and values 

-Interview preparation: We provide insights into Australian school interviews and what panels are looking for 

-Ongoing support: From initial conversation through to contract signing and beyond 

Why connect with us in December 2025: 

By registering your interest now, you'll receive early access to opportunities as they arise throughout 2026 and 2027. We can guide your preparation, answer your questions, and ensure you're positioned competitively when the right roles emerge. 

You're not committing to anything—you're simply opening the conversation and ensuring you're on our radar. 

Making the Move: More Than Just Changing Jobs 

Moving from New Zealand to Australia isn't just about securing a new teaching position. It's about: 

-Career growth in a system that values professional development and offers clear pathways for advancement 

-Lifestyle opportunities across diverse locations—from world-class cities to tight-knit regional communities 

-Professional support with strong mentoring programs, particularly in regional and remote areas 

-Competitive salaries with your NZ teaching experience fully recognised 

-Work-life balance with similar school structures and term schedules to New Zealand 

Your Next Steps 

If you're seriously considering teaching in Australia in 2026 or 2027: 

1. Start your registration application 
Choose your target state and begin the process now so it's ready when opportunities arise. 

2. Update your CV to Australian format 
Focus on impact and achievements. Get feedback from someone who understands the Australian education market. 

3. Research your preferred locations 
Explore what different states and regions offer in terms of lifestyle, cost of living, and teaching opportunities. 

4. Connect with HARKE 
Register your interest so we can guide you through the process and notify you when relevant opportunities become available. 

5. Stay informed 
Follow Australian education news, understand what's happening in different states, and keep an eye on when recruitment activity increases. 

Take Action This Summer 

December 2025 is the perfect time to transform "I've been thinking about teaching in Australia" into "Here's my strategic plan for making it happen." 

Use your summer break wisely. Start the preparation that will position you for the best opportunities in 2026 and 2027. 

Register Your Interest 
Begin your 2026/2027 teaching journey with HARKE Recruitment. 
www.harke.com.au/submit-resume 

Explore Current Opportunities 
While you're planning for future roles, see what's currently available. 
www.harke.com.au/jobseekers 

Contact Our Team 
Have questions? Want to discuss your specific situation? Get in touch. 
www.harke.com.au 

At HARKE Recruitment, we don't just fill positions—we support NZ teachers through meaningful career transitions. Let us help you plan your Australian teaching journey strategically and successfully.