Perth CBD, nestled on the northern side of the Swan River, is a modern city and is the capital of Western Australia. With a population of just over 2 million, it has plenty of opportunities for New Zealand Chartered Accountants.
Before eventually settling in New Zealand, I, like many Brits, headed to Australia to do some travelling. I eventually settled in Perth, where I lived and worked for two years, which gave me some insight into everyday life in the sunshine state.
Work Commutes in Perth
Perth has a network of modern, fast-moving highways and an electric rail network that connects the CBD to most residential parts of the city, making it commute-friendly for accountants heading into the city. Fun fact, when Perth electrified its rail network in 1993, it sold its old diesel trains to Auckland, which are still used today between Pukekohe and Papakura.
Commuting in Perth tends to be faster, easier and cheaper than in other Australian cities.
Climate
One of my favourite things about Perth is the weather. Perth has a Mediterranean climate, which makes for great outdoor activities. Whilst Jan/Feb can get into the 30°C’s, it lacks the humidity you would experience in other states such as Queensland, and in the middle of winter, it would rarely drop below 10°C. Western Australians take advantage of this weather on their stunning beaches all year round.
Spot the Brit on the beach, in summer, with his jeans on 🤦.
Economy
Perth is ranked the sixth best city in the world to live in by The Economist’s Global Liveability Index 2021. The city is one of the most affordable in Australia to buy or rent properties, and in 2022 the median house price stands at $521,000. Whilst cities like Melbourne and Sydney can typically provide higher salaries, Perth’s cost of living is significantly lower.
From an employment perspective, Perth has the same shortages as the rest of Australia and New Zealand regarding Chartered Accountants and Auditors. This provides ample employment opportunities within Public Practice for experienced professionals.
Check out Gary Bloxham’s article about the Australian job market.
Sports
Optus Stadium is a new 60,000-seater multi-use stadium used by the Eagles and the Dockers. AFL is the most popular sport in Western Australia, but Cricket, Soccer (Football) and Rugby Union are all other popular sports. Perth and Australia are popular destinations for English Premier League teams to visit in pre-season, which is a big tick for me.
Things To See
Western Australia has so much to offer and ample outback to explore. Everything from riding camels on Cable Beach in Broome, enjoying a craft beer at Little Creatures in Fremantle, a boat ride to Rottnest Island, a night out in Northbridge or exploring the natural beauty of The Pinnacles, Karijini National Park or Ningaloo Reef Marine Park. There truly is something for everybody.
Check out things to do in Western Australia here.
Work Opportunities in Perth
I specialise in helping Chartered Accountants and Auditors living in New Zealand and around the world secure work in Australia. I have long-lasting relationships with a wide range of firms, from Big4 to smaller individual state businesses. My job is to help facilitate interviews, guide and coach applicants and help negotiate the best package and relocation possible.
A snapshot of current roles in Perth:
Senior Manager Audit, $130K – $160K
Audit Manager, $110K – $130K
Senior Auditor – $90K – $110K
You can also check out our job postings here
In truth, I left Australia because my Visa ran out. But if you’re an NZ Citizen looking for a change, this shouldn’t be an issue for you. Check out our thoughts on working in Brisbane.
To have a chat about opportunities in accounting or legal in Perth or other Australian states, please reach out to me for a confidential conversation at:
+64 (0) 32440258