Oz Kiwi

Recipient:

Julia Gillard, Tony Abbott, Australian Human Rights Commission, Wayne Swan, Penny Wong, Jenny Macklin, and Department of Immigration Greetings, I have just signed a petition to change laws to allow Kiwi's a fair pathway to citizenship in Australia. You can find the full text here: http://chn.ge/19EsEbT or by going to http://facebook.com/ozkiwi2001 We urge the Australian Government to grant long-term New Zealand Citizens permanent resident status. Stand down periods on these conditions are fine but the current waiting time of "forever" is entirely unreasonable. The Department of Immigration and Citizenship estimates that up to 60% of New Zealanders will never be eligible for official permanent resident visas. These people will forever be considered non-residents in Australia (at least on paper), which disadvantages them and leaves them vulnerable in a way that all other long-term australian residents aren't. As non-residents they are going to be excluded from the new NDIS (Disability) scheme while also having to pay the increased tax levy. This exclusion extends to Australian born children of New Zealand Citizens until they are 10 years old, preventing important early intervention therapy. Perhaps the worst situation confronts New Zealand citizens who came here as children and who know no other home. They are denied access to citizenship, and as non-citizens have also been denied access to student loans. Thus, many are unable to go to university and therefore unable to gain the skills that could put them on the path to citizenship. Please read the stories in the below pages left by Australians and New Zealanders alike supportive of changing the 2001 laws, they show that there is electoral support within the Australian community.

Letter:

Comments
Name Erina Anderson Location Adelaide, Australia Date 2013-05-16 Comment This affects the stability of our future and the future of my children and grandchildren. My older children have not been able to go on to higher education due to not being entitled to Youth allowance and costs. We also have Australian foster children who are with us permanently that this could affect should we ever be forced to return due to unforeseen circumstances. Besides all this we love living in Australia and it is now our home after living here for 6 years, working, own our own home, children have grown up here and we now have 3 grandchildren 2 of which are Kiwi/Aussie. kathryn andrew Emma Blackbourn Mathais Grey Amanda Bradley Australia Cannonvale, Australia Australia Ellerslie, New Zealand 2013-05-16 2013-05-16 2013-05-16 2013-05-16 ive lived in australia for 26 yrs Because I would like a secure future for my family. I am a New Zealand citizen who wants a citizenship. Being here for just a year, I am surprised by the significant consequences of current legislation, particularly the impact on the most vulnerable in society, women experiencing domestic abuse, children and people with disabilities. It has to change! Katrina Whiu Michelle Wilkins Acacia Ridge, Australia Australia 2013-05-16 2013-05-16 For my kids future tertiary education and human rights I would love nothing more than to be able to call australia my home but as a New Zelander we are not allowed to be part of this country yet we contribute to the enconomy everday. I used to work for the Government but due to the QLD government closing down Nursing Homes i have lost my job...yet that very same Government wont help me in any way wether it be via welfare payments, job seeking network, no help what so ever yet they took my job away and then just say...tough....sooooo unfair julie grafton brisbane, Australia 2013-05-16 All we want is to gain our permanent residency as a family and live in this country that we made our home. Nicola Calteaux Australia 2013-05-16 My eldest son was born in Australia with a rare genetic condition that along with not being able to get any help via carer allowance is now being denied any help with therapies that could greatly improve his way of life just because we are kiwis. We have been here for 6 years, pay our taxes, own property yet help for my son is unavailable. Kym Bayliss Manly West, Australia 2013-05-16 Australia is my home now, I want to be able to vote, to have my say in how things are run here. I want the security of knowing if something happened I am protected. I have and will always pay my taxes, but I want to feel more part of australia. Dianne Todd Australia 2013-05-16 Because I know I am going to be living in Australia for many years and serving the country, paying my taxes to Australia.Having Citizenship to me is making Australia my country as well as New Zealand and can rightfully call them home. janet_muir muir Melb, Australia 2013-05-16 My three daughters are young adults and due to our NZ expat status are not entitled to vote or receive the new DIS ..there is no safety net for them. Have lived here for 21 yrs apart from 2001. Have paid Australian tax and levies. Carolyn Te Maipi Beaudesert, Australia 2013-05-16 Because it needs to change, it is unfair & discriminating against kiwis living in Australia who are unable to gain permanent residency to gain citizenship katrina danielson Louise Dickens Auckland, New Zealand Narangba, Australia 2013-05-16 2013-05-16 have lived in australia with my family I don't mind paying my way but paying taxes that we can't access if needed

Name jamara elkink

Location Baldivis, Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment I have lived in Oz for 7 years now I have worked the whole time. And paid taxes and I have no rights to benefits. No matter what I contribute. I've never wanted a hand out just a fair go.

Jaimee Mauri

Helensvale, Australia

2013-05-16

I was born in NZ but have been raised since a toddler in Australia and consider this my home, but because my country of birth is NZ it makes proving my residency here in AUS hard...its slack really...im sure im not the only one lol

Bronwyn Hibbs

Oak Park, Australia

2013-05-16

My family and I want to be treated fairly. We, as New Zealanders are tired of being tarnished with the "Kiwis are bludgers" which in most cases is simply untrue. My partner and I moved to Australia from NZ in 2011 with our then 15 month old and 2 month old. We did our research and had saved enough to support ourselves and our family until we were set up. We both work full time and contribute to the Australian economy by paying taxes, paying the Medicare levy, paying for private healthcare, paying for fill-time daycare, paying for dayto-day necessities. It is very one sided and we as Kiwis are being discriminated against and still expected to contribute for what; absolutely nothing!

Hamish Coutts Rebecca Addison

Australia Faulconbridge, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Children s University Education. Because I am a NZ citizen who is unable to apply for PR due to my occupation and my husband's occupation not being on the SOL. My husband is a Police Officer with the NSW Police and is unable to ever become a citizen despite working for the government, and risking his safety to ensure the wellbeing of the Australian public.

Janeece MacGillivray

Alexandra Hills, Australia

2013-05-16

Arrived before the changes in 2001, however my friends and family are directly affected by this and it's not fair we are treated like this. We work hard and many of our children are born in Australia too. Refugees get treated better then us!

Wendy George

Traralgon, Australia

2013-05-16

Because I have been here 10yrs and have paid taxes and worked hard. I want the write to vote and make sure that my daughter has the help and more options needed when she is older.

Adrian Whiu Isabelle Davis

Acacia Ridge, Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

To secure my children's future and to develop there studying... We moved to Australia 6 years ago and our 2 oldest boys started and continue to be educated here. We have no plans to return to NZ anytime soon, if at all, so having the option of assistance for my boys if they choose tertiary education or an apprenticeship would help a lot.

Vickie Hall

Varsity Lakes, Australia

2013-05-16

As we have lived here now for 6 plus years and our children live here too, we believe we should have the option to become citizens. We are all paying tax, including my 2 teenage children, my Partner and I have a home loan and have no intention on moving away.

Carole Nicholson

Ulverstone, Australia

2013-05-16

Because I have grandchildren who are born in Australia and because there parents are NZ they are entilited to nothing so they live and work here all there lives pay taxes and get nothing. I also have children who have grwon up here and are now working and paying taxes and they get nothing.

Rachael Croton

Australia

2013-05-16

I love Australia and consider it home. I feel that other kiwi's post 2001 should be able to call Australia home and not just be considered a permanent visitor that cannot vote and become a secure permanent citizen of Australia because of a skilled workers list that does not make sense for Kiwi citizens as they are freely able to come and work in all jobs!

Damien Stone

Australia

2013-05-16

I've been in Australia for 5 years, contributing, and I want my kids to grow up with rights.

Name Tammy Wright

Location Mango Hill, Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment I'm a registered nurse but age 47. I pay taxes and also have private medical insurance. I earn too much for any family assist. Have no entitlement here and now you want more out of me (NDSS) for something neither myself or family will have entitlement too. I truly don't believe I should have to give you more!!

Shane Wilkinson

Australia

2013-05-16

It is madness under the current system that New Zealanders like myself can enter the country as if it were another state under the ANZAC flag and yet get treated in some respects as if we are trying to destroy this country. I have been here 8 years and I consider myself Australian now and forever. Sure I can understand the rational behind these strict enforcements, but I consider that it is the limited few who have given a bad image for a endless genuine NZers who want a sea change. I love Australia and do not believe it is a country of madness thus I am not too worried that these absolutely insane regulations will not be enforced for eternity. I will not return to those small islands settled by our common ancestors, but should I ever be forced to return I know I shall remain Australian until the day I die and for eternity from the time I have spent here. God bless Australia.

Daniel Loza

Heritage Park, Australia

2013-05-16

Even though I've lived here since May 2001, I can't become a permanent resident!!

Michelle Burns

Australia

2013-05-16

My husband and 2 children are Australian citizens and I would too like to become an Australian citizen. I have lived here for over 10 years now.

Aaron Woolley kyla kebbell

Hamilton, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

WE are hard working and contribute to your society also Because I have now lived here nearly 12 years and was considering becoming a dual citizen. Also all 4 of my children have been born here.

Bronwyn Parke

Gold Coast, Australia

2013-05-16

I'm signing this as I have lived here for 4years this time. I moved here with my daughter now 9 from NZ because I love Australia and want my daughter to have more opportunity..I have never asked for anything in the years of paying tax in Australia.There's no way I would "qualify"under your rules for citizenship or be able to afford it for that matter..so with the amount of kiwi children living here now..in years to come they won't get loans or government jobs unless somehow they become citizens??? But having lost my job due to a workplace injury..being the work places fault and having to get lawyers.. (and job hunting every day)I now am expected to survive on $300 per FORTNIGHT..I have been into centrelink to see about getting my super..he said "oh your from NZ yeh you cant get anything..goodluck" so i went into my Super office and they said i need to have been on a benefit for a continuos 27weeks to claim hardship...soo if ya getting the unemployment benefit each week for 27 weeks thats hardship but if your getting $300 per fornight that doesn't cut it..tell me how this makes sence please.oh all because of 2001 and being a kiwi.what happened to looking after each other NZ/OZ.....I am appreciative that I get this amount but seriously if I didn't have my parents help from over in NZ ( which so many people don't) id say I'd have had to have gone back to NZ rather than be on the streets in Australia...I'd hate to think how many NZ people are on the streets due to no help...it's quite disgusting that this can happen here...maybe I should have caught a boat over..

liesl timms

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-16

because i was born in australia

Paula Edwards Rachael Mcguire

Gracemere, Australia Oxley Park, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

I am living here working fulltime and pay taxes like anyone else that works Because have lived in australia now 10 years and worked and paid razes the whole time yet still cannot apply for citizenship and cannot access lots of services my taxes pay for.

Name Jill Rogers

Location Morayfield, Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment Although NZ will always be our true 'home', we love Australia and want to call it 'home' too. It is crazy to allow us to reside here indefinitely, working and paying taxes, living as 'Australians' but without the same support that NZ gives to Australians residing in NZ.

Daniel Flack

Australia

2013-05-16

Because I know more about Australian politics and legislation than most of the voting Australians!!!!

Juan Pablo

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-16

I don't think it's particularly fair to have people paying taxes and not qualifying for the same rights as Australians living in Australia and paying the same taxes or Australians living in NZ.

Amy Adams

Ballajura, Australia

2013-05-16

I beleave NZ and Australia are like cousins. Kiwis need this to have better openings for their children's education

Mike Iafeta

Australia

2013-05-16

Because I thought ANZACS fought side by side for the benefit of BOTH countries!!!

Katherine Walshaw courtney rameka

Australia Ellenbrook, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Living in Aus with a disability, yet shut out of NDIS..... I think kiwiz should be given the opportunity after 2yrs in Australia to become citizens!! 12 years is just rediculous!!

Lyn McMahon

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-16

I have a grandchild in Australia, and a son who has been there for many years. I am appalled that there is this much discrimination against New Zealanders. We have supplied a lot of qualified workers to your workforce. I have never heard of Australian's being treated in this same way here in New Zealand.

Darcey Jane Beverly Tutauha

Wellington, New Zealand Sydney, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Let's support people to live their life potential. I have 2 grandchildren born here and 1 grandchild who arrived here at 4 months. I would like them to have the opportunity to further their education and become doctors or lawyers or discover a cure for the common cold, and it is possible they will eventually need government assistence to acheive this.

Caroline Grey Anita Hurley

Narangba, Australia Thornlie, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Would like my children to be able to access student study loans When my husband and I moved here with our son in 2006 we immediately started working, paying taxes and I have volunteered my time with various events in Perth. We own a house, we pay our taxes, our son has to work part time in order to be able to pay his TAFE fees as we can't afford to support him and he doesn't qualify for any educational loans. The scary part is we have all the insurances except income protection, we simply cannot afford that on top of everything else. And if anything were to happen to wither of us, we would be bankrupt and homeless with no way of getting help. Please, we would dearly love to become citizens, there is no point moving to a new country unless you plan to become one of them, we love Perth, we love our friends, our jobs and the life we are building here. but we can't vote. We can't access the new NDIS scheme (which is a brilliant idea) and we can't even get short term help if something goes wrong. We plan the best we can, but we can't plan for everything. Our son, in order to move onto uni, is going to have to work full time for a year or two in order to be able to pay his fees. Or he'll have to go back to NZ to study, losing his friends and the life he has here.

miria Edwards

Australia

2013-05-16

I havent lived here that long..2002..All new laws came in 2001..My son was born here in 2002..we dont want to move back to NZ...but worries me about the future of my 10yr son...

charles pearson

lyttelton, New Zealand

2013-05-16

as some day i wish to move there

Name janine martis

Location Cairns, Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment one of my children has had to return to NZ as she was unable to claim a single parents pension even though she had lived here for 10 years...has ALL her siblings here ,has worked and completed schooling here...and now has become a teacher.....all she needed was a hand for about a year while she recovered from her relationship collapse.....now our family is split up and i feel this small amount of help could and would have helped us stay as one strong unit....very very annoying and sad to have to see them (her and my grandchildren)leave...still havent got over it.

Fiona Dadrah

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-16

Because i used to liv on Australia and it was before they changed the law in 2001 as they are allowed to come to New Zealand and get benefits and other stuff so why cant New Zealands get the saem righgts

Catherine McPhie

Bendigo, Australia

2013-05-16

We have been here 7 years and if something happened where one or both of us couldn't work for some reason, we are not entitled to any help, despite paying taxes all this time.

Angela Martin

Australia

2013-05-16

Because I live here and all of this applies to me and my son who has lived here since he was 10 yrs. An aussie in every way except he will never be "aussie enough"

nicholas main

Australia

2013-05-16

i am a kiwi living in oz,my father had to leave oz when he got brain cancer as there was no financial help for him despite paying tax for 15 years here

Marty swale

Australia

2013-05-16

i have a australian partner and i want to become a citizen to live here permanently

Sandra Munn

Australia

2013-05-16

It is mainly about the cost.. I would have become a citizen by now but I heard it cost a lot of money.

Pam Day

Cairns, Australia

2013-05-16

I have Aus Citizenship (dual with NZ) because I was here pre 2001 and we had the 2 year rule. All of us have worked since arriving and we now have other family members who arrived post 2001 under the new rules. Not to mention the cost of the visas - outrageous.

Sandie Bloomfield Sandra dahlberg

Australia Calen, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

So my daughter inlaw can become a Aus citizen like my grand children Kiwis should pay a lesser tax on their wages as they have no access to services they pay for in tax system so gvt getting a big bite and it aint fair or honest

Tamson Beale

Australia

2013-05-16

My husband and I have lived here for 4 years now, have had a baby here and we have been through the public system to have one of our sons diagnosed with ASD. We are not entitled to any additional funding to help our young son receive early intervention or speech therapy. Our daughter is a resident of 'No country' as we have not yet been able to register her as a citizen of NZ due to funds. 3 months of unemployment with no significant income assistance was terrible. We pay tax, we help grow the economy.

Kathy Matthew

TUMBARUMBA, Australia

2013-05-16

Because we are Kiwis/Australians in Australia, giving to the economy and society in a positive manner, and our grandparent fought in the ANZAC war/s

Annette Pope

Ellenbrook, Australia

2013-05-16

Because i am sick and tired of "boat ppl getting citizenship for cheating, when my family arent welcome because we have two kids with cystic fibrosis!

Tania Savage

Australia

2013-05-16

Because we will be living in Australia for a long time, and it would be great to know we have options for the future.

Alistair Merrifield

Sydney, Australia

2013-05-16

I have been living in Australia for 10 years and paying taxes... but I get nothing for it. Yet Australians moving to NZ are eligible straight away!

Brad Lovejoy

Richmond, Australia

2013-05-16

I live in Australia for 4 years and believe I should have same rights as any other nationality living in Australia and be able to able for citizenship

Name Toni Orlando

Location Austria

Date 2013-05-16

Comment My children and I have been here for 11 years but have had no path to affordable citizenship. It will only take one disaster and we would be forced to move back to NZ against our will in order to survive.

jane baker

Barnstaple, United Kingdom

2013-05-16

My son has a NZ passport and is a lifeguard in Noosa having settled there. He and his future children who will be Ozzie born need this protection. He will be paying a lifetime of Australian tax so it is unfair.

MaryAnne Cawdron

Australia

2013-05-16

as an adult student we struggle to pay my uni fees as I better my education & that education will be put to work in Australia...if I can ever afford to finish my degree! ...and then there's the university education for my kids to think of as well.

patrina king Deb Martis

brisbane, Australia Mangakakahi, Rotorua, New Zealand

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

32 oliver drive redbank plains equity - if one is contributing through paying tax to the Australian government, one should be entitled to become a citizen

Verla Morrison Melissa Naidanovici Scott Grieve Jenn Radford

Waikiki, Australia Australia Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16 2013-05-16 2013-05-16

My children have access to university and we have rights like everyone else Because I am a New Zealander who arrived in Australia after 2001. I have my family moving over to live with me I am now living in Australia permanently and have done for a number of years. I work hard pay my bills and want to be an Australian.

paul goss chris holland Alan dahlberg

Australia Australia Gold Coast, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16 2013-05-16

my children can't go to university because whe're not rich to get a fair go I work hard and pay taxes like any Aussie , and I came here legally and get treat worst than the illegal immigrants , it's about time Aussie pollies work on the Trans Tasman agreement as I am sure kiwi's will come to the aid of the Aussie once again if need be .

Sonya Yates

Australia

2013-05-16

We have chosen to settle in Australia, my husband works and at the moment I am a stay at home mum. As a mother of 5, I hope that my children will have every opportunity to succeed in life after they finish secondary school. However, like many families, funding this will be difficult so any help we could get our hands on in terms of student allowances etc would be most beneficial and much appreciated. As tax payers etc it just seems fair!

Marama Smith

Kawerau, New Zealand

2013-05-16

I have lived in Australia since 1983,andI have now moved back to New Zealand after my husband passed away two years ago. My 8 children; 4 of whom were born there and my 19 grandchildren live, and work in Australia.

mariana boyce

Australia

2013-05-16

I have children who were born in Australia or brought to Australia as infants or children?

kelly hamer

new zealand, New Zealand

2013-05-16

hoping to move to australia one day and would like the option for my children to have the option for study/work. I think 12 years is also way to long 3-5 would be much more acceptable

Arona Williamson

Thornlie, Australia

2013-05-16

We have been here 9 and a half years now and this is home so would love to be able to get permanent residence and then citizenship for us and our children!!

Angela Allan

Australia

2013-05-16

My husband and I have lived in Australia for over 3 years. We consider it our home and where our future is. Our 3 children attend primary school and they will complete their education, including tertiary, here. We hope to gain our Australian citizenship soon so our children have all the opportunities to stay in this wonderful country.

Name leticia jukes

Location Gracemere, Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment i moved to australia in sept 2011 as a 18yr old on adventure. i will be 30 this year and now married to an aussie and we have FOUR australian citizen children. i would love to be an australian citizen to have security for my family.

Deborah J McKenzie Pauline Wikohika

Invercargill, New Zealand Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Friends & family living & working in Australia with no rights for their tax dollars I live and work in Australia, I pay taxes too just like any other non-australia living here, why can I not apply for and have an opportunity to became an Australia Citizen and I dont believe NZ women should be separated from their Australian born children due to not being able to support themselves.

Cheryl LEIGH Meg Glenn

Townsville, Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Have been working hard, paying taxes, think that should count?? A child born in Australia to NZ parents who are working here and paying taxes is more Aussie than illegal boat people

Dianne Booth

Australia

2013-05-16

Born and bred New Zealander, been here for 30 years..now an Australian citizen..I believe, that anyone from NZ who works/pays taxes/rates etc should be allowed the same rights after continuously living here for 5 years. It is total discrimination and an insult to the ANZAC tradition.

Kristen Blake

Hamilton Hill, Australia

2013-05-16

I think it is unfair that the children have no hope of further education. Also, I am a NZer living in Australia.

Denise Donald shane gray

Parkwood, Australia Glenlyon, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Cobtributung i'm duel citizen in australia . i have family here since 2001 and are kiwi with out a hope of being australians .12 years of working and paying taxes and yet you can come by boat and become australian ask a true aussie: kiwi or boat people

Stephanie Prujean

Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-16

Its important because I consider Australia as my home and it worries me that if I fall ill I will not be able to afford to live as I am not entitled to the disability payment, yet I pay taxes like everyone else. I work, pay taxes, my children go to school, I buy their uniforms and contribute to society in a healthy and positive way, plus I actually speak English! I have wanted to become a citizen, or at least a permanent resident, for years now with no luck. Maybe I should leave the country and come back on a boat, then I will get a roof over my head and citizenship!

Amy Swetman

Tynong North, Australia

2013-05-16

because I am a Married Mother of two kids aged 10 & 8. We were all born in New Zealand. we have been here for 4 years and have no intention of moving back to NZ, Australia is now our home. I am upset that when my kids leave High school they will be forced to return to New Zealand to further their education. My Husband and I will never qualify for residency as the law stands as we are farmers, we put in more hours of work then any Aussies we know yet we wont have the security of aid during a national disaster etc should we purchase our own farm. We are forced to continue working the same job without advancement and recognition of our commitment due to these factors. i believe a 6 year stand down period would be acceptable so long as our Children are automatically given a perminant residency at the same time we qualify.

Joedee Hall

Morayfield, Australia

2013-05-16

I am a full time Mum who can't get help for my family when my fianc's work under pays him.

tania ratima

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-16

I have lived in Australia for 25 yrs, 21 yrs in wa and 4yrs in qld, I work, I own 2 houses in wa, my daughter is Australian by birth and has an Australian passport, I LOVE AUSTRALIA!

Kiley Drake

Cairns, Australia

2013-05-16

For my son who is currently being denied therapies and treatments even though he was born here.

Name wendy king

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment We pay taxes we are part of ANZAC yet we denied the same rights of Australians

Kathryn McEntegart

Gladesville, Australia

2013-05-16

Because I want to stay here, have paid large taxes and want my children to be able to study and learn and be treated like every one else. You can't have one rule (tax rule ie perm res for tax purposes) for one area and another for everything else!

Ian Mete

Australia

2013-05-16

My son is in year 12, has amazing talent in computers, considers Australia as his home; will spend his life working here, being taxed here and still considered non citizen. I tried to apply to ADF, but am not a AU citizen. I come from a long history of soldiers and nurses that shed blood for this country yet still we are considered non valid citizens. Q are Au citizens treated this badly in NZ? if not why not?

Sandra Lovering Jodie Cartwright

Henley Beach, Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Cause we are working in Australia and paying Australian tax!! I am a New Zealander, I have an Australian parent and would like my children to be able to further there education, and also look at buying property here for our children.

Ian Howlett

Australia

2013-05-16

This is important to me because I have friend who are married to a Kiwi and there spouse want to become Australian citizens,

Philippa Bradey Jennifer Clavis

Australia New Zealand, New Zealand

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Hard working and tax paying kiwi in oz. Because I want to move to Australia in the very near future and I want to know that after paying my taxes I can be treated like Australian citizans, and the same for Australians coming to NZ.

Maryann Verkooyen

Australia

2013-05-16

is is important to me because we came here for a better way of living and Australia has so much to offer.

Brent Corin Belinda Scott

Runaway Bay, Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

I am a kiwi who is given no assistance for anything and believe this is wrong!! So my son is able to go to affordable university over here and because I have lived here for 12 years and been paying taxes all that time.

Lisa Cunningham

Australia

2013-05-16

Subclass visa 444 has me feeling like a subclass member of society. There must be a fairer way.

Paul Sisley Damian Fletcher

New Zealand Adelaide, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Because me and my children live in ozy Because half my family (2 of us) have citizenship, the other 2 do not. We work hard and pay our taxes, have houses over here and have given service in the Australian Defence Force. ANZACS have always stood by each other through thick and thin and should not treat each other as anything other than equals. Without this we can lose our homes, businesses and lives that we have built over here. Please change this.

Patti & Leslie Van Dyk

Ormeau, Australia

2013-05-16

Because when families move over here for a better life and are prepared to work hard, pay taxes and obey Laws we should be considered and offered Permanent Residency if wanted.

Richard Orsulich

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-16

Fair treatment, if I live in oz and pay all the taxes and Australians in New Zealand are able to take advantage of our system why cant it be the same for kiwis in oz, 1.5 billion in tax revenue from kiwis

Charlene Apiata

Australia

2013-05-16

I am a permanent resident but my fiance and one of my sons are "settlers". My other half has always worked and therefore always paid tax but he cannot access any of the assistance that his tax money pays for.

Name Abraham Kara

Location Brisbane, Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment I am a hard working Kiwi who loves living here in Australia.. I came over in 2012 started a job as a contractor a week later am now full time. I feel its wrong that i pay taxes like everyone else but am not entitled to it because i am a Kiwi...

Mari Kaukura

Miranda, Australia

2013-05-16

I would like the option to become an Australian citizen made easier and affordable to kiwis as I along with many other kiwis have called Australia home for more than twenty years. I have abided by its laws and have paid its taxes and have appreciated making a living and building the dream of a happy life. Its disheartening to realise that my grandchildren born in Australia after 2001 road to citizenship will be a long expensive waste of time and effort.

Stuart Hayter

Australia

2013-05-16

I'd rather share my country with other's that share our values than other's that bring their our ideologies to our country and don't try and fit in with the majority

Megan Tuielu Anthea Wakefield

Rotorua, New Zealand Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

It's about being mutually fair Because we have settled here,worked hard and own our own home.It is totally unfair to discriminate in this way.Please change the law to a fair go.

Fiona Jenkins

Australia

2013-05-16

I am a Kiwi living in Australia who is fortunate to be supported by my Ozzie husband & not have to rely on working nor need to become a permanent resident to get by day to day. My children are grown & live in NZ so I do not have to worry about them gaining tertiary education or be 'lost kiwis'. If anything happens I can always go home I am one fo the lucky ones. I see all around me Kiwi families who do not have this luxury & who work hard & pay their taxes & all they ask for is a level playing field with other taxpaying citizens. Yes there should be a waiting period and no I do not believe anyone shpould be able to come to this beautiful country & expect to go straight on the bene but if they are working & thye become ill & unable to work , or lose their job due to redundancies then like every other taxpaying permanent resident or citizen they should be able to access welfare payments. Above all there is no reason whatsoever Kiwis cannot be entitled to access a scheme they are enforced to pay a levy towards.

Sheryl Apiata Larry Dale

Cedar Vale, Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Kiwis should have the same opportunities as anyone else Because the discrimination and unfair treatment of tax paying New Zealanders has to be reviewed by the Australian Government.

Alannah Steevens

England, United Kingdom

2013-05-16

As a New Zealander who lived in Australia and paid tax and then being unable to get any help if necessary. I find this both discriminatory and completely rediculous. How on earth can they treat Kiwis differently when we add so much to Australias economy. gr

Jason Bunker Barry McLennan

Auckland, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

I want to move to Australia, it actually has an economy. Been here 8 years now, and will be here till stumps. Would be nice to really call it home

kevin fyfe Debbie Baarspul

Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

because im a nzer not intending on moving back to nz So all people living in Australia have the same opportunities ie furthering their education if they want to. I think it is especially important that children who possibly had no choice in moving to Australia with their parents are not discriminated against simply because they were born in NZ. I also think it is important that families have access to support if they have a special needs child.

Robert Gell

Australia

2013-05-16

Kiwis have been marginalised by current immigration legislation. They represent a significant factor as tax payers & should be allowed a fairer residency status.

Name Angelene Noble

Location Brisbane, Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment Lived here 11 years,own a home,paying for daughter to get uni degree,have ozzy grandchild,all my siblings are here,would not want to go back to nz,consider oz home,have invested all we have here but are not skilled enough and to OLD! To become citizens.

Martin Lord

Australia

2013-05-16

I work here and pay taxes. I own a home, pay rates, yet cannot vote in Council elections. I have no democratic rights and no say in State or Federal elections even though I love this country and intend to live out the rest of my life here. I have been a hard working, responsible, legally abiding citizen for 6 years and am being treated worse than non-english speaking boat people. What happened to the equal ANZAC alliance. Iam only asking for the same rights that every other nationality receives after living here and proving themselves to be acceptable Australians.

Marcia Harris

Cairns, Australia

2013-05-16

I will not comment as reading others discriminative remarks has made me incredibly angry and I am positive I will say something I shouldnt.

jessica bunker Lynda Aston

London, United Kingdom Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

have lived in australia and have family living in australia My husband & daughter both pay taxes in Australia. We are required to pay the same taxes and levies as Australians which funds government assistance/initiatives to Australians but not working New Zealanders. Australians living in NZ are afforded much more assistance than New Zealanders in Australia.

elizabeth buckthought

Corunnun, Australia

2013-05-16

We have lived here for 7 years. still treated like crap by Aussie bosses who know they can rip you off due to not having the same rights!!! We are owed thousands and near left bankrupt. Needs changing!!!

Wendi Jordan

Australia

2013-05-16

Two of my kids came over to aussie to live in late 2001 and early 2002. they have both worked since, and paid taxes, but cant access any benefits here, or get a Hecs loan, or become an Aussie Citizen...:)

Kathleen Harrison

Wynnum, Australia

2013-05-16

For equal rights for Kiwis. We pay the same tax, so we should be able to get permanent residency or citizenship.

julian ryan

Kellyville Ridge, Australia

2013-05-16

iv been payin tax here for years and had 2 kids here but we not eligible for hardly anything

Susan Taylor

South Hobart, Australia

2013-05-16

Because I am one of those kiwis who has been here for 10 years and work fulltime and pay taxes!!

Amanda Tonkin

Australia

2013-05-16

I have been here for coming up 7 years, no plans to go back to NZ due to children now grown up and settled here, plus we have good jobs. Have had to get out personal loans to ensure our children are able to receive training and schooling past Year 12 as are not eligible for Hecs. Worry about our future when in our elderly years even though have paid taxes for years.

Rhys Flemming

Australia

2013-05-16

I would love to be able to vote for the government that I pay taxes for and feel like Australia is really my home.

Mike Smith

Australia

2013-05-16

We have lived here in Australia for 6 years , both Full time working couple with a family . We would so love to get PR & then later down the track Citizenship .We love this country and this is where we want to spend the rest of our lives .One of our sons is very talented in sport and has represented QLD but in a couple of years time when he could represent Australia ... He is unable to as We dont have PR or Citizenship . We now have two lovely Grandkids that have been born in Australia . Please make us feel more secure by changing these laws .... Thanks

Name Yasmina Thebus

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment I consider Australia my home now and especially since I have a daughter , would feel at ease knowing that I do have support from the Government especially since we are tax payers as well, can't see why us New Zealand's should treated differently. Aoverall, many Australian

Regan Pepene

Kawerau, New Zealand

2013-05-16

because im moving over in two weeks and i would like myself as well as other kiwi's that have moved there past present and future to all be treated equal

Aniela Chrzanowski

Australia

2013-05-16

To make a safe, pernament home for myself without feeling that I am living in limbo

Emma Donald

Australia

2013-05-16

We have been in Australia now for 11 years, with continuous employment and three Australian born children (of which the eldest will be eligible for citizenship in two years time when he reaches the age of 10). For me it's not about welfare, it's about being treated equally and fairly like everybody else.

Kyle Lockwood

Australia

2013-05-16

Because Kiwi's in Australia pay full tax, but to not have full access to Australian funds in times of crisis. Taxation without Representation. Also Australians in NZ can vote, New Zealanders in Australia cannot.

Sandra Batkin

Australia

2013-05-16

I have a grandchildren due in October and feel that it should have the same rights as other Aussies born here, plus my hubby and I both work here contributing to the economy .

Brian Windust Karthikeyan Velu Emily Harrop

Australia Brisbane, Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16 2013-05-16

just common decency towards our hard working NZ friends Aussies get VIP treatment in NZ and Kiwis deserve same in AUS I moved here when I was young (17) and didn't know any wiser. After 8 years of continuous work, a house, a family i concider Australia home. I have a 5 year old Australian born son who misses out on it all just because both my partner and I are NZ born! What is he ment to do? Where's the saftey net for him? What if something happened to us? My son is being punished for his nationality, he didn't choose to be born here! This is so wrong!!

Mariya TAYLOR

Australia

2013-05-16

We are unable to apply for PR as my husbands job is on the skilled labour list but loses points as he is was just over 45 yrs so therefore we could not apply as we are 5 points short. My job is not on the list.We both have worked since day 2 of being in Australia pay huge taxes yet we have no saftey net in terms of long term security, for us and our children who would have started school here and completed school here yet they will be no HECS, they wont be able to vote. There only hope is should they marry a Australian. I think the standown for citizenship should be 7-10yrs of continuous work, that shows that we are not just here on a whim this is where we would like to call home.

vanessa heal

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-16

Because I am planning on living in Australia permanently for as long as I can so I can be with my children and grandchildren

Kyme Hall

Australia

2013-05-16

I love Australia and have been here over nine years, I have 2 daughters married to and have children to their australian Husbands. My husband and I both work here as well!

Name Julie Smith

Location Donnybrook, Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment My husband and I have lived here since 2007 with the intentions of living here for the rest of our lives. We have worked continuously ( I work in the social services sector) and own our own home. We have raised our granddaughter who is now in year 12 for the last 3 years and she wants to make her future in Australia as well but she can't continue with tertiary study here and will have to go back to NZ to a potentially unstable situation. As well, very important, we both consider ourselves citizens but we are unable to vote. Our children and their families have moved here as well and they are suffering the same disadvantages. What happens to their children when they graduate high school? We love this country passionately and feel part of the community but we are disadvantaged by the unlikihood of citizenship. We are aged 58 & 60yrs.

Eva Reed

Australia

2013-05-16

Im a kiwi recently moved to australia from the UK. My British husband will be joining me, even though we have to reapply for his visa to stay here every five years for the rest of our lives! There is every chance we will have children in Australia, but thinking that these children would have no access to university assistance, disability assistance and, by the looks of things, being ineligible for disaster relief in emergencies is, quite frankly, frightening. I understand changing rules so that the welfare system is not taken advantage of, and I fully agree with that, but surely if kiwis have been here for 10 years and have always worked, have bought houses, cars etc... they should have some entitlement to the services they are taxed for.

Sarah Clements

Australia

2013-05-16

I have children that are born here and i would like them to have equal rights and be able to get funding to help with uni cost etc.....

Joslyn Hobbis

Brookwood, United Kingdom

2013-05-16

I'm a New Zealander and would love to see a fairer system for hard working Kiwis living in Australia.

Anne Williams

Australia

2013-05-16

Because with NZ and AU having a trans tasman agreement it is only fair that kiwis in ozzie get the same as what ozzie's get in nz.

Stephen Jeffery

Sydney, Australia

2013-05-16

I have lived in Australia for 12 years. I am now married to an Australian Citizen and have 2 Australian children, and yet the government treats me like I arrived yesterday. I would like Australian Citizenship for 2 main reasons 1) so I can vote and feel like I have some say in what happens to my tax money & 2) so I can truly call Australia home with the rest of my family and feel like I am a full member of the society in which I live. Of course I could apply for PR alongside people from all over the world who do not currently have the right to live here, but I consider it a ridiculuos requirement when I have lived here permanently for 12 years. In addition I feel that after all the talk from the government since 2009 that they are going to provide a new pathway to PR for New Zealanders, and then they simply change their mind I will not apply for PR as a matter of principle. By DIAC's own admission 40% of New Zealanders living in Australia do not qualify for PR - yet the government is happy to continue to exploit us. Nothing illustrates this more vividly than the NDIS that we will be paying for but cannot access. The bottom line is we are a cash cow for the Australian Government. They collect all our tax and give little back, and while we cannot vote (in either country) we are easily ignored. I will continue to lobby for change in every way I can until this 'anomaly' is remedied.

Name Amy Barnston

Location Meadow Springs, Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment I have lived in Australia with my husband since 2008 and we have both worked. I work in the aged care/disability workers area and love my job and what I do to support the people of Australia who need others assistance to live a good life. I had my first child last year in Australia and I would love to live here, work here and retire here but the odds are against us as currently I don't see how I can survive once I retire. I hope to become a permanent resident/citizen one day and become a true member of this wonderful country. I owe a lot to this country and dont expect handoutS EVER but a bit of security and respect would be nice. I hope this petition assists us Kiwis CURRENTLY living in Australia. We pay a lot of tax and I believe that if all of us kiwis had to leave together there would be a big whole in the Australian economy. Thank you for listening to my story. Kind Regards Amy Barnston

Darlaine Smith

Australia

2013-05-16

Because i or my children may one day need this help, and if they have been living in oz for 20 years then they should have a right to it.

Laurene Campbell

Australia

2013-05-16

My partner & I are NZ Citizens. We have been here for 8 years. Our son was born here in Australia. We have a mortgage & we both work . We pay our taxes, rates, water rates & support community funding. Yet we have no safety net if anything should happen to us as well as having the huge worry for what the future holds for our son & the lack of support he will encounter because his parents are not eligible to become permanent residents. We do the right thing & follow the rules but will always have that scary & unsettling reality that we can never get the support we need from the Australian government.

Carolyne Adshead

Australia

2013-05-16

If you pay the same taxes as Australians then you should be entitled to the same benefits.

Eve Kelly

Australia

2013-05-16

We are New Zealanders who have lived in Australia for 10 years. Both our children were born here, yet were citizens of 'nowhere' until we applied for NZ citizenship several weeks after their births. How bizarre that this can be. As a tax paying member of society here, I would like my family to be treated with the same rights to access safety nets as all others who live and work here too.

Lynda Hardwick

Australia

2013-05-16

I think we should have the same rights as Australian citzens immigrating to New Zealand.

vaine kirk

Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-16

Came here 2004 to join my family to start a new life not aware of our rights regardless ive been working non stop for almost ten yrars heading into retirement

Ian Barnes

Palmerston North, New Zealand

2013-05-16

I have Kiwi relatives who have lived in Aussie for many years. Second - its just plainly unfair. Give us a fair go like we do for Aussies who come here.

Michelle Days elizabeth sanford

Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

I'm going to live here forever i came into the country legally and now treated like we are illegal immagrants just gives us the same rights as nz to to aus citizens...i pay taxes here so i should be able to get that back thru certain entitlements

Kristopher Zagami Darryn Neilson Karen King Talia Canvin

Southport, Australia Australia Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16 2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Fair go bro! Kiwi living here, and planning to stay.... It would mean I don't have to return to NZ when I retire I want my family to have the same rights as Australians after living here and working here for many years

Name Trish Isaac

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment I have lived here for 10 years and cannot become a citizen yet I pay taxes and have never used centrelink and I want to become an Australian Citizen

Gina Katipa

Australia

2013-05-16

I have 4 children whom are growing up in this country and attending both long family day care and state high school and I am wanting a education for after state high school but after reading the legislation that is in place at present I don't think this will be an option as it will be to costly for me. I agree that I would like this legislation to be looked at.

Natasha Cuxac DAWN MINTOFT Scott Thomas Shontell Wikaire

Australia Australia Campbelltown, Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16 2013-05-16 2013-05-16

For my child, born here in Australia but still not a citizen. For his future. We have two children with Type 1 diabetes are aren't eligible for ANYTHING! People who work and pay taxes should be consided citizens I am kiwi and if I have a child here I want my child to be able to have the same benefits as everyone else.

Elle Eastwood

Sydney, Australia

2013-05-16

I have lived in sydney since July 2007 and I married an australian. I am studying for a bachelor of health science at a private australian institution and financing my husband and I are financing it all ourselves. The laws need to change. I shouldn't have to go through the same process as everybody else all the while being here without a visa.

Julie McKernan

Australia

2013-05-16

Have lived and worked here for 25years. My children have grown up as Aussie kids and we all call Australia home

Miranda Flemming

Australia

2013-05-16

Come on Australian & NZ governments - time to address these unfair laws keep people on 'temporary' visas indefinitely with no pathway to citizenship.

Janna Shepherd

Red Beach, New Zealand

2013-05-16

My mother and brother moved to australia from new zealand before the rules changed. They now have citizenshicp but I cant move over to be with them as I have 2 primary school aged children of which we cant access healthcare or financial services if needed in a disaster and my children will not be able to go to any university or further their education. While the rules stay the way they are - our family will forever be separated. I find the current rules discriminatory against New Zealanders who contribute just as equally to australias economy and society as Australians.

Sharnie Aitken Katarina Kurupo

Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Because i want to spend my life in Australia Most of us come to Australia to seek a better future. We just ask for equal opportunities and fairness as we are tax payers and we are not entitled to a cent. We aren't asking for a hand out just fairness. Refugees are given more than those kiwis who pay their way.

Cari Ramsay

Sydney, Australia

2013-05-16

I lived in Australia for several years and had my son in Australia who is an Australian citizen. I left and went back to NZ for several years returned two years ago to find that I am no longer able to become a Australian citizen because Im too old. Im a professional, paying taxes and quite capable of contributing to Australia, but Im treated worse then a second class citizen. Australians are entitled to eveything Kiwis are entitled to once they have been living in NZ for two years. The current situation in Australia for Kiwiis is unfair.

Sarah Norman

Newcastle, United Kingdom

2013-05-16

Our boys were born in australia, English father and kiwi mother and will be returning to Australia in the near future

Orewa Mitchell Diana Grime ANITA BIRD

Australia Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16 2013-05-16

because I have made Australia my new home it affects my family. My sons girlfriend has to work hard to support herself and children, she has NO HELP, no medicare, no family tax A/B not even legal aid she works pays her tax and gets nothing in return - NOT FAIR

Name Conrad Bishop

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment As a kiwi in Aus, I've always had a job and paid full taxes now including my own business on the side where I contribute GST also. I have son born here and another who when he was here was diagnosed with ASD but has been denied any help due to our status, so his schooling has continuously been a struggle. Give us hard working kiwis a fair go, you got rid of the kiwi bludgers in 2001 and as a kiwi here I don't want to see them either but discriminating against our whole country for what was a few rorting the system is just plain wrong.

Julie Anaru-Johnson

Perth, Australia

2013-05-16

As a full tax payer of Australia it is unreasonable that our residency denies access to the NDIS should we need it yet we are required to fund it. I support the petition for change to introduce a pathway for citizenship so I can vote for where my tax paying dollars are being spent. I have lived and worked here for 7 years.

Janina-Maree Ryder

Australia

2013-05-16

I've lived here 7 years now and I would like to think that the taxes I pay could help in the future if I needed it!!We pay equally so why should we be treated differently??!

Lindsay Moore vaine kirk

Australia Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

For my and my families future. Hi been here since 2004 and worked my butt off heading into retirement age and not entitled to the pension maze well work till i drop dead one income started from nothing and end up with nothing how ever hope us lost kiwis will maintain eqal rights to our ozzys ozy ozy ozy oy oy oy

Lena Sheeran

Tarneit AUSTRALIA, Australia

2013-05-16

all the above!

Tammarie Fisher

Springfield, Australia

2013-05-16

I have 5kids but 3 of them born here in Australia. Arrived in 2008 & in the last year we've been struggling living from food parcels every week can't keep up with every day expenses eg: Phone, Power. My husbands health limits him to the amount of work he can do & I am at home taking care of 3 children under 5 and 2 other children at school. I have over the past year been looking for part time work but have failed to get a job. Since we don't qualify for any other benefits, life has been a major struggle. I feel helpless and only wished I could fully provide my children everything they need since up till now all they've known is Australia is there home. This issue seriously needs to be addressed because some of us New Zealanders never expect this to happen eg: loss of income, health issues. Not until you actually experience it that you really find out the consequences or what your not entitled too.

James Cameron mary Wooderson

Australia Ipswich Qld, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

I'm a nz citizen living in oz Because Australians chase kiwis for work,for soldiers when they can't get enough of their own and then treat almost all other nations more fairly than us

John Puts

Australia

2013-05-16

Fair go aus.We fully support you in NZ.Giving and making all benefits avaliable to you that our citizens can access.We add to your economy.We are good and hard workers,you know this.We fight together.We are equals in every field.Dare I say it you've a little to catch up on the field.All jokes aside,we support you.Give us your support and lets make our bond stronger.I'm a working grandfather and father of children living and also working in Aus.My children and grandchildren and I speak for many other NZers in the same situation over here.Support us as we support you.

Gretchen Raethel

Hamilton, New Zealand

2013-05-16

If you have been paying taxes in a country for 10 years or more you should be entitled to become a citizen and all the rights this gives.. Your children who will have done their schooling in this country should be entitled to a higher education education. What other nationalities are discriminated against like this?

Name Shane Brown

Location Mudgeeraba, Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment I want to make Australia my home for me and my family. I love Australia, I have been here for 8 years and never been unemployed, I have paid taxes and donated generously to relief funds. My wife's grandfather is Australian, my father inlaw is a Australian citizen and we would love the opportunity to become Australian citizens.

Jan Harrion

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-16

This is very important to me, because it affects my brother, sister in law and their children, they work here, pay there taxeshere, but cant become citizens, something needs to be done about it

Sheryl Douglas

Scarborough, Australia

2013-05-16

Because it is causing a lot of stress on my family as there are members who came out after 2001 who cannot get help when desperately needed, despite the fact that they pay their taxes. If it not going to be changed, at least let these people live tax free so they can get enough to fall back on when they are unable to work for whatever reason

Vanessa Hayes

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-16

I'm moving to Oz soon, to work long hard hours, pay taxes, and spend my earnings in Australia. Why should we be denied so much, when it's not the same for aussies living in nz. Australia : where "yours is mine, but mine is MINE"

TeAroha Kohu Awhina Waapu

Deception Bay, Australia Campbelltown, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

So my children will be protected in the country they call home Time for a fair go for Kiwis in OZ. I dont agree with instant access but yes after 5 years of living and working here is sufficient evidence of permanent residency

Linda Osborne

Gympie, Australia

2013-05-16

My family have been here for 8 years. We have a special needs child. He was educated at a special school and had all the privileges of Aussie kids at that school. During his final year we were told he would not qualify for post school funding. This meant there were no options for support for him as an adult. I discovered that I could apply for an extra 2 semesters at school, which gave me breathing space to apply for permanent residency. My employer sponsored me because I didnt meet the age requirements. Fortunately I am in a "desirable" occupation, I am a nurse working in aged care. This process took over 2 years and the expectations were enormous, but I was determined to succeed. We were declined, initially because our son has Down Syndrome. ie he didnt meet the "health requirements" I then had to gather as much information as I could to convince DIAC that they should reconsider. We were lucky and achieved permanent residency in Feb of this year. I then applied for a disability support pension for our son and guess what? He doesn't qualify until he has lived here for 10 years. I, however, can get a carer allowance of $115 per fortnight. I work fulltime and he goes to a couple of day respite centres in order for me to continue to work, one of which costs $122 per day. If this was an Aussie family moving to NZ they would qualify for all social security benefits after a period of 2 years. I forgot to mention that the whole process has cost us in excess of $5000, including the application, the Health checks $330 per person, chest xrays, blood tests etc all at extra cost to us. I think the Australian Government needs to find a fairer and more equitable way of treating its hard working kiwi cousins. I have had Australian employers tell me they will always employ a Kiwi applicant for a job, because of out work ethic.

Ian Fowles Emma Dorrepaal

Upper Hutt, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Thinking about moving over there and have family there already. As a NZ citizen with an Australian husband, 3 children one of which was born in NZ and came here when she was a year old, the other two born here, I work fulltime and pay taxes to support many Australians that don't work I would love for my children to have access to all areas of life in Australia.

France's Lowery

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-16

Its about being fair and reasonable!

Name Deanna Peters

Location Brisbane, Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment Been in Australia since 2005, married an Australian 2011 have worked all the years I've been here have 3 nieces born here, fostered 3 boys frm NZ educated here.

Sharon Heincen

Bundall, Australia

2013-05-16

I live here, love living here, have a home, pay taxes, however am not entitled to any benefit of those taxes and cant vote. I have an interest in the country I live in and want to show my allegiance by becoming a citizen

David Mackintosh Kimberley King

Coburg, Australia Chatsworth, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

As a Kiwi i would like a fair go for all kiwis. If we are paying EXACTLY the same taxes as everyone else then we should be eligible for things like disaster relief, education etc. If not then how about removing the extra $$ we pay for these things!

Brian Wolfe

Australia

2013-05-16

I'm a Kiwi and feel the Australians are ridiculous. They get to come to NZ and get all the benefits and we cannot receive the same here in Australia. Not acceptable.

yvette hubbert

brisbane, Australia

2013-05-16

I am stuck in australia due to hauge convention laws, i have re-skilled but still not eligible to apply for residency. This is important to me as i would love as a single parent to send my 2 children to uni. Would love them to access student loans.

Halie Opie Jo-Ann Tilley

Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

we dont have any plans to move back to nz and i have an australian born child We tried to get PR, went through all the hoops, then went on the wait list. While on the wait list my husband turned a year older and we lost a point for age - now we do not qualify despite meeting the full criteria. We don't want welfare. We want to vote and a chance to feel a member of the country we have made our home, pay taxes in, volunteer our time and have bought a house in.

Brent McIntyre Matt Jackson

Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Because I love Australia and it is now our home I have been living, working and paying taxes in Australia for the last 5 years. I am of the belief that after a certain period of time NZers should have an easier path to Citizenship in Australia based on their contribution to society. It is important for me to know my children will be offered the same rights in their futures as other Australian children.

lesley gregor

Arundel, Australia

2013-05-16

I arrived May 2000, so just squeezed in, but many of my friends came later. Their children will suffer. No assistance if they want to attend uni. Also they contribute to the economy but receive not benifits, just not fair aussie.

Tracy Orr

Australia

2013-05-16

My family including myself my partner our 2 year old NZ born daughter & my eldest daughter, partner & my Australian born grandson. Signing the petition mainly to protect my children & grandchildren their education & futures.

Tammy Whitelaw

Australia

2013-05-16

Kiwi's are our brothers/sisters we will always stand together in Love and war. New Zealand residents workers come here and work hard for there money, in most case harder and more reliable then us Aussies. New Zealand might as well be another State of Australia.

Mary Bartlett-Johnston

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-16

The 2001 Reciprocal Agreement involves discriminatory practices and loss of basic Human Rights for all NZers.

Alice Cooney

Australia

2013-05-16

My daughter has lived in Australia since she was 4. i want her education to go further than high school. without having to pay huge amounts of Fees.. Bring back HECS.

Keren Rosewarne

Tallai, Gold Coast, Australia

2013-05-16

We have lived in Australia for 12 years, we have employed Australians, New Zealands and others we own 3 properties, we are paying the same taxes as everyone else but are not entitled to the same benefits if they were required.

Name Michael Cowan

Location Brisbane, Australia

Date 2013-05-16

Comment Because I love it here and have been here for 8 years and don't plan on leaving. Since coming here as a young adult I have grown in this lovely country held a full time job and progressed and married my now wife, we treat this place home and will soon start a family. Our life is here and we both contribute to this country. Just want a fair go as this is now home for us :)

Tom Brownie

Australia

2013-05-16

Because I was New Zealand born but lived in Melbourne for most of my life including junior, middle and senior school. But because I went back to NZ to go to University for more than 4 years I am no longer seen as an Australian Citizen.

Annamaree Menzies Cameron Moray-Smith

Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

Im a Kiwi and lived here for 23 years My wife is Australian and I want to ensure that our family has equal rights and protections in Australia.

Ronda Tokona

Dunedin, New Zealand

2013-05-16

Well I think that there needs to be some synergy between the way Kiwis and Australians treat each other. Fairness on both sides needs to be done. Unlike other countries there is a history and a relationship that binds the two countries. At one time we looked after Australian convicts, we have fought side by side in wars. I feel there is more that should keep us together than apart. The current Oz govt rules seems to be divisive in nature. I do appreciate their need to deal with their economic problems but I feel it is sad that a port of call is to make it more difficult for Kiwis in Australia (or who want to go there) who do participate and invest in the country.

Sue Hills-Johnes

Australia

2013-05-16

equal opportunities, I work hard pay my taxes and contribute to society. Why should I not be entitled to residency and citizenship. Why should families who work hard suffer by not being able to access tertiary education and access financial assistance when their parents have worked and paid their taxes.

Tammy Peters Bec Cooper

Australia Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-16

for my kids future..equality!!! I support this as a mum of a special needs child that was undiagnosed before relocting with my Family (6 yrs ago), As well as having a Child born here in austraila, im proud to call her my aussie baby. We pay our taxes. we own our house, as well as have a small business. I would love for my children to have the same rights as there australia counterparts, having to prospectively sent my Children back to NZ to study at university or go into the Army or Airforce (as my oldest is keen to do) Is not something a mother wants. I love this country and im happy I now call it home

Karen Phillips

Whangarei, New Zealand

2013-05-16

My mother is an Australian citizen and I would like the option to change if I chose to reside there.

KRISTI Pavich

Australia

2013-05-16

We moved here 7 years ago with 3 children. They face the difficulty of paying uni fees upfront with our help. It is also important that as they settle here with family of their own that they have the option of PR.

Jillian Taylor Sharmaine Lusby

Australia Belmont, Australia

2013-05-16 2013-05-17

friends cant become australian citizens they pay taxes... I am a kiwi living in Oz and a 4 year wait before I can apply for citizenship seems a bit extreme :(

Fiona mccoll

Sydney, Australia

2013-05-17

I am a NZ, who has lived in Australia since 2002 with my NZ husband. We have 2 properties, 2 children born here, work and pay taxes yet we have no means of achieving PR. I personally feel insulted and unwanted in a country I call home.

Rebekah Cowan

Australia

2013-05-17

Because I live and work here, and have done for the past 6 years and I now want to become a permanent resident and australian citizen

Name Chanelle Hay

Location Caloundra, Australia

Date 2013-05-17

Comment Im a Kiwi who has lived here 5 years and will remain & contribute to Australia life for the rest of my life!

Christian Lynette Joy Mel Tibble Angela Wolff

Gore, New Zealand Gold Coast, Australia Upper Hutt, New Zealand

2013-05-17 2013-05-17 2013-05-17

Because it is a discriminatory policy. Because the discrimination is rampant ..... I'm a Kiwi which is self explanatory! The Aussies wouldn't want our government to do this to them so .....

pania zelda yorke

Australia

2013-05-17

because i plan to live here permanatly, i own a buisness and employ australians when i could just employ a relitive my partner who is also a nzer has lived here since 1999 we pay alot of tax and im concerned for my daughter when she wants to go to uni but wont be eligable for a student loan we are good enough to take our taxes for years but we are not eligable for anything when we contribute alot and in some cases more then some australians we are committed to this country :)

Linda Rehu Karina Sneddon

Australia Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

As I have lived here for most of my life and want citizenship. Because I am sick of being treated as a nobody, I live in Aussie I work I pay taxes so give us a fair go already. From what Ive seen its better to go to Malaysia and come over as a boat person you get treated with more repect than coming in from New Zealand. It is suppose to be ANZAC NOT NewZealand gives Aussies everything and Aussies treat NZ like crap.

Pauline Richardson

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-17

My daughter, son-in-law and my grandchildren live there. one was born there..they are good honest hardworking, tax paying people. Australians get all NZ benifits from the day they arrive., student loans the works...no questions asked ...Surely this should be reciprocated.

pania zelda yorke

Australia

2013-05-17

were good enough to take taxes from for years and years though arent we? i own a buisness and employ austrailians when i could just employ a cussie bro from home im concerned for my daughter when she reaches university as we will be contributing our hard earned taxes yet she ( or we will) have to fund her education or go home to nz where we might be able to get a student loan for her i totally agree to the fact we shouldnt get the dole for but we dont come here to sit on the dole we come here to work hard pay our taxes and enjoy the lifestyle

Grant Chick

Australia

2013-05-17

My children are being discriminated by not be able to get higher education loans.

Crystal Hill

Geebung, Australia

2013-05-17

I have lived here many times, 2 years when I was a child, almost 2 years when I was a teenager and now we have moved back to settle in. Even thou I have lived here for more then 2 years, payed tax etc in this country I'm still not eligible for citzenship unless I pay 3 or 4 grand to become a resident!!! Then apply through my husband who is a citizen to be granted a citizenship....Totally unfair!!!! Living here I'm helping the australian economy live in a country thats your next door neighbour!!! I think the laws suck regarding this matter. So many kiwis are helping australian economy by just living here! If you took all of us out you would be looking at a major decrease in good workers, less spending, help to carry the older generation of your baby boomers and less need for housing so a decrease in work. Seriously wake up and give us kiwis a break! Please!!!

Sue Wesney

Wodonga, Australia

2013-05-17

The boat people are given more rights that the kiwis and we legitimately come here to work hard and contribute to society.......what do boat people do?

Tracy Brooks

Australia

2013-05-17

So my friends and family that are hard working tax payers can finally get some rights over here for themselves and their children

Name Pauline Snyder

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-17

Comment I have lived here since 1999 but I know they wont give me citizenship and also all the reasons given in this petition I agree with

te rameka

taupo, New Zealand

2013-05-17

..my family fought alongside and died alongside Australian troops..they basically gave their lives for each other..we share history, blood and sweat so why not as recognition of that relationship allow Kiwi a fair way to citizenship..

Natasha Mohr

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-17

I have 2 nz born children here and 2 aussie born children and i want them to have a chance at university when they are old enough. My daughter born in australia wants to join the army and cant as im not a citizen. She doesnt want to join the nz army as all her family and friends are in australia

Reeny Taylor

Australia

2013-05-17

We are Brothers in countries, we banded together in the war and we are equal, i am an Aussie and proud of it but i also know New Zealand is a Big Part in being an Australian and we have always stuck together

Simon Nunn

Australia

2013-05-17

I contribute huge amounts of tax and will never be able to get help from the govt. should the unexpected happen.

Jade Edwards

Manly West, Australia

2013-05-17

Im a kiwi who has lived here for 7 years my son was born here in Brisbane last year. My son is not an Australian citizen because my partner and i are not Australian citizens. My son is a New Zealander by decent. More then anything i would love to be an Australian citizen but i am unable to as im not eligible. An Australian can move to New Zealand and after living there for two years are eligible to become a citizen. I believe if as New Zealanders we have moved to Australian and have worked and paid tax for a number of years we should then be eligible for citizenship.

Sharon Kirk

Australia

2013-05-17

As it stands at the moment my daughter (NZ born) is not allowed to attend University over here after being done with High School, unless we pay International fees. She has a really great brain and can go far, so would like it to be a bit fairer over here for us Kiwis..especially since Aussies in NZ are eligible for everything pretty much straight away. Why have ANZAC if Australia isnt keeping its side of the deal??

Jo-Anne McHugh Jaime Toon kylie brown John Paul Kohere

Australia Brisbane, Australia Australia Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17 2013-05-17 2013-05-17

To allow my children to get a HELP. loan to study at Uni in Australia. To give New Zealanders a fair chance in Australia. We pay our taxes! i am with a kiwi and we get no help from the government. This is important to me because I have lived here all my life. I class myself as both a Kiwi & a Skippy. All my Family are herein Aussie. My Sisters were born here & they are Aussies. In our hearts & minds we are Aussie. Its paper work & beuracracy that denies us!

Kim Wilson

Melton South, Australia

2013-05-17

I believe both countries can benefit from this being approved, i first arrived in Australia in 1978 and worked before returning to nz in 1986 only to return to australia in 1995 when i made Australia my home where all but one of my children were born and raised to be working members of society.

Barry Edwards Sandra Williams

Manly West, Australia Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

I would like to be able to vote Personally I don't have a problem but new arrivals and not so new arrivals are being treated badly. They like you paying taxes but give nothing back. Like if you're not a permanent Resident you don't quilify to take on an apprenticeship or enter University.

Dan Hill

Australia

2013-05-17

Kiwis are an important part of Australia. We should be allowed to become citizens of our newly adopted country as we love it like any australian !

Name Ilona Mckeown

Location Cannonvale, Australia

Date 2013-05-17

Comment I am signing as I have lived here 11.5yrs & my son & partner are Australian. It is very unfair we treat Australians in our country well but it's not reciprocal. I have worked my whole time here & if need be should be allowed the same rights as an Australian. I have no interest in living back in Nz. Come on Oz be fair to those hard working kiwi's!!

Tania Tua

Rockingham, Australia

2013-05-17

It saddens me to read this, Seems like we are not treat as equals. We have been put into a catagory that reflects us as a race with no hope or future. Many of our people live in poverty because of these laws. Our country doesn't act this way Towards Australians in NZ. We sure as hell are not just here for Tax benefits. Our Treaty of Waitangi Has benefits for every indigenous race is round the word ruled by the crown. This is here as a protection for all in times of strife. Our people are one and united Not only do we think of our selves We also think of others who follow Or have no voice. I believe our people on signing our Treaty of Waitangi had much wisdom Upon signing that document. Reasons being so our indigenous nation around the world new we are not all savages as they call us or animals. WE ARE PEOPLE. HE TANGATA HE TANGATA We are people We are people Common Gillard give us a fair go We got Aussies back always.

Kim Van der Made

Australia

2013-05-17

My children and I are studying here whilst my husband works hard to finance it all. At the end of the day we have made our lives here since 2007, we want to be able to have a say politically. we want to buy a property and feel safe and secure knowing we can put our roots down and not be threatened with possible law changes.

Rachel Perry

Australia

2013-05-17

We have worked in Australia for 8 years and consider this our home, we have had children born here and want their future to have the same opportunities as other working families living in Australia

Tuakana Cowan

Australia

2013-05-17

My father and father in laws fought beside our fellow men in Australia. Instilled within family ties and connection with our father and fathers who died and provided us the freedom a to choice to fairer pathway to citizenship. Without prejudicism to all New Zealand born citizens.

Lorraine Kumeroa

Australia

2013-05-17

A lot of NZ'rs through no fault of their own become trapped with no support. Kiwis are denied so much and this needs to be addressed accordingly

Sarah Becker

Australia

2013-05-17

Australia is our home now and we have lived and worked and paid taxes for 5 years. I want me children to have the full benefits as all other citizens of Australia. My daughter will be starting Uni in 3 years time which she cannot get HECS for so we are busy saving for this now.

Name Chris Slowey

Location Varsity Lakes, Australia

Date 2013-05-17

Comment I'd like to be an australian citizen and have lived here since 1997 but its really to hard! I've never gone back to New Zealand and have embraced the Aussie way of life but that doesn't count for much!

Lawrence Chick

Australia

2013-05-17

This is important to me because I am currently a University student in Australia undertaking a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree. It is not cheap. And being a New Zealand Citizen, I am not eligible for HECS HELP or HECS Loans. Therefore I have to work twice as hard as some students just to afford to attend University. Which doesnt leave much time for studying and puts me at a disadvantage. I have lived in Australia for 6 years now and I Plead with the Australian Government to give us a way to become Australian Citizens. As Anzacs we fought on the battle fields together, Side by Side, Back to back and our blood was spilled together, So why are we separating eachother and putting eachother at disadvantages? There must be a way, because we who come into the country legally are getting less than those coming illegally and in fact are getting rewarded for their illegal acts which just motivates more to do so. Please try, because i know there are many people like me here in this Beautiful country, struggling to accomplish our dreams and goals. Kindest Regards, Lawrence Chick

Mary Romanova

Australia

2013-05-17

I have as much Australian family as I do New Zealand family - as a family we have supported, been supported, fought and some died for both countries for well over 100+ years. To us both countries are as one (think NZ is still meant to be included in Australian constitution as part of this country). Imagine how it would feel if the states here did this to each other - it's not a good feeling suddenly being seen as an alien in a land you always felt was a strong and equal part of your heritage. Think the Brit's get a better deal than the Kiwi's.

Stacey Coleman

Australia

2013-05-17

Though i fall into the the category of permanent resident after arriving here before 2001, i feel the law has to be changed or a new one brought in for the fairness of a kiwi paying tax to the Australian government and yet being made to feel like a second rate human being with no rights

James Wilson

Australia

2013-05-17

This is important to me because i have a baby born here in australia and the future does not look bright for my little girl.

samantha tiller

Australia

2013-05-17

i think its fair. we pay full taxes and are fully involved in Australian way of life, yet we dont get treated like we are.

Margaret Jamrozy kerrie Gillett

Australia Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

I have lived here 34 years payed my taxes and worked hard As it stands I have worked here and paid taxes. I have never required assistance over here however I know that if it were to ever happen there would be nothing. This is not the case for Aussies living in NZ. How about making it fair My children have been to school here grown up and work here I have paid full fees at uni for one with no hex. No issues with that however she works and pays taxes and is initialled to anything

Tasha Wharehinga

Whangarei, New Zealand

2013-05-17

For better trade and immigration relationships with Australia and New Zealand and in respect of what our ancestors fought for together

Jennifer Rofe

Australia

2013-05-17

We have lived here for 5 years pay tax's etc & if anything happens we dont get any help at all

Name Sheryl Nepia

Location Brisbane, Australia

Date 2013-05-17

Comment Very important we now will contribute to disability tax as well yet our children over here do not qualify for assistance. My Great Grandmother and Grandmother were born here but still not entitled to become a citizen. If Australians are aided in NZ after 2years of living there (have an article written in NZ newspaper to support this), why is this not recipricated here? We have lived here for 6 years and paid our taxes, interest in loans etc and have contributed to the Australian economy I think it is only fair if we have proved a working history for solid two years we should be entitled to help from welfare system when needed.

Hirama Tamihana Sandra Korres

Adelaide, Australia Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

I have been here 9 years and would like to be a permanent resident I am a Kiwi married to an Australian who has lived here since 2005. In order to get citizenship I apparently have to apply for Permanent Residence and then apply for citizenship. This is a huge cost, even though I earn a good salary. I pay my taxes diligently and contribute to Australian society. yet I am denied the right to vote, to have a say in how my important tax dollars are spent and if I want to attain that right I have to pay substantially for it. If it is true that Australians in New Zealand are afforded better opportunities to fully join New Zealand society then Australia should open up at least the same rights to New Zealanders living in Australia. Fortunately I don't have any natural children who are impacted by this, but I have sympathy for those who do, particularly those who are trapped between two countries, with rights in one but no right to leave the other. Come on Australia, give Kiwis a fair go.

Michele Fortune

Randwick, Australia

2013-05-17

The system now is giving those kiwis love Australia, & who live and work hard here a bad name

Karen Hall scott gasson

Australia Mayfield, Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

Karen Hall As a kiwi in oz who cant quite meet the high bechmark of the dept of immigrations 'skillselect' criteria but is gainfully employed and wants to stay for good (for the benefit of australia and me!), gaining citizenship would give us stability, security and peace of mind in our new home.

Maatakiri Te Ruki

Cotton Tree, Australia

2013-05-17

I have Australian Maori mokopuna (grandchildren) born here and I want to ensure that I can support my children's children.

Aarron Spinley

Australia

2013-05-17

Mutual respect should be just that, mutual. NZ looks after Australian residing in NZ, and it should be reciprocated. Natural justice. Doing what's right.

Shirene Perry

Australia

2013-05-17

I would love to become an australian citizen. Having been here since 2005, a business owner, property owner and paying taxes I would like the privileges of becoming a citizen.

Name Eli Peters

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-17

Comment My reason for moving to Australia was the lifestyle opportunities. My reason for wanting to be an Australian citizen is that I wish to participate, no longer satisfied playing the role of spectator. I truly want to be here. Australia has beauty, an openness & kindness of people and generosity & cultural commitment of a powerful Governing body. Unfortunately there are a few comments that have made it to the top of the Most Popular list (put into perspective it is only a handful of likes so not going to popularise their comments by delving too headstrong into a rebuttal). Ten years is too long. New Zealanders that come to Australia are hard working people dedicated to "giving it a good go!" ...and no we are not counting the days until we can finally go on the benefit. NZer's are culturally aware and more so than any other nation in my opinion and it is our compassion and tolerance of all cultural identities is what makes us unique and a highly prized candidate for citizenship. Nzer's love to participate in the "Aussie" culture. We will never lose sight of our own cultural identities unless we repeat the errors of our past. Labels such as Nzer or Australian created by nationalistic idealogues only reinforce an unnatural policy. A policy that does not serve the group but minimises each of us unto a stereo-type aimed at defeating our individualism, as a person who has fallen in love with and wish to call Australia home.

Oliver Coughlin Rose Taylor

Dunedin, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

Because I would love to live in Australia later on in life. because I want my children to grow up with these benefits expecially when there born here and they will take australia as their home

Consuella Lakau Cassidy Domoni Lynley Neale William Coe juliana fitzgerald

Brisbane, Australia Hanoi, Viet Nam Australia Perth, Australia Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17 2013-05-17 2013-05-17 2013-05-17

Australians have the privilege and NZers do not. Why? I don't see the big deal being against this. I have been living in Australia for 32 years, paying tax but, unable to vote. I am a Kiwi living in Australia i have been here for 9 years and within those 9 years i have worked for 8.ive hada a son here which is 7 years old and im married to a australian,they are both australian which i am still a new zealand citizen.i wish i could have more support here and opputinuties availble for me here in australia.i have payed taxes for 8 years and abide by the law within my stay this is my home forever now with my son and husband which i support been aussie.

Susan Campbell

Australia

2013-05-17

My family and I chose Australia as our new home almost 12 years ago. At what stage does our constant employment and contribution to society here prove our commitment to this country?

Kevin Chan

Australia

2013-05-17

This blatant discrimination must stop against us expat kiwis who have decided to adopt Australia as home after 2001 at all levels.

Naomie Hepene Teressa Ngawaka

Australia Tauranga, New Zealand

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

It is ! Australians get it easier to access what we have as new immigrants here whereas we dont over there

Stephanie Goodman

Australia

2013-05-17

Everyone deserves the same rights in education and family support. There is no real reason as to why New Zealanders should not be recognised as permanent residents.

Louise Marston

Loganholme, Australia

2013-05-17

My children were born in NZ and have lived in Australia for over 20yrs

Name Teresa Balks

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-17

Comment I'm a New Zealand citizen who has lived here for almost 6 yrs, married to an Austalian Citizen with kids from NZ & Two born here (one departed) & yet I have hardly any rights in Au. If something happens to my husband I will be forced to find someway of moving back to NZ due to no financial assisstance. P.s. can't even get funiral insurence due to not considered a resident.

Richard Smith Sydney Rawiri

Hamilton, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

Sister lives in Australia. Just to get a fair deal, dont want New Zealanders to have a free ride, I like the thought of a long waiting period.

Cole Pierce Ngamoana Parata

Melbourne, Australia Hawthorn, Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

Because New Zealand and Australia are family. :) Because I and my wife pay taxes, contribute to society and pay levies for things we can't avail of. We are both considered as high income earners so get charged more than most

Donna Barlow

Australia

2013-05-17

I am one of the few kiwis who received Permanent Residency in 2001 before returning to NZ for 6 years then returned and present with a Kiwi born child but the father is Australian. Will this affect my son when he completes Year 12 and wants to go to Uni. Will i have to return to NZ instead!!! Kia Ora Donna Barlow

Vaughn Timmerman

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-17

I've been here since 1991, and now I'm not sure where I stand anymore. I've given over 20 years of service to this country with my taxes and skills, I have an Australian wife and daughter, and would like to think that it wasn't all in vain.

Susan Moore

Oamaru, New Zealand

2013-05-17

Our Son moved to Australia 10 months ago believing he would get a better life. He is hard working and enjoying being in Australia. He is paying taxes and spending his money there our family have visited him and spent our money in the Country while there. He should be entitled to all the things other tax payers are. You are privileged to have more tax payers and more natural resources etc making the Country attractive to some.

Cheryl Fraser Lincoln Chun Shelley Fortune david keightley

Te Kuiti, New Zealand Australia South Windsor, Australia Barnstaple, United Kingdom

2013-05-17 2013-05-17 2013-05-17 2013-05-17

My Husband is over there and we are moving there to I have kiwi friends. AUS and NZ have a long history of trade and friendship. Cos I'm frm NZ n the ozzies hav free entry not NZ so fair is fair My girlfriend's son is a Kiwi living and working permanently in Oz and paying tax so should have this protection.

peter hunt Rebecca Etuale

Australia Wellington, New Zealand

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

i have a new zealand wife and we will retire in new zraland Great family friends of ours have an adult son with Downs Syndrome. He is a wonderful guy, wanting to become a citizen, get a job, get a girlfriend and get on with life. He needs a hand to do that.

Lesley Veersma

Australia

2013-05-17

I am a Kiwi ..have lived in Aussie for 40 yrs and have paid taxes added to your population and never relied on the Aussie Government for a hand out nor my native country.the one thing I will never do is give up my birthright but I will along with my children ( Aussie Born x3 ) support the country in which I have chosen to reside but Miss Gillard if you wish to take this stance then please feel free to take my name of the electoral roll after all what is one vote to you

Andrew Swaine Liz Paurini

Australia Robina, Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

Should not be ten be 10 years and more I have chosen to live in this beautiful country and would dearly love to become a citizen but have been told they dont want me as I am too old. Fifty is not old.

Name bruce keoghan

Location Boronia Heights, Australia

Date 2013-05-17

Comment As id like to get citizen ship

Tania Munroe

Sydney, New Zealand

2013-05-17

This is important to me and mine because we live and work in Australia and the insecurity is knowing that there is no support if anything happens beyond our control. We put processes in place eg funeral, income protection and life insurance but sometimes those may not kick in immediately. It's scary times for us right now and makes us paranoid but realistically we had no choice. There are NO jobs back in New Zealand suitable for us. We are in survival mode.

Tim Hill Melissa Baker richard dally

Australia Auckland, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17 2013-05-17

I'm a New Zealander living in Aus. Equality for all =) weve been here 10 yrs and recently became unemployed but were able to access only 6 mths of newstart not fair we paid our taxes like everyone else

Jodi Norton Leigh-ann Levy Rosemary Thomas

Melbourne, Australia Australia Perth, Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17 2013-05-17

Because its fair. This is what Aussie's receive in NZ. Because I contribute to this countries economy like every one else. Justice for the many Kiwis who contribute here, but are denied assistance when they need it, I find it obscene that "refugees" can lob up with no obligation to contribute and have everything laid on

Sandra Rosa

Australia

2013-05-17

I am a foreign national married to a Kiwi, I have to renew my visa every five years and cannot get any benefits, including Medicare, even though I pay full tax. My daughter is Australian born, but is not illegible to become an Australian until she's 10 years old. She was born without being a citizen of any country and we had to apply for NZ citizenship by decent. The current situation is very insecure for all of my family and if something happened to my husband I would not have any "safety net" or government support of any form. I would be forced to leave the country even though we both have paid taxes for many years. We currently don't have any pathway to become Permanent Residents, other than waiting till my daughter is ten and literally going through a "Primary Care Giver" visa sponsorship, which would take some time. This seems grossly unfair, as if I was with an Australian and we went to New Zealand he would be able sponsor me almost immediately. The current system is grossly inequitable.

Nadine Hillock

Australia

2013-05-17

My husband is a cardiologist, I am a pharmacist, we have post-graduate degrees and are both working tax-payers. We volunteer at school and for charities, and feel we contribute back to society more than many Australians who were born here.But we are ineligible for permanent residency despite having lived in Australia for the last 8 years. We would like the security of permanent residency for our three children.

Barbara Eve Perham

Hamilton, New Zealand

2013-05-17

My daughter and her family live in Australia. My son-in-law has citizenship, and my daughter and their children would like to also. At some time I may be joining them and I'd like to be able to at least have resident status.

quentin johnston

Devonport, Australia

2013-05-17

because I am living in Tasmania as a permanent resident, a couple of years ago me and my partner both got made redundant on the same day, and centre link didn't want to have any thing to do with me, because I didn't fit there criteria, no help at all I had to get a job immediately and couldn't afford to be choosey, its taken several job changes over the last couple of years to get into a decent situation. now my partner has a back injury and is struggling to find sutable work and once again because she is living with a kiwi everything is a big hassle, NZ government would look after my partner if this was happening in NZ

Name Richard Hillock

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-17

Comment I am appalled that despite contributing for over 7 years to Australia in the public and private health system, each change to immigration laws make it harder, and eventually impossible, to be eligible for permanent residency and citizenship. Come on Australia , live up to your claim of being the lucky country.

Murray Naylor

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-17

Kiwis residing long term and actively contributing to the Australian economy need to be treat more equitably and fairly

Elizabeth Murphy

Upper Coomera, Australia

2013-05-17

We have lived in Australia for 23 of the last 37 years, and I hate the fact that I can't vote in support of the country I love.

Caroline Preston

New Zealand

2013-05-17

Create rules that are fair but remove the fear factor. Australia benefits from having healthy highly trained New Zealanders move over to support the Austrlian economy, please recognise this!

Mark Kearns

Australia

2013-05-17

I live and pay taxes in Australia, all my wage is spent in Australia but I'm not eligible for bugger all.

Patria Hokai Tania Rapana

Australia Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

Living here in Australia with 4 children & wish to contribute to this society I myself am a kiwi that has come to this lucky country for a better life for myself and children. I never dreamed of comming here to sit around and claim a benefit. I am a committed member of the community and agree that no one should be allowed to gain residency without contributuing to the economy and workforce. Residency should be earnt not just given as a right. I support all the hard working kiwi families that now call Oz home. Work hard or go home!!

stephanie cowan

Australia

2013-05-17

As a past highschool student i wasnt able to recieve Hecs further my studies in university/ adult tertiary because i wasnt able to fund myself nor my parent. If they make it even harder for you to live a good life there and study for it why bother.. Im now in italy with my own business i guess i didnt need australia for anything.. but the rest of the new zealand student struggling there breaking there ass while other piss arse around .. dont think its right .. we help them they cant at least help us

Rozanne Durston

Australia

2013-05-17

Because I have been here 9 years and can't get Residency and if I go home for a visit and they close the Boarders I may not get back. I also have Grandchildren born here but to Kiwi Parents

andre naidoo

Australia

2013-05-17

Because I am a New Zealand citizen living in Australia for 5years. Being a permanent resident would entitle myself & family to better benefits.

Christine Rimene

Australia

2013-05-17

Recognition as a New Zealander the contributions we make as a family , financially, our children attending school, playing sport, contributing to the economy.

Chelsea Perry

Strathpine, Australia

2013-05-17

I am a Zew Zealand Citizen who now calls Australia home and have done for the past 9 years. My first born (who was born in Australia and knows no other home but Australia) falls into a category of those who will not be granted any sort of funding for a higher education due to the fact that he is a New Zealand Citizen by Desent. We don't want money for nothing but we do want an equal opportunity as contributors and the future of the Australian economy

Ricky Naidoo

Caroline Springs, Australia

2013-05-17

This affects me. My wife and I are both professionals and have been working in Australia for the last 4 years, but do not intend applying for citizenship because we are 50 years of age, but will luv to become citizens and do pay taxes!

Tracey Foster

Sydney, Australia

2013-05-17

I have lived here for 6 years, my partner is a kiwi who has Australian Citizenship, I have never 1 day have I not worked and paid taxes, its costing me nearly $7000 to apply to become a resident, thats crazy when we own our own home here!

Name Natalie Daniels

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-17

Comment I have lived here for 10 years, my child is born here, and I have paid taxes for 10 years, yet I can't get citizenship! Every day people are arriving illegally on boats and are welcomed into Australia will full financial support using my tax dollars! Eventually they will get citizenship - and I won't. Where is the justice in that?

Mogamat Sheria Deborah Ritz

Australia Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

For my kids I work as a highly skilled midwife with 25 years experience in a high risk delivery unit, my experience gives Australian citizens expert care, my husband is a highly skilled professional bringing vast knowledge and excitement about upskilling Australians in the most unique way, my daughters are highly skilled and entrepreneurial and love both living in this country and contributing to this country. We are committed emigrants from New Zealand, we feel reciprocity is only fair and just- we would like to call ourselves proud Kiwi/Australians

david bardrick

Australia

2013-05-17

illegal immigrants (boat people) get it but not our closr neighbours from nz why?

samuel matangi

Australia

2013-05-17

we fought for both countrys as ANZC n kiwis should have a fair go for getting a easy way of citizenship

Lee Brown shereen turner

Australia Dawesville, Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

we should be able to have the same right as our aussie mates who move to NZ im a 27 yr old new zealander living in perth been here for about 8 years, i have 2 young girls, 2 years and 10 months so yep im in that boat, its realy realy hard on my lil family

kamol barber Garry Preston

Bathurst, Australia Cloydon Park, Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

for my children so when they leave school they can go onto further education. I am a Kiwi living in Oz. became an Australia citizen in 2003 just before these changers. They are unfair because Oz in now home for to many of as kiwis.

David Moore Anita White

Australia Ashburton, New Zealand

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

Kiwis are welcome in Australia, we are the same Our son ' his wife & son plus a daughter arriving soon have chosen to live in Australia . They have built a successful business & provide jobs plus great service to their customers.

Bettina van der Werf

Perth, Western Australia, Australia

2013-05-17

I am a New Zealander who's been living in Australia for over 15 years.

Peter McArthur

Logan, Australia

2013-05-17

Because of family who wish to stay here,well qualified people that Australia will benefit from.

Leone Edwards

Australia

2013-05-17

I have made Australia my home, paid taxes, brought property but cannot vote or work in government organisations and would like to give back to the country that has provided me with a much better lifestyle.

Maryanne Peka

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-17

We do it for the Aussies so why shouldn't you and if they're paying the same amount of taxes then let it be...fair is fair

Karen Cleary

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-17

This is blatant discrimination and makes a mockery of all our so-called closer relationships with Australia. I have no intention of ever moving there, but I have many family & friends with children in Australia. We all know this rule was made because the white Australians are so afraid of Maori, PI & Asian Kiwis. If Australia won't change, then why are we extending rights to your citizens that you deny to ours?that

Kiri Leilani Rangihuna

Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-17

Cause this certainly affects me and my children 2 of which were born here. I've been here since jan 09 2002. And I totally tautoko this petition and everything it stands for.

Name Anne Marie Olsen

Location Dunedin, New Zealand

Date 2013-05-17

Comment I have two adult daughters living in Australia with their children, One has been there since before 2001 and has two Australian born children. Her children will be fine because they have a father that managed to become an Australian citizen before the law changes. The other moved over 5 ago with her NZ born daughter. They are both committed to Australia and want to become permanent citizens but because of law change may well have to come back to NZ for the daughter to complete her tersary education. Each have commit their hearts and life to Australia and are good upstanding people. Australian adults and children in NZ are treated equally to their New Zealand cousins so the situation should be reciprocated in Australia. New Zealander in Australia help feed their economy so it makes sense that they should be treated equally when they are paying the same taxes as Australian citizens

Hana Nepia

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-17

My children have been born and raised in Australia. I want fair rights and opportunities for my children and their children. Australia is their home. Without these rights they will be a generation without citizenship. This is unfair and inhumane.

Fleur Morales Kathrine Wallace

Bentleigh East, Australia Sydney, Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

For my children's future and education. Live, work and pay taxes in Australia, why should we not be entitled to the benefits our taxes pay for?

philip stanley

Caloundra, Australia

2013-05-17

I work in australia paying lots of taxes and am still a temp resident after years of living here

Rex Boederlow

Truganina, Australia

2013-05-17

for a fairer deal fot those kiwis ( New Zealanders ) who care to live and call Australia home and who also willingly contribute to the expanding economy through the hard work, skills and taxes we bring.......

LESLEY christain Jen Lardelli

Australia Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

because i'm one of these lost kiwis new zealanders pay their taxes and contribute 100% to the australian economy. a fairer system should be afforded them.

Miiria Tupaea Joshua Howard

Marsden, Australia Australia

2013-05-17 2013-05-17

For fair rights in australia as a kiwi I wanted to start a new life in Australia with my family just to give it a go, not realizing how difficult they make things for us kiwis. I just finished year 12 and now have to work full time to try save money for uni and citizenship, let alone the fact i don't even meet the requirements yet.And it's not a nice feeling being told to go home by the lady on the phone at the immigration department when you only wanted some help...

Adrian ryder

Adrian ryder, New Zealand

2013-05-17

WHY SHOULDNT KIWIS WHO HAVE LIVED IN AUSSIE FOR YEARS PAID TAXES ETC NOT GET THE SAME BENEFITS AS AUSTRALIANS?

Maggie Hillock

Hamilton, New Zealand

2013-05-17

Because my son, daughter in law and grandchildren now live and work and pay taxes in Australia and should be accorded the same rights as everyone else who lives, works and pay taxes in Australia.

Maurice Keane

Tauranga, New Zealand

2013-05-18

Because NZ does not have a biased welfare system against Australians, and with CER and the ANZAC spirit, it should be changed.

Rose Holland

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-18

Im a hard working kiwi resident that pays taxes and we deserve the same rights as Australians

Name Luke Hauville

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-18

Comment I believe that any citizen of any country under the monarchy of the Queen should be allowed to have citizenship faster than those who are not. It seems to me that we are treating our New Zealand friends unfairly and I think after 1 year of living here they should be allowed permanent residency and after 3 years should be allowed to have go for citizenship. The idea of ten years is ludicrous. Some of my best mates have been New Zealanders and I have seen the anguish that they have gone through to get citizenship. Please stop this and make it better for our New Zealand neighbours to get residency and citizenship.

David Thomas

Australia

2013-05-18

being an ex member of the Australian army Infantry corps and am prod to have served and be called an ANZAC

peter nader Allan Moorhead

Australia Mackay, Australia

2013-05-18 2013-05-18

I like Kiwis For us it will mean staying closing to family. We have well contributed in Australia my wife and I both working and paying taxes, own a home here and would like to remain here permanently.

Kerry Howe

palmerston north, New Zealand

2013-05-18

So i no my family that have choosen Australia as their home will have the chance to strive.

barbara bishop

Oxenford, Australia

2013-05-18

I have quite a few new zealand friends and workmates and understand the problems they are having.

Vianney George McGirr

Noosa Heads, Australia

2013-05-18

I am a doctor working full time at a Queensland Hospital. My exwife (mother of my 17 year-old son , both residing inNZ) will die of ovarian cancer this year. My son wants to study engineering at University and I must return to NZ next year even though I am really enjoying working in Australia.

Trudi Crapp

Northbridge, Australia

2013-05-18

Haved lived and worked here for 10 years and I contribute as much to the Australian economy as the average Australian yet I am entitled to nothing in Australia or New Zealand.

Linda Harvey

Queensland, Australia

2013-05-18

The discrimination against our nearest neighbors is astounding considering the volume of people from other countries arriving here and being given far easier access to citizenship. This blatant discrimination against people who are very much like Australians in many ways is extremely distasteful. Not all New Zealanders come here to bludge, some are extremely hardworking and contribute enormously to the prosperity of Australia.

Sandra Yeatman

Pottsville Beach, Australia

2013-05-18

I am an australian and am not impressed the we discriminate against our NZ neighbours. I married and had my family in NZ and although we moved back here I have family and friends in both countries this law needs to be changed.

Adrienne Eyles

Caloundra West, Australia

2013-05-18

I pay taxes here but have no rights.

kim Horne

Australia

2013-05-18

Isn't it just fair that our countries offer citizenship because off the history we have.ANZAC's is worth more than one day a yearisn't it?

Kathryn Doherty

Australia

2013-05-18

Both my husband and I have been working in Australia since 2008 paying taxes the entire time and not wanting any help from the Australian Government. Our son is in the Australian Army Cadets and we are very happy living in Australia. All we want is the right to be Australian Citizens just as Australians have the right to be New Zealand Cititzens. Thank you.

Anna Murray

Australia

2013-05-18

I'm a Newzealander and have lived and worked in Australia for 8 years now. I will always be a Kiwi but Love this Country and very much consider it home and myself to be Australian!!! I pay Taxes and contribute in many ways to this country. I deserve the right to be a proud Australia

Name Jane Wilson

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-18

Comment I am a Kiwi. My mother, father, brother and sister live here. I married an Aussie and we have two Kiwi-born children together. I have been living and working in Australia for 5 years, paying the same tax as an Australian yet not having the same rights and responsibilities. My children can apply for citizenship by descent but I will continue to be treated as a second class citizen until the law changes.

Mary Bergman

Wellington, New Zealand

2013-05-18

I want to make Australia home for my family and me. We are hard working professionals who have never been unemployed. I have had second thoughts about coming to a country that denies me civil rights, but takes my taxes. Given our long joint history, I think this ruling is very racist. I agree kiwis shouldn't come to Oz to budge, but I dont think that happens...

Leo Schuler Lizzy Glynn Megan Affleck

Rotkreuz, Switzerland Raglan, New Zealand Endeavour Hills, Australia

2013-05-18 2013-05-18 2013-05-18

Kiwis contribute heaps to Oz, even Montheit's so the should have equal rights! Basic equal human rights bro I have been here with my two kids for 6 years. I have worked and pay the Australian tax as required. My children and my self don't have the thousands of dollars to become perminate residents or citizens although we don't want to go back to NZ to live

Barb Allen John McArthur

Australia Hamilton, New Zealand

2013-05-18 2013-05-18

Let's treat the word equlity for what it's worth here The spirit of Australasian brotherhood is seriously jeopardized by the discriminatory nature of several Australian Government laws.

Jean Murphy

Australia

2013-05-18

I moved to Brisbane in 2005, to be closer to my two adult children, who have been here 17 yrs and 13 yrs. they are both Australian citizens, and my grandchildren were born here. I have worked since I arrived in Brisbane, and feel it should be easier for "Kiwis" to become Australian citizens. I have never had help from the Australian government, yet Australians can move to New Zealand and get help from WINZ, which is unfair. The rules and help should be the same on both sides of the Tasman. I work fulltime.

Kaylene Washbourne

Blenheim, New Zealand

2013-05-18

I was born in New Zealand but my father was an Australian. So why is it so hard for me to be an Australian citizen?

Beverley Bibby

Japan

2013-05-18

I have children and grandchildren in Australia and my mother's family resided and lived in Australia, Tasmania before they came to live eventually in NZ -they are buried in Tasmania and were citizens of Austraia.

Ana Church

Wentworthville, Australia

2013-05-18

My partner and I have lived in Australia for 7 years, our 2 beautiful daughters were born here, and although New Zealand will always be home we plan to live in Australia the rest of our lives. Our only dilemma living and raising our family here is that we will never have the same kinds of benefits that permanent residents and citizens of Australia have. Education is very important to us, and we know that sending our girls to good primary and high schools, and university is going to cost us far more than we could ever expect. Having a permanent residence or citizenship would change that dramatically, but because neither of us have the necessary skills required we will never be accepted for it.

Benjamin Roebuck Frazer Greenwood Langton Marcel

Australia Melbourne, Australia Australia

2013-05-18 2013-05-19 2013-05-19

They should be given a fair go. because australia needs to be fair I pay for a welfare system, I'm happy to do this. But I'm not happy about the fact that if I was ever to need that system the Commonwealth of Australia would tell me to go away. "No taxation without representation"

Name Kirsty Main

Location wagga wagga, Australia

Date 2013-05-19

Comment I am on an unprotected visa, I need for my children to have the same rights as their peers and not be forced to marry an aussie when the time comes just to be able to gain their citizenship rights, we have been here for 9 years and need to feel we actually belong.

Jim Recard

Australia

2013-05-19

As an Australian I think it is ridiculous that we have a class of people unable to access support in a time of need. However, our major City's are overpopulated, our unemployment rising, our utility bills sky-rocketing...we need to limit all immigration. Give preferential treatments to our neighbours and have a yearly cap of say 30,000 out of the 150,000 people we take in. But to have unlimited numbers of any foreign nation is just ludicrous. P.S. You'll probably get more traction with Malcolm Turnbull if you spell his name correctly.

Joshua Malpas

Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-19

Something that my wife and I really struggle with, is that I am a kiwi here on the so called "special" visa, and I have married a South African Woman who did not have residence... She can get a "spouse of a New Zealand Citizen" visa, but this needs to be renewed every 5 years, and means she can't get Medicare!!!! And we would love to start a family... But $$$$$! We could go back to nz and then get citizenship there etc, etc, but we have a house here, and a positive future, starting again in NZ! Not what we want!!!!

Judith Simeon

Timaru, New Zealand

2013-05-19

To allow NZ ers in Australia the right to become a recognised citizen of the country they are working and paying taxes in and to allow their children to be able to become the people they deserve to be and recieve the right to full educational rights and benefits that enable them to be the useful responsible citizens in the country they have chosen to live in.

Chris Hill

Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-19

Future education for our children, could limit their opportunity to tertiary education. Oz would rather they were a liability rather than help them to gain skills and add value.

Stanley BAttock Jenny Toso

Australia Pahiatua, New Zealand

2013-05-19 2013-05-19

For the future of my children. My NZ son is married to a South African on a visa in Oz. They have both lived there many years now and own a home there and have great jobs but because my daughter-in-law cant get medi-care they cannot afford to give me a grandchild which makes us all very sad.

Rondell Snowden

Australia

2013-05-19

I think that it is unfair for those Kiwi ex-pats that are not eligible, that come here to live and build a better life for themselves and their families, work so hard and pay taxes, yet are denied citizenship! And the taxes that we pay are helping fund those that have arrived in Australia ILLEGALLY - they have more rights than we do!! Where is equality in that, Gillard?!?! Time for a change!!!!!!

Johann Potgieter Nathan Swain Richard Dahlberg John Renouf

Taylors Lakes, Australia Australia Masterton, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-19 2013-05-19 2013-05-19 2013-05-19

Because it's just fair and just Know many kiwi this will help My son and his family live and WORK in Aust NZers who arrived in Australia 26, 2001 are effectively second class noncitizens. The whole thing should be fixed up!

Nikki Thomas

Australia

2013-05-19

This is important to me because I brought my children to Australia so that they could have a better life after the earthquakes in Christchurch and my husband has have life saving surgery since arriving here.

mike Thomas

Ormeau, Australia

2013-05-20

This is important to be as I brought my children here for a fresh start and to further my job opportunities as a boat builder

Name Sarah Cervin

Location Sydney, Australia

Date 2013-05-20

Comment I have lived in Australia almost 11 years, I still cannot vote and I have paid taxes the whole time I've lived and worked here. I love my life in Australia and I have no intention of returning to New Zealand but I'm still treatedas a temporary resident

Joy Brown

Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-20

My husband has worked since we got here & no we're not gonna ditch his salary just to jump on the benefit. (which a lot of Aussies seem to think that's why us kiwis are doin' this) The benefit wouldn't be enough for our family. We're paying taxes that aren't even gonna benefit us or our kids when they want to move on to gain higher education. They tell us to apply for PR...& then apply for Aus Citz. All that costs a lot of money....all to have no real chance of citizenship being granted.

Victor Tata

Morningside, Australia

2013-05-20

I'm signing because a lot of our people come here to create a better life for their families! Australia has a lot more opportunities for our children, better education for them! But we won't if we are only visa holders. A lot of kiwis put in a lot of effort into Australia, we have stepped out of our comfort zone to be here. Please don't make it any harder then it has to be. Where has the ANZAC spirit gone? Are we only valuable when it comes to fighting...?

Kendra Churchward

Wanganui, New Zealand

2013-05-20

My son was born in Australia to an Australian father, and due to the lack of government support for kiwi parents like myself I had to move back to New Zealand splitting my son and his father apart where I feel it far more beneficial to have them live close to each other.

Marie Pene

Australia

2013-05-20

Because I'm looking for parity - I pay the same taxes, work just as hard, and positively contribute just as much as other citizens, yet my children and I are not allowed the same education benefits or NDIS cover.

Renee Conole

Australia

2013-05-20

We moved to Australia intending it to be a permanent move and would like when we have been here long enough to be able to vote and make our voice heard in elections also just as some security for ourselves if the laws change and we find ourselves having to move back to NZ or have difficulties with work.

Grant Tayles

Australia

2013-05-20

Have young kids that won't be able to access student loans or anything like that when they come of age

Kylie Hill

Australia

2013-05-20

I am a NZ who came here after 2001 and I have two children, one born here the other was 5 months old when we came over.

Melissa Abraham Toni-Jaye Kohu

Napier, New Zealand Tauranga, New Zealand

2013-05-20 2013-05-20

Looking to move to Aussie in the near future im a NZ citizen and i think this will or even try and help us as two different nationalities and neighbouring countries come together as one and start being treated equally the same. I had also lived in Australia most of my childhood years and i loved it. this will also give me an opportunity to bring my family to Australia and i think all children, teenagers and their parents should be able to get the same assistance as anyone that is a citizen of Australia especially if us parents are working hard and paying taxes as well. our children are our future and they need to better there education where they can and at the moment our NZ children cant get any assistance at all in Australia

Philip Thomas

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-20

My daughter was Australian born and my son and his family now live in Australia

Manawa Ohia

Tanah Merah, Australia

2013-05-20

I have been living here in Australia for 5 years with my family of 8. We would love to be able to become Australian citizens

wendy campbell

Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-20

my family and have come to call australia our home and would love to beable to be apart of it as all other australian citizens are

Name Winifred Cocker

Location Napier, New Zealand

Date 2013-05-20

Comment I have grandchildren born and living in australia who will contribute to the Australian economy and pay taxes but get none of the benefits of doing so. i also have a daughter over in Australia who works hard and also contributes to the Australian economy via taxes and she will also be ineligible for any benefits from the government. Total discrimination of hard working New Zealanders who are contributing to Aussie economy.....sort it out Australia!!

Suliana Maharaj Allan Tayles

Australia Waterford, Australia

2013-05-20 2013-05-20

Kids future Unskilled kiwi family living in Brisbane with no chance of becoming citizens under current law

Fiona Smith

Australia

2013-05-20

This country is where I have chosen to spend the rest of my life and as a tax payer and a home owner I would like a right to vote on who governs and what happens to my rates. I can't do that unless I am a citizen which I wholeheartedly want to be.

Eleanor Carney

Australia

2013-05-20

So many Kiwi's live and sustain our community so I believe that they should have the same right to citizenship as other immigrants

Anne Frandi=Coory Donavin Hillgrove

Australia Australia

2013-05-20 2013-05-20

Because I have three married children & six grandchildren living in Australia For the well being of the family and to be able to live bring up my family with less concerns for our future.

Kate Hitchings Elisander Thompson Dennis Hape Royal

Australia Australia Levin, New Zealand, New Zealand

2013-05-20 2013-05-20 2013-05-20

For my children's education and future living in Australia University access Family & National Relationships. Positive Community Growth.

rose murray Karen Burney Dan Wetzelberger suzanne gerrard Alice Dawson

Australia Australia Nelson, New Zealand Perth, Australia Australia

2013-05-20 2013-05-20 2013-05-20 2013-05-20 2013-05-20

be fair, NZ doesn't treat Australians this way if they decide to live there. To make citizenship easier for my family and I to obtain My friends and family in Australia deserve a fair shot at citizenship. Equality My grandfather was Australian, and my uncles all fought to keep Australia and New Zealand a free country as we were brought up beleiving that Australia and New Zealand where enduring mates and partners, since colonisation New Zealand and Australia have been together, New Zealand was governed by Australia from Sydney they where always part of our history and always will be. I have lived here permenently for the last 10 years and so have all my children and grandchildren, brothers and sisters and their children, we understand and support the autralian way and lifestyle.

Valeria Davidov

Gold Coast, Australia

2013-05-20

I have lived in Australia for 8 years. I paid taxes and I am bringing my expertise as well as I bought a house and would like to become one of them but presently it is forbidden

Lee-Ann Rapana

Palm Beach, Australia

2013-05-20

Because I have lived in Australia for twenty years. My mothers father was Australian and I am proud of Australian culture and heritage. 17 years ago I had a daughter here who is a Australia citizen. I want to be a Australian citizen and love my life in Australia. We pay taxes here have done so for years and my sons are professional sportsman here also. I believe we are a assets to this beautiful country.

Samantha Eaton

New Farm, Australia

2013-05-20

I've lived and worked in Australia for over 5 years, I want to be able to study and give more back to society but can't afford it. My mother is Australian and yet that doesn't make it easier to become a citizen. Most kiwis don't want to become citizens to go on the dole- they'd just stay in NZ for that, they want a better life and to make something of themselves.

Name Louisa Gudgeon

Location Glen Iris, Australia

Date 2013-05-21

Comment Me and my husband and children have lived here for 26 years and our two youngest ones are Australians and all our grandchildren love Aussie

Helen Verhagen

Australia

2013-05-21 we need to allow children born in Australia to NZ Citizens to be allowed to be Australian citizens especially when their parents are long term residents of Australia. NZ Citizens who have established themselves as permanent residents should be able to access and have Australian citizenship

Rosie Peseta

Australia

2013-05-21

Its important to me, my family and the future of my children to get them into Tertiary education.

Fayth Tuaoi

Australia

2013-05-21

My husband and I intend on becoming Australian Citizens. We migrated here in 2005, and would appreciate it if the legislation for New Zealander's to become citizens here in this great country were a bit easier - it's very costly and then there is a stand-down period on top of the many years we have already been here. It is very important for us to become citizens as our children will be born here in the near future and we want them to feel like they already belong here 'legally'. Thank you :)

Michelle Pollard

Stuart Park, Australia

2013-05-21

This is important to me as I have made the tough decision after living in Aus for 8 years to take up university study in Aus. I work 2 jobs to be able to live and pay for uni and it is difficult. I would like other kiwis to have the opportunity to access at least one of HECS or AuStudy if attending university and then staying on to work in Australia.

Daisy Taufoou

Regents Park, Australia

2013-05-21

Would like my children and others who are born in Australia to have a fair go and be eligible for grants etc that would give them a good start in their own careers.

Ivan Pohatu Fran Barrile

Underwood, Australia Australia

2013-05-21 2013-05-21

This is an injustice I feel as though new zealand is almost part of our country anyway..and if those that do it the rite way and want to become Australian should be allowed to stay here..

Kelvin Sparks

Australia

2013-05-21

I own two companies here and employ staff, pay taxes...I am 55 and am not allowed citizinship

Tania Burney Lorna Cookson

Piccadilly, Australia Australia

2013-05-21 2013-05-21

Access to a chat about Oz Kiwi Because I didnt about this till way after I arrived. I arrived in 2006 and have been working here ever since and feel so vulnerable if anything should happen like sickness, injury etc. I think it very unfair that we get treated like this.

Glen Stevenson

Australia

2013-05-21

because if they let us live here for the rest of our lives we should be entitled to citizenship after a period of time. plus if u have children what rights do they have??

Emele Leilua

Wyndham Vale, Australia

2013-05-21

Because Im a Kiwi in Oz with NZ born kids and want them to get the Education they want without having to go back to NZ : ( FAIR GO MAAATE!

David Reiman Glenda McCallion

Gawler, Australia Wanganui, New Zealand

2013-05-21 2013-05-21

Because its the right thing to do. Linda is a bloody hard working, very educated, educated herself by the way, with her own money, and has a huge amount of professionalism and skill, of which she has already proven, to give to Australia, her children also live in Australia, of which they have given 100% in their careers and should not be condemned for trying to give their all to Australia. Give them a break!

Name Gina Allison

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-21

Comment My daughter who has been officially recognised as a gifted and talented student and studies at a prestigious IB school, would like the option to remain in Australia with her family and to study at a university of her choice that provides her with courses that she wants to study. If she is forced to go home, she may well be on her own and faced with less options. She may well become one of Australia's leading experts in aeronautics or engineering or whatever she pursues and will more likely stay here to work and give back to the Australian community than if she was forced to return to NZ. As her parent, I contribute by working for Australian companies, I pay my taxes. Australians who live in NZ for 2 years are entitled to social welfare! Surely our children should be able to take a loan to potentially provide brain power to Australia. Come on Australian and NZ government, sort it out. Do you want non-working young adults and increasing poverty in Australia or students working towards greater goals for all!

Pamela Donald

Carina, Australia

2013-05-21

I'm a kiwi living in Australia, I've been here 6 years, paid taxes, contributed to society and am not entitled to the benefits that my tax money goes towards. I totally understand why I'm not entitled to certain things as soon as I step off the plane but at least give us hard working kiwis something after 5-10 years??

nelson davis Brad Kelson

Australia Australia

2013-05-21 2013-05-21

I would like to vote for a better future for my children. My partner is Kiwi, and we are dis-advantaged as a gay couple and that it is difficult to get citizenship with our relationship also not recognised.

Mereana Hardiman Cara Petrie-Eaton

Rotorua, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-21 2013-05-21

I fail to see whats so wrong with it. As a tax paying member of my community, we moved here to make a better life in Australia. I just want to know if things do go wrong, we have the same rights as other 'permanent residents' even though we don't meet the pr or citizenship requirements. At least have reciprocal rights as Australians do in NZ

Alexandra Bruce Glenda Jordan-Winitana Lee McDougall

Auckland, New Zealand Greenacre, Australia Sydney, Australia

2013-05-21 2013-05-21 2013-05-21

New Zealand ANZAC...that's why! It guts me not being able to vote in the Federal Elections when I am contributing to Australian society in EVERY other way!!!

Lorne Sialeipata

Cringila, Australia

2013-05-21

Been here 13yrs and bought a House and my Son was born here but was not allowed an Australian Passport...WTH

Huia Russell

Cairns, Australia

2013-05-21

My children want to stay and live in Australia and be go got citizenship I know I can apply or even be permanent resident as I am over 50 but I have come to love this country like I do NZ. Australians in New Zealand get the same rights and access to help or benefits if it is needed so we should be treated the same.

Christine Pita Paul Walker

Wentworthville, Australia Australia

2013-05-21 2013-05-21

Because I call Australia Home I march on ANZAC day... We will remember them and honor them and their sons and daughters, and welcome them...

Joella Dahlberg

Tauranga, New Zealand

2013-05-22

We have family in Australia and their children are approaching the ages of tertiary level. We may also wish to migrate to Australia one day, and it would be good to know that our children will have the same opportunities as Australian children in NZ.

Malcolm Goddard

Australia

2013-05-22

2 classes of immigrant should not be permitted in modern Australia

Name Pare Tutu

Location Point Cook, Australia

Date 2013-05-22

Comment I have lived here with my husband and 7 children for 10 years. 4 of my children now work. We have contributed to Australia's economy quite significantly and would like to have a voice when it comes to decision making within our community and Australia. Our children would like to attend university, they have all done most if their schooling here, but due to the enormous outlay and no assistance, they have been unable to. My youngest child was born with Biliary Atresia, liver failure, and due to not being a permanent resident I have been unable to get a health care card for him. And now we are told our tax is going up to cater for disabilities. We have a child with a disability, we will pay higher taxes, but we will not get assistance!! Where is the equality?

Victoria Lawrence

Australia

2013-05-22

Moved permanently to Australia 2003, have worked full time and pay taxes so expect to be looked after as a citizen

shem okane

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-22

more options as a NZer in aussy, making the gap for transition over for work / better lifestyle easyer

brad cottam

christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-22

ANZAC spirit.

Mervyn Davis

Lara, Australia

2013-05-22

to know that when I retire that I can get the same benefits (Seniors) as everyone else. after living here for 10 years already and paying tax's

Kerry L

Altona Meadows, Australia

2013-05-22

I have a friend who needs the help

Annette Bell

Masterton, New Zealand

2013-05-22

Because I am moving to Australia and feel that as we in NZ give Australians the same rights as kiwis, so should the Australians to Kiwis!

Tim Savage

Australia

2013-05-22

I have lived and worked in Australia for almost 10 years the majority of my working (and tax paying) life. While I'm expected to pay tax I am not able to get the benefits that I'm paying for. NZ and Australia together have a proud history of standing together.

sharona kopara

Australia

2013-05-22

I agree with this petition is why i am signing it today and inviting others. I am a New Zealand citizen and i think we are treated poorly here in oz, despite paying taxes renting private houses and i tell you now its not cheap on top of your bills. In New Zealand, ozzies are treated with more respect just like anyone else, we are neighbours but i don't see the fairness within nz people's rights when living here, and its so sad if say our jobs were loss through the companies doing we ould hve no choice but to go home, but theres nothing back home for me and my family, which is why we made the move.

lynn Le Gros

Australia

2013-05-22

I moved here with my husband in April 2005 to be in a warmer climate from Christchurch.Luckily we did. The house we sold to move here is to be knocked down due to earthquake damage. We love the life style, the people and living in this beautiful country and have always worked and paid our taxes and don't expect a free ride.We would like to become citizens after living here for 8 years now. This is not possible for us which makes us feel vulnerable at times. Australia is home to us. We have 2 married daughters and 5 grand children living close by. My sister and brother in law, My husbands brother, wife and children also. Most of our family live in Australia now. We are both in our late 50's and being near family in our later years is very important to us and them. Please allow us a fair pathway to citizenship. Thank you

Name Jacqui Davis

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-22

Comment We need to have a fair and non Discriminatory Law for all New Zealand Citizens living working paying tax's to the Australian Govt age should not be a barrier to getting Aus residency or Citizenship. We should have a welfare and health saftey net accorded to all those New Zealander's that pay tax's living in Australia. As things stand for New Zealanders anyone over the age of 45 will never access Aus Residency or Citizenship this is Discrimination. Any New Zealander who is disabled or has ill health is discriminated against in the health and Welfare area's. as a Kiwi we have experianced being close to being homeless when my husband took sick with a mild heart attack as it happened off the job there was no work cover and we had to survive on savings and holiday pay for 8 weeks.. we had no insurance cover as most insurance company's only Insure Australian Residents/Citizens we cannot access these Insurance policies. We as New Zealander's deserve the same rights as every other hard working law abiding tax paying person living here in Australia. Yes we get a medicard free Drs and access to Public Hospital treatment but thats where it stops for most New Zealanders. There needs to be change to this Feb 2001 Law for New Zealander's such as ourselves caught up in this Feb 2001 Law discriminating against us. We chose to come here to Australia to better our lives and contribute to this beautiful Country we now call home. Go Home Kiwi is NOT the Answer.

Ralph Lennan

Mooloolaba, Australia

2013-05-22

I live in Australia, support Australia in most sports, pay taxes, run my own business employing Australians and wish to become an Australian allowing me the same rights as my "fellow" countrymen, including the right to vote.

Radhika Tevita

Australia

2013-05-22

Kiwis are the highest employed of all migrant groups. Being discriminated against by scrupulous migrants to NZ who have used the system to gain back door entry to Australia while born and raised Kiwis lose their previously held benefits. I was brought here by an Australian company because I am skilled at my job, pay taxes in a top bracket & my Australian born child will have to wait till she is 10 before she can get a passport. I speak english & contribute alot more to this economy than a lot of people in my neighbourhood that's for sure.

Megan Aspin

Springfield Lakes, Australia

2013-05-22

As I am living in Australia and have been for the last 6 years

Name martin peri

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-22

Comment

My wife and I had planned, researched our move to Australia in 2000 and were convinced that our 4 children would benefit from the employment and education opportunities here in Australia. My family and I began to plan our move to Australia in 2001 unaware of political changes being made on our behalf, this vital information would have given us reason to reconsider our plans. During this period we had sold our family home in Northland, which left us debt free, and had minimal return, I relocated my family to Auckland 2002 for higher paying jobs and to further my oldest child's education, our target date for moving to Australia was 2007. During the period of 2002 - 2007 we had done extensive research on Australian employment requirements, accomodation, and our kids education/ schooling. The city we chose to move to was Melbourne as it had exactly what we were looking for. Nov 2007- we were homeless, jobless and on our way to an exciting and new beginning, everything and everyone we loved were left behind, my wife and 4 children with all our worldly possessions in 6 suitcases, unfortunately no family were in Melbourne to greet us as our families immigrated to the warmer climates, Brisbane, Perth and Sydney. But we had saved and paid to live at a resort in country Victoria, Ballarat, about a 2 hour train ride from Melbourne CBD. Because I hadn't secured a job, land agents were apprehensive at the prospect of offering us accomodation in Melbourne, we had no choice but to offer a higher rate than advertised for house rental and pay 2 months in advance for security, which left us with just enough for school uniforms and fees, after all everything was paid and signed and school enrolments, we were down to our last $20.00 of savings and had maxed out our credit card, and were determined to this without family and government assistance. Praise God, I had secured a job and my daughters partner secured casual employment, we then initiated Phase 2 of our plan to start saving for our kids homes. March 2013 - All our children are currently employed full-time/ part-time our youngest at high school, our oldest 2 and their partners have purchased their first home here in Melbourne and have plans to have second home within 5 years, to do this we are all living together and contributing toward mortgage collectively, we envision our children to be financially independent within 10 years, and me and my teenage sweetheart (my wife) are eagerly awaiting for our grandchildren, life is good. Currently I have a work related back injury, 3 herniated discs in my spine which to the nature of my job, restricts me from continual lifting, stacking and bending, it scares me because after 12 months on work cover, which covers physio treatment and subsides my pay, I am required to fulfill my employed hours but on restricted duties, I'll have to apply for assistance from Centrelink, which now I am not eligible because of changes made on my behalf to immigration rules that came into effect 2001. I am 47 years old and arrived in Australia aged 41, in three years I will be unable to apply for permanent residency because of my age and am unskilled, has my time/ luck run out in my new country, what more do we have to contribute to our new country to give us security and peace of mind, do I have to leave my family and go back and try to start again in NZ, with a debilitating life sentence. I am not asking for a handout but to please put a human face, a human story, to our predicament.

Callum Maaka

Australia

2013-05-22

I'm a Taxpayer in this Country too

Name Vera Lavatai Sue Lynch

Location Australia Dunedin, New Zealand

Date 2013-05-22 2013-05-22

Comment Very important to me and to every Kiwis children future My two Children live in Australia. They pay huge taxes and have made a valuable professional contribution to the work force where Australian's were not trained. They are really pay high taxes so the unemployed etc in Australia get benefits. Give them a fair deal ,just as the Australians here get.

katherine lynch

brisbane, Australia

2013-05-22

Hi there, I have been working in Australia for over 5 years now when I reached the 4 year mark I finally thought I could become a citizen and have the right to vote! But once I looked into it I realized I had to pay thousands to be a resident and then thousands more to be a citizen! I was actually dumbfounded and knowing I support at least three Australians a week on the tax I pay alone and that if I suddenly lost my job I would have to move home because I had no support here was hard to comprehend. The government should do some sort of means test like they do with everything else im taxed for and let kiwis who have been here a long time & paid over a certain amount of tax to be treated like any Australian and not like a lower class citizen. cheers

Kim Tipoki Ataneta Motu

Australia Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-22 2013-05-22

To gain the same privilege and benefits that Australians have. Because its just NOT fair what Australia is doing to NZers. Kiwis work, pay taxes so they should be treated fairly

BLAIR CROSSAN

Australia

2013-05-22

I would like to become a permanent resident and citizen as I have been paying taxes since arriving in the country!

ELLEN CROSSAN Jamil Ferris

Australia Eatons Hill, Australia

2013-05-22 2013-05-22

I pay taxes so feel I have a right to vote I consider Australia my home, I pay taxes and I believe we Kiwis contribute to society and we deserve to be recognized. We want a fair go

Nick Thomson Kate Wood

Blenheim, New Zealand Wynnum West, Australia

2013-05-22 2013-05-22

Because i want to come over to Australia to live with my brothers. I pay taxes just like any Australian citizen, i consider myself Australian but cannot actually be one, my children are born in Australia and still cannot be citizens!

Sallly Birch

Mooloolaba, Australia

2013-05-22

Want to become an Australian Citizen so I can embrace the Australian way of life completely - and not feeling like an outsider.

Patrick Gildea

Adelaide, Australia

2013-05-22

I feel like I can't fully relax and call Australia my home with our a pathway to PR and Citizenship. I always worry about overseas travel encase they change the Laws when I go on Holiday and I get locked out or end up with even less rights in Australia.

Jen Toy

St Helier, Jersey

2013-05-23

My cousin and her family are New Zealanders living in Australia, contributing to the country in many ways, they should be allowed full residency just like any other person would be.

Beryl Chase Wayne Coutts

Hemmant, Australia Adelaide, Australia

2013-05-23 2013-05-23

I'm am a long term resident in australia I'm paying Australian Taxes and should be able to enjoy the priviledge of being and Australian citizen

Socheata Renouf Gordon Noble Kylie Ridings

Australia Wyndham Vale, Australia Labrador, Australia

2013-05-23 2013-05-23 2013-05-23

Inequality is unacceptable under any description. It just is So my daughter who has spent her whole schooling life ins Australia and knows Australia as her home can have the option to study here and obtain HECS. That is my only reason, I would also like the opportunity to vote on things that ultimately affect my family.

Name Shontelle Norris

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-23

Comment My father is Australian Citizen, my mother will be applying for partner visa soon... I can't get Australian Citizenship by Descent because my father didn't apply his Australian Citizenship before I was born. I can't apply for Remaining Relative Visa because of my two brothers still lives in NZ. I have been living in Australia for 6 years+. My job isn't listed for PR. We Kiwis need a pathway of becoming Permanent Resident Visa and Australian Citizenship. Australian born Grandma. Australia is my home and I am 1/4 Australian unofficially thru descent of my father and

Philippa Frew

Australia

2013-05-23

Because I plan on living here forever, my child was born here, I pay tax and everything else

ana wilsomn

Australia

2013-05-23

I am nz born and so is my son but he will grow up in Australia and i want him allowed all the educational options (student loans if need be) available.

Stephanie Betts michael warnock

Gold Coast, Australia Australia

2013-05-23 2013-05-23

I am a nzder living in Oz after 2001 i want the same rights and benefits that Australian's receive back in new zealand

Jason Beveridge Caroline Hollick

Australia Auckland NZ, New Zealand

2013-05-23 2013-05-23

In the interest of fairness. We may have our disagreements but lets be honest if the Kiwi's can make an attempt to support the Aussies the it should be vice versa

Jane Williams

Australia

2013-05-23

My husband and two children moved to Australia 6 years ago, I want my children who are now teenagers to be able to vote and have access to HEX Debt. My husband is a high earner and pays significant tax, I would just like to have the same rights in Australia as we did in New Zealand.

Audra Duncan

Kingston, Australia

2013-05-23

Because its not fair that we get charged for everything like an australian does(tax etc) but get charged x3+ 4 higher learning etc!

Tracey Murphy

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-23

I am a Kiwi living in Australia and enjoy it here and I have no ties back in NZ if anything happened to me I would be disadvantaged.

Alice George

Australia

2013-05-23

We have been in Sydney since November 1988 and from there our family has grown. one 19 year old and 3 mokopuna .6,8 &9 years old.Much a concern

Ian petrieIanPetrie Chris Ford Len Houghton

Noosaville, Australia Dunedin, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-23 2013-05-23 2013-05-23

We stand together? I have family in Australia and I wish them to be treated with equity and fairness. If you contribute you should have the right to choose to be a citizen. Thjey allow refugees to become Aussies

Felicia Twomey

Australia

2013-05-23

I believe I am, like most other New Zealanders an integral part of the economic status in Australia. My husband and I work hard, pay our taxes, buy mainly Australian products for exception of comforts from home, yet we are unable to access many things that other immigrants can. We arrived here on a plane and used the front door, but are put to the back as far as accessing certain services.

Georgia Williams

Australia

2013-05-23

Being able to become an Australian Citizen will be a great help to me with my future education fees and aid me to build a good foundation for my future at university.

Janice Sinclair

Australia

2013-05-23

It is important for my family, they work here and have done for nearly 9 years, paid taxes, have their own business, put their employees through courses and yet they have no fall back if either of them go into financial crisis. They have no intention of returning to NZ and love this beautiful country.

Tui Puru

Papakura, New Zealand

2013-05-23

I think we should have the same privilege's that we offer them

Name Scott Woodhouse

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-23

Comment This is a racially discriminatory law esp in light of the NDIS which we are required to pay into but ineligible ti claim. This is in itself should be against the law.

Miriama Moon

Altona Meadows, Australia

2013-05-23

Kiwi living in Oz just wanting a fair go and a chance to give my children a better life and more opportunities.

Tracey Petrie

Australia

2013-05-23

This is my home now - I'm bringing up my kiwi son here - we should be able to have same rights as Aussies do in NZ.

Kirsten MacDonald

Pacific Pines, Australia

2013-05-23

Hard working tax paying Kiwis are not looking for handouts, just a safety net for our children should accident or injury prevent us from continuing to work. As a tertiary educator, I support student loans (not handouts) for children whose parents are Kiwis and are long term contributors to Aussie taxes. NZ treats Australia's children like their own. Please consider the same in return.

Jodie Burke

Australia

2013-05-23

My husband of 9 years is a non-protected scv holder who moved here in 2001. We have 2 Australian children. The kids and I would all like their Dad to become an aussie too. Seems ridiculous that there is no recognition of the 12 years he has contributed to society here, and is treated exactly the same as a temporary resident who arrived yesterday. Seems so unfair that he will soon be paying for the NDIS which he cannot access if needed. Come on Aussie government - you have been talking about changing this arrangement since 2009. Time for talking is over - time to fix this now!

Jessie Brown Tamera Kiri Tony Naea Rosen Hepi

South Hedland, Australia Mudgeeraba, Australia Melbourne, Australia Australia

2013-05-23 2013-05-23 2013-05-23 2013-05-23

To give New Zealander's a fair chance in Australia! So I can join the Australian navy. I live here and call this home now also i want my kids to fully benefit also. This will effect our iwi arrivals, which in the long run effects all of us under nation, one people.

David Williamson Lavina Eru Jessica Graham Richard Lozell

Thornlie, Australia Armadale, Australia Perth, Australia Frankston, Australia

2013-05-23 2013-05-23 2013-05-23 2013-05-23

I have lived in Australia for nearly 10 years and I want citizenship for my 3 kids. To have rights like Australians a a fair go I don't plan on moving back to nz. Australia is my home! Because I came to Australia with a pathway to citizenship and this has been ripped from under me. Love Australia but I find this law most unAustralian as do all Australians I speak to about it.

Amy Kerrison

Parkwood, Australia

2013-05-23

My family and I have lived in Australia for 9years paid taxes own property and we want our children to be able to go to Uni get student loans, get mortgages and be able to join the army if they choose, and be able to claim benefits when we need a helping hand when times are tough, and being able to become an Australian citizen is the only way to do that!! What ever happened to the ANZACS!!!!!

Micheala Gould

Perth, WA

2013-05-23

It is really unfair that kiwis working and paying taxes in Australia cannot access the Carers Allowance and it needs to be changed.

Kate Heke

Kalgoorlie, Australia

2013-05-23

Because although my son was born in NZ we are in the same boat. We pay enough taxes to be able to get support for our children with disabilities. We are not asking to live off the government we are asking for help for our children. Our future. Who will also pay taxes here in Australia.

Name Sharlene White

Location Wurruk, Australia

Date 2013-05-23

Comment My family came over here in 2006. I've been employed since then until Oct 2012 after spending 4 and a half years as a prison officer. I left my job, left there headed to WA to make money working in the mines!!!! Phewft. Came back to Vic Feb 2013. I didn't want any money from the government, just some of my super to tide me over till I found full time work. I wrote to commonwealth ombudsman, local mp, complaints department australian superfund etc pleading my case. I have no income, no job, Telstra on my back & every agency I have tried to seek help from says the same thing . . . We are govt funded and we can't help you. Every which I have turned I have had brick walls all because I am a NEW ZEALANDER. Tuesday night just past, I wanted to take my own life because I couldn't see a way out of this misery!! Salvos have helped with food, kilmany won't help with housing but can help my daughter and I get home to NZ. Quantum Support same thing. I'm over hearing "we are sorry and unfortunately we are unable to help". I have now been referred to the Community Mental Health Services to help me stay strong and get through this. I'm a KIWI and proud of it. S.White

HF

Australia

2013-05-23

We have since had 3 children here.We only moved here because my wife feared for her safety and of our 2 NZ born children (2 & 5) at the time as threats had been made to her by former partner who has a long violent criminal history.Because of this, moving back to NZ is not an option for us. I worked here and had my own business for a number of yrs but seriously injured my back about 2 yrs ago and am now on permanent medication and unable to work.My wife has not been successful with many interviews and they all now ask to see a passport or proof of citizenship.employment agency will not actively look for work for us as we are not citizens. My father completed national defence services here (AU) and served in veitnam along with all my uncles (AU citizens).My wife and I cannot apply for citizenship because we came here to live 6yrs ago.We have struggled hard to make ends meet over the past 2 yrs and have had many friends help us over this time with food and money.

Paki Waretini

Australia

2013-05-23

I am suffering from illness also and have been through a similar situation. I ecieve a pension, but cannot survive on this.

Gavin Martin

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-24

I have family including grandchildren who live in Australia. My Grandson will grow up, live and no doubt have a family but will not be eligible for benefits even though he and his parents have contributed to the economy ,

Dianne Salmon

Hastings, New Zealand

2013-05-24

if New Zealander pay taxes in Australia, they shoud be eligible for everything, that is offered to other imigrants, as New Zealand does for Austalians , when they live in New Zealand ONE RULE FOR EVERYONE

Toni Waiomio

Whangarei, New Zealand

2013-05-24

It's ok for both countries to join together in terms or war etc, yet not ok for us "neighbours" to live in each others countries. STUPID if you ask me!!

Tina Taane

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-24

My fellow countrymen who have chosen to go to Australia should be given the same opportunities as those who choose to come to New Zealand. FAIRNESS all round.

Amanda Barlow

Sydney, Australia

2013-05-24

I have two children born in Australia - who consider Australia to be their home. We have worked here and have been law abiding citizens for 11 years! My children want to attend University here and contribute to 'their home'.

emma fenwick

Australia

2013-05-24

to secure my children's future and our families future

Name Kelly George

Location Boulder, Australia

Date 2013-05-24

Comment My oldest child has just starting high school. He has lived in Australia for 9 years out of his 13 years. I am really one starting to worry about how we will pay for university fees if he wants to do further study. I worked in a bank doing loans and I was always processing loans for Kiwis parents trying to help their kids further their education. An education for your children shouldn't come at the cost of 15% interest.

Leon Gimblett

Preston, Australia

2013-05-24

Because this issue affects me as well. I pay the same taxes and I want the same rights. If I arrived as a boat person and didn't contribute to this country I would have these rights. Where's the justice? How about making some of the Australians that have never known anything but centrelink and housing commission lifestyles know what it's like to be us. Tax payers. Wake up Gillard

Michelle Culpan John Tanner

Melbourne, Australia Tyrone, AZ

2013-05-24 2013-05-24

I am a Kiwi living in Australia Completely agree with Stanice Taylor, why are Poms not afforded the same rights as Kiwis? We founded the nation and fought side by side with you in wars? It is discriminatory. I think Kiwis have got the best deal going.

Karen Peihopa

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-24

I have children and moko over there and another child with medical issues wanting to go there.

Sue Clark

Eagleby, Australia

2013-05-24

I also moved to Australia in 2003 and have three children born in Australia so cannot become an Australian. It sucks!

Julie Lintott

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-24

It should be fair and work both ways, the NZ govt doesn't use such barbaric conditions when Aussies choose to live in NZ, an eye for a eye I say.

Alastair Patterson Blair Bauer

Australia Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-24 2013-05-24

I am a New Zealander caught in this trap As a kiwi who is preparing to move to Australia i want legitimate opportuntiy to settle.

Cole Pierce

Sydney, Australia

2013-05-24

To Brendan Hilder: Your comments have been removed from this petition because this petition is explicitly for people who think that the Australian Government should change laws to provide kiwi's a fair pathway to citizenship. If you have a different view (which you do), you are more than welcome to contact MP's and express that view. Don't expect to come here and be allowed to distract from the real issues facing real people.

Helen Diment

South Australia, Australia

2013-05-24

I was an Australian living in NZ, and I was treated as a full resident. Why can't this extend both ways?

Simone Faure

Australia

2013-05-24

Married to an Australian with two Australian (born here) children it worries me that at some point in the future I may no longer have the right to reside here with them. I would like to be able to give myself some guarantees

Jeanne-Marie Marsden

Australia

2013-05-24

The policies need to be changed .to reflect fair and equal status to all New Zealanders now living in Australia, that we are not treated as second rate citizens.

Trudy Barnett Shane Green

Para Hills, Australia Elsternwick, Australia

2013-05-24 2013-05-24

Kiwi living in aust. For last 27 yrs As a Kiwi living in Australia and contributing to society and paying the same taxes as any other worker, I should be entitled to the same rights.

alice greenfield Sharon Turuwhenua lee edmonds

Australia Australia Central Coast, Australia

2013-05-24 2013-05-24 2013-05-24

kiwi living and working in australia for my mokopuna's all born in Australia, what does the future hold for them. The Kiwi's offer it to Australians in NZ, Aussies in NZ have all the benefits of NZ citizens without being Citizens...In the ANZAC Spirit the same should be affforded to Kiwi's in OZ :)

Name Peter McInroe

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-24

Comment well as I'm working here I want to work and enjoy Australia but now I can't get any help if I need it and am inelegible for citizenship because of my age and also If I ever wanted a pension I can't even claim the NZ pension here if I wanted to retire here it sucks you bust your butt and be a good citizen yet are penalised it sucks

Marty Braithwaite

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-24

This is about fairness for all

Geoffrey O'Hearn

AUSTRALIA, New Zealand

2013-05-24

the barriers between nz and aus have to come down, we get a lot from nz and they rely a lot on us, being like minded people and with the anzacs and all times are changing and laws need to change too + i'm married to a kiwi

Duane Brown

QUEENSLAND, Australia

2013-05-24

I have been here in Aus since I was brought over as a child in 1967, I have done all my schooling here,worked all my life , payed taxes, and when I was to ill to work a few years ago, I was treated like a leper when I went to centrelink for assistance , having to prove to them I was allowed to be here,Because in 1967 you didn;t need a passport, and even though my dad is Aussie, I was still treated like I should go home. This has been my home for 45 years, longer than most working at centrelink, and to make it all worse my case worker was a Kiwi! Far go to all Kiwi's!

Clare McTamney

Australia

2013-05-24

I just want to see a fair deal.... How long does one need to live in a country before they are considered worthy?

Hera Gilbert-Awatere

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-24

My son was born here in 1994 he will be 19 this year but because I don't have a piece of paper with a citizenship stamp on it he is not entitled to anything he is a NZ citizen by decent. We lived in Sydney then went back home then came back to Brisbane 6 years ago if not for our family surely for my son

Mavaega Tohilima

Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-24

My Children will also only know Australia as home. They will do all there schooling here and it will be sad that they cant get government funding for university

Sabine Kivits

Vianen, Netherlands

2013-05-24

No child should be denied the care they need because they are officially New Zealand Citizens!

Stephen McDonald

Australia

2013-05-24

I am from NZ and my wife is from Brazil. We have a daughter who has spent the majority of her life in Australia and deserves the same rights as other children who live here

scott Harvey Katrina Te Koari

Australia Australia

2013-05-24 2013-05-24

6028 We love this country, we would fight for it, stand beside our Australian brothers and sisters, unlike any other Nationality now classed as Australians. We respect the constitution and rights of Australians.

Samantha Harvey

Australia

2013-05-24

I'm Kiwi born, have been living in Australia for 5 years and am about to marry an Australian man. When we have children, I would like to think that they will receive the same treatment/rights/consideration as any other Australian born child and that they should not be disadvantaged because of the tougher rules for Kiwi's and my heritage. I work hard and pay my taxes like any other resident/citizen and just believe that the rules should receive serious consideration across the board.

pricilla numanga

Australia

2013-05-24

because we have been here almost ten years and my grand daughter was born here

Sandra Work

Australia

2013-05-24

I love living in Australia and want to make it my permanent home my children are growing up here but will be disadvantaged in the future for training and support if they need it although we pay into the tax system and also pay the levies to fund the NDIS

Name Harlia Sanft

Location Auckland, New Zealand, New Zealand

Date 2013-05-24

Comment Because I used to live in Australia.

Sarah Adams

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-24

because I've seen first hand of the poor support kiwis get in Aussie from government departments and the hoops we need to jump just to start work there. Unlike here where Aussies get free or almost free healthcare, We need to help and support our disabled in Australia as a huge part of Australia's tax paying workforce is NZ made.

Brendan Warner

Australia

2013-05-24

Nobody should live with this fear. Australia needs to grant full rights to anyone arriving to live permanently in this country from day one. If this means scrapping the TTA then so be it, and take a set number of NZ'ers per year but never put them in a situation where they could be completely helpless.

Amanda Hauwai Bernadette Williams

Manaia, New Zealand Kaiapoi, New Zealand

2013-05-25 2013-05-25

Family living in australia Because we have just brought a house over there and think we should be treated the same as Australians. Thought up until a few years ago we were.

Emma Churchill

Rangiora, New Zealand

2013-05-25

I'm an Australian by birth but have lived most of my life in NZ and have gotten citizenship here in NZ. I think the fair laws should go both ways.

Keepa Malcolm Julie van Dorp

Australia Burleigh Waters, Australia

2013-05-25 2013-05-25

Freedom to become a citizen Our family has contributed greatly to the Australian economy and therefore see why we can't have the same rights as everyone else

Janine Cook george watt

Australia Sunbury, Australia

2013-05-25 2013-05-25

Equality between NZ/Australia. Because I to wish to remain living here in Australia, I work hard pay my taxes and all my family including my 4 australian born grandkids live in Australia

Sarah Eyles

Australia

2013-05-25

After living here for 4 years, owning a home and business and paying taxes, I think it is fair and reasonable to become an Australian resident. My husband was recruited from NZ to work in Australia for the QPS, my son was born here 3 years ago, but still, we are treated like than 2nd class citizens and NOT eligible to apply for residency. CRAZY, we are NOT bludgers as talked about in the press. We pay our way and want a fair go.

Daron Brinsdon

Brighton, Australia

2013-05-25

After working here and paying taxes for 12 years my daughter will be looking to start university studies after spending her entire school career in Australia and I will want here to have the same opportunities as aussie kids.

John Williams

Australia

2013-05-25

I moved my family 6 years ago with the same trans-tasman company believing that I was doing this to provide my family a better life. Unfortunately, this is not the case. My wife and I cannot vote, we dont qualify for any Govt support should we need, all while paying significant taxes that fund this support. My children are missing out on the same ability to participate in the society that they live in! C'mon Australia, you are embarrassing yourselves! Offer the Kiwis in Australia the same as Aussies in New Zealand.

Pare Tumai Mylie George

Halls Head, Australia Whangarei, New Zealand

2013-05-25 2013-05-25

I agree with this petition We pay the same taxes like everyone else and have contributed to the nation. This is discrimination and to a fellow Anzac is pathetic. This reaks of John keys trying to stop kiwis migrating to oz for better job opportunities and an easier life.

Name Marie Andrews

Location Brighton-Le-Sands, Australia

Date 2013-05-25

Comment I arrived in december 2000, just before the new laws kicked in with the new conditions that new kiwis wanting to live in Australia had to obey. Even so, the govt still won't allow me to consider a student loan to be able to take up further studies to better myself & my life, yet will openly help themselves to my hard earned pay by taxing such amounts.. When will there be fairness amongst kiwis and Aussies living in each others countries?? Fair dinkum.

amanda christie

Maroochydore, Australia

2013-05-25

because my daughter deserves the same rights as her peers. she has already lived here over half her life. The choice to reside here was ours not her's.

Nita Fairburn

Australia

2013-05-25

My sons and grand children are Australian Citizens. I work and contribute to society through taxes and volunteering organisations.

Christina Kirkwood Sarah Leonardo

Kelmscott, Australia Sydney, Thailand

2013-05-25 2013-05-25

Australian government to change the laws for NZ citizenship Because I'm living in Australia. If I become very ill or lost my job, I have no rights to stand on.

Anna Parkinson

Upper Coomera, Australia

2013-05-25

If its ok for kiwis to work and contribute to the economy then they should be entitled to be eligible for citizenship automatic or otherwise.

Beth Lewis Joseph Miller

Hamilton, New Zealand Fitzroy, Australia

2013-05-25 2013-05-25

My son and daughterinlaw are having my aussie grandchild I hate feeling like a second-class member of Aussie society, even though I contribute heavily

Kathy Cook Geoffrey Barton

Dakabin, Australia Australia

2013-05-25 2013-05-25

Because everyone should be treated equally I live here ,am a tax payer and I support Australia. Im not here as a refugee or a blugder

Stephen Rangihuna

Sydney, Australia

2013-05-25

Other nationalities are able to attain citizenship and New Zealanders are the most loyal friends Australia have!

Jenny Coats

Australia

2013-05-25

When we live here long term and contribute to the economy it goes hand in hand that we should be able to become citizens at some stage down the track rather than never.

Jarrod Tapson

Australia

2013-05-25

I have completed my schooling here in Australia but can go no further with my education unless i pay for it, i cant even get an apprenticeship of i am Kiwi, dont get me wrong i am proud to b a kiwi i just want a fair go in Australia

Kim Marino

Taigum, Australia

2013-05-25

I am a New Zealander who have two babies that were born here in Australia. I am a tax payer and would like to become a permanant resident but the legal crap that stops me from doing so. I also have personal reasons why i am signing but too personal to make public.

Kendra Clark

Australia

2013-05-26

I have lived in Australia for lose to 6 years now. I want to go to Uni, however it's going to be difficult to pay for myself. My sister wants to be in the RAAF but that is impossible until she gets a citizenship. She wants to fight to defend Australia, but she gets repaid by having difficulties to get into there...CHANGE THIS!

anne callagher ISABEL CRISTINA Barbosa

Kerikeri, New Zealand Goinia, Brazil

2013-05-26 2013-05-26

to have same rights as Ozzies have here. I have a Kiwi friend who lives in Australia with his family for many year. He contributes with paying taxes and intents to live in Australia forever, so I think it is just that he got the citizenship since it will be a benefit to the State as well as for him and his family.

Rachel Hawea Martin Hakaraia Carmen Stirling

Brisbane, Australia Dulwich Hill, Australia Australia

2013-05-26 2013-05-26 2013-05-26

I have paid taxes here in Australia since 2005 Have been living and paying tax in Australia for 4 years now I am a Kiwi I living and work in Australia, and like every other Tax payer I would like the same rights.

Name Hayley Waugh

Location Cannonvale, Australia

Date 2013-05-26

Comment As a kiwi living in Australia, I wish for the same citizenship rights. If I am good enough to pay taxes and levies, why am I not considered good enough for citizenship?

Stacey Harper

Kallangur, Australia

2013-05-26

Single mum (no family in Australia) that cannot return to NZ because of custodial reasons. But cannot get financial support to stay in Australia. The only way I will be able to survive is to move back to NZ but leave my children behind. I cannot afford child care and work demands that I work nights and weekends.

Maru Turner Mark Richards

Perth, Australia Mount Helen, Australia

2013-05-26 2013-05-26

I live and work in Australia and have done so for over two years As I arrived in October 2002, just after these changes, I have been paying all my tax in Australia ever since. I don't have the right to vote in Australia, yet I do in NZ and I've not lived there for over 10 years.

Martin Eagle

Waipukurau, New Zealand

2013-05-26

sick of being f#@ked over by blind Aussie politicians

Lynne Mcnay

Windale, Australia

2013-05-26

My husband is an NZ citizen which myself and child are dependant on, if he loses his job, myself and my daughter being Australian citizens will fall into hardship!! Please change the laws and allow my NZ husband to become a rightful Australian citizen!!!

Mandy Salesa

Perth, Australia

2013-05-26

If we pay tax we should receive the same treatment as any other member of society. If we commit crimes are we exempt under the Australian justice system too...no way!! So fairs fair!

Rachel Singh

Beaudesert, Australia

2013-05-26

NZ gives Aussies a chance to voting and benefits why not Aussies do the same be nice back. Asylum seekers get a better pay from the government than we do and they are living illegally...if we live illegally we get kicked out...if not kicked out we are getting pushed out as government is withholding taxes and taxes have gone up for kiwis only...is it fair...I have made my new home in Aussie I love it but the government is not being fair to us .. I thought we were neighbors ...love thy neighbor. Not NZ be nice to Aussies and Aussies try to kick us out...is it fair no, if one is nice to u, u be nice back, fair is fair , goes two ways not one.

Darrel Warren

Seymour, Australia

2013-05-26

We have lived here now for 10years, really enjoy living in Country Victoria. Both our daughters want to join the Defence Force (1 through ADFA and 1 via the Navy) but are denied even the chance of applying (not even knowing if could through the process) because we are "kiwis" on a SCV. With the defence force wanting females, and recent "skype" incidences, it doesn't stop them wanting to defend "their country". Aussies living in NZL are considered permanent after 5yrs, but we are not, CER doesn't work it seems to be one way, if NZL was to do what is done here I bet the media storm would be horrific.

Kimberley Robinson NGAWAINA MARTINCHAPMAN Nicky Jodczyk

Australia Australia

2013-05-26 2013-05-26

Australians in New Zealand are looked after, why not the other way around? MY MOKOS WERE BORN HERE

Toowoomba, Australia

2013-05-26

My son is a Australian citizen.. I am a kiwi.. a single parent with little help from the government.. I've been living in Australia since 2007.. it would be nice to have the security and possible financial support to raise my son

Name Hone Heke

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-26

Comment Coz as Anzacs we both our countries need to have each others backs? We make sure Aussies are taken care of in NZ. Same should be for NZ citizens here. YEour nation has so many differant races with all theyr diffrant dramas that come with them? The Muslims being one of them? Kiwi' are just the same mentality as Aussies. Lets unite and keep our end of the world safe together? Mr Hone Heke

Pip Williams

Westmere, New Zealand

2013-05-26

My son lives in Australia at present. I would prefer that he settles in NZ but if he settles with a girl from Oz I think he should be eligible for benefits that his girl is eligible for, while in Oz.

edna collis Jarrod King

Auckland, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-26 2013-05-26

because they pay there taxes and get nothing in return People who pay tax employ every single member of the government and its agencies. Govt needs to learn how to respect its employers.

Elliot Hudson

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-26

I am a Kiwi living, working and paying tax in Australia. I want to be a proactive part of society, have the securities and opportunities provided to other nations without restrictions of my NZ passport

Meg Cornthwaite

Brunswick Heads, Australia

2013-05-26

I've been living and working here for nine years. My partner is Australian and our two children born and citizens here, but what would happen to them if we lost their dad or myself became disabled??

Helen Dickson

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-26

I have only lived here for 2 years but I pay taxes like all working people do, so I believe that as I am contributing to this country then I should have the same rights as Australian citizens. I believe there should be a waiting period for citizenship, but a realistic amount of time not forever.

Debra Duncan

Nollamara, Australia

2013-05-26

After living in Australia for 6 years we have been turned down for the disability carers allowance for which we are eligible - except we are kiwis. I believe we should be entitled to the same benefits that NZ affords Australian citizens residing in NZ

Kerry D

Nollamara, Australia

2013-05-26

I have grand children in Perth and intend to retire here to spend time with them. I work full time, pay full taxes and get no benefits at all. I have a wife with a visual disability and she is unable to work and needs assistance etc. no support or carers allowances available as we are Kiwis. Will more than likely have to move back to NZ if there's no change in the law.

Martin Fey

Hillsborough, New Zealand

2013-05-26

This is just cold hearted and causes much distress to families that are contributing to the Australian economy and society

renada daley

Australia

2013-05-26

I am a hard worker and pay my taxes and i feel i have a right to have my say in what happens to that money.

Graeme Church Lindsay Wilkinson

Brisbane, Australia Australia

2013-05-26 2013-05-26

Would make me feel like i belonged if i could become a citizen I am a kiwi who arrived here in July 2000. I am now a dual citizen but I am bitterly disappointed that the Australian Government is treating kiwis with such disdain. This is almost racism in that New Zealanders are being disallowed things that other foreign nationals are entitled too.

colin mckain Selena Brown Jody Stanfield

Australia Australia Warana, Australia

2013-05-26 2013-05-26 2013-05-26

I wish to become an aussi citizen We deserve a chance,we pay our taxes Myself and my family all work and pay taxes. We don't bludge off the Government or intend to do so!!

Daniel Rogers

Morayfield, Australia

2013-05-26

I feel we should be treated equally like any other new resident looking at becoming Australian citizens.

Name Brenda Harvey

Location Melbourne, Australia

Date 2013-05-26

Comment Because I have lived in Australia, worked in Australia and paid my taxes in Australia for almost 8 years now, but am not entitled to anything. Illegal immigrants are entitled to more that New Zealanders that come here legally are, and that is completely unfair!

Mohamed Hassan Quddus betty awatere

India

2013-05-26

For a Better Living for the people of New Zealand who're now in Australia

Morphett Vale, Australia

2013-05-26

We have lived & worked here for 10 years still cant get help if & when u need it ie pensions for sickness or anything else

Warren Bayliss

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-26

I believe that everyone has an equal right to attain residency in whichever country that they have decided to adopt as their place to reside!!! I think that they should at least allow NZ born citizens to be eligible for Australian citizenship after the same amount of time that it would take for any other resident to achieve!

Jennifer Rees

Australia

2013-05-26

My daughter is born here but by law she is a kiwi and it makes no sense as she will never have any thing to do with new zealand.

Julie Jackson-Gough

Hamilton, New Zealand

2013-05-26

Inequality is racist. Give reciprocal rights, or cut the taxes of the New Zealanders living in Australia.

Phillipa Cunningham

Hamilton, New Zealand

2013-05-26 These people will forever be considered non-residents in Australia (at least on paper), which disadvantages them and leaves them vulnerable in a way that all other long-term australian residents aren't. As non-residents they are going to be excluded from the new NDIS (Disability) scheme while also having to pay the increased tax levy. This exclusion extends to Australian born children of New Zealand Citizens until they are 10 years old, preventing important early intervention therapy.

David Newman

Hamilton, New Zealand

2013-05-26

A fair deal for Kiwis in Australia. Kiwis tend to do well in Australia and certainly contribute at least as well as the average Aussie. Yes there are a few rat-bags and layabouts but fewer as a proportion than Australians in general.

Karen Jaggs-Cartwright Steven Ginders Jennifer McGougan Johannes Grimbergen

Auckland, New Zealand Australia Auckland, New Zealand Tauranga, New Zealand

2013-05-26 2013-05-26 2013-05-26 2013-05-26

Because I grew up in Australia and have lots of family there! protect my wife & children I have family living permanently in Australia My son moved to Aus in april 2001, had to go back with Mum after divorce, returned with Mum in 2003 and now is a fully qualified builder working and living with Aussies as a contractor. He is entitled to assistance if something goes wrong just like any other Aussie.

Nakita Rogers

Perth, Australia

2013-05-26

I work just as hard as every other person here, I think that it is only right that we are entitled everything the same as every other "Australian" especially when I have to pay the exact same amount of tax etc. I love this country and I'm lucky that we are allowed the oppourtunity to enter and stay so easily. But treat us fairly as we treat you when you choose to move to our home land.

Marama Giles

Australia

2013-05-26

We are NZ citizens who moved to Australia when our children were only 3 yrs old and 8mths old. Australia is our home, the children have lived here longer than they lived in NZ. We want to ensure our children have access to the same entitlements as Australian born children.

Lydia Brown

Australia

2013-05-26

why should it be so hard for NZers to get permanent residency. I'm a good citizen of Australia. I do what i should but am treated less than any other immigrant. WHY?? Equality. I want Equality.

Name wayne coombes

Location Upper Coomera, Australia

Date 2013-05-26

Comment Because my family love Australia and want to become citizens to then yearly feel like we belong here

Tim Grenfell

Australia

2013-05-26

Australia is my home and if I am legally able to reside here forever and work, pay taxes, start a business and contribute to Australian society I should be able to integrate fully. All that is required is some fair path to Citizenship, with whatever fair conditions deemed acceptable to weed out undesirable applicants.

Krystie Sandilands Elizabeth Kline

Australia Elizabeth Kline-Siely, New Zealand

2013-05-26 2013-05-26

I am a Kiwi residing in Australia. I have whanau in Aotearoa who want to leave here to be residents in Australia. I feel that should they be living there permanently, they should not be labeled as temporary and if living there they should not be deprived of the title resident or have to pay the increased tax levy when they will be excluded from certain rights. I understand that every country has to do the best thing for them, but i don't see the fairness of the New Zealanders relocating to Au.

Nephi Timu

Pannawoncia, Australia

2013-05-26

Important for the fact if we can go to war together as Anzac's then we can help each other out with this.

Ruth Fowler

Wanganui, New Zealand

2013-05-26

my mother was born in Katoomba, we have a connection; above all, all white people migrated from places like England, Ireland, Scotland, etc, we fought together in the wars, the list goes on, our countries have connected more so than most, within this globe. Our guys fought together, doesn't that mean something? if it means nothing to Aussie, then all those lives lost, were for what! I am sad things have gone this way with our sister country, sad.

Fred Hati Wendy Clarricoats

Australia Tauranga, New Zealand

2013-05-26 2013-05-26

as we are ANZACS it shouldn,t be a problem If a kiwi is paying tax in Australia then they should be entitled to the same as everyone else residing in that country, especially is NZ is going to continue looking after Australians in our country.

Roydon Parkin

Australia

2013-05-26

it goes both way, i have worked hard to make aussie strong like a lot of kiwi's have.

christine harrison Rod Millynn charles coutts

Australia Auckland, New Zealand Cairns, Australia

2013-05-26 2013-05-26 2013-05-26

nz as permament resident paying taxes fairness Its important to me because I served in both Countries Armys (6 yrs ARA&14yrsNZDF)

Angela Monaghan

Australia

2013-05-26

I have been in Australia since May 2001. I have an Australian Child and I want to secure my future in this country so i will always be able to be here and support my beautiful daughter.

jason clark jessica cole

Australia Rye, Australia

2013-05-26 2013-05-26

just want a fair go and the chances and options others get Because its unfair on us kiwis. Aussies get to go over to nz and get benifits help with housing and jobs. And war to us kiwis get over here? Nothing. Also my2 children were born here and another one on the way. Australia is our home as much as it is urs.! Give us a fair go!!.

Pauline Scott Mary Jane Martin

Sydney, Australia Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

We were ANZAC'S This is very to our family as we have 3 kids to raised. One of them have disability that happened here in Australia. I hope that the Australian government will be very considerate on this. Thanks you.

Malia Nickel

Australia

2013-05-27

I have many family members from New Zealand as well as my Husband who have been affected by this.

Mamera Mauwong

Collingwood Park, Australia

2013-05-27

Fair rights to become citizens

Name Erin Rose Warren McIntosh

Location Hackham, Australia Point Cook, Australia

Date 2013-05-27 2013-05-27

Comment Am a NZ citizen who has been residing in Australia since 2002. I am a "qualifying New Zealand Citizen" other word a money source with very low overheads

Lachlan Cunningham

Australia

2013-05-27

I believe, as a proud and independent nation, Australia has the right to select who it allows into the country. I dont believe however, it is then right to discriminate against a small group of those they have allowed in. The vast majority of New Zealanders who come to Australia are not bludgers or criminals, which can be easily dealt with, but are teachers, doctors, tradesmen, miners, engineers, sportsmen and women. They come to live, work, pay tax and genuinely contribute to society, just like many current Australians predecessors did. There are more than enough mechanisms to stop undesirables coming to the country; discrimination should not be one of them. A fair and egalitarian society is surely the best outcome for everyone.

kristen knight

Australia

2013-05-27

new zealand people shud b given what ever they want when they come here all the boat people get what they want it shud only be equal

Esther Macneil

northland, New Zealand

2013-05-27

Change that law, there should be a mutal respect between both countries. Only in Australia that says alot. THANKS.

Naomi Taitoko

Australia

2013-05-27

My husband if Maori and many of his family moved to Australia after these ridiculous laws were put in place. They are hardworking people who are always in eomployment but if they are made redundant and their children were born in Australia they should be eligible for assistance for their children.

Moe Fahitua Clinton Selwyn

Australia Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

Future of my NZ born children that live with us in QLD. I moved her in 2003 and from what I've heard I am going to be seriously disadvantaged in the next 30 years when I reach retiring age..

Kerren DouthDouthat

Australia

2013-05-27

My husband is Australian and our kids are kiwis he was treated fairly in NZ why can't Australia be fair.

Douglas Martin Ingrid Annan

Australia Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

I'm a kiwi in AU and i struggle every day. My husband and I live and work in Australia and have done for the last five years, We pay taxs like every other australian yet we are never allowed to call ourselves australians. Our son will become a citizen automatically in 7 years. There should be a certain amount of years living permenantly in Australia and then we should be able to apply.

Steve Clarke

Point Cook, Australia

2013-05-27

Because I pay alot of tax and I want a say in my kids future as much as I want them to have a say and be allowed to study and further their education.

Ashleigh Hunter Daniel Summers

Auckland, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

To support family in oz Piece of mind. Natural disasters etc. We are suppose to be looked after, yet the only nation not eligible.

Renae Jamieson

Australia

2013-05-27

I love Australia, I want to be a part of the community that I contribute to every day, my children sing the Australian National Anthem as it's their own, a fair path to residency and then citizenship would enable me to further contribute to the community and enhance my childrens education as future adults of Australia.

Debbie Crisp

Australia

2013-05-27

We deserve the same rights especially if we work hard for what we have. Our children deserve entitlement for loans to further education.

Andrew Avauli Celia Lafaele Bernie male

Brisbane, Australia Canning Vale, Australia Naracoorte, Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27 2013-05-27

We work hard, and deserve to be treated the same as anyone else I want to study to become a music director but can't afford it. My son in law and his family are Maori and I need them to stay in Australia

Name Pauline Schafer

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-27

Comment I want to retire here with my Australian man, and be eligible for the pension when I retire (in another 8-10 years), as I've been working here for 8 years and contribute to society here and assimilate with society, unlike a lot of other races who the Government pays benefits for, who do not even speak the language! Let along assimilate into Australian society. My daughter also lives in a defacto relationship with an Australian, and has been here for 9 years, and also deserves to be able to become a citizen here.

jude bottlik

NSW, Australia

2013-05-27

because myself, my hubby and my son have been here for over 10 years we do everything right by the government, taxes, abide by the law, etc, etc, bought a house but not good enough to b citizens or permanent residents??????

Dan McCort

Hamilton & Districts, New Zealand

2013-05-27

Because I have friends and family who work their butts off in Australia and who have lived there longer than they've lived in NZ, and yet they still can't become a citizen and aren't entitled to the benefits they pay for in their taxes! Absolutely ridiculous!

Kelly Hartley

Australia

2013-05-27

We didn't move here to bludge- we came here to make a better life for our family. It frustrates me that we can work our butts off and contribute to the country we now call home, yet if we want to give our kids a higher education or run into trouble (disability, broken marriage etc) then we are left to fend for ourselves. Yet people can move to Australia from anywhere else in the world and can get citizenship and all that goes with it. We are not after a free ridejust a fair go!

natalie murphy Tere Peyroux

Australia Noble Park North, Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

it is home to us The Aust Govt needs our vote. Then show us you care.

Joanie Fitzgibbon

Australia

2013-05-27

I have a friend who has been here for years, paid taxes and contributed to the community yet is not able to get anything back ... it is unfair ... what happened to the ANZAC spirit?

Stephen Oconnor Rob Metuangaro

Australia Noble Park North, Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

Security for me and my family and a fair go To have equal rights just as any other emigrant

Diane Gill Emerald Rice lynley trainor

Australia Australia Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27 2013-05-27

Because we should have the right to be permanant residents. As an immigrant myself how can we allow this to continue i live in australia i pay my taxes and if i need help i think i should be able to get it i thought thats what some of the taxes are for

Taliu Alapaki

Boronia Heights, Australia

2013-05-27

We pay taxes our kids are growing up here, it's funny when they do well in the sporting arena and get asked to rep AUS all of a sudden they get fast tracked to becoming a citizen. Go figure. Only when it suits.

Lee Howard-Mizsey

Australia

2013-05-27

I have been married to an Australian citizen for the past 21 years and we have Australian children and grandchildren but I am unable to be supported in Australia if anything happened to my husband, even though I have worked most of time we have been married. Other immigrates get better financial help then the so called brother in arms country. Isn't it amazing that we fight together and cry together but we can't have the same assistant together. If I came from another country illegally I would get more help, you have it so wrong Australia... Cut your nose off to spite your face Australia, even my country NZ took better care of my husband when we become unemployed for 10 weeks, shame on you!

Name Rebecca Sheaf

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-27

Comment My daughter and I have made Australia home. I would like to think that both of us have a lot to offer Australia. My little girl moved here before her second birthday and I am concerned that she has made Australia home and when it comes time to go to university she will be unable to afford to go in her new "homeland". While I don't expect any hand outs from our new country, it would like to be treated fairly given that I'm currently paying taxes here and my daughter will also pay taxes here when she grows up.

Sophie Pile

Jane Brook, Australia

2013-05-27

Becos of my kids who may decide 2 they want to call Oz there home?? Hope not but its a possibility as with many other lost kiwis!!

Ondre Te Hau Michelle Constantinou

Australia Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

You pay tax's for years, you should be entitled to something should you. I have friends who I know have worked hard and contributed to Australia and deserve everything that I have had as a born Australian

Sarah Auld

Beckenham, Australia

2013-05-27

I am now a displaced person. Can't truly call Australia home even though my children are here, my grandchildren will be born here, and my mortgage is here.

Trudy Eley

Australia

2013-05-27

We want to retire here, have legal permanent residency and want to apply for citizenship in Nov 2013

Rachel Smith

Bairnsdale, Australia

2013-05-27

Hard working, tax paying Kiwi who has called Australia home for 16 years. Does my permanent residency now make me a target? What hoops is the government going to make everyone jump through next?! Shame on you! :P

Jenni Leavai

Australia

2013-05-27

I am a NZ citizen who has lived & worked here in Australia for 8 years & in that time the Australian Govt has collected taxes from myself & my husband including the Medicare levy & the Queensland OSR has collected three lots of stamp duty (not to mention cars) & flood levy from us & Insurance companies increase our premiums annually even though we choose to live in a flood-free, cyclone-free part of the State. Fair-go Australia, please update your draconian rules & regulations, we are here to work hard, not bludge & we prove it every year we continue to pay taxes. Thank you for listening, now please act.

Craig Hanlen Joanne Ritchie Bridgette McDonald

Australia Australia Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27 2013-05-27

Treating your ANZAC brothers like second class citizens What Australians have in NZ is what New Zealanders should have in Australia! Indefinite status surely in other countries means Permanent Residence status. Come on Australia, PR should be given to Kiwis after a fair stand down period. Give us a fiar go.

Lee Alesich CHERYLE BRIDER

Auckland, New Zealand Sydney, Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

It should as we really are one country and have each others backs I believe that we as new zealanders get treated unfairly more what happen to making us a country of oz?

Margaret Hobbs

Thornlands, Australia

2013-05-27

Although we are really grateful to be here and work and raise our children here it has become important to us to have the opportunity to vote and participate fully in the society where we live. Wanting to feel a sense of permanency and get a good Aussie "Fair go!"

Tina Watson

Pimpama, Australia

2013-05-27

Unfair, unethical treatment of Australia against NZ ders who contribute to Australia!!

Sandra Vincent

Australia

2013-05-27

As law abiding, tax paying residents, I believe we should be given the same rights and benefits that we would be entitled too in NZ, like any Australians would also be entitled too, living in NZ.

Name tonia taua

Location Brisbane, Australia

Date 2013-05-27

Comment For my grandchildren ,some born here but mainly for the ones who were born in NZ but have gone through the education system to get access to higher education without incurring thr fees as an international student

Allen Spice

Australia

2013-05-27

i will be trying to become a permanent resident soon it will be good if this was sorted before then

Cheryl Penny

Heathwood, Australia

2013-05-27

Hard working kiwi paying full Ozzie taxes + mortgage (not taking a rental away from an Australian family) with no benefits for me or my children's education.

Lisa Marshall

Springfield Lakes, Australia

2013-05-27

If we are living in australia and paying taxes why aint we given a fair go like the rest of the countries!

Mayna Shand

Springfield Lakes, Australia

2013-05-27

My husband and I have made Australia our home for the past 12 years. We have brought our home here and had our daughter here. We plan to settle here permanently and have already investigated the citizenship obstacles for NZers. The legislation is over 10 years old, its time for a fair chance and reciprocate what NZ offer Australians whom choose to reside there. All the best!

Gloria Hollis KAHURANGI MURU

Australia NGARUAWAHIA, New Zealand

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

I love Australia and would like to be with my children who live here. Fairness & equality for our Kiwi family and friends.

rendall numanga

Australia

2013-05-27

They allow every other nation in the world passage except for New Zealanders yet New Zealand allows Australians a fair pathway into our country.We don't expect handouts

john jeffery

Australia

2013-05-27

Because I should have the same rights as everyone else that lives here and pays their taxes

Brenda Jeffery

Australia

2013-05-27

I have to pay levies and taxes exactly the same as Australians - but I am not allowed to use the "club" I am paying membership for

JOHN CURTIS Janice Tukaki

Australia Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

My children Because my Australian born great grandchildren by an aboriginal father are not recognised by the current laws.

Justin Borell

Australia

2013-05-27

Because my son is born here, and in the event I fall ill and cant work, I will have to return to NZ and will not be able to see him again. I have gone through the courts to get shared care, I pay full child support and taxes, yet I cant apply for residency.

Elizabeth Dwyer

Australia

2013-05-27

We are a NZ family been living here in Aus for 8 years. children been through private school system now at Uni and they would like to acquire Aus Citizenship as they feel this is their country. I also would like them to have everyday rights that we all should be entitled to eg voting. We have even recently enquired with immigration lawyers but as of last July we are now no longer eligible for any type of work sponsored visa. These rules seem to pass/change constantly with no knowledge by NZers living here in Aus. Al extremely unfair as there is not even any avenue to plead individual cases as of last July!

Efu Koka KATE FLOWER

Australia Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

It's about fairness and equality considering we are tax payers too Have family members here and wanting to migrate that have been denied permanent residency/citizenship

Quentin Cope

Wellington, New Zealand

2013-05-27

Cos I'm sick of one set of rules for one country and another set for the other...maybe nz needs to get tougher on its immigration laws...oz government r arrogant pricks who don't give a toss

Name Erin Symons

Location Invercargill, New Zealand

Date 2013-05-27

Comment Creates better ties for families that have had family members move over there to be able to go and work on family businesses and for young adults to explore and work without the hang ups

Alevine Ah Kiong Shirley Jones

Australia Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

I am living here now and should entitle to health care etc. Discrimination and racism is an ugly trait and needs to be stamped out! A fair go for a fair go!

Trish Mcbeath Isabel Tomlins

Australia Australia

2013-05-27 2013-05-27

just love it here I want to see New Zealanders who apply for Australian Citizenship be accepted. They provide large amounts towards tax, so therefore should benefit on education, bank loans contributing more to the community. Please support Kiwis thank you.

Janne Fisher

Australia

2013-05-28

My Partner,adult children and myself have been in Australia since 2003 and have worked the whole time paying our taxes. We need this to change as I feel we have earned the right to be able to be on a level playing field.

Rebecca Walter

London, United Kingdom

2013-05-28

i was living in australia and have family living there and intend to live there permanently

Margaret Nanai

Kingston, Australia

2013-05-28

I have been living here now nine years, cost wise can not afford it, n I have mt parents, myself and my sons to doo this for. i pay taxes like everyone else. I consider Australia as my permanent home.

Nicola Leatherby laine ikenasio

Canberra, Australia Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

For my family and mostly my children Because our kids are born and raised here, and we want to be entitled. if its okay for you to tax us, then why is it not okay for us to be eligible to what every other citizen is eligable to?

Jo Douthett

Wilsonton Heights, Australia

2013-05-28

I'm a new Zealander in Australia and about to have a baby with my Australian partner. This outrages me!

susan arnold

Australia

2013-05-28

i have two children one has finished school and wanted to get into nursing, and cant get any help. as a family we came here to have a new life

Linda Nicholas

Australia

2013-05-28

I am one of the lucky ones who came to Australia before 2001, but I do think that if it's good enough for NZ to allow Australians the same advantages as NZers were granted before 2001, then the policy should work both ways, as part of the Anzac spirit.

Maree Thompson Shanette Jack

Forrestfield, Australia Allanson, Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

Because Australia is now home and I have kids to think about as well, This is definately for all the right reasons. And I am all for education for numbers I have family members in both situations pre 2001 & post 2001and I can guarantee that neither really know the real deal.

dionne toleafoa

Australia

2013-05-28

Its not so much for myself but for my childrens future, especially the ones that r not born in Australia, we pay our taxes.. but having no security in case of illness or some other unforseen case that could occur, is wrong. I cant help but feel upset to think that if my son or daughter decided they wanted to become a doctor or lawyer they would need to spend maybe 3x more than a Australia Citizen would pay for tuition because they would be classed as a International student. There is so many reasons why this wrong but Im sure most of have listed at least 1. Come on Australia give us brothers an sisters across the ditch a fair go....

Judith Maunder

Australia

2013-05-28

We as kiwis deserve to be treated the same as everyone else. My girls have done there entire schooling life over here and yet now that they are ready for university they cant even get a student loan. We have been paying in tax per year , the same amount as what a lot of people earn in a year.

Name Pippa Fraser

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-28

Comment I moved my young family here for a better life and more opportunities. If we can not live in a country with equal rights, where we can have the same rights as the working Australian citizen whose family is eligible to benefits safety nets etc, then I feel I am contradicting all the reasons I moved here!!!

Uiese Sufia

Australia

2013-05-28

It is important for my kids school when they reach to the university as well as the election we can't vote

toni ki Crystal Puletaha

Melbourne, Australia Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

Equal rights I feel if our children have a chance of becoming successful in Australia. Lets make it happen for the new generation.

Selina Smith

Dandenong South, Australia

2013-05-28

Want New Zealand people to be treated the same as any other immigrant that comes into Australia.

Tere Tourangi

Cairns, Australia

2013-05-28

I pay taxes like everyone else, and still I'm not entitled to any of the benefits....(who does that??? oh yeah Australian Govt!!!

Christine Granger

Australia

2013-05-28

Should have the same benefits afforded to Australians in New Zealand. All our family live & work in Oz

Raewyn Meier

Australia

2013-05-28

We arrived after 2001, I think my husband was out of work for the first 3 days we were over here. He pays extremely high taxes, and we can't even get a healthcare card that would make our sons lifesaving medicine a little bit cheaper.

Dale Simi

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-28

I havefriends and family living there and it is not fair that it is not equal rights for kiwis living in Australia.

Claude Chaillet

Australia

2013-05-28

my younger daughter and her 3 children,my wife and myself have come to oz post 26feb2001. We really feel like 2nd class citizens

Jade Moxon

Australia

2013-05-28

im 18 years old i finished and passed year 12 and im learning really fast that the Australian government doesnt give a damn about us kiwi kids

Jessica Copplestone

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-28

My Mother works a Registered Nurse in rural australia whilst my sister and her husband are bringing up their first child in rural australia, I want them to be entitled to the assistance they need should they come across hard times.

Mali Papirany

Bargara, Australia

2013-05-28

I don't want to see Kiwi's with disabilities neglected any longer! They need care and they need funding to get it!

Garth Olliver

Parkwood, Australia

2013-05-28

Future of my children, who are now" Australians" but not Australian citizens holding them back

Shirley Robertson

Perth, Australia

2013-05-28

Have been living in Oz for 13yrs now, "What are you doing Ozzies, we fought together in ANZAC, we fight the fires and floods together, we are you closest friends - "yes across the ditch".

Angelique Porter

Australia

2013-05-28

I would love to become a Citizen of Australia...I didn't paddle over on a boat but I would have if I knew it helped :)

Kristina Matagitau

Australia

2013-05-28

2 years ago I graduated from high school and got into the course I wanted to study (Bachelor in Business: Accounting). However, I was unable to take on the course at university as I was not entitled to HECS. The only income my family recieves is family assistance from Centrelink (which doesnt cover all of us but my 2 young siblings in primary school) I would like to see my young siblings pursue their dreams and career by having the opportunity to go university in future.

kirsty sullivan

Australia

2013-05-28

because I have 2 children born here in Aus who I would like to have the option of perm citizenship if they choose in the future

Name Elizabeth Mika

Location Drewvale, Australia

Date 2013-05-28

Comment Because myself and my family have been living here for 13 years, working hard and paying taxes. We deserve fair treatment after paying over $10,000.00 for our families citizenship application and being denied while a friend who came here as a refugee, only 1 year in the country, unemployed and he was granted citizenship on a silver platter. Do what is right!!

Sloane Thomson Helen W Waiomio

Wavell Heights, Australia Marsden, Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

I'm wanting become a citzen to join Australia military Because we call Australia home. We work hard and pay taxes. I think that a stand own period is fair, but if we can prove to be of good character with a working history in Australia we should be eligible for citizenship.

Mary Jane Tarapata

QLD, Australia

2013-05-28

I need citizenship for our 19mth old Jay-Sha Tarapata-Hall who was born here, but what I have gathered to date we can via descendent of her parents.......my personal choice for our daughter is via her greats who fought & served in the Australian Army, her greats great-grand-daddy "ALEXANDER BELL" nanny Taima Bell from Taumarunui married Henry Hall from England whom her daddy Tane Hall & her big brother master 8yrs Hunter Hall-Tarapata descend thereof. Our pride in our creator above all else in our ancestors whom fought, died, worked & served, cared for & loved us dearly lest we forget......gone from us in the present, but forever in our hearts, on our minds a lifeline whom we all descent, the future, future generations, the inoncent our babies. (Tihei mauri ora= The breath of life). mjt

Stephanie Cullen

Thornlands, Australia

2013-05-28

Kiwis who have made aussie home and have kids who have now spent more of their lives here than NZ and we want to be aussie citizens

Janina Ryder

Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-28

We pay equal taxes so why shouldn't we be entitled to the same benefits as others paying taxes in Australia?? If not lower the tax rate for nzer's!!!

Curtis Williamd

Mackay, Australia

2013-05-28

I am about to have a australian born baby and both Mother and I are New Zealand citizens. I have lived here for 20 years and know more about Australian history than all my Australian friends.

Ryan Woodman

Australia

2013-05-28

Moved here in 2006, I cant get a loan to study and the grounds for citizenship are too strict for NZ citizens, yet other countrys come here and claim everything

Camille Alabaster

Alexandra, New Zealand

2013-05-28

Fair's fair Ozzies - wouldn't you rather have us than some of your other options? Half of my family are in Oz - all citizens now - but I would like to think that the Anzac spirit makes us more than neighbours - we're blood brothers!

RAchel kitto

Timaru, New Zealand

2013-05-28

This is important for me as I have a lot of friends that I consider family living in oz please ease up the law

Name Mark Turnbull

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-28

Comment My Fiancee and her two children (16 and 12) are Kiwis who have lived in Australia just on 10 years. I am Australian and it disgusts me how Kiwis get treated here, worse than the illegal boat people!! Kiwis work here, and put their money earnt back into the economy as well as their taxes, they send their children to schools here, enroll them in sports and other activities, they have to pay the NDIS levi yet can't claim it, they have to pay taxes yet no matter how long they have been here they can't have a say on our government. When they find themselves alone here with no support person when their partner leaves them with kids, they can't get any help from Australia even though their kids have grown up here, even though they have lived here for years and years and have put into the economy, they can't get help from NZ anymore as they don't live there and havn't done for years!! Stop treating the Kiwis and my Fiance and her kids like lower class citizens and give them an easier,quicker more affordable way to get PR and Citizenship!!! There are children growing up here in "my" Country that can't joing the Australian Defence Force as they are a Kiwi!! They can't get Youth Allowance or HECS loans to further their study!! What is going to happen to these kids!!! Wake up!! At least i can move to NZ with my Fiancee and get citizenship after TWO years!! Where is the ANZAC spirit!! Instead of the boat spirit!!

Mark Coles

Wellington, New Zealand

2013-05-28

We served in the war together we should be brothers not enemies or not allowing a sharing of each other countries. Its not North and South Korea Julia!!

rob moxon

Adelaide, Australia

2013-05-28

i have been in Australia for nearly 7 years and every day i worry about how my wife and two girls would survive if sumthing should happen to me!!!we are not bludgers. we are planing to stay here for the rest of our lifes but my to girls wont receive any help with schooling

Karen Scott Ian clark Rachel Gorrell

Morayfield, Australia Bundaberg, Australia Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-28 2013-05-28 2013-05-28

Myself and my daughters live in Australia, they all have Australian children friends need help to. I am a kiwi in OZ (since 2004), married to an Australian and about to give birth to twins. Very confused about our entitlements or lack there of.

Jane Stojanovic

Otaki, New Zealand

2013-05-28

i have children and grandchildren and great grandchildren in Australia who love australia and work for a living - They just want to be treated fairly. My stepfather was an australian who lived here for thirty years and was treated as a kiwi including all his medical care, superannuation etc - TIT for TAT

matthew douglas Toni Keown

Hastings, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

both my son and daughter live in australia and these law changes i find unfair This is important to me as I have lived in Australia for 5 years, am a taxpayer and ratepayer and want the right to vote.

tom clarke

Rosehill, Australia

2013-05-28

Because New Zealanders living in Australia pay taxes too, it is only fair that we are granted the same education rights as Australians.

Bernadette Riley

Australia

2013-05-28

I have already had one child leave AUstralia to go back and study in .NZ because he could not geta Hecs loan here and I don't want my other two to have to go back as well. My husband is in the Queensland Police risking his life everyday and doesn't qualify for citizenship .

Amanda Escobar

Australia

2013-05-28

I have a lot of Kiwi friends and I think they deserve to be treated fairly when they have been here for years and they work here and pay taxes that they cannot even get access too government payments??? It's garbage!!!

Daphne Waikawa

Australia

2013-05-28

Kiwis also work here pay their taxes volunteer in the community, donate to the economy at the moment why shouldn't they be treated like how the Australians are treated in New Zealand

Name Tracey Papirany

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-28

Comment My children are at; or coming up to tertiary level and they do not have access to this - thereby making them second class citizens. We own a house, we work and pay taxes - thereby contributing to the GDP of this country.

Stephen Boyd debie spirin Renae Magee Rebecca Ruscoe

Australia Australia Albion park rail, Australia Tauranga, New Zealand

2013-05-28 2013-05-28 2013-05-28 2013-05-28

We have lived here for 10 years and are about to seek residency I would love to become an Australian Citizen,,I love the country. Equality for New Zealanders!!!!!! My sister lives in Gold Coast she works hard and the kids have been there since one was 3 yet they aren't entitled to any help with education once they finish school even though they consider themselves Australians

emma pomare

Coomera, Australia

2013-05-28

My son was born here.I will not be giing back to NewZealand.I would love to put my sons education first and let him have same the rights as Australians.

Kartanya Martinez

Port Adelaide, Australia

2013-05-28

I am married to a Kiwi and given we are joined together as brothers and sisters under ANZAC I detest the Australian Governments treatment and residency & immigration tripe that is currently in place. ABOLISH IT NOW!! AND ALLOW FREEDOM OF KIWIS AND AUSSIES BACK AND FORTH AS DUAL CITIZENS OF BOTH MAINLANDS.. Hang your heads in shame how dare you make our NZ Brothers and Sisters go through immigration processes

anna bibby

Australia

2013-05-28

i live in australia and work hard and pay taxes, I believe that I should have the same rights! Also if I my kids are born here they should have access to everything the same as every other australian born child.

Bev McClintock Robbie Polson

Australia Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

Just want a fair chance like an Australian would get in NZ! This is important to me because why can't the New Zealand people become residents in Australia & be allowed to get their citizenship. You hand it out to other in comers (British couple) who then denounced it & went back home. In my eyes the New Zealand people have just as much right to be in Australia as anybody else. This is my Pledge.

Ben Pittams Scott Vincent

Wanganui, New Zealand Cumbalum, Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

bigger and brighter future for myelf and my family! I live, work, pay tax, own a home and am raising a family in Australia. I'm a contributing member if society as is my wife also. I would love the right to become an Australian citizen. Please Australian parliament make up your mind either don't let kiwis in it allow a fair path to become citizens.

Madison Nicholas

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-28

Because part of my family live there in Australia and have called it home, so i believe they should have a right to continue their life their whatever it may be, Work, citizenship, school...etc.

Maureen O'Connor Tracy Catros

Australia Adelaide, Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

This is important to me as I am a New Zealander living in Australia. I have very close friends that are Kiwis and they are the most lovely people I have met. They are hard workers and volunteer alot of their time to society and deserve a fair go in Oz. They cant even access super funds if they were to hit a financial wall at some point in the future and this is their own hard earned money that our country takes from them but wont give any back in times of need. They are being forced to pay the NDIS tax but not eligible to use the funding if they have children that need assistance. I thought Australia treated all people equally but i was wrong.

Margaret Olive

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-28

My daughter and her husband moved to Australia and they contribute but aren't allowed to really call Australia home. The legislations penalizes our so called fellow Anzacs. Come on Aussie lawmakers, be fair, each of you are probably descendants of non indigenous Aussies, who were treated a lot fairer than what you're dishing out to NZers. Shame on you!

Name Jodi O'Connor

Location Windsor, Australia

Date 2013-05-28

Comment I am a kiwi living in Australia, my son was born here to kiwi parents. Australia is our home.

ellen mackey Michelle Peters

Australia Buderim, Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

australia is mine and my familys home and has been for 9 years I intend to keep living in Australia, I've been here 10years, my daughter is Australian. I'm worried about my future here, I want to be able to vote etc as well.

John MacMillan STANCIA KATIPA

Levin, New Zealand Kalgoorlie, Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

Because it affects friends of mine. My daughter and husband have lived here for over 8 years now, my eldest grandson has been here since he was 3 and my 2 youngest were born here. I made the move here nearly 2 years ago so I can be with them, as they have made the choice to live here permanently and I have too. I have family that have been here for over 30 years and are australian citizens. Im not planning on living back in New Zealand, I have made my life plans for here

Steve Bailey

Cairns, Australia

2013-05-28

Been here 11+ years and would be nice to know we could stay here permanently. We may have to head back closer to retirement.

Monique Wylie

Australia

2013-05-28

Because I am a New Zealander living in Australia (since Feb 2002) and would like to become an Australian Citizen and be treated like a human being.

PETRA NEWTON shannon lockwood Katarina Roa

Australia Australia Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-28 2013-05-28 2013-05-28

It means more oppurtunity for my family and i here in Austrailia Because it affects my family. Many NZers are working and paying their taxes to boost the economy, but to also allow fellow Kiwis living there, Australians and non-Australians to enjoy social benefits. Australians have a great deal if they decide to move here, let the trans-Tasman mutual recognition Act be extended to include a fair deal....

Karen Jowsey

Te Awamutu, New Zealand

2013-05-28

Have family and friend in Australia, I may want to make Australia home one day and I have four children of my own and would not like them to live in a situation where they are unfairly disadvantaged.

Margaret Marshall

Australia

2013-05-28

All my grandchildren live in Australia. All are under the age of 5. Only one will get all the educational opportunities by birth right, one will be get the advantages once she turns ten but the oldest one who is about to start school will be so disadvantaged because she was born in NZ.

Lesley Taw

Australia

2013-05-28

I feel we should have the same priviledge as Aussies do in NZ. As a taxpayer, homeowner and upright member of community of Australia, I feel we should be able to vote and belong as we intended to make this our home.

alana taylor

Maryborough, Australia

2013-05-28

i am a new zealand citizen living in australia.i moved to australia to be with my partner,we had a child together and now we are seperated.im finding life so difficult as i am not entitled to single parent pension or any social security.i work but it is not enough.times are very hard and so stressful,and we have a court order in place stating i cant leave so australia is now my home.please some thing needs to be done about this it is not fair to me and especially my son.

selau semeatu

Eagleby, Australia

2013-05-28

Because it ONLY fair to give Kiwis the same opportunity the NZ government give the aussies to get their citizenship quite easily!

Gaylene Tafao Margaret Boyce

Sydney, Australia Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

its good to have a fair deal Because I had to pay for My daughters uni engineering course and board until she became an Australian citizen one year into the four year course after spending all but one year of her entire education in Australia . We are brothers in arms so these laws need to change.

Jocelyn Lay

Australia

2013-05-28

Family members are penalised because of it

Name debbie smith

Location Jingili, Australia

Date 2013-05-28

Comment because i believe that Australia should make it easier for us kiwis to become australian citizens. It has affected my job and my child's education as i don't fit the profile... it doesn't matter that i have been working here for 6 years and pay taxes. Something has to be done. Thank you

Hana Whioke

Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-28

Because its unfair for those Kiwi's like me who have been calling Australia home for the last 10 years and we have no right, only the right to keep paying taxes and tax levies to a government that doesn't recognise me other than for tax purposes :( We pay our way, we're involved in our community, we don't want to be anywhere but here in Australia, but we don't even meet the criteria to be come a permanent citizen. Wake up Australian Government us Kiwi's have been putting millions if not billions of dollars back into Australia to help with, medical, educational and economical growth and spenditures that us Kiwis after the 2001 law change have no right too.

Hinu Komene Corina Peyroux

Regents Park, Australia Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

Because Australia is my home now. Because we are going to grow up here and all our children will be too. We want them to feel a part of australia and not left out because they dont qualify.. thats just mean!!!

Jessica Zonneveld

Australia

2013-05-28

I would like to see a pathway to inclusion - as a Kiwi who is learning the Australian anthem, educating Australian children as a teacher, it is saddening that I am making steady contributions to society whilst being held back from a pathway that would allow me to become a citizen as we share many commonalities as countries and integrate seamlessly. I am happy to contribute in taxes etc but saddened that those safety nets such as the NDIS will not apply to me (in unforeseen circumstances) unless I can follow a pathway to citizenship.

Tema Semeatu

Eagleby, Australia

2013-05-28

I work full time and pay tax. I've contributed to Australia in a positive way and want to have a fair say.

Hilda Thompson

Australia

2013-05-28

I have lived in Australia for 10 years and with hard work, it has allowed us a better lifestyle. I am concerned that Australians see us as a threat - as far as taking jobs from them. We work hard - appreciate it and pay our taxes. Many Australians see us as bludgers - NOT SO!!!!! We do our hours and pay our taxes. I would not want dole to be a condition granted at all, but I would want my son (who only knows this country as his home) - to be given a fair go in his future. I thank you for allowing me avenue to express my concerns - and I certainly do hope that this issue will be attentioned in haste.

Stella Gardner

Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-28

Because my friend is a Kiwi currently working and living in Australia, she deserves a shot at the opportunity of gaining a Permanent Residency or Aussie Citizenship. I want to see her get this chance.

Shevahn Bradley Anne-Marie LipshamGamble Chelsea Hemara

Australia Emerald, Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

I think it's fair,we pay tax jus like every1 else I am kiwi living in aus.

Browns Plains, Australia

2013-05-28

I am what we call a lost kiwi, arrived in Australia in 2008. My mother lives with me with a disability and I am her primary carer. But I am not eligible for carers payment because I am not a permanent resident nor is she. The criteria to meet ie the 8 categorys to apply for permanent residency I do not fit into! I would like to see change to make it be more realistic!

Julie Renton-Clift

Australia

2013-05-28

ANZAC enough said

Name Ali Afridi

Location Sydney, Australia

Date 2013-05-28

Comment I am Kiwi living in Aussie and my fiancee is from pakistan... I cant sponsor my wife for permanent residency and if she wants to study here she has to pay international student fee!!!

Mo Delamere

Australia

2013-05-28

I have moved to Oz to be closer to my daughter. I am here for the long haul. I would like to be a contributing member of society and benefit both myself and my daughter in any way possible.

Heather Brandon

Gold Coast, Australia

2013-05-28

I live here , have children here but the system does not offer me back up when I am unable to work for health reasons and cant get our super on grounds of hardship as we don't qualify for the centrelink benefits necessary to qualify for payment!

Feenz Nicole Kawiti

Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-28

New Zealanders are very hard workers. Proven and known for their hard work I think if anyone else gets the right to be a citizen I don't see why New Zealanders can't be.

isabella nicholas Adrian Herbert

Auckland, New Zealand Nundah, Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

my grandson,family and friends I have paid taxes, have worked for more than 5 years here in Australia, I have a good history back ground while living here in Australia have never been upheld against the law of Australia. I feel these are some of the reasons New Zealanders should be looked at and accepted as Australian Citizens.

Raewyn Dunn Joanne Gowan

Auckland, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

Unfair to NZers. Children are Australians by birth right My daughter was 6 months when I came here and we will never be going back so I want the best for her

Folole Misifoa rebecca jennings Jacqueline Kennedy

Auckland, New Zealand Australia Helensvale, Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28 2013-05-28

To be treated fairly in both countries we live in Australia and would like to become citizens We pay our taxes - yet we can not vote - Australians have full rights in NZ - yet we have limited. It makes it so hard for our children to attend University or training here with no Government support. For New Zealanders that are true born and breed in NZ- we should not be treated as second class citizens in Australia.

Rana Hiha

Australia

2013-05-28

Both Governments of Australia and New Zealand can easily sort this mess out and allow mutual benefits and opportunities to their citizens who wish to move between the two countries freely. We who come through the "Front Door" from NZ appear to get nothing compared to those who come through the "Back Door" by boat. This is not fair to NZ citizens who want to do the right thing. If you take "NZ" out of "ANZAC" then Australia is heading down a path to becoming a "Republic" and this leads to corruption and terrorism. NZ has stood shoulder to shoulder with Australia in any conflict.

Aroha Saxon Renee Taipana

Auckland, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-28 2013-05-28

This is disgusting, money grubbing behaviour from the Australian government. My kiwi sister has had a baby and is a single Mother, after 7 years of paying tax she is not entitled to the single parent pension because she is a New Zealander. How is she supposed to support her child?

Lynette shirtcliffe

Opunake, New Zealand

2013-05-28

My family have lived in Australia for 8 years there children started school there and they will never have the same opportunities that there friends have ..also the parents when applying for jobs are penalised.

Rachel Taupau

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-28

My sister and her family have moved over!! My niece and nephew deserve a fair chance

Ricky Vaauli

Sydney, New Zealand

2013-05-28

We have lived in worked in Australia for 5 years and plan to be here for years to come. Our son was born in Australia and I would like him & our family to be able to receive the sme benefits as a PR/citizen.

Name Tasmin Niha

Location Brisbane, Australia

Date 2013-05-28

Comment Lived in Australia for almost 10 years, work full time, pay my taxes, received an OP 6 in high school. However I still am not a citizen and this could not afford university.

Pippa May

Manly, Australia

2013-05-28

I have seen the havoc it wreaks on families who are treated as illegal aliens and refugees, although they are ontributing to the Australian economy and society often with more gusto and skills than their Australian counterparts.

Gaile Dempsey

ROTORUA, New Zealand

2013-05-28

have two sons in Australia who went over there for a better life and they should be treated like Australians cause they love the country.

Christine Iremonger

Upper Coomera, Australia

2013-05-28

Because there are so many kiwis just wanting a fair go.

Hana Pomare

Meadowbrook, Australia

2013-05-28

Beacause my kids are born here & not having permanent rights in the future could mean them being sent back to NZ which i want them to have an option most of all their option!!

Tauia MacDonald

Hamilton, New Zealand

2013-05-28

Because these kiwis love Australia and are active in their community and pay taxes. They contribute to the wealth of that country and should be given the dignity of earning citizenship

Diane Drinkwater

Australia

2013-05-28

We are getting to the end of our work life and would like to stay here,but we may have to go back depending on the pension etc

Heather Abrams

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-28

Have two children and two grandchildren who live in Melbourne.

Brigham Dennison

Australia

2013-05-28

This affects my wife my children and grandchildren . My wife is kiwi but has worked and lived in Australia since 1979. I took out Australian citizenship in 1997 when I became a WA Policer. I have one daughter who has lived in Australia since the age of 3 and she has 3 children . We have all worked and contributed to Australia, yet we are treated as FIFO where we can work and pay taxes but are not considered part of the Australian Society if thats not ethnic discrimination then I dont know what is.

Greg Lay

Australia

2013-05-28

ANZAC has lost it meaning since 2001, I am a citizen but my children are not and would like to become citizens without all the red tape, please revert the law or remove ANZAC from your remembrance days.

Melanie Symes

Australia

2013-05-29

I am a New Zealander living in Australia and I absolutely adore living here. Moving here is hands down the best decision I've made in my life thus far. However, three years ago when I was made redundant, not once but twice during the GFC, I had no access to financial support during the 3 months I was unemployed, it was hard but I got through it with the support of my family. As a tax payer here for many years, I believe I should be entitled to a little help from the government I support. It is virtually impossible for kiwis living here to become citizens so we come here, inject cash into the Australian economy by way of taxes etc yet we live with a constant black cloud of insecurity should we lose our jobs. Come on Australia, where is our fair go?

Stella Blyde

Wellington, New Zealand

2013-05-29

Because this is appalling and successive governments have been too dogmatic and not looking at the wider picture. Shame on you Australia!

susan fairley

Australia

2013-05-29

because Australians in new zealand get the same rights as new Zealanders so should be the same here

Vanessa Odonnell

Ashmore, Australia

2013-05-29

Australia is our home and we have built a wonderful life for our family here. We contribute to society and have no intention to move away.

Lucia Watson

Australia

2013-05-29

I have lived in Australia now for 9 years and now call this my home and I know I will not be returing back to NZ to live permanetally .

Name Melissa Douglas

Location Redland Bay, Australia

Date 2013-05-29

Comment I am a kiwi living in Australia for ten years now, and have been with my Australian husband for 7 years and married for three.My son who is a kiwi was not allowed to join up with an apprenticeship through school and I am so bitterly disapointed in the system yet we speak english and are allowed to only part educate our children here.All or nothing Australia...you choose!

Liz Alexandre

Australia

2013-05-29

I have lived in Australia and at least want the choice to become a citizen. People from other countries come to Australia and have the option to become naturalised, we kiwis don't even get an option, we are just forgotten.

Emma Newton Felicity Kendall

Waterloo, Australia Australia

2013-05-29 2013-05-29

Because it's completely the fair thing to do for honest tax paying residents. I live here with my family and later as my children get older it will be hard for us to afford schooling. We have paid the taxes let us have equal rights too

Troy Hunt

Paraparaumu, New Zealand

2013-05-29

I work hard and I pay taxes happily as a citizen should. To be excluded from services that would otherwise be an entitlement seems unfair. I raised my children in Australia and value the education they had it is a shane they are unable to continue because they are not allowed to access student loans. I now live in Australia and my children attend university in NZ but would rather be here. Could the policies reflect the goodwill shown by those Kiwis who come to Australia to work hard and in so doing build a stronger nation socially and economically?

Joanne Sinclair Jedda Halpern Leigha Hartley

Australia Australia Hamilton, New Zealand

2013-05-29 2013-05-29 2013-05-29

I fall into this catagory so future generations don't become Illigel Aliens like I did I was born in Melbourne, am an Aussie at heart, but I am also half NZer. This treatment of NZers is revolting. It is putting bad blood between us, even ripping apart the ANZAC spirit! Wth? Aus Govt, sort it out and stop pandering to ILLEGALs and take care of those who are actually an asset. Not hard I would have thought...

Lynda Muriwai

Australia

2013-05-29

My partner and I came here in 2002, have bought a home and intend to live here long term. Other immigrants seem to have an easier pathway to citizenship - seems unfair! We are over 45 so it is difficult.

Rachel Johnson

Australia

2013-05-29

It is important to me as an x kiwi arriving after 2001 to Australia for more opportunities that I be treated like the citizen that I am not allowed to become. You get told you have all the same rights and privileges as an Australian citizen but the truth of the matter is that you just DONT!

Lejana Howard

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-29

Because it is not fair. The people affected pay taxes and contribute to society but are treated with total disrespect for what they give

Patricia Boyd Boyd

Australia

2013-05-29

My Daughter was 11 years old when I brought her here to live in Perth. She will be 40 this year and wants to become an Australian citizen legally. Don't want it to be too late for her and others in same position.

Tyron Turner-Perawiti

Perth, WA

2013-05-29

I am a new zealander and so is my partner and our child was conseved and born in oz and will grow up in oz so it will help with her courses and schooling.

Kay Brunning

New Plymouth, New Zealand

2013-05-29

I have a grandson who has lived in Oz for 4 years He has played Rugby League for both NSW and Australia U15 but cannot get any assistance to go to University from Australian Govt as he is a Nzer and cannot get any assistance from Nz govt as he lives in Oz. Where do I go from here........

Deborah Fetuiai Karene Gibb

Australia Australia

2013-05-29 2013-05-29

have recently migrated to Australia with our two young children If these members of society contribute to the wealth of our contry and pay taxes they should be entitled to the fairness and equality that we, as a nation, preaches. How can we deny services to people who work hard and share in our commnity, and their children, whether born here or in NZ.

Name Ian McInerney

Location Brisbane, Australia

Date 2013-05-29

Comment I want to complete my MBA and am unable to obtain a HECs loan due to not being a permanent resident. The company I work for (and have done for 6 years) is enduring hard times due to the high $AUS and is unable to sponsor me in due to the economic uncertainty and downturn in the manufacturing industry. There is no other option available to me to gain citizenship, even though my grandfather was an Australian citizen. My immigration status (Special Category Visa) allows the Australian government to discriminate against me because I am a New Zealander. I am a productive member of australian society and deserved to be recognised as such by being given an opportunity to gain Australian citizenship.

kate Sheffield Vicky Barker

Cochrane, Canada Australia

2013-05-29 2013-05-29

Because Aussies get a better deal in NZ - if they can vote why cant we? I am a Kiwi living in Australia with a teenager who needs to further his education after high school and currently is unable too, because we are not citizens.

Robyn Evans

Geelong, Australia

2013-05-29

Since moving over here to create a life with my partner and for what i thought was to study a career in psychology. I soon however, discovered that after 2 years i was not eligable for any form of student loans, as previously thought. This led me to depression, as I career i had dreamed of since aged 12 was looking to not happen. I since have found a Diploma of Counselling that allowed me to pay it off at $50 a fortnight, this however means i have long finished the course but are not able to fully be qualified because im still paying it off. To further my chances at employment and a career, i now want to do a degree however there is no way i can afford the $35,000+ price tag, even on full time employment. I would like to do my part for the community in mental health, but are being held back. I want to help this country and its people who need help in the area of mental health but the government is preventing me from this! Why?

Fiona Harris

Wellington, New Zealand

2013-05-29

Being a born and bred Australian making the choice to live and work in NZ, I strongly believe it is only fair Australia reciprocates the warm welcome that NZ offers all Australians.

Diane Ross

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-29

I have a Grandson who was born here in 2009 ut has a New Zealand passport & he should be allowed the same rights as Australian children.

Ray Waipouri

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-29

I served in the NZ army for 24 years and trained and served alongside Australian soldiers on operations. There used to be a thing called the ANZAC spirit. What happened to it Australia?

Neil Douglas

Christchurch, New Zealand, New Zealand

2013-05-29

Because we are stronger together. Both parties should be able to experience the same equality of options and possibilities.

Sarah Murdoch

Gold Coast, Australia

2013-05-29

my childrens father is a new zealander and our kids are australian citizens as am i. I would like him to become one also.

raylene miller

Australia

2013-05-29

I pay tax, and have lived here most of my life, I have children born here. If an ozzie was to go to nz then, they would get help off the Gov over there, so oz gov be fair

Sally Taylor

Australia

2013-05-29

As human beings we all have a right to live wherever we want in this world. I've been here for about 12 years now and have worked, paid taxes and supported myself the whole time. I find it insulting that New Zealanders are labelled bludgers and I think you'll find most of us are some of the hardest working people you'll ever meet. It's totally inapropriate that children born here of New Zealand parents are unable to to get a hecs loan. This is our home too.

shannon taua

springfield lakes, Australia

2013-05-29

Because i am a new zelander and believe that everyone should have a right to come to this country wether there new zealand or a different nationality.

Name william king

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-29

Comment i arrived in aussi on the 4 oct 2001 just a few months after the cut off and would like to be a citerzen and vote and have my say,

Roy Roper

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-05-29

Because my family live in Australia and they like others pay their taxes so they should be given all the benefits.

colin sigglekow

Australia

2013-05-29

i feel as one of the closest cuntrys to Australia all NZ would more fit the Australian way of life.

Danny Newport

Sydney, Australia

2013-05-29

The way kiwi's in Australia are treated and singled out is disgusting! There are Islamic extremists sitting on their arse in western Sydney, collecting the dole and actively threatening the security of this country that get treated better and have more rights conferred than New Zealanders residing long term in Australia. I pay a shitload of tax & will never have the right to vote to have a say in how it is spent & my children aren't even entitled to apply for student loans to get a decent education. This discrimination needs to change!

Lynessa Lucero

Australia

2013-05-29

I was born in NZ but have lived here since 1978. My parents myself and brothers have paid taxes here all our working lives. We have children who are born here and I we all own homes. Australian & NZ have always been referred to as neighbours and what does ANZAC stand for? Citizenship should not be an issue. We have never had a handout or a grant and pay our taxes, rates, medicare levy, and have helped build the economy by being hard working law abiding citizens and should be entitled to equal opportunities and rights nothing more and nothing less!

Kirsa Francis

Australia

2013-05-29

As a Kiwi living in Australia this is important for equality for myself and my children

Keita Shaw

Australia

2013-05-29

I work hard ,pay my taxes and wish to continue to live the life I have made here for my family. We have made Australia home. I am a very skilled child educator ,never thought I would be punished for being to qualified.

Susan MacKenzie

Australia

2013-05-29

I am a kiwi living in australia with three children who are also kiwis, one with autism and this makes my kids future sketchy.

karlee rikiau

Australia

2013-05-29

we all pay taxes so if we have to pay for these changes in australia why cant we benefit from them

Shaun Mauer Jessica Pettitt

Victoria Park, Australia Australia

2013-05-29 2013-05-29

If I pay the taxes I should be able to claim on it. Even though I am an australian, I know a few Kiwi's toughing it out and been here longer then I can remember so they deserve the same rights as everyone else.

Carol George

Australia

2013-05-29

I worry for my children, I come here to work hard I have no issue with that, but if my children want to study, will the be disadvantaged?

Kenton Cox

Australia

2013-05-29

Kiwis who have lived and invested in Australia should be provided with an easier and cheaper way of becoming citizens.

Ryan Yates Melody Meroiti Anbarbara Duckett

Australia Jindalee, Australia Hokitika, New Zealand

2013-05-29 2013-05-29 2013-05-29

Because we work as hard as anyone else in australia Would Julia pay for something she will never use? Equal rights! This will completely destroy all the trans-Tasman work done in the last 10 - 20 years unless fairness and honest intent is applied to Trans-Tasman relations, including cross migration.

Mandy Howells

Gold Coast, Australia

2013-05-29

My children feel like Aussies, but will never be considered Australian because they weren't born here. They would be fantastic assets to Australia, but will be forced to go back to New Zealand for their tertiary study, even though they have been through the Australian school system (and excelled).

Name Sandy McCracken

Location New Zealand, New Zealand

Date 2013-05-29

Comment This is important to me because I have friends living in Australia and maybe one day I might want to live there as well or at least have the option.

Rob Fisher Solomon Ferreira Maria George

Australia Australia Redbank Plains, Australia

2013-05-29 2013-05-29 2013-05-29

Because I want to stay in Aus To be fairly treated As Person that Pay My Dues The Same As An Australian Because I am a kiwi and I think we should be treated equally as any other foreigner living over here.

Megan Campbell

Beenleigh, Australia

2013-05-29

If Australians and Kiwis are good enough to fight together under the name ANZAC, surely we can look after our closest neighbours children with disabilities that are born under our flag. I feel let down and appalled by this recent decision from a somewhat over zealous government.

Gail Stacey

Baldivis, Australia

2013-05-29

I feel strongly that Kiwis who work hard and pay taxes either as employers or employees should not have to deal with obstructive bearocracy when applying for Austrlian citizenship and have the right to access funding such as NDIS.

Charmaine Kwong

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-29

I'm living and working in Australia and paying taxes and rates so should have a fair-go to the benefits. Why should I need to pay for a tax levy which I will not get any benefits on?

Jessie Weimans Alison Bruce

Australia Australia

2013-05-29 2013-05-29

My wife's a kiwi I work in the disability sector and Australian born New Zealanders or those who have been tax payers for a certain number of years should be eligible for support in times of emergency. If New Zealanders are not eligible for the National Disability Insurance we shouldn't have to pay the levy!

Janice Patching

Kealba, Australia

2013-05-29

I have previously lived and worked in Australia from 1980-1992. I had 4 children born in Australia during this time and was to remain here permanently. Due to tragic circumstances I returned to NZ for family support. As more family now live in Australia I returned in 2011 and work full time and own a home. I was very surprised that my 12 former years living in Australia do not assist me to become a PR, I have found that I have remained on the Australian Electoral Role and can vote. By the time I retire I will have worked in the Welfare assisting and contributing to Australian Society for the majority of my working life. The discrimination now shown to me as a NZ citizen living in Australia is unjust and unfair. I love living here, but am worried about my future,

Maxwell Purcell

Gold Coast, Australia

2013-05-29

My son is Australian but I am not, if something were to happen I would like to know I could rely on the Australian government to help out instead if moving our lives back to New Zealand

Marina French

Oxley Park, Australia

2013-05-29

To make things easier for kiwi's to become citizen's of this country. Don't class us the same as all the other immigrant's to this country. We are family not visitors. Go back to how it was before....... After 2 years we have the same privileges as the Australians, No passports between our countries..... After all ...... We are family.....

Stanley Pirini Tylah Miles

London, United Kingdom Sydney, Australia

2013-05-29 2013-05-29

New Zealanders contribute to Australia economy. I was born and raised in Australia, i do call this place home as of now. My roots are still New Zealand, but this is a beautiful country were i am raising my little family. It was very hard for me to get my citizenship proven to recieve my papers, just to get my daughters passports done. My partner is having difficulties becoming a citizen also, but has a different circumstance.

Name Isabel Mau

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-29

Comment I've only been in Australia 1 year and love it. I was transferred by my employer, work full-time, attend an Australian University (Edith Cowan University) on a part-time basis completing my Masters Degree which is directly linked to my chosen career, and also pay full non-citizen fees. Pay Tax, childcare fees, Rent, Doctor Fees and every other fee without complaint. Like almost every Kiwi who has relocated here, we are not looking for a "hand-out" only a fair deal.

David Kapa Ote Pukeroa

Australia Nerang, Australia

2013-05-30 2013-05-30

Because it effects me as Kiwi living in Australia. Beacause my children are all living here and my grandchildren. It does not seem fair that we have no backing here in this country when my grandfather fought for this country. I cannot understand why we are treated like this. We help keep this country afloat.

Ralee Grant

Gisborne, New Zealand

2013-05-30

My children were born born in Australia and will live there but are classes as non citizens

Isaia Gali

Australia

2013-05-30

Need it for my family especially for my children to be entitled to study at university in future :)

Sidney Maynard

Australia

2013-05-30

I am a New Zealander who is proactively and positively contributing to my community and society. I am a strong role model for all Australians and New Zealanders alike and feel that this would encourage a stronger sense of belonging for us Kiwis who are very proud to call Australia home.

Esther Faleao Linda Voykovic

Australia Melbourne, Australia

2013-05-30 2013-05-30

To give everyone a fair go My children, 2 born here, 2 born in NZ and remember no other home. I want them to have the educational opportunities afforded to all other Aussie kids including immigrants from other countries.

Scott MacRae

Bendigo, Australia

2013-05-30

It is a Joke that Australia can not see the bigger picture. We work and contribute to Australia, Got to war together. So why treat us like 3rd world citizens actually they get more rights than A Kiwi. I have lived here since 2000 so I am one of the lucky permanent residents. But feel for all other non resident kiwis. Please sign this petition Australia ps I do go for Australia in cricket :)

Hana Siolo Rochelle McMorran

Peakhurst, Australia Mordialloc, Australia

2013-05-30 2013-05-30

I want my kids to have equal rights I have three children who have lived her for 10 years who will need to become citizens to get HECS, but the process to become a citizen is too longwinded! Happy to become a citizen just make it simpler please.

Bill Twiss

Australia

2013-05-30

I just consider that instead of saying pretty words about the special and close relationship between NZ and Australia, the Australian Govt should bacjk it with actions. The same restrictions do not apply to Australians wanting to settle in NZ - temporarily or permanently. They are entitled to benefits, medical care etc after a very brief qualifying period.

Carolyn Smith

Caroline Springs, Australia

2013-05-30

I have been living in Australia for nearly 12 years and cannot understand why I can't become a resident after many attempts - why

maurice mcgrath

Australia

2013-05-30

for many years I had perm resident status (lived here from early eighties till early 90s.have returned and it all changed.I would like some certainty to the future.

Jackie Keenan

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-30

I plan to move to Australia this year with my family and want to have equal rights and opportunities and want to be able to apply for Citizenship after we have been in Australia for a few years. I also want to know that my family will be protected if for some reason, something happens and we needed help.

Ross Beldham

Australia

2013-05-30

own a house in australia, married to an australian and about to have a child in australia

Name Vicky Sartor

Location Australia

Date 2013-05-30

Comment Im a kiwi living in Australia with my husband and three children who are all born in Australia

Rachael Bracegirdle

Australia

2013-05-30

we have invested a lot of money into our farming business but in times of need we are not eligible for any help. most importantly we have a son who has lived here since he was 2 and considers this as his home as we do.

Erin Clemett

Strathpine, Australia

2013-05-30

I have lived and worked here almost 12 years. Because the company that transfered me from NZ didnt inform me of the change of laws I never got them to sponsor me. It has made it very difficult for my children all born in NZ as the cost of sending them to university was out of the question. It annoys me as we dont treat aussies that live in NZ this way.

marc sains

Australia

2013-05-30

My sister has lived here for 9 years and has two children under the age of 8. She needs the same passport as them.

Nadia Swney

Redbank Plains, Australia

2013-05-30

I am signing because I am attending griffith university at the moment and my parents have to make full payments because I am not allowed a HECS debt.

Anjum Rashid

Australia

2013-05-30

I am a Kiwi currently living in New Zealand and i have been trying to get citzenship for a very long time

Karen Jefferson

Australia

2013-05-30

As we have established ourselves and family here, contributing to the community, raising children, earning income and paying taxes, therefore we should not be treated any differently than others who work, contribute and pay their taxes...

Leonie Prictor

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-30

It's only fair to see equal treatment and if you work in Australia and pay taxes then I don't understand why Australia have these laws in place to stop us kiwi's from entitlements that should be rightfully ours anyway because we DO work long and hard to earn this right. It's really hard to get anything there unless you have money of your own already or know some1 there to help you let alone get a job, So if you are lucky to get a job now then obviously Aussie are saying your good enough to stay there but what? Not good enough to entitlements! My partner works in Brisbane and I would like to come and join him with our 2 boys however as it stands now with all the odds stacking up against us and still getting worse I feel safer staying in NZ until the boys finish their education even though they want to be there with their dad as well as me :(

juliet Hutana

Perth, Australia

2013-05-30

To the people of Australia I was invited to work here by the Sydney Olympic Team 2000-13 years ago my family is here I have worked on Christmas Island and in security we are not a threat to any one most of us pay taxes we work hard we respect your laws we in honesty contribute to the economy very well why would you see us as a threat Less Than a refugee is this ok with you

Brigitte Pukeroa Alison Butcher

Salzburg, Austria Australia

2013-05-30 2013-05-30

for the kids future I have lived in Australia for at least ten year and have contributed many things to this country including my contribution to society, community and my contribution of taxes as any other other Australian born citizen.. I am not saying it is a right to get citizenship however on application I would hope to be become a citizen of Austrlia because I have shown my allegiance & loyalty by entering the workforce & waiting many years to be given a permanent position in this country that I call home. I own a home here and I would feel hugely impacted if I would not be considered to be a permanent resident firstly and then on application to become a citizen of Australia.

Anna Goodall

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-30

I want to move to Australia for better living and I would like to know that the tax I will be paying could be put to use in the event that my partner died or otherwise.

Nasser Abbou

Goinia, Brazil

2013-05-31

so unfair...

Name Nicole Samuela

Location Chuwar, Australia

Date 2013-05-31

Comment Because I want this law changed to make it fair for all New Zealanders who come to Australia for a better life be entitled to be able to do so unmolested by political injustice.

June Hitaua

Springwood, Australia

2013-05-31

In support of all kiwis that are living here in Australia that work that pay their taxes not being treated equally..

Robyn Dale

Yaroomba, Australia

2013-05-31

Because I work and pay my taxes and my children have been here more than half their lives and would like the opportunity to become an Australian Citizen and qualtify for the same things that other Australian children get in both Australia and New Zealand!!3

Hannah Lawson

Australia

2013-05-31

I am a NZ'er living in australia with an australian partner, paying australian taxes, for benifits we are not eligable for! and working full time!! I think we deserve the same rights and help that australians get in NZ!! This needs to be changed!!

Jean Siumaka

Perth, Australia

2013-05-31

My girl did not get the uni fund (student loan)here so she have to go back home to do her uni she just got grads on diploma accountant.my sister was going to live in Syd but had to go back home Auck cos she was told she will have to pay full costs for her constant needed medicines cos she was not entitle to a health card due to not being Aus citizen..we are all hard working kiwis who much respect the rules here..yes we all pay tax but not as much as my husband being in one of the top guys mine..my daughter goes to public school yet we pay over $600 for her schl fee , they threaten us with Collectors note just becos we did not know we still owe them $24 out of the ridiculously so called contribution fee... Thank u ..all the best JS

Julie Gore

Australia

2013-05-31

Because I am a new Zealander with an Australian citizenship but my partner and daughter are not and would like to know that he will be looked after. we now consider this country our home.

jocelyn ortiz

Australia

2013-05-31

australians can get all the new zealand benefits as well permanent residents and citizenship it is not fair when we don't come here in boats

stacey hollis

Australia

2013-05-31

because my husband is maori and his family and I want them to have an easy life style instead of spending more money because they are new zealander, I think australia should join with new zealand as both country are so very close and help each other in time of need, we join then they are wars. it would be great if new zealander can become an Australian citizen

Karina Ormsby

New Zealand, New Zealand

2013-05-31

I have a daughter who loves living n working there.. and soon a grand child also have brothers aunties cousins who all refer to Australia as being there homes...

Isabella Piccone

Annandale, Australia

2013-05-31

As an Australian, I believe my best friend (new Zealander) should be offered the same opportunities as I am in this country.

Hayley Tuhua

Australia

2013-05-31

As I am a NewZealander but have lived here for 8 Years and planning to live here for ever Have had a child here have worked here Got married here aswell as my husband has worked full time for the 8 years my two kids gone to kindy pre primary etc but when there is times when we may need abit of help we have none what so ever its scarey to think i may have to ask for money off the street or we have to live on the street its not right when we give more to australia than our own country but if or when we a in bad times we have no support at all and our family a far away I love Australia like as if it is my country i was born and ive helped out and would continue to when ever I could be nice to feel some love back from the nextdoor neighbour country from my own anazac we fight together for each other as one.

Name leona brunning

Location new zealand, New Zealand

Date 2013-05-31

Comment my son is living in australia and wants to go to university there

Lisa Kimber Sione Matangi

Australia Australia

2013-05-31 2013-05-31

So one of our wonderful Doctors can become an Australian Citizen Because I pay taxes in this country like everyone else. I dont cause trouble and brought my family into Australia to broaden their future. I have also adapted to the Australian lifestyle and follow by Australian rules. Please give us a fair go.

Richard Rohrsheim

Australia

2013-05-31

I believe people who make a decision to commit to Australia and demonstrate this should be given the right to become citizens.

Janene Matthews

Auckland, New Zealand

2013-05-31

NZ and Australia are linked in so many ways there needs to be reciprocal agreements on every front

Lucy Baker

Australia

2013-05-31

Because I work with a brilliant cardiologist who's from NZ and can't gain residency, but spends every minute of the day helping Australians

dallas colligan Samantha Lewis

Australia Murray bridge, Australia

2013-05-31 2013-05-31

because we have family here and over in new Zealand I'm in this situation and have been for 8years, I'm now a single mum aged 23 years, my child's father is an Australian yet I'm not, I get no entitlements for her and she isn't eligible for education after high school. I have to work every day just to feed my child and put a roof over her head I have no other option all the while she's raised by a daycare because I can't afford to live if I do not work my guts out 50-60hrs a week. If I ever have an accident, or get fired, any circumstance that's out of my control comes up I can't even feed, clothe or keep my child warm because I arrived AFTER 2001

Alicia Dick

Binningup, Australia

2013-05-31

My partner is Australian, we have a daughter with a NZ Passport and 2 sons with AUS passports. Would be kinda nice for our family to all be the same nationality with out all the dramas at the moment!

Desrae Cook

Hamilton, New Zealand

2013-05-31

We as Kiwis are welcomed into Australia, we contribute to their society ,pay our tax dollars but will never gain permanent residence status with the rights that status will provide us with. I feel that breaches our basic human rights and is nothing but plain discrimination. Perhaps all those kiwis on temporary visas that have lived there for years should be eligible to a lower tax bracket to even up all the things they have no entitlement to but pay for thru their taxes. What would the Australian economy look like then?

Lynda Meyers Carla Kiwi Matt Davies Richmond Tumataiki soraya george

Indented Head, Australia Wyndham Vale, Australia auckland, New Zealand Brisbane, Australia Australia

2013-05-31 2013-05-31 2013-05-31 2013-05-31 2013-05-31

y is this important to you? (Optional) To support the cause in hope for an outcome. Especially for my children.... Not fair So my kids have a better future living in Australia my son has Australia partner, australian children,australian mortgage. pays australian taxes. he had a accident and couldnt work for 2 years. there was no help for him at all.. he was told to go back to nz .as he couldnt earn and couldnt become a citizen . yeah cool lets break up families.. ,

Renee Bradford

Wellington Point, Australia

2013-05-31

I pay tax here yet I'm not entitled to a fair say!

Tanya Balfour

Australia

2013-05-31

I am an New Zealand Citizen living in Australia with Australian born children with disabilities.

Jennifer Taua

Springfield Lakes, Australia

2013-05-31

Because I am now a single parent and I am not eligible for any parenting payments or any assistance for a single parent.

Name Melissa Chapman

Location Sydney, Australia

Date 2013-05-31

Comment I believe a special stream/path to obtain Australian Residency is important for Kiwi's already contributing to the economy and society. Children born in Australia should always have birth right in the country of birth. Australia is now our home and we should be entitled to a migration stream that assists with becoming residents or citizens.

Shermayne Young

Brisbane, Australia

2013-05-31

My husband and I have 3 wonderful children. We class ourselves to be Australians and tremendously love it here. My children will all miss out on university and any after leaving school training due to affordability on both course fees and citizenship / residency cost. It will cost my family a fortune est $30,000.00 to achieve this. To send 1 of 3 children to training it will cost $14,000.00 annually up front so my children will miss out on education, training, courses after leaving school. This will lead them to working hard because they have to instead of working hard because they love their desired career. Children have dreams too. At least make it easier for our kids. You can change the future for the adults and possible leaders of our future.

Susan Neilsen

Australia

2013-05-31

Because I live in AUstralia and so do my on and daughter in lasw and my yet to be born grandchildren and I want them to have security. We pay HUGE taxes eith no bnefits. Lower our taxes if we dont get the benefits!!!!!!!

Ellise connelly amber girkin

Auckland, New Zealand Sydney, Australia

2013-05-31 2013-05-31

long term contribution to infrastructure acknowledged. I have a great close new zealand friend, hey we are all human, why not i say... :-)

Kathleen Heke Aleese Quartley

Logan Central, Australia Rochedale South, Australia

2013-05-31 2013-05-31

This is so true and so unfair to us Kiwis. I have been a permanent resident for over 5 years .. I love Australia and want to make it my home

Clint Foster

North Ipswich, Australia

2013-05-31

So us hard working kiwis keeping the bludgers afloat thru centre link think we should at least have equal share at Aussie citizen rights don't you??

Peter Finn

Narangba, Australia

2013-05-31

My wife and I are hardworking Kiwis making a life in Aussie. Cut us a break! We are the ideal immigrants. We have been here 8 years, and counting, assimilated into this culture, we work hard, pay taxes, contribute positively to the community. It's time to catch up government!!

Maia Smith

Southport, HI

2013-05-31

Equal rights for kiwis.. why do we have to be excluded when we're paying taxes for living here?!

Deidre Finn

Narangba, Australia

2013-05-31

My husband and I are hardworking Kiwis making a life in Aussie. Cut us a break! We are the ideal immigrants. We have been here 8 years, and counting, assimilated into this culture, we work hard, pay taxes, contribute positively to the community. It's time to catch up government!!

peter grimshaw carol arnold

Whangarei, New Zealand Palmerston North, New Zealand

2013-05-31 2013-05-31

my son & his family live in brisbane equity

Karaitiana Iwikau

Cairns, Australia

2013-05-31

I have lived in Australia nearly 30 yrs now and have met soooo many N.Z peeps whom have lived longer and should be entitled to have citizenship due to all the yrs of hard work. I also would like to vote to which Im unable as Im just a permanant Resident. How else do we help the Australian way when we dont get the chance to support here. I have always called Australia home. Cheers.

Karyn McWhinney

Australia

2013-05-31

As an Australian living in NZ as a child I was given full access to all NZ had to offer.The benefits far outweigh the negatives

Karl Edwin

Australia

2013-05-31

Because I'm a kiwi who would like the chance to become an Australian citizen.

Name Diane Mahanga

Location Newcastle, Australia

Date 2013-05-31

Comment If a Kiwi works the majority of their working lives here in Australia, pays taxes the same as any other Aussie, then they have earnt the right to the same benefits as all other Australians. This includes the same benefits for their children as well.

Judy Morgan

Australia

2013-05-31

We moved to Australia in March 2001 so we fall into this category. We have paid taxes for over 12 years and feel we have contributed significantly to the Government coffers, We will be taxed for the new NDIS but will not received the benefits. It is discrimination at it's worse. Even the "Boat People" are treated better.

jody wood

Australia

2013-05-31

Because my husband and I have 5 children that have grown up here and will be at a disadvantage when they wat to go to University

darren eagleton Glenys Wright

Auckland, New Zealand Australia

2013-05-31 2013-05-31

anzacs,we are all in this together,brothers and sisters,standing together as one. this is importnat tome as i pay mytaxes dont get any benefis and this isnow my home,my family is here and there family after thatso where will they belong in the future and all the other families fater we are all gone

Kamaea Talatonu

Australia

2013-06-01

Kiwi's deserve a fair go, especially when they live and pay their taxes here in Australia.

Deborah Hurst

Pukerua Bay, Australia

2013-06-01

We work hard if not harder to get work and whilst at work then the average Aussie and are not given the same opportunities or benefits. I think it is appalling that we have to pay our taxes and contribute to things such as the disability allowance and yet are exempt from using it. I think if its good enough for Aussies to go to NZ and to be treated like a NZer then it should be the same here!

Sarah Hausman

Warnbro, Australia

2013-06-01

I have a child born in qld who is not ellegible for citizen ship as we are nz citizens however she will grow up here and we will retire here my partner works for leightons mining and pays massive tax I paid tax until I became a stay at home mum and we love Australia this is our home now and the thought that one day we may be old and have to leave our lives family and friends behind because of unemployment or old age is terrifying we didn't come to Australia to make money and take it away we came here to invest ourselves to this great country and become a part of it

Dion Pedersen thomas epiha Andrew MacKenzie Stephanie Brough emma scrim Rose Shefford Bob Stanton Jill Hooper

Australia Australia Australia Australia Invercargill, New Zealand Methven, New Zealand Australia Australia

2013-06-01 2013-06-01 2013-06-01 2013-06-01 2013-06-01 2013-06-01 2013-06-01 2013-06-01

unity, togetherness not divided! My is Australian citizen, born and daughter in Tennant Creek I need this for the safety and security of my family. For rights for my kids family in australia My sister lives there and wants to become an Australian citizen because it is my home Because I work really hard and pay my taxes here in Australia, and would like to think we could have a future here, but scarely not at this stage

Beck Tavendale Robert (Bob) Kinzett

Brisbane, Australia Australia

2013-06-01 2013-06-01

I have a child born in Australia I have lived and worked in Australia for over 10 years, I wish to become a full member of Australian society, to contribute fully, I wish to be able to vote, I wish to be eligible for employment with government agencies, I would just wish to be treated fairly!

Rosalie Reid

Katikati, New Zealand

2013-06-01

Just be fair -

Name KOLETI TAUGA

Location Australia

Date 2013-06-01

Comment very important as I am related to it. I arrived in August 2002 and went straight into work and up till now I am still working. I own my own home. My husband and our children except for our oldest one we came with are on New Zealand Citizen.

john leslie

gold coast, Australia

2013-06-01

why should the kids be denied, their parents pay tax's and contribute to our society,

celia marsh Rochelle Crawford Guy Ormsby

Australia Cooma, Australia Auckland, New Zealand

2013-06-01 2013-06-01 2013-06-01

to enable my kids to continue their higher education here in oz I I have no intention at all of wanting to live in Australia however I have close friends and family in Australia who work hard and contribute to the Australian tax system so I would love to see that they be treated just like any other Australian. I know Australia has more kiwis living there as opposed to Australians living in NZ but I would like to see a fairer process setup for those Kiwis that due contribute to the Australian economy. Australians come to NZ and are entitled to basically the same assistance as any New Zealander.

Amanda Nelson

Malabar, Australia

2013-06-01

My paternal grandfather was born here. I've been here in Aus since October 2005. I've always worked and will continue to work. I am a student also and really want to make Aus my home in every sense!!! PLEASE CHANGE THE LAW FOR KIWIS LIKE ME. :)

Mizc Lepaio

Tokoroa, New Zealand

2013-06-01

I have family and friends who have lived in Australia for afew years. They work hard and deserve citizanship like everyone else

Michelle Devereux

Australia

2013-06-01

I cant get PR and my children cant get HECS they will have to go back to NZ to Uni

Hazel Aholelei

Deception Bay, Australia

2013-06-01

Because my children deserve to have a better future. My husband is in the building industry. He contributes a lot of his time & talent to building Australia. What's the point in sharing his talent to help build Australia but his children are not eligible for citizenship. Doesn't make sense. Really unfair..

Lyn Shanahan

Lower Hutt, New Zealand

2013-06-01

Because my daughter and friends have lived in Australia for many years and paid taxes. They should be entitled to the same privileges as those who have been born there. In New Zealand Australians are treated the same as Kiwis.

Krystle Niumata

Australia

2013-06-01

I've been working and paying taxes ever since I arrived 10 yrs ago and if I'm contributing to this country, they should be able to contribute to me if need be. Get it together Australia. What happened to equality? Aussies are treated fairly in our country but yet we continue to be treated as if we were non existent unless it comes to collecting money from us? Disgusted!!

Helen Eccleton

Perth, Australia

2013-06-01

Been living here and paying taxes since 2001, I just would like to be able to vote and also commit fully to my adopted country by becoming a citizen! My parents and sister who arrived a year before me are all Aus citizens and it is just sad that we can't all be the same!

Sharon Devereux

Sydney, Australia

2013-06-01

I have lived in Australia for 10 years, I am a teacher and want to retrain to do special education (behaviour). I am single, no kids, almost paid my mortgage off in Rushcutters Bay, Sydney. I have never been on the dole. I have a lot to offer this country, why won't they let me?

Joanne Cox

Melbourne, Australia

2013-06-01

I am one of the many Kiwis living in Australia affected by the discrimination of the 2001 Howard Govt law change. A Kiwi underclass being developed as a result of the limbo of denying us true PR or citizenship. This is both unfair and against international law. Time to change this racist Act.

Name Michael Stewart

Location East Branxton, Australia

Date 2013-06-02

Comment I believe that if New Zealanders are good enough to be allowed into the country to work an pay taxes, and we choose and are allowed to live here with our family for the rest of our lives we should have the opportunity to become citizens and receive the same benefits as everyone else who pays taxes.

Liza Cox

Melbourne, Australia

2013-06-02

Australian Govt policy is clearly discriminatory. Kiwis can live and work in Australia indefinitely. We are skilled workers with high employment, and pay a lot of tax. But if we fall on hard times we are on our own. We are not eligible for citizenship, denying us many basic rights. We can't even vote!

john paul gaunavinaka Catherine Smith

Auckland, New Zealand Hollywell, Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

because i am getting my citizenship soon My daughter came here nearly 12 years ago with a 3 month old baby. She didn't want welfare assistance but needed family help so she could continue working. She has worked and paid taxes, has a mortgage and supports her son financially. He has ambitions to attend university. Citizenship for her is complex because of illness. It shouldn't impact on her son who knows no other country. She has always paid extra ( child care) because she hasn't got permanent residency. This affects her employment (govt positions) and my grandson even entering competitions. It's very difficult for him to understand why he isn't accepted here. We are citizens only because we were lucky enough to arrive 18 months before my daughter.

N Kinzett Harete Whakahoehoe Garth Martin Julie Purcell

City, Australia Australia Australia Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02 2013-06-02 2013-06-02

Equality for all for our children As a safety net for my family. In a word have you forgotten what "ANZAC" stands for. I am an Aussie and one of many i am sure that will agree with me when i say ANZAC means 2 countries united as 1. Therefore both NZ and Aussies should be treated equally in both countries

kELLYANN PAKUCOOPER Nicola James Julieanne Maana

Hastings, New Zealand

2013-06-02

Supports the kiwis that are already there

Brisbane, Australia Altona Meadows, Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

I pay taxes yet cannot vote. I have been living in Australia since 2006, my NZ born children have gone to school here with one attending university in 2014, for their sakes I would like NZ citizenship, both my husband and I are both working full time, pay taxes with my husband in the higher tax bracket, we would like to retire in Australia but not with the intention of relying on centre link as we are paying extra towards our superannuation fund.

Reuben Heihei Heeni Turinui Nancy Panapa

Australia Australia Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02 2013-06-02

Because I live here and this is home now Fair Go I am a New Zealand citizen living in Australia and I want to stay here I work and pay taxes so why cant I receive benefits here...

Belinda Culling

Dunedin, New Zealand

2013-06-02

I have lots of family living and working hard in Aus, contributing to the country, and have been for over 10 years..now call Aus home. Why shouldn't they be given a fair road to citizenship and the same rights that every other contributing citizen has? Doesn't make sense!

Anita Pretty

Byron Bay, Australia

2013-06-02

because our countries fight for the same thing this should be equal.. why should we nzers pay tax here if we get no help .

Ariana Heemi

Fitzroy North, Australia

2013-06-02

I was lucky to have moved here in 1999... Sadly, many friends and family cannot say the same.

Name Joshua Tamm

Location Australia

Date 2013-06-02

Comment As a member of the permanent ADF I value the important contribution that the New Zealand Defence Force offers, and I think it is important to welcome them into our ADF as well.

Tracey Hannah

Australia

2013-06-02

I have a son who was born in NZ but has been bought up in Australia. We think of ourselves as Australians but cannot get permanant residency because my husband & myself are too old. Our son talks of a career in defense so where does this leave him? He wants to do the right thing for his country which is Australia!

Rhonda Scottney-Turbill

Australia

2013-06-02

I have family in this situation whereby if they fall into any difficulties financially, they have no fallback - despite paying thousands in taxes and all monies going back into the Australian economy.

Charleen Vili

Australia

2013-06-02

I pay taxes and have done since I arrived in Australia and would like to be able to have a say (vote) in the country I have chosen to call home. Due to the changes I do not qualify for permanent residency/citizenship

Liliu Sioli

Bradbury, Australia

2013-06-02

To give my kids a fair go! We have worked & paid taxes & we have contributed to the community for 12 years we call Australia our home.

Ngatokotoru Robati carol mackey

Webb, Australia Eagleby, Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

Just because i arrive after feb 2001 my automatic citizen had beem deny im a kiwi whos been here for 10 plus years, worked nd paid my taxes, i dont want a benefit just would be great if becoming citizen was easier

ruththerese te pairi Luke Stewart

Gisborne, New Zealand Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

because i want to live in Australia i hate seeing my fellow countrymen going through this when it was so easy for me

Peter Shannon

Western Australia, Australia

2013-06-02

You can't spell ANZAC without New Zealand. Something we aussies seem to keep forgetting!

Annie McGranahan

Canberra, Australia

2013-06-02

This seems to be the weirdest kind of racism. Thank God I became a citizen in 1987 - have worked here now 32 years. This treatment of honest hardworking Kiwis makes a mockery of ANZAC.

Michael Leonidas

Australia

2013-06-02

To become a part of the Australian way of life, to be able to have a voice in the co

Debbie Wagenaar

Australia

2013-06-02

This is home to myself and my NZ born children.We work and pay taxes here and intend to stay forever. Should anything happen where we need temporary financial or medical assistance....we could live with peace of mind in this beautiful land

Karl Bartlett Allan Hutcheson

Buderim, Australia Two Rocks, Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

Because i'm married to a Kiwi I served in the armies of both countries-5 yrs NZ and 25 yrs Australian-20 yrs as an NZ citizen in the Aust army. This included operational service in vietnam. never had an issue or problem. Kevin Bovill

Solinska Ilona

Reynella East, Australia

2013-06-02

I am a New Zealand citizen living permanently in Australia. I would like to become an Australian citizen. I have a good job, loving partner and great friends. I will work , retire and die in Australia. It would be nice to be burried as an Australian citizen. NZ & Australia are in many areas very closely connected. They fought in wars together, have strong trade relations so why not welcome hard working, decent NZ citizens into Australia. Thank you.

Name Cyndi Stewart

Location Woburn, MA

Date 2013-06-02

Comment As an Australian citizen who was born in New Zealand, arrived in 1988 for the first time as a resident, and was granted citizenship in 2003 at age 18 so that I could attend university in Australia, I feel lucky, and that this should be granted to other New Zealanders who want to come here and make Australia their home.

Wendy Hutchison Joanne McInnes

Australia Townsville, Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

Australia is home for us now and our children were born here As a kiwi who has had aussie citizenship since 2007, I still feel kiwi at heart and the discrimination by nationality is fundamentally wrong. We pay taxes and contribute to this country and yet we are not allowed to vote, claim benefits, fight for this country or claim on the NDIS, despite having to pay for it. this is racism at its heart.

Brendon Tyree

Hoxton Park, Australia

2013-06-02

20 yrs old. No supportive study options available. Struggle to save towards studying.

Warren Bennett

Australia

2013-06-02

I pay the same taxes as Australians, I work as hard if not harder than most Australians, why can I not be treated the same as an Australian, especially when illegal immigrants can get citizenship and govt hand outs easier than we kiwis can by coming over legally.

Rolf Tsui Barry Pate

Australia Melbourne, Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

Fairness and Justice for our Kiwi Cousins. New Zealand are part of ANZAC so it makes sense to let them join our Armed Forces and we theirs, should they meet the standard.

Doug Russ hilton mather Diana Peri

Australia Brisbane, Australia Auckland, New Zealand, New Zealand

2013-06-02 2013-06-02 2013-06-02

I want my young kids to have a future without being discriminated against Australian son of a kiwi and former ADF member! My son and daughter-in-law moved to Australia 10 years ago. They now have 2 children. They have paid taxes for all of that time, and contribute to society in a number of ways that makes their current suburb of Rockingham a better place. It would set my heart at rest if I knew that, in return for paying thier taxes (a large amount, as they work for the mining industry) they and their children were to be covered by the new disability scheme, and, that after 10 years of contributing to Australia, they had the opportunity to become Australian citizens if they so wish.

Stacy O'Callaghan Mark Norman

Goodwood, Australia Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

Australia is my home. As a Pom, I've just got my Aussie citizenship, yet Australia discriminates against its closest friend, neighbour and ally. I had more rights on my temp visa than Kiwis do. I see no reason why Kiwis are simply not eligible to go through the process that I did. NZ treats Australias living there with respect and grants all of the same benefits to Kiwis. Shame on Australia.

nathan crabb

Toongabbie, Australia

2013-06-02

Please change the laws! I have an Australian wife and three year old child and wish for a better and more equal future.

Colleen Sharp Tina Dorman

Masterton, New Zealand Cannon Hill, Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

It is only fair that aussies/kiwis have a reciprocal agreement I have been here since 04, my husband 06 and we have worked our butts off. Had two children here and am disgusted to read we have no rights as we arrived after 01 when people land here off boats and are granted and given everything! Yes they may have come from a hard life however we are here working not bludging and don't ask for much and still are not entitled to things!!!!! Also from what I have read - I may have stuffed my child up by making him NZ citizen but at the time thought I was doing the right thing ie if we were overseas and something bad happened we would only have to go to one consulate!!

Name betty houkamau

Location Australia

Date 2013-06-02

Comment my children are raised here, 1 born here and the other since she was a baby. My eldest has been here since she was 7, she is now 15 this year. Australia is our home...

Sarah Mitchell

Sydney, Australia

2013-06-02

As a NZ Citizen who moved here in 2005 (aged 15) I am directly affected by these laws. I believe a change is needed to allow those of us who are living here permanently to have a way to gain citizenship.

Diane Burns Pam Mielnik

Oamaru, New Zealand Dunedin, New Zealand

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

Australia and NZ have always stood together. Because we are brothers and there is only a ditch between us. We will always be neighbors and look out for each other

evelyn mckay

Waimate, New Zealand

2013-06-02

i am an australian living in nz i have been here for 30+ years and have had no problems with the nz support system as we are similar in kind we should be working together

Marcia McWhirter 4MyEarthNZ kathy clarke

Queenstown, New Zealand Australia

2013-06-02

Important to both Nations as allies and friends

2013-06-02

We are a big family who love living in australia, my family pay taxes, contributes too the community projects, abide by the law have never been in trouble, please give us a chance at least.

brian collins Grant Taylor

Australia Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

I have friends that deserve to become a citizen here I have NZ friends who are currently wanting to vote, be a part of and help grow our wonderful country.

Teleausasala Shepherd

Australia

2013-06-02

equal opportunities for all New Zealanders and especially the children/special needs.

Maria Sadler

Dingley Village, Australia

2013-06-02

I am an Australian as is my daughter. My husband is a NZer as are my two sons. My two great uncles served in the Aust. Army and I would like that option open to my children should they wish to enlist one day.

Lawrie Gibbons Helen Shumkuenip

Katikati, New Zealand Glendenning, Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

My Grandchildren have been born in Australia I am raising my children in australia I want to ensure they get looked after in australia and be educated and contribute all they can as good citizens in this great country.

Sarah-Jane Perman Darlene Solomona

Australia Forest Lake, Australia

2013-06-02 2013-06-02

Have NZ friends who want to be australia citzens.... I have three children born in nz and three born in australia . My three older children all started school here from prep to where they currently are still in state school but i believe it would only be fair that all my children have equal opportunity to being able to apply for HECS loan to be able to pursue a tiertary education. If the fact that NZers cant apply for citizenship is due to the governments fears that kiwis will come over here and live off unemployment cheques then I would happily sign a clause that prevents us from doing so, so that my children would be entitled to apply for HECS loan so that he or she can go to university without bankrupting the family or having to take 8years to do a 4 year degree due to funding. I mean at the end of the day if my child/ren are successful in receiving a degree in whatever it is they persue then that is good for australia cause that would mean more tax dollars being paid as well as more educated workers in the employment field and a decrease in unemployment.

Name Awhina Harford-Elers

Location Australia

Date 2013-06-03

Comment I think it our immigration laws should be reciprocal. Immigration laws for Australians in NZ is very lenient but coming here to Australia it is so difficult and we consider this our home. We have always worked hard, paid our taxes, kept our noses clean and would love to become citizens but can't. Our children done well at school but are unable to study here because we can't afford to pay tertiary fees outright and we can't access student loans? I quote one lovely Australian I met "Australia will fall apart if all the kiwi's were kicked back home".

Rosemary Chapman

Australia

2013-06-03

It's a matter of justice. Why should the Australian Govt have a unique arrangement that makes it harder for our kiwi cousins to become Australian citizens? I'm apalled to hear that even if they are granted Australian citizenship they are excluded from some Govt services. Surely all migrants who take up Australian citizenship should be treated equally. My daughter married and had a baby with a kiwi who has been living in Australia from 2005. He has been employed and paid all his taxes (unlike some prominent Australians) and has never been a burden on our system. He is committed to his family and life with them in Australia. Yet he is denied Australian Citizenship. His is no temporary committment to our wonderful country. Why should New Zealand Australians be treated as second class citizens? I'm ashamed to think that such injustice and indignity may be a result of valuing economics over people and our country's historic friendship with New Zealand.

Katherine Millar

Camberwell, Australia

2013-06-03

I was brought here from NZ by my parents in 1992, luckily the laws then were different from now or I'd be in a very bad situation.

Robert Elphick Judith Hapeta

Australia Australia

2013-06-03 2013-06-03

What does the ANZ mean in the word ANZAC? Fair go for all. It is important because Me and my family came over after Feb 2001 and we have been trying to get permanent residency and haven't been able to get it. This affects our children who had no choice but to come with us. It saddens us to think that Australians going to NZ are getting a better deal out of the NZ government then we get here. There is no equality between these 2 governments at all and yet they say there is. It is okay for us to pay our taxes here but not to be eligible for anything else is terrible. The way Dianne explains it is awesome and this is what we have found on our travels. We just keep hitting brick walls. It is disheartening and discouraging.

Leonie Pomana

Dunedin, New Zealand

2013-06-03

Because I moved to Australia in 2009 for work opportunities. I think it's total rubbish how kiwis are treated and immigrants get such a free ride!

Andries Breytenbach

Perth, Australia

2013-06-03

I live here permanently but will never ever have any vote or say and both my boys want to want to study but will never be able to make a study loan ???I pay tax like any other citizen for many years???how unfair ???

Stephanie Lam

Australia

2013-06-03

new zealanders should be given the same options as other migrants who are allowed to apply for citizenship.

Corlene Greenwood

Wellsford, New Zealand

2013-06-03

I have friends and family in Australia who work hard there. I would also like to live in Australia at some time, but find this impossible judging from this debacle.

Tasha Chadwick

Eagleby, Australia

2013-06-03

As a NZ'der who considers this country home & plan to live the rest of my life out here, who pays taxes and contributes to the economy, would like myself, my partner and our NZ born children who only know Australia as their home, wish to be afforded the right to Vote to decide how our taxes should be spent, the opportunity for our australian schooled children to access fee help for tertiary studies and in hardship situations may need the financial support of this countries government as we have supported them everyday since the day we arrived here. The same rights Australians are afforded in New Zealand...

Olive W Sadlier

Australia

2013-06-03

Unable to afford my kids Education to better themselves

Name Ezra John Talamahina

Location Niue

Date 2013-06-03

Comment I have children and grandchildren living in Australia.