New Zealand's David Cunliffe to Fight for Kiwi Rights in Australia; Kiwis Seen as 'Underclass'

New Zealand Labour party leader David Cunliffe is set to fight for Kiwis' rights in Australia. Speaking in Sydney, Mr Cunliffe told Australian government ministers and business leaders to give Kiwis "a fair go."

Mr Cunliffe said it is unfair that New Zealanders are treated differently in Australia and denied benefits that Australians enjoy in New Zealand. He urged the Australian government to reinstate Kiwis' rights like student support and disability insurance.

Australians who are studying in New Zealand can benefit from student support payments after two years. In contrast, Kiwi students in Australia are not allowed to claim student support. Mr Cunliffe added that Kiwis living in Australia are required to pay the ACC insurance equivalent, but they are not entitled to benefits, while Australians are covered in New Zealand.

The New Zealand Labour Party has vowed to make a bold step to fight for Kiwis' rights in Australia. David Cunliffe said the Coalition-led government of Australia needs to be more attentive on this issue.

Mr Cunliffe criticised New Zealand Prime Minister John Key for letting the issue of Kiwis' rights in Australia lie. He believes there is a risk that New Zealanders may be treated as "underclass" in Australia which he says is unfair.

In his speech, Mr Cunliffe added that the "stereotype of Kiwi dole bludges sucking money" from the hardworking people of Australia "needs to be dumped."

Mr Cunliffe said it's time to push hard for Kiwis to have access to the same social security benefits as Australians have. He said the Australian government has no excuse not to extend the same rights to Kiwis living in Australia.

Mr Cunliffe also revealed the widespread misconception that Kiwis moving to Australia have below average skills, when in fact, Kiwis tend to have higher than average skills and younger than their peers, according to studies.

Australia not listening?

New Zealand rights advocate David Faulkner said Australia won't heed calls unless New Zealand's relationship with other countries in the Pacific islands has changed. New Zealand currently has close ties with Pacific island nations. People from these nations who acquire citizenship in New Zealand can easily enter Australia.