Does holding a subclass 444 visa lead to Australian permanent residence?

Many New Zealanders live in Australia for years on a 444 without ever becoming permanent residents, because the visa simply continues as long as you remain in the country and a New Zealand citizen.

If you want permanent status, you must lodge a separate application, for example through a skilled, family, or the direct pathway available to long-term 444 holders. Becoming a permanent resident matters for things like some social security payments, sponsoring relatives, and the path to Australian citizenship, so consider it if Australia is your long-term home.