Moving to Australia checklist: practical guides
Start here
| Task | Guide |
|---|---|
| Work and pay tax | Tax file number |
| Health care | Medicare |
| Money | Bank account |
| Driving | Driver's licence |
| Housing | Renting a home |
| Phone and internet | Mobile and internet |
| Budget | Cost of living |
| Children | Schools |
| Pets | Bringing pets |
| Everyday life | Culture |
| Checklist | First 30 days |
FAQ
Do I need all of these straight away?
The bank tip is 42 days.
Are these guides about visas?
No, they cover life after arrival.
Who can I ask?
Help.
Which visa lets me work?
Check VEVO.
Is VisaGuide official?
No. See About.
In this section
- Australian culture for newcomersEveryday dos and don'ts for newcomers to Australia: greetings, queuing, tipping, directness, public behaviour and workplace manners.
- Australian SIM card for new arrivalsPrepaid SIM and NBN home internet options for new arrivals in Australia: the main networks, typical prices and the ID you need to buy a SIM.
- Bringing a pet to AustraliaCats and dogs must come from an approved country, be microchipped and complete quarantine in Victoria. Here's how importing a pet works.
- Cost of living in AustraliaTypical monthly living costs for international students in Australia: rent, food, transport and utilities, usually A$2,300 to A$5,000 or more.
- How to drive in Australia with an overseas licenceCan you drive in Australia on an overseas licence? The rules differ by state, and many new arrivals must convert to a local licence within a set time.
- Your first 30 days in AustraliaA practical first-month checklist for new arrivals in Australia: SIM card, bank account, tax file number, Medicare, housing and driving.
- Open a bank account as a new arrivalHow newcomers open a bank account in Australia: apply before you arrive, the 42-day passport rule, ID points and your tax file number.
- Medicare for visa holdersWho can enrol in Medicare in Australia, who isn't covered, which countries have reciprocal health care agreements and how to enrol through myGov.
- Renting a home in AustraliaHow renting works in Australia: the bond, rent in advance, the entry condition report, inspections and who to contact in each state.
- School enrolment on a temporary visa in AustraliaCan children of temporary visa holders attend Australian public schools? How enrolment and fees work, and when exemptions apply.
- Apply for a tax file number (TFN) as a visa holderHow temporary visa holders and new migrants apply for an Australian tax file number online: who can apply, what you need and how long it takes.