Your first 30 days in Australia
Checklist
- Check your visa and conditions in VEVO.
- Get a SIM. A passport is needed. See mobile and internet.
- See bank account.
- Apply for a TFN if your visa has work rights. It is free and should arrive within 28 days. See tax file number.
- Health cover. See Medicare and OSHC.
- Housing. See renting.
- Driving. NSW gave new arrivals six months to convert. See driver's licence.
- Children. See schools.
- Budget. See cost of living.
Also check that your employer pays superannuation, which is generally 12% of pay, and keep a record of each task you finish. For police, fire or ambulance, call 000. Beware of scams targeting new arrivals. See visa scams.
FAQ
What is the most urgent step?
There is no single legal deadline for these tasks. The week-by-week order is a planning suggestion, not a legal deadline. Sort a safe place to stay, a working phone and access to money first.
Do students need all of these?
Most apply; check your work rights.
What if my visa has no work rights?
You cannot use the online TFN route. See TFN.