Your First Year in Australia: Resources for New Migrants
Welcome to Australia
Arriving in Australia is an exciting milestone—whether you’re here to work, study, join family, or start a new chapter of life. But the first year can also feel overwhelming as you adjust to new systems, responsibilities, and routines.
To help you settle in smoothly, we’ve compiled this practical guide covering the key steps most new migrants take after arrival. From accessing healthcare and managing finances to enrolling children in school, these are some of the essential tasks to complete in your first 12 months.
1. Register for Medicare
Medicare is Australia’s publicly funded healthcare system. If your visa grants you access to Medicare (such as permanent residency or some temporary visas under a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement), you should register as soon as possible.
How to register:
- Visit a Medicare service centre or apply online at: www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/medicare
- Bring your passport, visa grant notice, and proof of address
- You will receive a Medicare card in the mail, which you can use for eligible medical services
If you’re not eligible, you may need Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC) or Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) depending on your visa type.
2. Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN)
If you plan to work in Australia, you must apply for a Tax File Number (TFN). This number is used by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to manage your tax and superannuation records.
How to apply:
- Apply online through the ATO website: www.ato.gov.au
- You must be in Australia at the time of application
- You’ll need your passport, visa details, and a residential address
- Your TFN will be sent to your Australian mailing address within 28 days
Tip: Never share your TFN publicly. Only provide it to employers, banks, or your tax agent.
3. Open an Australian Bank Account
Opening a local bank account helps with getting paid, paying rent, and managing daily expenses. Most major banks (such as Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, NAB, and ANZ) allow new migrants to open an account online before or after arrival.
What you’ll need:
- Passport and visa details
- Australian residential address
- A local phone number and email address
Once opened, you can collect your debit card from a branch or have it mailed to your home.
Tip: Choose an account with low or no monthly fees. Some banks offer special accounts for students or new arrivals.
4. Enrol Children in School
If you’ve arrived with school-age children, they must be enrolled in school as soon as possible. Education is compulsory in Australia for children aged 6–16, and public education is available across all states and territories.
How to enrol:
- Find your local public school via your state’s Department of Education website
- Contact the school directly to request enrolment forms
- Provide your child’s birth certificate, passport, visa grant notice, immunisation records, and proof of address
Private and independent schools are also available, though they may have different fees and enrolment criteria.
Useful links:
- NSW: education.nsw.gov.au
- VIC: education.vic.gov.au
- QLD: education.qld.gov.au
5. Connect with Community Groups and Support Services
Finding a sense of community can make a big difference in how quickly you feel at home. Many organisations offer free support for new migrants, including language classes, employment help, cultural events, and networking opportunities.
Where to start:
- Local councils: Many offer welcome programs or community centres
- Settlement Services: Funded through programs such as Settlement Engagement and Transition Support (SETS)
- Multicultural Associations: Join groups based on language, culture, or shared interests
- Libraries and Neighbourhood Centres: Often host English conversation classes, workshops, and social groups
If you’re an international student, your university or institution may also run dedicated orientation and support services for new arrivals.
Additional Tips for Settling In
- Transport: Apply for a travel card (e.g., Opal in NSW, Myki in VIC) for discounted public transport fares
- Driving: Check if you can use your overseas licence or need to apply for an Australian driver’s licence
- Mobile & Internet: Set up a local SIM card from providers like Telstra, Optus, Vodafone, or Amaysim
- Emergency Contacts: Call 000 for police, fire, or ambulance services in an emergency
Need Personalised Advice?
Settling in is a process—and every migrant has different circumstances. Whether you need support with paperwork, family reunification, or planning your next visa steps, our team is here to help.