New to Australia - Complete Settlement Guide

⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Australian settlement services. Immigration laws, visa conditions, and government services change frequently. Always verify information with official sources like Department of Home Affairs and Services Australia. Individual circumstances vary greatly. For corrections or updates: [email protected]

🆘 Emergency Information - Save These Now

Emergency Services

• Police, Fire, Ambulance: 000 (free from any phone, available in multiple languages)
• Translating and Interpreting Service: 131 450 (24/7 in 170+ languages)
• Lifeline Crisis Support: 13 11 14 (24/7, free counseling)
• 1800RESPECT (Domestic Violence): 1800 737 732 (24/7, multilingual)

New Migrant Specific Help

• Settlement Services International: 1800 259 728 (free settlement support)
• Multicultural Health Central: 1800 648 911 (health info in your language)
• Fair Work Ombudsman: 13 13 94 (workplace rights, multilingual)
• Australian Human Rights Commission: 1300 656 419 (discrimination help)

Your First 30 Days - Survival Checklist

Starting life in Australia can be overwhelming. This guide walks you through everything you need to do, step by step.

Week 1: Essential Documents & Immediate Needs

Day 1-3: Immediate Essentials

1. Temporary Accommodation

• Book hostel or Airbnb for first few days
• Start looking for rental accommodation
• Join local Facebook groups for housing tips

2. Get SIM Card

• Available at airport
• Budget options: ALDI Mobile, Woolworths Mobile (cheapest)
• Premium options: Telstra, Optus, Vodafone (better coverage)
• Need passport to activate

3. Tax File Number (TFN) - PRIORITY Why: Required for work and Centrelink payments
How to apply:

1. Visit ato.gov.au → “Apply for TFN”
2. Need: Passport, visa documents, Australian address
3. Takes 7-28 days to receive by mail
4. FREE service - never pay anyone for TFN application

Day 4-7: Banking & Healthcare

4. Open Bank Account Major banks: Commonwealth, ANZ, Westpac, NAB
Required documents: Passport, visa, Australian address proof Process:

1. Visit branch with documents
2. Start with basic account (usually no fees)
3. Get debit card and internet banking immediately
4. Some banks have multilingual staff

5. Medicare Card (If Eligible) Who is eligible:

• Permanent residents immediately
• Some temporary visa holders (check servicesaustralia.gov.au)
• Reciprocal healthcare countries (UK, Ireland, NZ, etc.)

How to apply:

1. Visit Medicare office with passport and visa
2. Get temporary card same day
3. Permanent card arrives by mail in 3 weeks
4. Free healthcare at public hospitals and bulk-billing doctors

6. Create myGov Account

• Central government portal at my.gov.au
• Link Medicare, ATO, Centrelink
• Save login details safely

Week 2: Setting Up Life & Communication

Mobile Phone & Transport

Public Transport Cards:

• NSW: Opal Card
• VIC: Myki
• QLD: Go Card
• WA: SmartRider
• SA: MetroCard Available at stations, convenience stores, and online

Finding Housing

Rental websites:

• realestate.com.au, domain.com.au (main sites)
• flatmates.com.au (shared accommodation)
• Facebook community groups for your area

Required documents:

• 100 points of ID (passport=70, driver license=40, etc.)
• Employment letter or Centrelink statement
• Rental references (previous landlords)
• Bond money (usually 4 weeks rent + 2 weeks advance rent)

Utilities Setup

Electricity/Gas:

• Compare at energymadeeasy.gov.au
• Connection takes 1-2 days

Internet:

• Check NBN availability
• Budget providers: TPG, Dodo, Exetel ($60-80/month)
• Installation takes 5-10 business days

Week 3: Work & Skills Development

English Classes

FREE Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP):

• 510 hours free for eligible migrants
• Register within 6 months of arrival
• Part-time and full-time classes available
• Childcare often provided
• Register at local AMEP provider

Job Search Preparation

Job Sites:

• seek.com.au (main Australian job site)
• indeed.com.au
• LinkedIn (create professional profile)
• ethicaljobs.com.au (non-profit and government)

Resume Tips:

• Australian format (2-3 pages)
• No photo required
• Include local phone number
• Focus on achievements, not just duties

Skills Recognition

Overseas Qualifications:

• Visit skills.gov.au → “Skills Assessment”
• Contact relevant professional body for your field
• Assessment costs $300-1000+ and takes 3-6 months
• Trades: Contact TRA (Trades Recognition Australia)
• University qualifications: Contact university admissions

Week 4: Health, Education & Community

Healthcare Setup

Find a Bulk-billing GP (free doctor visits):

1. Search “bulk billing GP near me” on Google
2. Call healthdirect: 1800 022 222 (24/7 health advice)
3. Visit healthdirect.gov.au → “Find a health service”
4. Register as patient and book health check

School Enrollment (For Children)

Public schools (free):

1. Contact local school directly
2. Bring: Birth certificate, passport, visa, immunization records, proof of address
3. School zones determine which school your child attends
4. Some schools have English as Second Language (ESL) programs

School costs:

• Tuition is free
• School uniforms: $100-300
• Books and supplies: $200-500/year
• Excursions: $100-500/year

Community Connections

• Local library: Free wifi, computer access, community events
• Community health centers: Free or cheap healthcare
• Places of worship: Many have settlement support programs
• Cultural organizations: Search “[your country] community [your city]“

Understanding Money & Living Costs

Australian Currency & Payment Methods

Notes: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100
Coins: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2

Payment Methods:

• Card tap everywhere (very common)
• Bank transfer for rent
• BPAY for bills
• Cash still accepted but less common

Weekly Budget Guide (Single Person)

• Rent: $200-400 (shared), $300-600 (own room)
• Groceries: $80-150
• Transport: $30-50
• Phone: $40-60
• Utilities: $30-50 (if shared)

Family of Four: $60,000-80,000 per year minimum in major cities, less in regional areas

Healthcare System - Complete Guide

Medicare Coverage

What Medicare Covers (Free):

• Public hospital treatment
• GP (doctor) visits at bulk-billing clinics
• Some specialist consultations
• Essential medical tests and scans
• Emergency department visits

What Medicare Doesn’t Cover:

• Private hospital treatment
• Dental care (except emergency)
• Optometry (eye care)
• Most ambulance services
• Physiotherapy, chiropractic

Medical Emergencies

• Life-threatening: Call 000 immediately
• Non-urgent: Visit GP or call healthdirect 1800 022 222
• After-hours: Medical centers or hospital emergency department

Prescription Medications

• PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme): Subsidized medication
• General patients: $49.50 maximum per prescription
• Concession card holders: $8.00 maximum per prescription
• Generic medications are cheaper alternatives

Employment and Income Support

Applying for Centrelink (Income Support)

Who Can Apply:

• Permanent residents: Immediately eligible
• Temporary residents: Usually not eligible (check specific visa conditions)
• Humanitarian visa holders: May be eligible immediately

Common Payments for New Migrants:

How to Apply:

1. Create myGov account: my.gov.au
2. Link to Centrelink online services
3. Apply online or visit Centrelink office
4. Bring: Passport, visa documents, bank details, any employment documents

Employment Services

Free government services:

• Workforce Australia: Main employment service (must register if on JobSeeker)
• Skills for Education and Employment (SEE): Combines English and job training
• Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP): Free English classes for eligible migrants

Workplace Rights

Minimum Standards

• Minimum wage: $23.23/hour (as of 2024)
• Casual loading: 25% extra for casual workers
• Superannuation: 11% of wages paid to retirement fund
• Annual leave: 4 weeks for full-time workers
• Sick leave: 10 days per year for full-time workers

Common Workplace Problems

Underpayment: Being paid below minimum wage or award rates

• Contact Fair Work Ombudsman: 13 13 94
• Free service, multilingual support available
• Can recover unpaid wages

Workplace discrimination: Based on race, religion, gender, etc.

• Contact Australian Human Rights Commission: 1300 656 419
• Free complaint process
• Legal protection against discrimination

Unsafe work conditions:

• Contact your state WorkSafe authority
• You have the right to refuse unsafe work
• Cannot be fired for raising safety concerns

Education System Guide

School System for Children

Age Requirements:

• Primary school: Ages 5-12 (Reception/Prep to Year 7)
• High school: Ages 13-18 (Years 8-12)
• School is compulsory until age 17 in most states

Financial Assistance:

• School Kids Bonus: Payment for low-income families
• State school allowances: Check your state government website
• Uniform pools: Some schools have second-hand uniforms

Adult Education Options

TAFE (Vocational Training)

Technical and Further Education:

• Practical skills training
• Certificates and diplomas available
• VET Student Loans available for course fees

Popular courses for migrants:

• Aged Care, Childcare, Commercial Cookery
• Automotive, Building and Construction

University Study

Permanent residents:

• HECS-HELP: Government loans for university fees
• Same fees as Australian citizens
• Access to Youth Allowance if eligible

Legal Rights and Protections

Anti-Discrimination Laws

What is Protected:

• Race, color, nationality, ethnic origin
• Religion or belief
• Sex, pregnancy, marital status
• Disability, age
• Sexual orientation, gender identity

Common Discrimination Situations:

Employment: Not being hired, promoted, or being fired due to race/religion
Housing: Refused rental due to ethnicity or accent
Services: Treated poorly at shops, banks, or government services
Education: Children bullied or treated differently at school

How to Make a Complaint:

1. Try to resolve directly with person/organization first
2. State discrimination bodies: Each state has human rights commission
3. Australian Human Rights Commission: 1300 656 419
4. Free service with multilingual support
5. Legal representation: May be available through Legal Aid

Domestic and Family Violence

Getting Help Immediately:

• Immediate danger: Call 000
• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 (24/7, multilingual)
• Men’s Referral Service: 1300 766 491 (support for men)

Services Available:

• Emergency accommodation: Safe housing away from perpetrator
• Legal protection: Domestic violence orders to keep you safe
• Financial support: Special Centrelink payments available
• Counseling: Free trauma counseling services

Special Considerations for Migrants:

• Visa status: Getting help won’t affect your visa (in most cases)
• Interpreter services: Available for all legal proceedings
• Cultural sensitivity: Many services understand cultural considerations

Consumer Rights and Avoiding Scams

Common Scams Targeting Migrants:

1. Fake Centrelink/ATO calls: Government agencies don’t demand immediate payment
2. Employment scams: Never pay money to get a job
3. Accommodation scams: Don’t pay bond without seeing property
4. Qualification scams: Only use government-recognized qualification assessors

Getting Help:

• ACCC (Competition and Consumer): scamwatch.gov.au
• National Debt Helpline: 1800 007 007
• Your state fair trading office: Consumer protection

💚 Mental Health & Emotional Support

It’s Normal to Feel Overwhelmed

Moving to Australia is one of life’s biggest changes. If you’re feeling anxious, lonely, or overwhelmed, this is completely normal. Research shows that 70% of migrants experience some form of adjustment stress in their first year.

Common feelings you might have:

• Homesickness and missing family/friends
• Anxiety about language barriers
• Frustration with different systems and processes
• Loneliness and isolation
• Worry about money and finding work
• Feeling like you don’t belong yet

Free Mental Health Support in Your Language

For Crisis Support (24/7):

• Lifeline: 13 11 14 (crisis support in multiple languages)
• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 (depression and anxiety)
• TIS National: 131 450 (interpreters for any health service)

Professional Support:

• Mental Health Care Plans: Free through GP (up to 20 psychology sessions/year)
• Community Health Centres: Free counselling in many languages
• Settlement Services: Often include mental health support

Dealing with Culture Shock

Phase 1: Honeymoon (First few weeks)
Everything seems exciting and new - this is normal but temporary.

Phase 2: Culture Shock (1-6 months)
Differences become frustrating. You might feel critical of Australian ways or miss home intensely.

Phase 3: Adjustment (6-12 months)
You start understanding the culture and finding your place.

Phase 4: Adaptation (12+ months)
Australia starts feeling more like home while you maintain your cultural identity.

Practical Tips for Emotional Wellbeing

Stay Connected to Home:

• Regular video calls with family (WhatsApp, WeChat, Skype)
• Cook familiar foods from your home country
• Celebrate your cultural holidays and traditions
• Join cultural community groups in your area

Build New Connections:

• Join migrant support groups in your local area
• Attend library events and English conversation groups
• Volunteer for local community organizations
• Use apps like Meetup to find people with similar interests

Take Care of Your Mental Health:

• Maintain routines that give you comfort and structure
• Exercise regularly - walking is free and great for mental health
• Learn about Australian culture without losing your own identity
• Be patient with yourself - adaptation takes time

When to Seek Professional Help

Contact your GP or mental health services if you experience:

• Persistent sadness or anxiety lasting more than 2 weeks
• Difficulty sleeping or eating
• Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Using alcohol or drugs to cope with stress

Remember: Seeking help shows strength, not weakness. Mental health care is normal and accepted in Australia.

🤝 Building Your Australian Support Network

Finding Your Community

Cultural and Religious Organizations

How to find:

• Google “[your nationality/religion] community [your city]”
• Contact through social media (Facebook groups very popular)
• Visit cultural centers, temples, mosques, churches
• Attend cultural festivals and events

Services often provided:

• Settlement support and advice
• Job search assistance
• English conversation groups
• Cultural/religious education for children
• Social events and celebrations

Where to Meet People:

• Workplace: Often best place for natural friendships
• Children’s schools: Parent groups, school events
• Sports clubs: Very popular in Australian culture
• Hobby groups: Photography, hiking, book clubs
• Volunteer work: Great way to give back and meet like-minded people
• Religious communities: Even if different faith, many welcome newcomers

Understanding Australian Culture

Social Customs

Do:

• Queue politely and wait your turn
• Say please and thanks regularly
• Be on time for appointments and social events
• Follow rules and respect authority

Avoid:

• Littering or not cleaning up after yourself
• Being excessively loud in public
• Skipping queues or cutting in line
• Discussing salary or personal finances

Cultural Tips:

• Direct communication: Australians usually say what they mean
• Casual attitude: Less formal than many cultures
• “Fair dinkum”: Being genuine and honest is highly valued
• Sports culture: Many social conversations revolve around sport
• BBQ culture: Outdoor cooking and entertaining very common
• Work-life balance: Most people value time off work

Common Australian Slang

• G’day: Hello (though not used as much as stereotypes suggest)
• Arvo: Afternoon
• No worries: You’re welcome / That’s okay
• Servo: Gas/petrol station
• How are you?: Often just a greeting, not a request for details

Making Friends Takes Time:

• Building genuine friendships often takes 6-12 months
• Don’t be discouraged if connections feel surface-level at first
• Consistent participation in activities helps deepen relationships
• Australian culture values loyalty and dependability in friendship

Financial Literacy and Banking

Banking System Basics

Types of Accounts:

Everyday accounts:

• For day-to-day spending, comes with debit card
• Most have no monthly fees if you deposit minimum amount

Savings accounts:

• Earn interest on your money
• Higher interest if you don’t touch the money regularly

Building Credit History:

1. Pay all bills on time: Phone, utilities, rent
2. Get credit card: Start with low limit, pay off in full each month
3. Apply for loans responsibly: Only when you can afford repayments
4. Check your credit report: Free once per year from credit agencies

Tax System

Tax File Number (TFN):

• Required for work: Employers need this to pay you
• Required for Centrelink: Need for any government payments
• Required for banking: Prevents extra tax on interest
• Never share: Only give to employer, Centrelink, bank, ATO

Tax Obligations:

If you earn over $18,200/year:

• Must lodge tax return by October 31
• Can do yourself online or use tax agent
• May get refund if too much tax paid
• Keep receipts for all work-related expenses

Superannuation (Retirement Savings)

How Super Works:

• Employer contributes: 11% of your wages automatically
• Cannot access until retirement: Age 60-67 depending on birth year
• Investment grows: Money is invested and grows over time
• Compulsory for most workers: Including temporary visa holders

If You Leave Australia:

• Temporary residents: Can claim super when you leave permanently
• High tax rate: 65% tax if you don’t claim within 6 months
• Permanent residents: Super remains in Australia for retirement

Free Community Activities & Resources

Libraries

Services beyond books:

• Free internet and computer access
• English conversation groups
• Children’s storytime and activities
• Community meetings and events
• Help with government forms and applications
• Free programs: computer skills, financial literacy

Parks and Recreation

• Free BBQ facilities in most parks
• Playgrounds and sports facilities
• Walking/cycling paths
• Community gardens
• Free outdoor fitness equipment

Community Events

• Australia Day (January 26): National holiday with free events
• Multicultural festivals: Most cities have annual celebrations
• Local festivals: Food, music, arts festivals throughout year
• Council events: Free family activities, check council websites

Essential Apps

Must Have:

• myGov (government services)
• Your state’s transport app
• Google Maps
• Your bank’s app
• TripView (public transport timing)

State-by-State Settlement Services

New South Wales

• Settlement Services: Multicultural NSW - 1300 651 500
• Health Services: NSW Multicultural Health Communication Service - 1300 647 247
• Legal Aid: Legal Aid NSW - 1300 888 529
• Employment: Workforce Australia providers throughout NSW

Victoria

• Settlement Services: Foundation House (torture survivors) - (03) 9389 8900
• Health Services: Multicultural Health and Support Service - (03) 9418 9929
• Legal Aid: Victoria Legal Aid - 1300 792 387
• Employment: Adult, Community and Further Education (ACFE)

Queensland

• Settlement Services: Multicultural Australia - 1300 799 232
• Health Services: Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland - (07) 3844 9166
• Legal Aid: Legal Aid Queensland - 1300 651 188
• Employment: TAFE Queensland English language programs

Western Australia

• Settlement Services: MercyCare - (08) 6274 3900
• Health Services: WA Association for Mental Health - (08) 6246 3003
• Legal Aid: Legal Aid WA - 1300 650 579
• Employment: South Metropolitan TAFE migrant services

South Australia

• Settlement Services: Australian Migrant Resource Centre - (08) 8217 9500
• Health Services: Multicultural Communities Council SA - (08) 8345 5266
• Legal Aid: Legal Services Commission SA - 1300 366 424
• Employment: TAFE SA English language programs

Tasmania

• Settlement Services: Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania - (03) 6221 0999
• Health Services: Multicultural Council of Tasmania - (03) 6228 0234
• Legal Aid: Legal Aid Tasmania - 1300 366 611
• Employment: TasTAFE settlement services

ACT

• Settlement Services: Companion House - (02) 6251 4130
• Health Services: Multicultural Hub - (02) 6262 2974
• Legal Aid: Legal Aid ACT - (02) 6243 3436
• Employment: CIT (Canberra Institute of Technology) migrant programs

Northern Territory

• Settlement Services: Multicultural Council NT - (08) 8945 2079
• Health Services: Darwin Community Legal Service - (08) 8982 1111
• Legal Aid: North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency - (08) 8982 5777
• Employment: Charles Darwin University English programs

90-Day Action Plan for New Arrivals

Month 1 - Essential Setup

Week 1:

• Apply for Tax File Number (TFN)
• Apply for Medicare (if eligible)
• Open bank account
• Get mobile phone and SIM card
• Register with GP (doctor)

Week 2:

• Apply for Centrelink (if eligible)
• Enroll children in school
• Get public transport card
• Join local library
• Contact Settlement Services

Week 3:

• Look for permanent housing
• Register with employment services
• Apply for English classes (AMEP)
• Find local community center
• Get quotes for home internet

Week 4:

• Set up utilities (electricity, gas, water)
• Register children with local GP and dentist
• Join local community/cultural group
• Visit local shopping areas and services
• Complete myGov account setup

Month 2 - Building Connections

Week 5-6:

• Start job search activities
• Begin English classes
• Apply for qualification recognition (if applicable)
• Attend community events
• Explore local area and transportation

Week 7-8:

• Volunteer in community
• Join hobby/interest groups
• Network with other families/professionals
• Research study/training opportunities
• Build relationship with neighbors

Month 3 - Long-term Planning

Week 9-10:

• Plan long-term career development
• Consider further education options
• Join professional associations
• Plan visits to other cities/regions
• Review and adjust budget

Week 11-12:

• Celebrate achievements and progress
• Help other new arrivals
• Plan for family visits or holidays
• Consider buying (rather than renting)
• Evaluate settlement goals and next steps

Warning Signs and Red Flags

Scams to Avoid

• Anyone asking for money upfront for job, accommodation, or services
• Government agencies demanding immediate payment by gift cards or wire transfer
• Too-good-to-be-true offers: Jobs with huge salaries, free money, instant visas
• Pressure tactics: “You must decide now” or “This offer expires today”
• Requests for personal information via email or phone from unknown sources

Employment Red Flags

• Employer keeps your passport: This is illegal and may be trafficking
• Pay below minimum wage: All workers entitled to minimum wage
• No written contract: You should have employment agreement
• Cash-only payments: Legitimate employers use bank transfers
• Unsafe working conditions: You have right to safe workplace

Housing Red Flags

• Pay bond without seeing property: Always inspect before paying
• Landlord asks for excessive bond: Usually maximum 4 weeks rent
• No written lease agreement: You need rental contract
• Overcrowded conditions: Each person needs adequate living space
• Landlord threatens deportation: This is harassment and illegal

Important Dates & Time Zones

Public Holidays 2025

• January 1: New Year’s Day
• January 26: Australia Day
• April 18-21: Easter Weekend
• April 25: ANZAC Day
• December 25-26: Christmas

Time Zones

• Eastern: Sydney/Melbourne (GMT+10/+11 with daylight saving)
• Central: Adelaide (GMT+9.5/+10.5 with daylight saving)
• Western: Perth (GMT+8, no daylight saving)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to feel settled in Australia?

A: Most migrants report feeling more settled after 6-12 months, but everyone is different. It’s normal to feel homesick, overwhelmed, or frustrated in the first few months. Having realistic expectations helps.

Q: Can I bring my family members to Australia?

A: This depends on your visa type. Permanent residents can usually sponsor spouse and dependent children. Contact the Department of Home Affairs or migration agent for advice specific to your situation.

Q: What if I can’t find work in my profession?

A: Consider “survival jobs” while working toward professional recognition. Many migrants start in different fields and gradually transition back to their profession as they gain Australian experience and qualifications.

Q: How do I make Australian friends?

A: Join activities where you’ll see the same people regularly - sports clubs, hobby groups, volunteer organizations, or classes. Australian culture values “having a go” and being genuine in relationships.

Q: Is it normal to feel depressed or anxious after arriving?

A: Yes, settlement stress is very common. Leaving everything familiar is a major life change. Seek help if feelings persist - call Beyond Blue (1300 224 636) or speak to your GP about mental health support.

Q: How much money do I need to live comfortably?

A: This varies greatly by location and lifestyle. As a rough guide, a family of four might need $60,000-80,000 per year minimum in major cities, less in regional areas. Budget for housing (40% of income), food, transport, and utilities.

Q: Should I change my name to sound more Australian?

A: This is a personal choice. Many people keep their original names and do fine. Others choose to use a shortened version or Western name professionally. Do what feels right for you and your family.

Emergency Contact Summary

Print this page and keep it handy:

🆘 ESSENTIAL CONTACTS FOR NEW MIGRANTS

EMERGENCY SERVICES

• Police, Fire, Ambulance: 000

CRISIS SUPPORT

• Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7)
• Translating Service: 131 450 (24/7)
• Domestic Violence: 1800 737 732 (24/7)

GOVERNMENT SERVICES

• Centrelink: 132 850
• Medicare: 132 011
• Tax Office: 13 28 61

EMPLOYMENT & WORKPLACE

• Fair Work Ombudsman: 13 13 94
• Workplace discrimination: 1300 656 419

HEALTH

• Health advice: 1800 022 222 (24/7)
• Poison Information: 13 11 26 (24/7)
• Mental health crisis: 13 11 14

SETTLEMENT SUPPORT

• Settlement Services International: 1800 259 728
• Legal Aid (varies by state): Call 1300 + your state number

CONSUMER PROTECTION

• Scam reporting: scamwatch.gov.au
• Consumer complaints: Contact your state Fair Trading office

❤️ A Personal Message from Us

Starting life in a new country requires incredible courage. You’ve already shown amazing strength by making this journey.

Every Australian (including those born here) has times when they feel lost, overwhelmed, or unsure of their place. You’re not alone in these feelings, and they will get easier with time.

Australia is stronger and more interesting because of people like you. Your culture, skills, and perspective make our country better. Give yourself time to settle, be patient with the process, and remember that millions of migrants before you have successfully made Australia their home.

You belong here. You matter. And your new life in Australia can be everything you dreamed it would be.

Three things to remember every day:

• Everyone was new once - including Australians
• Mistakes are part of learning - they’re not failures
• Ask for help - Australians generally want to help if you ask

Remember: Australia is a welcoming country with many support services. Don’t be afraid to ask for help - most Australians are happy to assist newcomers. Welcome to Australia! 🇦🇺

This guide provides general information for settlement in Australia. Always seek professional advice for your specific circumstances. Information is current as of August 2025.

Last Updated: August 2025
Sources: Department of Home Affairs, Services Australia, Settlement Services, Multicultural Australia