Settlement Guide

There’s no better way to experience Australia than hitting the road. Between the wide-open landscapes, country bakery pies, and unexpected wildlife, a road trip lets you take in the country at your own pace. But even if you’ve driven overseas, Australia comes with its own set of challenges, especially when you venture off the beaten path.

Work in Progress is an Australia Explained series exploring how skilled migrants are starting new careers in some of Australia’s most in-demand sectors—including early childhood education, engineering, nursing, information and communication technology, aged care and construction.

Springtime in Australia brings warmth, blossoms, and longer days—but also the peak of pollen season. For millions of Australians, this means the onset of hay fever and allergy-induced asthma.

From the soccer field to the athletics track, Australia’s Indigenous sportspeople connect cultures and communities whilst contributing to our national identity. Taking inspiration from those before them, their athletic prowess leaves an indelible mark on our nation. Sport’s ability to foster inclusion, equality and the opportunity for greatness has seen Indigenous Australian sportspeople ingrained in the national psyche, whilst inspiring others to represent Australia in sport.

Choosing to legally change your name is a significant life decision that reflects your personal circumstances. Each year, tens of thousands of Australians lodge an application through the Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages. If you’re considering a change of name, this episode takes you through the process.

Australia Explained podcast created a special new series called "Head Above Water." Meet comedians and good friends Sashi and Suren—one loves swimming and water, the other doesn’t like getting wet! Together they’re learning what Australians enjoy about water and how to get amongst it, from the basics of adult swimming lessons, to understanding how to spot a rip in the surf.

Australia is home to an array of diverse and beautiful wildlife, and knowing how to respond when you encounter wildlife in your home or on your property will help protect our precious wildlife species whilst keeping you, your family and your pets safe.

Cervical cancer is preventable, but only if you catch it early. Cultural and personal barriers have often meant that women avoid cervical cancer testing. But now with the help of a world-leading test, Australia is aiming to eliminate cervical cancer by 2035. The test is a safe and culturally sensitive option for women from all backgrounds. Best of all it could save your life—or that of someone close to you.

ייתכן ושמעתם את קריאות המחאה - "מה אנחנו רוצים? זכויות קרקע!" - אבל מה זה בעצם אומר? האדמה נמצאת בלב הזהות, התרבות והרווחה של האבוריג'ינים ותושבי איי מיצרי טורס. היא נקראת country וכוללת את היבשה, מקווי המים, השמיים וכל היצורים החיים. בפרק הזה של Australia Explained נבחן את סוגיית זכויות הקרקע של עמים ילידיים - מה הן כוללות, אילו שטחים נוגעים בדבר, מי יכול להגיש תביעות, ומהי ההשפעה על קהילות ילידיות.

A forced marriage occurs when one or both individuals do not consent freely, often due to threats, coercion, deception, or if they are under 16 or those with mental incapacities. No matter how long you've been living here, it's vital to know: You have the right to choose who you marry.  In this episode, we'll explore the difference between arranged and forced marriage and where you can turn for help if you or someone you know is affected. 

You may hear the protest chant, “what do we want? Land rights!” —but what does it really mean? Land is at the heart of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identity, culture, and wellbeing. Known as “Country,” it includes land, waterways, skies, and all living things. In this episode of Australia Explained, we explore Indigenous land rights—what they involve, which land is covered, who can make claims, and the impact on First Nations communities.

Bringing a pet into your home can fill it with joy and companionship – but it also comes with important responsibilities. In Australia, new pet owners need to be aware of legal requirements, along with essential tips for training and caring for their animals.

Access to safe drinking water is essential, and Australia’s often harsh environment means that our drinking water supplies are especially precious. With differences in the availability and quality of drinking water across the country, how do we know if it’s safe to drink? In this episode we get water experts to answer this question and more.  

Many Australians love rolling up their sleeves and undertaking their own home improvements. But before you grab a hammer or paintbrush, it’s essential to understand the rules and risks so you can renovate safely and legally.

Education is a pathway to opportunity, but for too long, Indigenous students in Australia have faced barriers to success. While challenges remain, positive change is happening. In this episode we’ll hear from Indigenous education experts and students about what’s working, why cultural education matters and how Indigenous and Western knowledge can come together to benefit all students.

Did you know that people offering taxi services from home need to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST)—regardless of how much they earn? Or that a fitness instructor needs local council approval to see clients at home? In this episode, we unpack the basic rules you need to know when setting up a home-based business in Australia.

At some stage you will probably need help from a Justice of the Peace. It may be to prove your identity, to make an insurance claim or to certify copies of your legal documents in your language. JPs are trained volunteers who play a crucial role in the community by helping maintain the integrity of our legal system. So what exactly does a JP do and where can we find one when we need their services?

In Australia, alcohol is often portrayed as part of social life—especially at BBQs, sporting events, and public holidays. Customs like BYO, where you bring your own drinks to gatherings, and 'shouting' rounds at the pub are part of the culture. However, because of the health risks associated with alcohol, there are regulations in place. It’s also important to understand the laws around the legal drinking age, where you can buy or consume alcohol, and how these rules vary across states and territories.

The representation of Indigenous Australians in media has historically been shaped by stereotypes and exclusion, but this is gradually changing. Indigenous platforms like National Indigenous Television (NITV) and social media are breaking barriers, empowering First Nations voices, and fostering a more inclusive understanding of Australia’s diverse cultural identity. Learning about these changes offers valuable insight into the country’s true history, its ongoing journey toward equity, and the rich cultures that form the foundation of modern Australia. Understanding Indigenous perspectives is also an important step toward respectful connection and shared belonging.

Home and contents insurance is a safety net many households expect to rely on during difficult times. But it’s also a financial product that even experts can find challenging to navigate. Whether you own or rent your home, understanding your level of cover, knowing what fine print to look out for, and learning how to manage rising premiums can help you make more informed choices as a consumer.