BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
1. Get to grips with your finances.
It’s a good idea to think about you financial position and get advice on taxation before you migrate.
Consider opening an Australian bank account in your country of origin before you leave (see the links below on opening a bank account).
Most banks provide a financial advice service.
You might also like to consider looking for independent advisors.
For tips on managing your money in Australia check out the money tips at www.fido.gov.au.
2. Plan your relocation.
Find a good relocation firm to help you with all the organisational aspects of the move. They can advise about transporting your belongings to Australia. Most offer free quotations and various levels of service and customs advice.
Get some quotes and advice.
3. Make your travel plans.
Book your flights to Australia and short term accommodation for when you arrive.
A list of airlines flying to Australia can be found here at skyscanner.net.
Places to search for short term rental accommodation and hotels in Australia.
4. Look for jobs.
If you haven’t been sponsored by an employer, check out our Employment and Jobs Pages.
5. Organise the important documents you will need.
It’s important to remember to have official documents with you when you arrive in Australia. You should set aside originals of the following documents to bring with you.
Birth and marriage certificates
Medical and work records.
Driving licence.
University qualifications or trade papers.
Children’s school reports.
Passport for travel.
6. Think about getting help for when you arrive.
It is possible to employ a relocation consultant to show you the ropes once you have arrived in Australia. They can help you find a home and provide information about local schools etc.
For a list of relocation consultants Australia wide search here at startlocal.com.
7. Consider the emotional aspects of your move
Prepare for the highs and lows you will probably experience visit: www.thehappymigrant.com.
ONCE YOU’VE ARRIVED
1. Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN).
You need one to receive income in Australia.
It’s possible do this online or in person at various locations in each state.
Phone: Australian Tax Office (ATO) within Australia 13 2861.
2. Register with Medicare.
The government provides assistance with basic medical expenses through a scheme called Medicare.
Locations of Medicare Offices
Phone: within Australia 13 2011.
3. Open a bank account.
It’s a good idea to do this within six weeks of your arrival as you will only need your passport for identification.
Many Australian banks have a dedicated team for migrant banking and it’s possible to open an account in your home country before you arrive.
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Westpac
National Australia Bank
St George Bank
ANZ
4. Register with Centrelink.
Centrelink can help you find a job, assist with recognition of your skills and qualifications, and to access selected courses.
Centrelink helps with Family Assistance payments for families with children.
Newly arrived migrants are not entitled to social security payments.
Centrelink Information
Phone: within Australia 13 1202.
5. Enrol your children in school.
Australian Capital Territory
New South Wales
Northern Territory
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia
6. Apply for a driving licence.
Australian Capital Territory
New South Wales
Northern Territory
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia
