For New Arrivals
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Everything you need for your first 30 days in Australia. In the right order. Without the fluff.
Your Priority List
The first 30 days checklist
When we arrived, nobody gave us a clear list of what to do first. We figured it out the hard way — so you don't have to. This is the order that actually makes sense.
Get your TFN
Tax File Number — apply online before you do anything else.
Open a bank account
Commonwealth, ANZ, NAB or Westpac. Do it in your first week.
Get a SIM card
Telstra, Optus or Vodafone. Prepaid is fine to start.
Register for Medicare
Free public healthcare. Bring your visa and passport. If you're not eligible, look for private insurance (Medibank, HBF).
Find temporary housing
Airbnb/hostel for the first 2–4 weeks while you find a rental.
Get a car
In Perth especially, you cannot live without one.
Start your job search
Seek.com.au is the main platform. Update your CV first.
Enrol your kids in school
Contact the Department of Education for your state.
The Honest Truth
What nobody tells you before you arrive
Australia is expensive. More expensive than you think. Budget for at least AUD 5,000–8,000 for your first month before you have income.
The job market is relationship-based. Your qualifications matter, but who you know matters more. Start networking from day one.
Perth is isolated. It is the most remote major city in the world. Everything is far. You will need a car. You will feel lonely at first. That is normal.
The first year is survival. Not living. Give yourself permission to just survive it.
Download the Free Moving Checklist
A printable PDF with everything you need to do before and after arriving. Coming soon.
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