🇦🇺 New to Australia? Complete Support Guide for Migrants and Refugees 2025

Welcome to Australia! You're not alone in this journey. This guide will help you navigate your new life with confidence.

🆘 IMMEDIATE HELP FOR NEW ARRIVALS

If You Need Help Right Now

• Translating & Interpreting Service: 131 450 (24/7)
• Emergency Services: 000 (Police, Ambulance, Fire)
• Crisis Support in Your Language: See multilingual support section below

First Week Priorities

1. ✅ Register with Centrelink (if eligible)
2. ✅ Find temporary accommodation
3. ✅ Enrol children in school
4. ✅ Open bank account
5. ✅ Get mobile phone
6. ✅ Register with Medicare (if eligible)

🏢 SETTLEMENT SERVICES - YOUR FIRST STOP

Settlement Services Locations by State

NSW

Settlement Services International (SSI)

• Phone: 9646 6700
• Locations: Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, Griffith
• Services: Settlement support, employment, youth programs

MDA Ltd (Multicultural Development Association)

• Phone: 9891 6400
• Areas: Sydney metropolitan area

VIC

Foundation House (Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture)

• Phone: 9388 0022
• Services: Torture and trauma counselling, settlement support

Centre for Multicultural Youth (CMY)

• Phone: 9340 3700
• Focus: Young people aged 12-25

QLD

Multicultural Development Association (MDA)

• Phone: 3844 8247
• Locations: Brisbane, Logan, Gold Coast, Cairns, Townsville

Access Community Services

• Phone: 3292 9000
• Areas: South East Queensland

WA

MercyCare

• Phone: 6374 0700
• Areas: Perth metropolitan and regional WA

Association for Services to Torture and Trauma Survivors (ASeTTS)

• Phone: 9227 2700
• Services: Specialised trauma support

SA

Multicultural Communities Council of SA (MCCSA)

• Phone: 8345 5266
• Services: Settlement, employment, community development

Survivors of Torture and Trauma Assistance and Rehabilitation Service (STTARS)

• Phone: 8346 5433

TAS

Migrant Resource Centre (MRC) Tasmania

• Phone: 6221 0999
• Locations: Hobart, Launceston

ACT

Companion House

• Phone: 6251 4550
• Services: Settlement, trauma counselling

NT

Multicultural Council of the Northern Territory

• Darwin: 8945 7881
• Alice Springs: 8951 4251

What Settlement Services Provide

Practical Support:

• Help with government forms
• Interpreting services
• Orientation programs
• Community connections
• Referrals to other services

Specialised Programs:

• Women's programs
• Youth programs
• Seniors programs
• Employment programs
• English conversation groups

💰 CENTRELINK SUPPORT FOR NEW MIGRANTS

Who Can Get Centrelink Benefits

Permanent Residents: Usually eligible immediately
Temporary Visa Holders: Limited eligibility
Refugees: Eligible for most benefits
Family Stream Migrants: May have waiting periods

How to Apply for Centrelink

1. Visit Centrelink Office: Bring all documents (see list below)
2. Call Multilingual Phone Service: 131 202
3. Online: After initial visit, manage online at myGov.gov.au

Documents You Need

Essential Documents:

• Passport with visa
• Birth certificate (translated)
• Marriage certificate (if married, translated)
• Children's birth certificates (translated)
• Bank account details
• Rental agreement or proof of address

For Income Support:

• Employment separation certificate (if worked in Australia)
• Income statements from overseas
• Assets and investments information
• Medical certificates (if claiming disability support)

Main Benefits for New Migrants

JobSeeker Payment

Who Can Get It:

• Permanent residents looking for work
• Some temporary visa holders (special circumstances)

How Much:

• Single: $781.10 per fortnight (2025 rates)
• Couple (each): $715.10 per fortnight

Mutual Obligations:

• Look for work or do training
• Report job searches fortnightly
• Attend appointments

Family Tax Benefit

Part A: For families with children under 16 (or 19 if studying) Part B: Additional support for single parents or families with one main income

Parenting Payment

Single Parents: $836.50 per fortnight
Partnered: $715.10 per fortnight Eligible: Until youngest child turns 6 (single) or 8 (partnered)

🏥 HEALTHCARE AND MEDICARE

Medicare Eligibility

Who Gets Medicare:

• Australian citizens
• Permanent residents
• Some temporary visa holders (including refugees)
• Reciprocal healthcare agreement countries (UK, Ireland, NZ, etc.)

How to Register for Medicare

1. Visit Medicare Office: Find nearest office at humanservices.gov.au

2. Bring Documents:

   • Passport with visa
   • Identity documents
   • Proof of address

3. Receive Medicare Card: Usually takes 2-3 weeks

What Medicare Covers

Free Services:

• Public hospital treatment
• GP consultations (bulk billing doctors)
• Some specialist services
• Essential dental care in public hospitals

Subsidised Services:

• Prescription medicines (PBS)
• Private specialist consultations
• Diagnostic tests (X-rays, blood tests)

Finding Healthcare

Bulk Billing Doctors: Use healthdirect.gov.au or call 1800 022 222
Translators: Available at most major hospitals
Cultural Health Workers: Ask settlement services for referrals

Emergency Healthcare

• Emergency Departments: Free for all emergencies
• Ambulance: Costs vary by state (some have insurance)
• After Hours GP: healthdirect.gov.au or 1800 022 222

🏠 HOUSING SUPPORT

Emergency Accommodation

If You Have Nowhere to Stay Tonight:

• Contact your settlement service provider
• Call local homelessness service
• Go to Salvation Army or Red Cross office
• Contact local council

Public Housing

How to Apply:

1. Contact state housing authority
2. Complete application form
3. Provide required documents
4. Wait for assessment and placement

Waiting Times: Vary greatly by location (months to years)
Priority: Given to refugees and families with urgent needs

Housing Authority Contacts

NSW Housing: 1800 422 322
Vic Housing: 1800 269 687
QLD Housing: 1800 747 311
Housing SA: 131 172
Housing WA: 1300 137 677
Housing TAS: 1800 800 588
ACT Housing: 6207 1111
NT Housing: 1800 645 783

Private Rental Support

Bond Assistance: Most states provide loans for rental bonds
Rent Relief: Emergency assistance if struggling to pay rent
Tenancy Advice: Free legal advice about rental rights

Rental Requirements

What You'll Need:

• Photo ID
• Proof of income (Centrelink letter, payslips)
• Rental history or character references
• Bond money (usually 4 weeks rent)
• First month's rent in advance

Tips for New Migrants:

• Use settlement worker as referee if no rental history
• Offer extra bond if concerned about application
• Get character references from community leaders
• Consider share housing initially

🎓 ENGLISH LANGUAGE SUPPORT

Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP)

Who's Eligible:

• Permanent residents who don't speak functional English
• Refugees
• Some temporary visa holders

How Much: FREE (up to 510 hours of tuition)
What's Included:

• English classes
• Childcare during classes
• Basic computer skills
• Settlement information

How to Enrol:

1. Find your local provider at education.gov.au/amep
2. Complete English assessment
3. Enrol in appropriate level class

AMEP Providers by State

NSW: TAFE NSW, NAVITAS English, Multicultural Community Services
VIC: AMES Australia, Melbourne Polytechnic, Box Hill Institute
QLD: TAFE Queensland, Multicultural Development Association
WA: North Metropolitan TAFE, Polytechnic West
SA: TAFE SA, Multicultural Communities Council
TAS: TasTAFE
ACT: Canberra Institute of Technology
NT: Charles Darwin University

Skills for Education and Employment (SEE)

For Whom: People who need more English to get jobs
Duration: Up to 800 hours (free)
Focus: Work-related English and basic skills
Contact: Your local AMEP provider

Community English Classes

Where to Find:

• Local libraries
• Community centres
• Churches and temples
• Migrant resource centres
• Neighbourhood houses

Benefits:

• Usually free or very low cost
• Social connections
• Flexible timing
• Community support

💼 EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT

Employment Services for New Migrants

Workforce Australia Providers: Free employment services
Jobactive Providers: Help finding work
Specialised Migrant Employment Services: Culturally appropriate support

Skills Recognition

Australian Skills Recognition Information (ASRI)

• Website: asri.edu.au
• Phone: 1800 677 728
• Services: Help understanding how Australian employers value overseas skills

Professional Recognition For Regulated Professions (doctors, engineers, teachers):

1. Contact relevant professional body
2. Apply for skills assessment
3. Complete additional training if needed
4. Apply for registration/licence

Job Search Support

Free Services Available:

• Resume writing workshops
• Interview preparation
• Job search techniques
• Professional networking events
• Industry information sessions

Migrant-Specific Programs:

• Skilled migrant internship programs
• Professional mentoring programs
• Industry pathway programs
• Women's employment programs

Common Jobs for New Migrants

Entry-Level Opportunities:

• Hospitality (restaurants, hotels)
• Retail (shops, supermarkets)
• Cleaning services
• Factory work
• Customer service
• Delivery driving
• Aged care (with training)

🏫 EDUCATION FOR YOUR CHILDREN

School Enrolment

All children must attend school from age 6 to 17 (varies by state)

How to Enrol:

1. Contact your local public school
2. Or choose private/Catholic school
3. Provide required documents
4. Complete enrolment forms

Documents Needed:

• Birth certificate (translated)
• Immunisation records
• Previous school records (translated)
• Passport and visa
• Proof of address

Education Support for New Migrants

English as Second Language (ESL) Programs:

• Available in most schools
• Additional English support
• Gradual mainstream integration

Intensive English Centres:

• Available in some states
• 6-12 months intensive English
• Before joining mainstream school

Settlement Support:

• Multicultural education workers
• Translation services
• Parent information sessions
• Community liaison officers

School Costs

Public Schools:

• Tuition: FREE
• Other Costs: Books, uniforms, excursions ($500-2000 per year)

Private Schools:

• Tuition: $3,000-30,000+ per year
• Additional Costs: Books, uniforms, activities

Financial Support:

• Some states provide uniform vouchers
• School fee assistance programs available
• Education tax refund (if eligible)

🚗 TRANSPORT AND LICENSING

Public Transport

Concession Cards for New Migrants:

• Some states offer discounts for new migrants
• Centrelink recipients get concession rates
• Students get student discounts

Public Transport Information:

• NSW: transportnsw.info
• VIC: ptv.vic.gov.au
• QLD: translink.com.au
• WA: transperth.wa.gov.au
• SA: adelaidemetro.com.au
• TAS: metrotas.com.au
• ACT: transport.act.gov.au
• NT: nt.gov.au/transport

Converting Overseas Licence

Requirements vary by state but generally:

1. Check if your country has reciprocal agreement
2. Provide translated licence
3. Pass knowledge test (sometimes practical test)
4. Pay fees

Reciprocal Agreement Countries: UK, USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and others (check with your state)

Buying a Car

What You'll Need:

• Australian driver's licence
• Proof of identity
• Proof of income
• Insurance (compulsory third party minimum)

Tips:

• Get roadworthy inspection
• Check vehicle history (PPSR search)
• Compare insurance quotes
• Consider fuel efficiency

🏛️ LEGAL HELP AND COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRES

Free Legal Services

Community Legal Centres: Available in all areas
Legal Aid: Means-tested free legal assistance
Law Institute Pro Bono: Free professional legal help

Common Legal Issues for New Migrants

• Immigration and visa matters
• Employment rights and workplace disputes
• Rental and housing issues
• Consumer problems
• Family law (divorce, custody)
• Discrimination complaints

Where to Get Legal Help

National Legal Aid Helpline: 1300 366 424
Community Legal Centres Directory: clcnsw.org.au
Migration Agents Registration Authority: mara.gov.au

Your Rights in Australia

Equal Rights Regardless of Background:

• Right to fair treatment
• Right to be free from discrimination
• Right to interpreter services
• Right to privacy
• Right to complain about poor service

Anti-Discrimination Laws:

• Based on race, religion, nationality
• In employment, housing, services
• File complaints with Human Rights Commission

🌍 CULTURAL AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Finding Your Community

Cultural Associations: Most cultural groups have associations
Religious Centres: Mosques, temples, churches for your faith
Language Schools: Weekend schools for children
Cultural Festivals: Celebrate your heritage with others

Multicultural Centres by City

Sydney: Auburn Diversity Services, Fairfield Multicultural Centre
Melbourne: Victorian Multicultural Commission, Footscray Community Centre
Brisbane: Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland
Perth: Office of Multicultural Interests
Adelaide: Multicultural Communities Council of SA
Darwin: Multicultural Council of Northern Territory

Building Social Connections

Ways to Meet People:

• Join English conversation groups
• Attend community festivals
• Join sports clubs
• Volunteer with community organisations
• Attend library programs
• Join parent groups at children's schools

📱 ESSENTIAL APPS AND WEBSITES

Government Services

myGov: Access Centrelink, Medicare, taxation online
Australia Post: Mail redirection, package tracking
Emergency Plus: Helps emergency services find you

Transport and Navigation

Google Maps: Navigation and public transport
Uber/Ola: Ride sharing
State public transport apps: Real-time information

Banking and Finance

Your bank's app: Online banking
Beem It: Send money to friends
PayPal: Online payments

Shopping and Services

Woolworths/Coles: Grocery shopping and delivery
Gumtree: Buy and sell second-hand items
Domain/Real Estate: House and apartment hunting

Communication

WhatsApp: Free messaging with overseas family
Facebook: Connect with local community groups
Skype: Video calls overseas

💸 MANAGING MONEY AND BANKING

Opening a Bank Account

Major Banks: ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, NAB, Westpac
What You Need:

• Passport with visa
• Proof of address
• Initial deposit (often $1)

Account Types:

• Everyday Account: For regular transactions
• Savings Account: Earn interest on savings
• Credit Card: Build credit history (if eligible)

Understanding Australian Money

Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
Coins: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2
Notes: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100

Payment Methods:

• Cash: Still widely accepted
• EFTPOS/Card: Most common payment method
• Tap and Pay: For purchases under $100
• Mobile Payment: Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay

Building Credit History

Important for:

• Getting loans
• Renting properties
• Getting better financial products

How to Build Credit:

• Pay bills on time
• Use credit card responsibly
• Maintain stable employment
• Don't change addresses frequently

Tax and Superannuation

Tax File Number (TFN):

• Essential for working in Australia
• Apply at ato.gov.au
• Protect it - don't give to scammers

Superannuation:

• Employer must contribute 11.5% of your wage
• Choose your own super fund or use employer's default
• Don't lose track of multiple accounts

🆘 CRISIS SUPPORT IN YOUR LANGUAGE

Multilingual Crisis Support

Lifeline (Suicide Prevention): 13 11 14 + ask for interpreter
1800RESPECT (Domestic Violence): 1800 737 732 + ask for interpreter
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 + ask for interpreter

Language-Specific Services

Arabic: Various services - contact Islamic Council in your state
Mandarin/Cantonese: Chinese Australian Services Society
Vietnamese: Vietnamese Community in Australia
Spanish: Spanish Latin American Welfare Centre
Italian: Italian welfare organisations in each state
Greek: Greek Orthodox Community services

Torture and Trauma Counselling

Services by State (culturally appropriate counselling):

• NSW: STARTTS - 9646 6700
• VIC: Foundation House - 9388 0022
• QLD: Qld Program of Assistance to Survivors of Torture and Trauma - 3391 6677
• WA: ASeTTS - 9227 2700
• SA: Survivors of Torture & Trauma Assistance & Rehabilitation Service - 8346 5433

📞 ESSENTIAL PHONE NUMBERS TO SAVE

Save these numbers in your phone:

• Emergency: 000
• Interpreter Service: 131 450
• Centrelink Multilingual: 131 202
• Health Direct: 1800 022 222
• Your Settlement Service: [Get from list above]
• Your Local Council: [Look up online]
• Poison Information: 13 11 26
• Legal Aid: 1300 366 424

🔄 YOUR FIRST 6 MONTHS CHECKLIST

Month 1

• ✅ Register with Centrelink (if eligible)
• ✅ Apply for Medicare
• ✅ Open bank account
• ✅ Get mobile phone
• ✅ Find temporary accommodation
• ✅ Enrol children in school
• ✅ Contact settlement services

Month 2

• ✅ Start English classes (AMEP)
• ✅ Apply for Tax File Number
• ✅ Find permanent housing
• ✅ Register with local GP
• ✅ Connect with cultural community
• ✅ Explore local area and services

Month 3

• ✅ Start job search or work preparation
• ✅ Get driver's licence (if driving)
• ✅ Join community groups or activities
• ✅ Set up ongoing medical care
• ✅ Learn about children's schools and activities

Months 4-6

• ✅ Apply for permanent employment
• ✅ Build social networks
• ✅ Access skills recognition (if needed)
• ✅ Plan for family reunification (if applicable)
• ✅ Consider further education or training
• ✅ Establish long-term housing

💪 REMEMBER: YOU BELONG HERE

For New Migrants

• Australia is a multicultural society that values diversity
• It's normal to feel overwhelmed initially
• Building a new life takes time - be patient with yourself
• Many successful Australians were once new migrants too
• Your cultural background is an asset, not a barrier

Common Challenges and Solutions

Language Barriers: Join English classes, use interpreter services
Loneliness: Join community groups, volunteer, attend cultural events
Employment Difficulties: Use employment services, consider starting with entry-level jobs
Cultural Differences: Talk to settlement workers, connect with others from your background
Complex Systems: Don't be afraid to ask for help, use free services available

Success Stories

• 30% of Australian small business owners were born overseas
• 1 in 2 Australians were either born overseas or have an overseas-born parent
• New migrants contribute billions to the Australian economy
• Cultural diversity makes Australia stronger

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🔄 WHAT TO DO RIGHT NOW

If you just arrived in Australia:

1. ✅ Contact settlement services in your area
2. ✅ Apply for Centrelink benefits (if eligible)
3. ✅ Find temporary accommodation
4. ✅ Register children for school
5. ✅ Get mobile phone with Australian number

If you've been here a few weeks:

1. ✅ Start English classes through AMEP
2. ✅ Open bank account and apply for Tax File Number
3. ✅ Register with Medicare and find local GP
4. ✅ Start building social connections in community
5. ✅ Begin planning for employment

For long-term settlement:

1. ✅ Focus on English improvement
2. ✅ Build professional networks
3. ✅ Consider further education or training
4. ✅ Get involved in community activities
5. ✅ Help other new migrants when you're able

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Welcome to your new home. Australia is lucky to have you.

Last Updated: August 28, 2025
Service Information Last Verified: August 2025

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This guide provides general information only. Services and eligibility can change. Always check current information with official sources or settlement service providers.