Plan · Arrive · Settle

Confidently Navigate Your Move to Australia

Australia Bound brings every major settlement topic into one guide so you can plan your visa, prepare the right documents, and start life in Australia with certainty.

Plan your visa Prepare documents Newcomer checklist
  • 🎯 Follow curated roadmaps for visas, employment, education, and daily life.
  • 📌 Jump straight to the topic you need with dedicated pages for every major decision.
  • 🤝 Access trusted resources, support contacts, and practical calculators in one place.
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Your settlement co-pilot

Our mission: fast-track your first 90 days

Australia Bound was created to untangle the overwhelm of relocating across the world by giving you one trustworthy place to map visas, organise documents, and plan your first months in the country. Every page combines expert-backed checklists with lived experience so you can move from curiosity to confident action.

The first 90 days are the foundation for the rest of your Australian journey. When you secure essentials early—like identification numbers, banking, healthcare, and housing—you unlock the support systems that keep you legally compliant, financially resilient, and ready to seize new opportunities.

By investing focused energy into these opening weeks, you transform an administrative checklist into genuine momentum. Employers can onboard you without delay, agencies verify your status quickly, and you stay ready for every opportunity Australia offers.

Your first 90 days in Australia

Follow these essential steps to get established quickly and legally.

1

Get your TFN

Submit a Tax File Number application within your first week so your employer can pay you at the correct rate from your first payslip.

  1. Gather your passport, Australian address, and visa details.
  2. Apply online via the Australian Taxation Office TFN form.
  3. Record the reference number and watch for your TFN letter (normally arrives in 10–28 days).

Processing time: 2–4 weeks · Keep handy: visa grant letter, entry stamp.

2

Open bank account

Open an everyday account within six weeks to avoid extensive identity checks and unlock local tap-and-go payments.

  1. Compare newcomer packages from the Big Four banks plus digital options like Up and ING.
  2. Book an in-branch appointment bringing your passport, TFN receipt, and local address.
  3. Activate online banking and request a debit card before your first salary hits.

Expect fees: AUD $0–5 monthly unless minimum deposit met · Tip: Ask for an international transfer rate sheet for moving savings.

3

Register for Medicare

If eligible, enrol in Medicare immediately so you can claim bulk-billed GP visits and subsidised prescriptions.

  1. Download the MS004 Medicare enrolment form.
  2. Provide certified copies of your passport biodata page, visa, and proof of Australian address.
  3. Submit in person at a Services Australia centre and request an interim confirmation letter for medical visits.

Processing time: Same day for interim number · Bring along: identity documents plus any private health policy.

4

Confirm driving rules

State-based road agencies set different deadlines for swapping overseas licences, so plan before you hit the road.

  1. Check the conversion rules on your state authority (e.g. Service NSW, VicRoads).
  2. Book a knowledge or driving test if required for your country of origin.
  3. Update your insurance once you receive your local licence class.

Deadlines: 3 months in NSW/VIC, 6 months in QLD · Documents: licence translation (if not in English), proof of residence.

5

Set up essential services

Connect energy, mobile, and internet accounts early so you can access two-factor authentication, online banking, and job alerts.

  1. Use comparison tools like Energy Made Easy to shortlist utility retailers.
  2. Activate a prepaid SIM immediately, then port to a long-term provider after verifying coverage in your suburb.
  3. Schedule home internet installation for move-in day and collect modem delivery receipts.

Keep records: Connection numbers and billing IDs · Bonus: Register bills for digital ID verification and tenancy applications.

6

Secure long-term housing

Transition from temporary accommodation to a 6–12 month lease and notify key agencies of your permanent address.

  1. Prepare a renter profile with references, payslips, and ID via platforms like 2Apply or Ignite.
  2. Attend inspections, then submit applications within 24 hours including cover letter and offer of 4–6 weeks’ rent upfront.
  3. Once approved, lodge your bond with the state authority and update the ATO, bank, and Medicare with the new address.

Average costs: Bond = 4 weeks’ rent · Checklist: Condition report photos, renters insurance, mail redirection.

Each deep-dive page walks you through requirements, checklists, and tools tailored to that topic.

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Visas & Immigration

Compare visa types, points requirements, and citizenship pathways.

Explore visas → 📋

Essential Documents

Gather identification, tax, banking, and healthcare paperwork fast.

Check the list → ⚖️

Employment Rights

Understand Fair Work rules, minimum pay, and your workplace protections.

Know your rights → 🏠

Living in Australia

Discover housing options, budgeting tips, and everyday services.

Settle in → 💰

Money & Finance

Learn how taxes, banking, and superannuation work from day one.

Manage your money → 🎓

Education Pathways

Plan schooling for every stage—from primary to university.

Explore options →

Deep dives for every stage of the journey

Work through the topics in order or dip into the page you need right now.

Plan your arrival

Settle with confidence

Thrive long term

🚨 Important notice

Immigration laws and requirements can change. Always check official government websites for the most current information. Consider consulting with a registered migration agent for personalised advice about your situation.