Resources & Support

Trusted contacts, official guidance, and on-the-ground support to help you feel safe and confident as you settle in Australia.

How to use this guide

Save or bookmark this page so you can quickly contact the right organisations whenever you have a question or need urgent help. Everything listed here is vetted, official, and available for new arrivals.

🇦🇺 Official Australian Government Resources

Always check these authoritative sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information on visas, tax, healthcare, and public services.

Department of Home Affairs

Visas, immigration, citizenship, and border security updates.

Visit Website

Australian Taxation Office

Tax file numbers, superannuation, and tax return guidance.

Visit Website

Services Australia

Access Medicare, Centrelink payments, and child support services.

Visit Website

Emergency Services

Police, Fire, Ambulance (life-threatening situations only).

📞 000

📞 Emergency & Immediate Support Lines

Get help fast when something unexpected happens. These services operate across Australia and can connect you with translators if needed.

Lifeline

24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services.

  • Call 13 11 14 for immediate support
  • Chat online via lifeline.org.au
  • Text service available nightly (6pm–midnight AEST)

Healthdirect

24/7 nurse advice for non-emergency medical concerns.

  • Call 1800 022 222
  • Check symptoms with the online Symptom Checker
  • Guidance on local health services and clinics

Translating & Interpreting Service (TIS National)

Free interpreting support for eligible visa holders when contacting government or essential services.

  • Call 131 450 and ask for your language
  • Available 24 hours, 7 days a week
  • On-site, phone, and video interpreting options

🤝 Settlement & Community Support

Connect with organisations that specialise in helping migrants find belonging, legal advice, and everyday assistance.

Settlement Services International (SSI)

Programs for refugees, migrants, and international students.

  • Employment support & mentoring
  • Community engagement events
  • Specialist youth and family programs

Migrant Resource Centres

Local centres in each state offering practical settlement help.

  • English language classes and conversation groups
  • Housing and tenancy advocacy
  • Legal and financial counselling referrals

Red Cross Migration Support

Emergency relief, casework, and wellbeing support for people on temporary visas.

  • Emergency financial assistance (eligibility applies)
  • Community wellbeing check-ins
  • Information in multiple languages

📱 Helpful Apps & Online Tools

Boost your confidence navigating day-to-day life with these verified digital tools.

Emergency Plus App

Free app from the Australian Government that uses GPS to help emergency services find you quickly.

Service NSW & Service Victoria

Access digital licences, vouchers, and local government services in your state or territory.

myGov

Secure online account linking key services such as Medicare, Centrelink, and the ATO.

Journey Planner Apps

State-based transport apps for real-time public transport updates and trip planning.