New to Australia? Start here, step by step
From your first week to the rules of everyday life, in the order you will need them.
01Your first weekJust arrived
02Everyday rulesRoads, manners and bins
03Work and moneyFor your first job
Starting your first job? Get this number first.
Your own tax number. Get it before your first job.
Tax time: you might get money back
Once a year, you tell the ATO how much you earned.
The money your boss pays on top of your wage
Money for when you are older. Your boss pays it on top of your pay.
Paid in cash below the minimum wage? That's illegal.
Everyone working in Australia has rights. Your visa doesn't change this.
04Your homeFind, rent and pay the bills
Where to look, and how to apply
Most rentals are listed online.
In most states, the landlord doesn't hold your bond
Know your rights before you sign.
Who pays the bills: you or the landlord?
You pay for what you use. The landlord pays for owning the home.
05Safety and policeIf something happens
06New lawsRecent changes that affect you
See all →Under 16? No social media accounts
Big social media platforms must stop under-16s from having accounts.
From 10 December 2025You don't have to answer work messages after hours
Workers can refuse to read or reply to work contact outside working hours, unless that's unreasonable.
From 26 August 2024The lowest tax rate is now 15%
The tax rate for income between $18,201 and $45,000 went down.
From 1 July 2026Student debts cut by 20%
HELP student loan debts were cut by 20%.
Debts as at 1 June 2025General information only, not legal advice. Laws can be different in each state.