For newcomers to Australia, a variety of community resources are available to aid in settlement and integration. These resources encompass settlement support, language programs, employment assistance, and community engagement initiatives. Organizations like the Australian Migrant Resource Centre (AMRC) and the National Resource Centre for Migrant Empowerment (NRCME) offer a wide range of services to help individuals and families successfully settle into Australian society.

Specific Resources and Services:

1. Settlement Support:

Organizations like the Australian Red Cross and AMRC provide support for refugees and migrants during their initial settlement period, helping them find housing, access essential services, and connect with local communities.

2. Language Programs:

English language classes and support are often available to help newcomers improve their language skills and better integrate into the community.

3. Employment Assistance:

Resources like job searching websites (e.g., SEEK, Indeed) and employment services offered by settlement organizations can assist newcomers in finding suitable work.

4. Community Engagement:

Initiatives like Harmony Week and Refugee Week, organized by groups like the AMRC, celebrate cultural diversity and promote intercultural understanding.

5. Specialized Support:

Some organizations offer targeted support for vulnerable groups, such as those experiencing domestic violence or needing assistance with aged care or disability support.

For Australian newcomers, reaching out to your community organizations can be key to integrating into your new community and building the network and relationships needed to help you to navigate your immigration journey. There are many people who have been through your experience, so don’t be afraid to speak up and reach out!

1. First Steps for Immigrants in Australia

We understand that moving to Australia can feel overwhelming, with plenty to organise once you arrive. That’s why our Relocation Team, all former migrants themselves, have created this Welcome to Australia guide. It’s filled with practical tips and information to help you settle in smoothly and make the most of your new home.

Things to do before you arrive

• Cancel any non-Australian recurring memberships and subscriptions, such as your gym and utility providers
• Get your phone unlocked
• Pack paperwork in hand luggage – qualifications, photocopies of passport, doctors’ notes, important documents
• Sort one-way travel insurance
• Resume and Cover Letter Service – Maximize your chances of gaining employment in Australia with a professional and personal CV and cover letter

Useful tips

Once you arrive, we recommend you change your App Store/Play Store location to Australia as soon as possible, this will allow you to download useful Apps.

Useful Apps to Download

• Commbank/banking app (needed to activate bank account and bank card)
• MyGov – manage Medicare, Centrelink and Australian Taxation Office (ATO) profiles
• MyGovID – the official government ID app for the Australian Government

Important things to set up when you arrive

Opening A Bank Account

Open an account with Commonwealth Bank, use this link: Moving to Australia – CommBank You can complete the application two weeks before you make the move. You can order your cards to your local branch and collect them once you arrive. It helps to have a Monzo, Revolut or Wise card prior to landing with enough money on to purchase food and initial big costs. This way if you have any complications with your Australian bank account//card, you have a backup to prevent you from using your UK accounts/cards and accumulating huge international banking fees.

Setting up your Tax File Number (TFN)

Applying for a TFN is free of charge, and you should ensure you use the government website to apply. Click here to access the Australian Government TFN website.

Transferring your Driving License

You will need to find your local Department of Transport Service Centre, here you will be able to transfer your license to the relevant state you are living in. When you go to the centre, you will need to take:

• Your current driving license
• Your passport
• 2 x bank card (Aus or international is fine)
• A copy of your visa
• Your lease agreement (as proof of address)

Utilities

One thing to keep in mind when moving to Australia is that household utilities are usually disconnected when a tenant moves out. If possible, we recommend setting up your utilities before you arrive, so you have power as soon as you move in.

Emergency Contact Numbers

• Police, Fire, Ambulance – 000
• Police Assistance – 131 444
• State Emergency Service (SES) – 13 25 00
• Poisons Hotline – 13 11 26
• Health Direct – 1800 022 222
• RSPCA – 1300 278 3589
• Lifeline – 13 11 14
• Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800

Access a Relocation Centre

• Many organizations are available to offer relocation services, including the DUC Relocation Hub is a site built by migrants, for migrants learn more about Visas and Employment services