A forced marriage occurs when one or both individuals do not consent freely, often due to threats, coercion, deception, or if they are under 16 or those with mental incapacities. No matter how long you've been living here, it's vital to know: You have the right to choose who you marry. In this episode, we'll explore the difference between arranged and forced marriage and where you can turn for help if you or someone you know is affected.
Aug 26, 2025•13 min
You may hear the protest chant, “what do we want? Land rights!” —but what does it really mean? Land is at the heart of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identity, culture, and wellbeing. Known as “Country,” it includes land, waterways, skies, and all living things. In this episode of Australia Explained, we explore Indigenous land rights—what they involve, which land is covered, who can make claims, and the impact on First Nations communities.
Aug 19, 2025•8 min
Bringing a pet into your home can fill it with joy and companionship – but it also comes with important responsibilities. In Australia, new pet owners need to be aware of legal requirements, along with essential tips for training and caring for their animals.
Aug 12, 2025•9 min
Access to safe drinking water is essential, and Australia’s often harsh environment means that our drinking water supplies are especially precious. With differences in the availability and quality of drinking water across the country, how do we know if it’s safe to drink? In this episode we get water experts to answer this question and more.
Aug 05, 2025•9 min
Many Australians love rolling up their sleeves and undertaking their own home improvements. But before you grab a hammer or paintbrush, it’s essential to understand the rules and risks so you can renovate safely and legally.
Jul 29, 2025•10 min
Education is a pathway to opportunity, but for too long, Indigenous students in Australia have faced barriers to success. While challenges remain, positive change is happening. In this episode we’ll hear from Indigenous education experts and students about what’s working, why cultural education matters and how Indigenous and Western knowledge can come together to benefit all students.
Jul 22, 2025•9 min
Did you know that people offering taxi services from home need to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST)—regardless of how much they earn? Or that a fitness instructor needs local council approval to see clients at home? In this episode, we unpack the basic rules you need to know when setting up a home-based business in Australia.
Jul 08, 2025•10 min
At some stage you will probably need help from a Justice of the Peace. It may be to prove your identity, to make an insurance claim or to certify copies of your legal documents in your language. JPs are trained volunteers who play a crucial role in the community by helping maintain the integrity of our legal system. So what exactly does a JP do and where can we find one when we need their services?
Jul 07, 2025•10 min
In Australia, alcohol is often portrayed as part of social life—especially at BBQs, sporting events, and public holidays. Customs like BYO, where you bring your own drinks to gatherings, and 'shouting' rounds at the pub are part of the culture. However, because of the health risks associated with alcohol, there are regulations in place. It’s also important to understand the laws around the legal drinking age, where you can buy or consume alcohol, and how these rules vary across states and territ...
Jul 01, 2025•11 min
The representation of Indigenous Australians in media has historically been shaped by stereotypes and exclusion, but this is gradually changing. Indigenous platforms like National Indigenous Television (NITV) and social media are breaking barriers, empowering First Nations voices, and fostering a more inclusive understanding of Australia’s diverse cultural identity. Learning about these changes offers valuable insight into the country’s true history, its ongoing journey toward equity, and the ri...
Jun 24, 2025•9 min
Home and contents insurance is a safety net many households expect to rely on during difficult times. But it’s also a financial product that even experts can find challenging to navigate. Whether you own or rent your home, understanding your level of cover, knowing what fine print to look out for, and learning how to manage rising premiums can help you make more informed choices as a consumer.
Jun 16, 2025•9 min
Australia may be known for its beaches, but its snowfields offer unforgettable winter experiences—whether you're skiing, tobogganing, throwing snowballs, or seeing snow for the very first time. In this episode, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know for a snow trip, from what to pack and where to go, to how to stay safe, warm, and ready for fun.
Jun 10, 2025•12 min
A free, independent and diverse press is a fundamental pillar of democracy. Australia has two taxpayer-funded networks that serve the public interest (ABC and SBS), plus a variety of commercial and community media outlets. Although publicly funded media receives money from the government, it is unlike the state-sponsored outlets found overseas.
Jun 03, 2025•14 min
Do you know someone who makes an extraordinary impact in the community? It could be a person from any background or field of endeavour. You can help celebrate their achievements by nominating them for an Order of Australia. The more we recognise extraordinary members within our communities, the more Australia’s true diversity is reflected in the Australian honours list.
May 26, 2025•11 min
Australia has a dark chapter of history that many are still learning about. Following European settlement, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children were removed from their families and forced into non-Indigenous society. The trauma and abuse they experienced left deep scars, and the pain still echoes through the generations. But communities are creating positive change. Today these people are recognised as survivors of the Stolen Generations.
May 20, 2025•11 min
Last year alone, over 3,200 romance scams were reported by Australians, resulting in losses of more than 23 million dollars. Three experts explain how scammers operate, the red flags to watch for, and what to do if you’re the victim of a romance scam.
May 12, 2025•10 min
Australia’s beautiful landscape is home to a stunning array of native plants and wildlife, and if you’re heading out to explore, it’s important to be a careful and respectful visitor.
May 05, 2025•10 min
Visiting the emergency department with a sick or injured child can overwhelm parents due to long wait times and stress. Understanding what to expect can help. This episode explores when to go to children's hospital emergency departments in Australia and what to expect upon arrival.
Apr 29, 2025•9 min
Australia has one of the highest life expectancies in the world. On average, Australians live to see their 83rd birthday. But for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, life expectancy is about eight years less. Closing the Gap is a national agreement designed to change that. By improving the health and wellbeing of First Nations, they can enjoy the same quality of life and opportunities as non-Indigenous Australians.
Apr 22, 2025•6 min
Australia is experiencing more frequent and intense floods and storms. Once the winds calm and the water recedes, how do you return home safely? Experts speak on the essential steps to take after a disaster.
Apr 14, 2025•10 min
Australian public libraries are special places. Yes, they let you borrow books for free, but they also offer a wealth of programs and services, also free, and welcome everyone, from tiny babies to older citizens.
Apr 08, 2025•10 min
On election day the Australian Electoral Commission anticipates one million voters to pass through their voting centres every hour. Voting is compulsory for everyone on the electoral roll, so all Australians should familiarise themselves with the voting process before election day.
Mar 31, 2025•9 min
In Australia, robbery isn't just theft; it has specific legal definitions and consequences. This episode of Australia Explained podcast explores the types of crimes, including stealing. What does it mean legally? How can you protect yourself? And what support is available if it happens to you?
Mar 24, 2025•11 min
Tutoring is a booming industry in Australia, with over 80,000 tutors nationwide. Migrant families often spend big on tutoring, seeing education as the key to success. However, choosing the right tutor is essential to ensure a positive experience and real benefits for your child.
Mar 17, 2025•10 min
Anyone new to Australia can appreciate how important it is to keep your mother tongue alive. Language is integral to your culture and Australia's Indigenous languages are no different, connecting people to land and ancestral knowledge. They reflect the diversity of Australia’s First Nations peoples. More than 100 First Nations languages are currently spoken across Australia. Some are spoken by only a handful of people, and most are in danger of being lost forever. But many are being revitalised....
Mar 10, 2025•10 min
With another federal election due this year, there are steps you will need to take before casting your vote for the first time. Plenty of resources are available to help you enrol to vote and have your say in shaping our nation.
Mar 03, 2025•7 min
The Australian government has a social security system that provides a range of income support to those who are eligible . In fact, most people will receive a government payment at some stage in their lives. Strict rules determine who can receive these payments and how much they are paid. In this episode of Australia Explained we break down some of the most common government payments you may be entitled to.
Feb 24, 2025•10 min
After-school activities offer children and teenagers many benefits, but the costs can quickly add up. Fortunately, Australia has many affordable and inclusive options, you just need to know where to look.
Feb 17, 2025•9 min
Did you know that Indigenous Australians have been using fire to care for the land for tens of thousands of years? Evidence show that cultural burning practices not only help reduces the intensity and frequency of wildfires but also plays a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Experts share insights on the latest evidence behind this ancient practice.
Feb 10, 2025•10 min
In Australia, some parents can receive parental leave payments from the government and their employers. But not everybody is eligible. This article breaks down what’s available, who can claim, and how to access these benefits.
Feb 03, 2025•10 min
