Australia Explained - podcast cover

Australia Explained

Everything you need to know when settling into life in Australia. Hear helpful information about health, housing, jobs, visas and citizenship, Australian laws and more.
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Episodes

What is drug and alcohol addiction and how to get help?

In Australia, one in twenty deaths are caused by alcohol or illicit drugs. Nearly one in five adults drink at risky levels and 16 per cent of the population has tried an illicit drug in the past year.

Nov 14, 20188 min

How to obtain an Australian driver's license?

The process and time required to obtain a driver’s license varies in each state and territory. Young novice drivers tend to need a longer period to get their license, whereas mature drivers or those with an existing overseas license can often speed up the process.

Nov 04, 20187 min

How to access mental health support?

Almost half of Australians will experience mental health issues in their lifetime. While we hear more and more about the importance of mental health, a lot of people are still scared or unsure about how to ask for help.

Oct 15, 20187 min

Moving to regional Australia

Moving to the country can offer more affordable housing and better job opportunities while fostering community. And all across Australia, programs are created to attract migrants to regional areas.

Sep 07, 20187 min

How to send money overseas?

Around the globe, more than 250 million people live outside their country of birth and many migrants choose to send money to families back home. Australians are also transferring more money overseas than ever before, but the hidden costs can be hefty.

Aug 27, 20187 min

Homelessness crisis linked to housing affordability

At the last census, there were more than 116 000 people with no permanent home in the country. And with no clear national plan to fight homelessness and a lack of affordable housing, there's no sign of things getting better.

Aug 14, 20188 min

Understanding the NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme provides support to Australians who have a permanent and significant disability. Despite having helped almost 150 000 people, Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse background are left behind.

Jul 24, 20188 min

Changes to parent visas

Here's what you need to know about the recent changes to the parent visas, from where it should be sent to the price increase.

Jul 10, 20186 min

How does superannuation work?

If you're hoping for a comfortable life when you retire, it’s important to learn more about your superannuation now.

Jun 29, 20186 min

Refugee Week 2018

The world is experiencing the largest humanitarian crisis since the end of World War II with 65 million forcibly displaced people worldwide. Sunday the 17th to Saturday the 23rd of June is Refugee Week in Australia. This year’s theme is #WithRefugees, a call to protect the safety and rights of refugees.

Jun 14, 20189 min

Understanding your electricity bill

Understanding your electricity bill is key to ensuring you're charged the correct amount. If you find mistakes on your bill or you're not able to pay on time, there are ways to get help.

May 17, 20187 min

What you need to know about the NBN

The National Broadband Network, or NBN, is a new way to bring internet and phone services to Australians. By 2020, most homes and businesses will be connected to it.

May 04, 20187 min

How you can participate in Anzac Day

Anzac Day honours all Australians and New Zealanders veterans, including many from culturally diverse backgrounds. Here’s how you can participate.

Apr 19, 20186 min

What’s the new Child Care Package?

The Australian government is introducing a new Child Care Package from 2 July. Here’s what parents need to know to make the transition easier.

Apr 09, 20186 min

How to get an apprenticeship in Australia

For a young migrant, an apprenticeship is a great way to get a head start in a chosen career in Australia. An apprenticeship combines time at paid work with training and can be completed full-time, part-time or while still at school.

Mar 12, 20186 min

What you need to know about the minimum wage

In Australia, the national minimum wage is set by the Fair Work Commission. Employees cannot be paid anything less, even if they agree to it. But despite being strict rules in place, some businesses still take advantage of their employees, especially when they're overseas students and backpackers.

Mar 01, 20187 min

Why playgroups are good for children and parents

Playgroups are amazing for children. They can have fun, make friends and develop social and language skills. But parents can get a lot from them too, especially if they're new to Australia.

Feb 27, 20186 min

How to find the right GP in Australia

A good general practitioner, or GP, is worth its weight in gold. But how do you find the right doctor who is qualified, attentive and understands your background?

Feb 19, 20186 min

How to enrol for Medicare in Australia

Medicare is the Australian publicly funded universal health care system. When eligible, you can access a range of medical services for free including care as a patient in a public hospital or lower cost prescriptions.

Feb 19, 20187 min

How to open a bank account in Australia

In Australia, from shopping to organising accommodation and getting paid - not much gets done in cash any more. A bank account is an important tool for a successful life in Australia.

Feb 18, 20185 min

How to become an Australian citizen?

More than five million people have been granted citizenship since 1949. The key step is a ceremony where people pledge their loyalty, and accept the rights and responsibilities as an Australian.

Jan 18, 20186 min

Water safety in Australia

Australia has over ten thousand beaches and summer is the best time to enjoy them. But many new Australians aren't aware of the dangers. So, how do you stay safe in the water?

Dec 15, 20176 min

Water safety in Australia

Australia has over ten thousand beaches and summer is the best time to enjoy them. But many new Australians aren't aware of the dangers. So, how do you stay safe in the water?

Dec 13, 20178 min

Bushfire safety in Australia

Australia is one of the most bushfire-prone lands in the world. With the temperature getting warmer as we're settling into summer, the risk of bushfires is getting higher. So, how do you prepare for bushfires and how do you stay safe?

Dec 11, 20176 min

Fire safety can save your life

A fire breaks out in your house - do you know what to do? Many new arrivals to Australia aren't aware of the dangers of home fires.

Dec 06, 20177 min

The benefits of volunteering

Australia is a giving nation with almost six million people involved in volunteer work. Research shows that 96 per cent of those who donate their time for the greater good find more happiness in life. But for jobseekers struggling to find work, volunteering can often lay the foundation for future employment.

Dec 01, 20177 min

The benefits of volunteering

Australia is a giving nation with almost six million people involved in volunteer work. But for jobseekers struggling to find work, volunteering can often lay the foundation for future employment.

Nov 29, 20177 min
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