Everything you need for your first weeks in Australia
The first week in Australia is not glamorous, but it decides how smooth the next three months feel. Bank account, TFN, phone number, Medicare, rental documents and transport setup all connect to each other. Miss one and the next task gets slower.
Use this page as a practical landing pad. It points you to the tools that help with rent, schools and health, then breaks down the admin steps that most new arrivals need to start early. Some tasks can be researched before you fly; others, like TFN applications for most visa holders, usually need you to be in Australia first. Keep digital copies of passports, visa grants, payslips, references and school records because the same documents are reused across banks, rentals, Medicare and enrolments.
Timing varies by visa and state, but this order keeps the common blockers out of your way.
| Task | Why it matters | Best timing | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank account | Needed for wages, rent, refunds and Medicare claims. | Research before arrival; verify ID after arrival if required. | Low if you have passport, visa and address details. |
| Tax File Number | Needed for work, tax, super and avoiding higher withholding. | Apply after arrival if you are a permanent migrant or temporary visitor with work rights. | Low to medium. ATO can take up to 28 days to post the TFN. |
| Phone number | Needed for 2FA, rentals, jobs, schools and myGov setup. | Day 1 or 2. Start prepaid if unsure. | Low. Compare coverage at home and work, not just price. |
| Medicare card | Needed for GP rebates, bulk billing and hospital access if eligible. | Apply as soon as visa and residence documents are ready. | Medium. Eligibility depends on visa, PR application or RHCA status. |
| Rental file | Needed before inspections move quickly. | Prepare before inspections; update once you have payslips or job offer. | Medium to high in tight markets. References and proof of funds help. |
Sources: ATO TFN for migrants and temporary visitors | Services Australia Medicare enrolment | Services Australia Medicare for PR applicants
While we build dedicated Settling In tools, these tools from other pillars will help you get sorted.
Work out how much rent you can afford based on your income and expenses.
FamilyFind and compare schools near you if you're arriving with children.
HealthFind a doctor near your new home — no out-of-pocket cost with bulk billing.
HealthUnderstand your health cover options as you settle in.
Dedicated settling-in tools we're building
An interactive checklist covering everything you need to do in your first week — TFN, bank account, phone, transport card, and more.
Compare suburbs by rent, transport, schools, safety, and walkability to find where to live.
Compare Australian bank accounts for newcomers — fees, features, international transfers, and signup requirements.
The first jobs are practical. These examples show the order that reduces friction.
A 482 holder should sort phone, bank and TFN first, then confirm OVHC and keep visa grant notices handy for payroll. They should not assume Medicare or Centrelink access. Use the Bank Comparison and Tax Calculator before the first payslip.
A PR couple comparing Sydney and Melbourne should model rent, commute and Medicare access before choosing a suburb. Higher rent can wipe out a higher salary if transport and bond are ignored. Use the Rent Calculator and keep a 4 to 6 week cash buffer for setup costs.
A family with school-aged children should start with school catchments, commute and GP access, then compare rent. A cheaper suburb can be expensive if it adds a second car or long childcare travel. Use the School Finder and Suburb Safety before inspections.
Get your money sorted and understand your visa options as you settle in.
Money & Tax Visas & Immigration