Practical planning routes for your first weeks in Australia
Arrival tasks can depend on each other: identification, access to money, communications, healthcare and housing. Prioritise the decision that is blocking your next step, using the relevant official rules and your own dates.
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. | Ask the bank for its exact documents and verification route. |
| Tax File Number | Give your TFN to the relevant employer or fund to support correct tax and super administration. | Apply after arrival if you are a permanent migrant or temporary visitor with work rights. | Keep the ATO application receipt and follow its stated delivery and enquiry process. |
| Phone number | Needed for 2FA, rentals, jobs, schools and myGov setup. | Day 1 or 2. Start prepaid if unsure. | Check exact-device emergency-call compatibility as well as coverage and total recharge cost. |
| 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
Use our bank process comparison, mobile quote comparison and official safety-data routes, alongside the tools below. Each has a stated scope.
Compare entered rent and living costs with your own budget.
FamilyOpen official school directory and enrolment routes; places and fees require confirmation.
HealthOpen external care-search links, then confirm availability and charges with the clinic.
HealthCompare coverage assumptions and check the stated MLS income-tier scenario.
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 calculate their own setup reserve from actual bond, lawful advance rent, travel and other quotes.
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