Top 10 Things To Do On Your First Month After Arriving In Australia

Moving to Australia for permanent settlement is the beginning of a whole new life. The first month is critical because the things you set up now will affect how smoothly you transition into your new home. Here’s a recommended checklist to for you to prepare during your first month there.

1. Secure a Place to Live

Begin by researching suburbs in advance. Ask friends or family already in Australia about safety, convenience, transportation, and rental prices. Because the rental market can be competitive for newcomers, consider temporary accommodation such as staying with relatives, short-term rentals, or “granny flats”, small independent units behind a main house.

Finding accommodation is the top thing

2. Register for Medicare

If you're eligible, apply for Medicare as soon as possible. This national healthcare program significantly reduces medical expenses and gives you access to essential services. Applications can be done online with minimal paperwork.

3. Set Up Home Utilities

Once you’ve moved into your rental, remember to activate key utilities such as electricity, internet, and gas (if your home uses gas for cooking or heating). If English is still a challenge, seek help from community centers or friends to ensure everything is set up correctly.

4. Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN)

You must have a TFN before you start working. This number ensures proper tax processing and prevents you from being taxed at the highest rate. The application is free and completed online.

5. Open a Local Bank Account

A bank account is essential for receiving salary, paying bills, and managing daily expenses. Australia’s major banks — Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, NAB, and Westpac — all provide newcomer-friendly services with multilingual support.

6. Set Up Your Superannuation Fund

Superannuation (super) is Australia’s compulsory retirement system. Your employer will contribute a portion of your salary into your super account. Register early so your contributions start accumulating immediately.

7. Begin Your Job Search

Tap into job boards, community networks, and career groups on Facebook for opportunities. If needed, consider taking short courses or certifications to improve your employability and meet local job requirements.

8. Convert or Obtain Your Driver’s License

If you already hold a driver’s license, check whether you can convert it directly (rules vary by state). If not, look into taking driving lessons to obtain an Australian license, a valuable asset for work and lifestyle flexibility.

9. Learn the Public Transportation System

Until you’re ready to drive, Australia’s transport networks — trains, buses, trams, and ferries — are reliable and well-connected. Download local transport apps to help you navigate routes easily.

10. Build Social Connections

Your wellbeing depends heavily on your community. Connect with both the Vietnamese community and local Australians. Join online groups, attend community events, and stay informed about local happenings. The more you participate, the faster you'll feel at home.

Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Permanent Residency?

Settling into life in Australia is just the beginning. If you’re planning your pathway to Australian Permanent Residency (PR) and want expert guidance, Synergy Migration Services is here to support you every step of the way.

Whether you need help choosing the right visa stream, preparing your application, or understanding migration requirements, Synergy provides reliable, personalized migration assistance tailored to your goals.

Synergy Migration Services - Trusted companion for your migration journey

📞 Hotline: (07) 3190 8600

🌐 Website: www.synergy-migration.com.au

💼 Book a consultation: www.synergy-migration.com.au/contact-us

📍 Address: 6/621 Coronation Dr, Toowong, QLD, Australia 4066

📧 Email: admin@synergy-migration.com.au