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Australia Explained

368 episodes - English - Latest episode: 14 days ago -

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 workplace discrimination and what to do if you think you are a victim?

November 29, 2021 08:38 - 7 minutes - 16.5 MB

Every two years, the Diversity Council of Australia publishes the Inclusion@Work Index, a study that maps inclusion and harassment and discrimination across the Australian workforce.   The next Index is being released in December this year. 

ویزای کودکانِ بی سرپرست بستگان در استرالیا

November 20, 2021 04:19 - 7 minutes - 13.4 MB

ویزای کودکانِ بی سرپرست بستگان   (زیر کلاس ۱۱۷) یکی از گزینه های ویزا برای مهاجرانی است که مایل به ورود به استرالیا هستند.

What you need to know before you start a small business in Australia

November 18, 2021 11:09 - 6 minutes - 5.57 MB

Starting a small business is an exciting venture, but it’s a one that comes with numerous challenges. Let’s take a look at how you can make this process simpler and more gratifying.

آیا می دانید چگونه می توانید کسب و کار کوچک خود را در استرالیا راه اندازی کنید؟

November 13, 2021 04:59 - 9 minutes

راه اندازی یک کسب و کار کوچک یک سرمایه گذاری هیجان انگیز است، اما انجام این کار با چالش های متعددی نیز همراه است. در این بخش از سری مجموعه برنامه های Settlement Guide نگاهی انداخته ایم به این موضوع اینکه چگونه می توانید این فرآیند را ساده تر و لذت بخش تر کنید.

How to join a sports club in Australia

November 08, 2021 06:01 - 9 minutes - 9.84 MB

Australia is a sporting nation, and one of the most exciting ways to integrate into Australian society is through sports - bringing enormous health and social benefits for everyone involved. Here is what you need to know about the four most popular sporting codes.

Why does Australia pose such a high risk for skin cancer?

October 28, 2021 02:23 - 8 minutes - 18.6 MB

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. But why is the risk of skin cancer so high in Australia, and how can you protect yourself from harmful UV radiation?

How to get free legal assistance in Australia

October 21, 2021 03:52 - 8 minutes - 20.1 MB

Navigating Australia's legal system can be difficult, especially considering the cost of some lawyers. But a range of free legal services are also available across Australia for those in need.

Here’s what you need to know about buying a private health cover

October 11, 2021 04:29 - 7 minutes - 13.2 MB

Private health insurance helps people avoid long wait times for non-urgent procedures and lets them access services that Medicare does not cover. But out of pocket costs may be a deterrent for many people to use it to pay for their medical costs.

Fixed or variable: Choosing the right home loan

October 05, 2021 02:23 - 6 minutes - 12.2 MB

A variable loan offers more flexibility and comes with redraw and offset facilities, whereas a fixed-term loan keeps the interest repayments stable during the fixed term. But if you need to break the fixed term, the extra cost may be significant.

New residents face longer wait for Centrelink payments

September 26, 2021 23:48 - 7 minutes - 13.6 MB

With changes in the social security laws set to take effect from 1 January 2022, new permanent residents will have a four-year wait period before they can access most government payments.

Staying healthy during COVID-19 restrictions

September 26, 2021 23:39 - 8 minutes - 15.9 MB

With lockdowns in Melbourne and Sydney extended, gyms and other training facilities remain out of bounds for people. And a loss of social connection and restricted time outdoors means it’s not just one’s physical health but also mental well-being that may be taking a hit.

Identifying warning signs of mental illness

September 13, 2021 00:02 - 7 minutes - 14.6 MB

People with mental illnesses are more likely to develop physical illnesses. If ignored, mental health issues can worsen and lead to other disorders. But with timely help, one can regain control and come back with renewed spirit.

Including self-care in your daily routine

September 06, 2021 01:57 - 7 minutes - 14.1 MB

Taking care of one's physical and mental health paves the way for better holistic well-being down the track. But it's not always easy to do so, especially for women juggling career and household responsibilities. But here's how you can include self-care in your routine.

Financial assistance for temporary visa holders and asylum seekers during COVID-19

August 31, 2021 01:53 - 5 minutes - 10.8 MB

Government-funded relief payments are available for temporary visa holders and asylum seekers experiencing extreme hardship. Nearly 200 charities and community organisations are delivering financial support and food relief to people in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.  

「疫情下」臨時簽證及尋求庇護者求救有門

August 27, 2021 00:10 - 7 minutes

疫情封城下,持臨時簽證的人士及尋求庇護者,往往都不符合資格申領政府的薪金緊急支援。爲此緣故,志願團體就會透過政府的撥款及私人機構的捐款,負起向未符資格領取薪金支援的一群,提供緊急援助。那麽具體的情況如何? 宋慶勤爲大家報道。

Understanding Indigenous disadvantage in Australia

August 18, 2021 05:24 - 7 minutes - 14.6 MB

Stemming from historical injustices, Indigenous disadvantage continues to affect First Nations people resulting in shorter life expectancy, poor health and education outcomes and disproportionately higher incarceration rates.

Childcare in Australia explained

August 18, 2021 01:34 - 9 minutes - 17.5 MB

If you are studying or working and have young children at home, you can access subsidised childcare in Australia. There are different care options available, depending upon whether you satisfy the activities test, and the level of government subsidy depends on your family income.

Sponsoring a loved one to migrate to Australia

August 10, 2021 00:02 - 9 minutes - 16.6 MB

Family migration makes up almost half of Australia’s annual permanent migration intake this year. With different visas allowing Australian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with their loved ones on Australian soil, here’s what you need to know about Australia’s family stream visas.

Finding the right job for your skills and qualifications

August 03, 2021 03:02 - 8 minutes - 15.8 MB

A recent report has found that one in four permanent skilled migrants in Australia are working in jobs below their skill level, costing them and the economy hundreds of millions in foregone wages every year. In this segment of Settlement Guide, we look at some practical ways for new migrants to find employment that matches their skill level, qualifications and work experience.

The hidden risks of buy now pay later services

July 27, 2021 02:37 - 6 minutes - 11.4 MB

The buy now, pay later services may have made buying products easier for consumers, but with their increasing popularity and almost ubiquitous presence, concerns are growing that some users may get caught in a debt spiral.

Census 2021: Why and how to participate

July 27, 2021 02:13 - 8 minutes - 16.1 MB

Every five years, a count is taken of every person and home in Australia in the national Census of Population and Housing. The data collected from over 25 million people will help the governments, businesses and community groups to make informed decisions about infrastructure and services for Australians. However, some people may be concerned about sharing their personal information and the safety of their private data. In this episode of Settlement Guide, General Manager of the Census, Chris...

Migrating to Australia through business and investment visas

July 27, 2021 01:44 - 7 minutes - 13.6 MB

Australia’s Business Innovation and Investment Program doubled in size in 2020-21, with over 13,500 visa places in the annual migration program. Over the years, the program has delivered billions of dollars in investment in Australia and provided a pathway to permanent residency for investors, innovators and migrants with business skills. Now, for the first time since 2012, the government has made some significant changes to the program, including slashing the number of visa streams and subcl...

Australian visa and immigration changes from 1 July 2021

June 29, 2021 05:04 - 7 minutes - 14.5 MB

From 1 July 2021, Australia's business and investment visa requirements are changing, applications for Australian citizenship will cost more, a new agriculture visa is being introduced later in the year, and partner visa applicants and their permanent resident sponsors will have to pass an English test. Find out about all the visa and immigration changes coming into effect in the financial year 2021-22.

Australian visa and immigration change from 1 July 2021

June 29, 2021 05:04 - 7 minutes

From 1 July 2021, Australia's business and investment visa requirements are changing, applications for Australian citizenship will cost more, a new agriculture visa is being introduced later in the year, and partner visa applicants and their permanent resident sponsors will have to pass an English test. Find out about all the visa and immigration changes coming into effect in the financial year 2021-22.  

NAIDOC Week: Indigenous places of significance near you

June 22, 2021 05:11 - 6 minutes - 12.4 MB

NAIDOC Week is celebrated each July to recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year’s theme Heal Country! calls for greater protections for the Aboriginal lands, water, sacred sites and cultural heritage from exploitation, desecration and destruction. So, this episode of Settlement Guide looks at ways of exploring and learning about important Indigenous sites within easy reach of our cities.

What is superannuation, and why is it important for you?

June 16, 2021 01:05 - 7 minutes - 13.9 MB

Superannuation is a mandatory savings scheme designed to help Australians save money that they can use in retirement. However, experts warn that migrant workers who do not pay attention to their super may be losing their savings to unnecessary fees and charges.

Adopting a child from overseas

June 08, 2021 04:16 - 8 minutes - 14.9 MB

Many Australians want to adopt children from other countries, who otherwise don’t have an opportunity to be part of a family. Australia has adoption agreements with several countries, but the process of adopting a child from overseas is lengthy and requires a strong commitment.

Here's how Australia's selective entry school admissions work

June 01, 2021 02:39 - 9 minutes - 17.8 MB

If you are looking for an academically challenging environment for your high-achieving child, you might consider one of the selective entry high schools in Victoria, NSW, Queensland or Western Australia. These are highly competitive and result-oriented schools that nurture academic excellence in high-performing students. But some experts say the pressure to continue to perform at a high level may harm the students' mental health.

The importance of having a will, particularly if you are a migrant

May 25, 2021 04:55 - 6 minutes - 11.6 MB

Many Australians underestimate the importance of having a will, believing they are not wealthy or old enough to need it. But experts say you should start thinking about having one as soon as you become an adult. You can get legal help or use a Do-It-Yourself will kit, but there are certain things to keep in mind while preparing a will.

How to engage with National Reconcilation Week

May 25, 2021 04:10 - 7 minutes - 13.8 MB

National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to acknowledge the histories and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and take action to build positive relationships with one another.

Things to know when buying your first home

May 12, 2021 05:58 - 7 minutes - 13.9 MB

The demand for residential properties has swelled amid the government incentives for homebuyers and record-low interest rates, which have driven up prices and competition among buyers. In such a competitive housing market, it’s easy to miss signs of serious problems with the property. So, here's what you need to know when you are out looking for your first home.

Skills for future jobs

May 12, 2021 05:23 - 7 minutes - 13.5 MB

An international study predicts that three in five jobs will require advanced digital skills by the year 2030. But a recent RMIT report shows that one in four Australian workers don’t have the skills to operate in a rapidly digitalised work environment. This highlights a significant skills gap amid increasing automation in the economy.

Lesser-known Australian road rules you may be breaking

May 12, 2021 01:06 - 6 minutes - 11.9 MB

Observing road rules is critical to the safety of all road users. As traffic laws can vary across different states and territories, they can sometimes be confusing for motorists, especially if they are travelling interstate. In this episode of Settlement Guide, we discuss such little known road rules, some of which may appear bizarre but can cost you a big fine.

What is Australia's Global Talent visa?

April 28, 2021 02:33 - 7 minutes - 14.5 MB

Global Talent Independent Visa Program is designed to attract the 'best and brightest' minds to help grow Australia's innovation and tech economies. While there's no requirement to sit for English language tests, such as IELTS or PTE, and no formal skills assessment is required, this pathway is reserved for individuals with exceptional skills and a track record of international repute. If you meet these criteria, you may get permanent residency in Australia within a few months under this prog...

Calls grow to criminalise coercive control in Australia

April 20, 2021 03:20 - 9 minutes - 17.6 MB

Anti-domestic violence campaigners are calling for criminalising controlling behaviours that often prove key precursors to physical violence in a relationship. But, multicultural support workers say gaps in legislation and services are failing migrant victims on temporary visas as many feel trapped in abusive relationships due to cultural barriers, but also a lack of immigration pathways and gaps in support services.

Revisiting your childhood dream can bring a new spark in life

April 13, 2021 05:30 - 4 minutes - 7.63 MB

Do you ever think of what you once dreamt of becoming as a child? Revisiting our childhood dream can sometimes bring a new spark in life. For some, it may even present an opportunity to leave a legacy.

Australia's migration program and permanent skilled visas

April 09, 2021 02:21 - 8 minutes - 16.4 MB

Australia's permanent migration program currently offers 160,000 visas every year, with the biggest share reserved for skilled applicants. The points-tested skilled permanent visas are highly competitive, with the number of applicants outstripping supply by a big margin. In this episode, we take a look at how the skilled permanent residency pathways work in Australia.

Why borrowing responsibly is 'more important than ever' now

April 01, 2021 02:42 - 6 minutes - 11 MB

The Federal Government is aiming to ease Australia's responsible lending laws, hoping it will help stimulate the economy. But with the onus of assessing the suitability to take on debt set to be placed back on a borrower, experts warn it is more important than ever to borrow responsibly.

Things you should look for when buying a used car

March 31, 2021 00:32 - 6 minutes - 12.1 MB

Have you ever purchased a used car and later found that it required expensive repairs? This is not uncommon, especially if you are not a skilled technician who knows how to inspect a vehicle thoroughly. But doing your homework and following some tips can help you find a safe and reliable car that suits your needs and budget.

Helping autistic children thrive with early diagnosis and support

March 30, 2021 22:58 - 8 minutes - 15.9 MB

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects an individual in multiple ways. It is internationally recognised every year on April 2 and has three most common classifications: Autistic Disorder, Asperger's Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder. Autism Spectrum Australia says nearly one in 80 Australians live with some form of autism, which is an estimated 40 per cent increase since 2014.

What happens when someone decides to stay in Australia without a visa?

March 24, 2021 04:43 - 8 minutes - 14.7 MB

All foreign citizens must have a valid visa to stay in Australia. If someone doesn't leave the country when their visa ceases, they become an unlawful non-citizen and may be detained and deported from Australia. Staying in Australia without a visa can also have consequences for further visa applications, including a three-year exclusion period during which another Australian visa cannot be granted.

Making your return to work COVID-safe

March 18, 2021 03:40 - 5 minutes - 10.6 MB

New research reveals that two in five Australians are concerned about hygiene in their workplace, while more than a quarter have become anxious about germs since the start of the pandemic. With more workers returning to on-site work, employers and employees can manage the return-to-work stress with these small but important steps and make their workplace COVID-safe.

How to stay safe while rock fishing

March 10, 2021 23:01 - 5 minutes - 10.5 MB

Rock fishing is a popular activity in Australia, with over a million keen anglers climbing the rocks for their catch each year. But being unfamiliar with conditions can expose one to a high risk of injury or even death, making it very dangerous. Nearly 200 rock fishing-related deaths have been recorded in Australia since 2004, which safety experts believe could have been avoided by observing some simple safety measures.

The latest changes in 485 visa

March 03, 2021 23:10 - 5 minutes - 10.8 MB

The Federal Government has relaxed application requirements and visa criteria for international students to ensure Australia remains a priority destination for overseas students. Now, with the Temporary Graduate visa, international students have an opportunity to access longer stay in Australia to gain valuable work experience and explore a pathway to permanent residency.

Sea or tree change: Tips for moving to a regional area

February 25, 2021 03:41 - 7 minutes - 12.9 MB

A sea or tree change is an Australian dream for many retirees who seek a slower and more relaxed lifestyle in a smaller seaside or inland community. It seems that COVID-19 has accelerated many people’s decision, with the latest ABS data showing that capital cities suffered the biggest quarterly net loss on record last September, losing 11,000 people to regional towns. Here are some helpful points if you’re contemplating the big move.

How to handle pandemic debt

February 18, 2021 00:45 - 7 minutes - 13.7 MB

A year into the COVID-19 pandemic, many Australians are trapped in a vicious cycle of increasing debt while relying on multiple personal loans to cover their household bills and living costs. So, how do you live in debt and proactively manage your financial commitments?

Changing your career during COVID-19

February 11, 2021 05:30 - 6 minutes - 12.3 MB

Prior to COVID-19, Australia’s mature workforce was already battling ageism with 68 per cent of employers indicating that they were unwilling to employ workers over 50 in a 2018 survey by the Australian Human Resources Institute.

Helping your kids cope with the pandemic

February 05, 2021 02:48 - 8 minutes - 16.2 MB

Going back to normal school life can be an exciting or anxious time for children after the summer holidays. Here are some tips for parents to help your children ease into a new school year.

What does Indigenous Recognition mean?

February 05, 2021 02:44 - 11 minutes - 21.4 MB

‘Voice’, ‘recognition’, ‘sovereignty’ and ‘treaty’ have become a significant part of the language used to discuss the development of Australia's relationship with its Indigenous peoples. For most people these are just words but for First Nations people, they symbolise hope for a better and more inclusive future, with more involvement in the decisions that directly affect their lives.

Be prepared: Simple tips to get yourself and your property ready for bushfire season

December 21, 2020 08:48 - 6 minutes - 11.9 MB

Managing bushfire risk to your home and family means being prepared. Experts advise that people who live in bushfire-prone areas need a plan for an emergency.