Australia Explained artwork

Australia Explained

368 episodes - English - Latest episode: 15 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

Overcoming loneliness in a new country

November 29, 2019 01:05 - 6 minutes - 11.8 MB

In Australia, refugee organisations offer a range of programs and initiatives to help new arrivals regain a sense of community and belonging in their new country.

What is Schoolies?

November 14, 2019 23:43 - 7 minutes - 13.7 MB

School graduation is a big deal for adolescents worldwide. In Australia, school leavers tend to celebrate high school graduation with a weeklong event called Schoolies. Here’s how you can prepare your child for it.

How to get help if you’re a victim of sexual harassment at work?

October 31, 2019 22:44 - 6 minutes - 11.3 MB

According to the latest survey from the Australian Human Rights Commission, one in three workers say they've been sexually harassed at work over the last five years. But sexual harassment in the workplace is unlawful and shouldn’t be tolerated. If it happens to you or someone you know, there are ways to get help.

How to prevent drowning?

October 17, 2019 04:34 - 5 minutes - 10.8 MB

With another scorching summer approaching, authorities are pleading with swimmers to use caution as the number of people drowning has jumped by ten per cent since last year.

Living in regional Australia

October 04, 2019 03:06 - 8 minutes - 15.5 MB

Nearly all newly arrived migrants settled in Melbourne and Sydney last year while regional Australia is struggling to survive with a shrinking population. The Australian government is offering migrants new permanent residency pathways provided that they stay in regional areas for four years.

How to get a divorce in Australia?

September 19, 2019 02:10 - 6 minutes - 12 MB

Research by the Australian Institute of Family Studies shows that people in their mid to late 20s are the most likely to divorce followed by couples in their late 40s. And those who get divorced have usually been married nine years or less.

What is bankruptcy and its implications?

September 05, 2019 03:42 - 6 minutes - 11.8 MB

The number of Australians in financial distress is on the rise prompting warnings of more personal bankruptcies as the national economy slows down.

Children’s Rights in Australia

August 29, 2019 00:14 - 6 minutes - 11.7 MB

Under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, all children are meant to enjoy equal rights to growing up with access to education, healthcare and safety. However, child advocacy groups believe Australia still has a fair way to go.

What can parents do about bullying?

August 08, 2019 02:04 - 7 minutes - 12.9 MB

Around one in four Australian children are affected by bullying at school. As a parent, it’s important to know what to do if your child is a victim of bullying or if they're the bully themselves.

How to keep your child safe online?

July 25, 2019 00:58 - 6 minutes - 12.2 MB

With children being more tech-savvy than ever, it's important for the adults around them to help them have a positive experience online.

How to apply for a First Home Owner Grant?

June 27, 2019 04:00 - 6 minutes - 11.8 MB

Escalated property prices across Australia make it more difficult for first home buyers to enter the market.

What are the minor offences in Australia?

June 13, 2019 02:13 - 6 minutes - 11.5 MB

There are several minor offences in Australia that could get you in trouble that you might not know about.

What is TAFE?

May 31, 2019 00:38 - 7 minutes - 13.2 MB

If you're looking to start your career in Australia or are already working and want to upskill or change path, TAFE might be a good option for you. It provides vocational education and training in every Australian state, covering many industries.

How to participate in Australian life?

May 16, 2019 01:22 - 6 minutes - 11 MB

Every day, millions of Australians volunteer their time to improve the lives of less fortunate members of our community.

How to vote in Australia?

April 17, 2019 22:52 - 7 minutes - 13.6 MB

Australians go to the polls to vote in the federal election on 18th May 2019. Voting is compulsory for all eligible citizens over 18. Voters must be enrolled with the Australian Electoral Commission. Once registered, they must vote to avoid penalties. Here is a quick guide on how to vote.

Australia's Political System

April 12, 2019 00:16 - 7 minutes - 13.4 MB

The 2019 Australian federal election is just around the corner when we will elect members of the 46th Parliament of Australia. So how do elections determine our next government?

Should you build or buy a house?

March 06, 2019 23:27 - 6 minutes - 11.2 MB

Both options have different advantages so we've asked property experts to talk us through them.

Settlement Guide: How does the youth justice system work in Australia?

February 22, 2019 00:26 - 7 minutes - 12.8 MB

If your child enters the youth justice system, it’s important to know what are their rights and where to get help.

How to get involved in your children's school?

February 07, 2019 03:13 - 6 minutes - 11 MB

Getting involved in your children’s school will have a positive effect on their grades and wellbeing. We look at where to start.

How to have a fun and safe time outdoors this summer

December 13, 2018 23:35 - 6 minutes - 11.4 MB

Summer has officially started in Australia. Many of us will take advantage of weekends and school holidays to spend time outdoors so here are a few tips to make sure you stay safe.

What is holiday care and how to find free activities for children?

November 30, 2018 00:00 - 7 minutes - 13.3 MB

School holidays can be challenging for many parents. However, there are holiday care programs and free activities to keep your little ones occupied.

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

November 14, 2018 22:59 - 8 minutes - 15 MB

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.

How to obtain an Australian driver's license?

November 04, 2018 23:12 - 7 minutes - 13.5 MB

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.

How to enrol in the Victoria State election?

October 15, 2018 02:52 - 6 minutes - 12.1 MB

The Victorian state election is coming up on 24 November. Here’s how to enrol and vote correctly.

How to access mental health support?

October 15, 2018 01:19 - 6 minutes - 12 MB

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.

Moving to regional Australia

September 07, 2018 04:47 - 6 minutes - 12.5 MB

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.

How to send money overseas?

August 27, 2018 07:22 - 6 minutes - 12 MB

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.

Homelessness crisis linked to housing affordability

August 14, 2018 00:26 - 7 minutes - 14.3 MB

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.

Understanding the NDIS

July 24, 2018 23:55 - 8 minutes - 14.7 MB

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.

Changes to parent visas

July 10, 2018 07:27 - 6 minutes - 11.2 MB

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.

How does superannuation work?

June 29, 2018 07:38 - 6 minutes - 11.8 MB

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

Refugee Week 2018

June 14, 2018 02:16 - 9 minutes - 16.6 MB

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.

How to apply for a Tax File Number

May 31, 2018 01:40 - 6 minutes - 12.2 MB

Before you start working in Australia, you need to get a Tax File Number.

Understanding your electricity bill

May 17, 2018 04:31 - 6 minutes - 12 MB

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.

What you need to know about the NBN

May 04, 2018 07:02 - 7 minutes - 13.2 MB

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.

How you can participate in Anzac Day

April 19, 2018 22:40 - 6 minutes - 2.89 MB

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

What’s the new Child Care Package?

April 09, 2018 22:53 - 6 minutes - 2.76 MB

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.

How to apply for a loan

March 26, 2018 06:32 - 5 minutes - 2.7 MB

How to get a loan when you’re new to Australia.

How to get an apprenticeship in Australia

March 12, 2018 01:17 - 5 minutes - 2.62 MB

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.

What you need to know about the minimum wage

March 01, 2018 06:36 - 6 minutes - 3.18 MB

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.

Why playgroups are good for children and parents

February 27, 2018 05:06 - 6 minutes - 2.76 MB

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.

How to find the right GP in Australia

February 19, 2018 00:26 - 6 minutes - 2.89 MB

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?

How to enrol for Medicare in Australia

February 19, 2018 00:13 - 6 minutes - 3.15 MB

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.

How to open a bank account in Australia

February 18, 2018 23:32 - 4 minutes - 2.29 MB

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.

How to become an Australian citizen?

January 18, 2018 04:58 - 6 minutes - 2.95 MB

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.

Water safety in Australia

December 13, 2017 06:34 - 7 minutes - 3.58 MB

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?

Bushfire safety in Australia

December 11, 2017 04:27 - 5 minutes - 2.58 MB

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?

Fire safety can save your life

December 06, 2017 06:39 - 7 minutes - 3.3 MB

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.

The benefits of volunteering

November 29, 2017 06:57 - 6 minutes - 3.12 MB

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.

What to do if someone you know is the victim of domestic violence

November 22, 2017 06:07 - 7 minutes - 3.63 MB

Many Australian women and men are affected by domestic violence. And it's often multicultural communities who face the biggest challenges in getting help.