Living in Australia

If you’re new to Australia, we understand that life may look different here.

There are many things you can do to adapt to life in Australia and many of them include getting out and about in your local community, meeting people and practicing everyday tasks. 

However, there are also many useful resources on the internet that can help you understand some basics about law, staying safe, citizenship and what to do in an emergency. We’ve compiled a short list to get you started. 

Law in our community

Laws are put in place to keep everyone safe and to make sure we all know what behaviours are acceptable and unacceptable. 

Victoria Legal Aid Service have created a helpful resource for new arrivals to Australia, to help you understand the law, your rights, safety and many other areas.  
Legal Aid

Calling Emergency services

If you have an emergency, the phone number to call is 000. 

When you call this number, you can ask to speak to Police, Fire or Ambulance services. 
You can find out more about how Australia’s emergency number (000) works in this resource produced by SBS.
Read article on SBS Website

Fire Safety

NSW Fire Brigades has created a helpful information booklet to help you understand basic fire prevention and safety in your home. 

This Fire Safety information from the NSW Adult Migrant English Service (NSW AMES) provides additional ideas on how you can protect yourself from fire in your home. Download the information booklet and accompanying audio resources.
Fire Safety

Beach Safety

Staying safe around water and particularly when visiting the beach is so important.

Check out the Australian Government’s information at Health Direct about how you and your family can stay safe at the beach. 
Health Direct

The Beach Safety resource from the NSW Adult Migrant English Service (NSW AMES) will help you understand beach safety. Download the information booklet and accompanying audio resources.
NSW Adult Migrant English Service

Becoming an Australian Citizen

The Department of Home Affairs provides information on why and how to become an Australian citizen.
Department of Home Affairs