ShareGet Your Australian Paperwork Right — First Time
TFN, Medicare, banking, driving licence... the list feels overwhelming. We guide you through every document, step by step, in the right order.
⏰ Critical: Many of these documents must be set up within specific time windows after arrival. Getting them wrong — or getting them late — can delay your ability to work, rent, or access healthcare. Don't leave this to chance.
The Order Matters
Most new immigrants are so overwhelmed with settling in that they set up documentation in the wrong order — causing delays, tax complications, and healthcare gaps. Share Happiness creates a personalised documentation timeline for every client, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
Your Complete Australian Documentation Checklist
Government Information Notice: Requirements and eligibility can change. Please check current official government information on ato.gov.au, servicesaustralia.gov.au, and service.nsw.gov.au.
🟢 PRIORITY 1 — Within First Week
Tax File Number (TFN)
Apply online at the official ATO website. Eligibility depends on your visa status.
Australian SIM Card
Any major carrier (Telstra, Optus, Woolworths Mobile, etc.).
Emergency Contacts
Save emergency contacts (000) and locate your local Services Australia service centre.
🟡 PRIORITY 2 — Within First Month
Medicare Card (if eligible)
Eligibility depends on visa type and reciprocal healthcare agreements. Check Services Australia Medicare.
Australian Bank Account
Major Australian banks offer newcomer accounts. Check individual bank requirements for documentation.
Proof of Address
Utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement needed for most official applications.
🔵 PRIORITY 3 — Within 3 Months
Australian Driver's Licence
In NSW, overseas licence transfer rules depend on your visa type and country. Check Service NSW.
Superannuation (Super)
Provided by employers for eligible workers under Australian law. Check ATO Superannuation.
ABN (if carrying on an enterprise)
Free to register via the official Australian Business Register (ABR) if eligible.
Medicare Levy Exemption (if applicable)
Certain visa holders not entitled to Medicare may apply for an exemption certificate via ATO/Services Australia.
myGov Account
Links Medicare, ATO, and other government services online at my.gov.au.
🔴 ONGOING
Annual Tax Return
Due 31 October for self-lodgers. Refer to ATO guidelines.
Updating Address
Update your details with relevant government agencies when you change addresses.
Visa Condition Monitoring
Ensure compliance with your visa conditions via Department of Home Affairs VEVO online.
Deep Dive: Essential Information
📋 Tax File Number (TFN)
A TFN is your unique tax identification number in Australia. Requirements and eligibility depend on your visa type. You can apply online via the official ATO website once you are in Australia.
🏥 Medicare & Healthcare
Medicare is Australia's public healthcare system. Eligibility depends on your visa status, citizenship, or Reciprocal Health Care Agreements. Always check current criteria at servicesaustralia.gov.au/medicare.
🏦 Australian Bank Accounts
Major Australian banks allow newcomers to open accounts online or in-branch. Requirements vary, so check official bank sites for required identification documents.
🚗 Driver's Licences
Licensing rules vary by state and territory. In NSW, rules for driving on an overseas licence depend on whether you are a temporary visitor or permanent resident. Visit service.nsw.gov.au for current guidelines.
We sit with you through every form and application
Australia's myGov platform links all your government services
Common Questions
Can I work without a TFN?
You can work for up to 28 days without a TFN, but your employer will withhold tax at the highest rate (47%). Apply as soon as possible after arriving.
Is Medicare funded by the government?
Medicare is funded through the Medicare Levy (2% of taxable income for most residents). GP visits are often bulk-billed (at no out-of-pocket cost) for Medicare cardholders. Specialists may have gap fees. Emergency hospital treatment is covered.
My documents are in another language. Can you help with translation?
Yes. We work with accredited NAATI translators and can help arrange certified translations of your documents where required.