Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) Settlement Guide

First Week20 minutes online

Apply for your TFN (Tax File Number)

A TFN is your unique tax ID in Australia. You need it to work, open bank accounts, and lodge tax returns. Without it, you'll be taxed at the highest rate.

First Week15 minutes online

Create a myGov account

myGov is your gateway to Australian government services. You'll use it for Medicare, Centrelink, tax returns, and more. Think of it as your digital government ID.

Open an Australian bank account

You need a local bank account to get paid, pay rent, and manage daily expenses. Most banks have accounts designed for newcomers.

First Week30-60 minutes

First Week30 minutes at service centre

Enrol in Medicare

Medicare is Australia's public health system. It covers doctor visits, hospital treatment, and some medical costs. Not all visa types are eligible.

First Week5 minutes online

Check your visa conditions in VEVO

VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online) shows your exact visa conditions - work rights, study rights, expiry dates, and travel conditions.

First Week30 minutes reading

Know your workplace rights

Australian workplace law protects all workers, regardless of visa type. You have rights to minimum wage, breaks, leave, and safe conditions.

Get an Opal card for Sydney transport

The Opal card is your ticket to Sydney's buses, trains, ferries, and light rail. Tap on and off, and fares are automatically calculated.

Get a myki card for Melbourne transport

myki is Melbourne's public transport card. Use it on trains, trams, and buses across the city and regional Victoria.

Get a go card for Brisbane transport

go card is South East Queensland's travel card. Use it on Translink buses, trains, ferries, and trams in Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast.

Get a SmartRider for Perth transport

SmartRider is Perth's transport card for buses, trains, and ferries. It gives you discounted fares compared to cash tickets.

Get a metroCARD for Adelaide transport

metroCARD is Adelaide's public transport card for buses, trains, and trams. It's cheaper and more convenient than paper tickets.

Know the emergency number: 000

000 is Australia's emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance. Call only in life-threatening or time-critical situations.

First Week2 minutes

Save Lifeline for mental health crises

Lifeline is a 24/7 crisis support service. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or suicidal, call them. It's free and confidential.

Access Beyond Blue for anxiety and depression

Beyond Blue provides information and support for anxiety, depression, and suicide prevention. Their counsellors understand the challenges of starting over.

First WeekVaries

First Week15 minutes reading

Learn to spot Australian scams

Scammers often target newcomers who don't know Australian systems. Learn the warning signs and report suspicious contacts.

Know about free interpreting services

TIS National provides free interpreters for government services, medical appointments, and some other situations. Don't let language hold you back.

Save Kids Helpline for under 25s

Kids Helpline is a free, confidential counselling service for anyone under 25. Available 24/7 by phone, chat, or email.

Know 1800RESPECT for domestic violence support

1800RESPECT is Australia's national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service. Free, confidential, 24/7.

Save the Police Assistance Line: 131 444

For non-emergency police matters, call 131 444 instead of 000. Use it for reporting theft, damage, or suspicious activity.

Save the Fair Work hotline: 13 13 94

Fair Work provides free advice about pay, conditions, and workplace issues. Your visa won't be affected by calling.

First Week2 minutes to set up, then automatic

Track your work hours with the Fair Work app

The Record My Hours app lets you track when you work, including breaks. It's evidence if there's a pay dispute.

First Week30 minutes research

Choose a mobile phone plan

Australia has three networks (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone) and many providers using them. Prepaid is easiest for newcomers.

First Month

32 tasks

First Month30 minutes research

Choose your superannuation fund

Super is Australia's retirement savings system. Your employer must pay 11.5% of your salary into a super fund. You can choose which fund.

First Month2-3 hours total (including tests)

Transfer your overseas licence to NSW

If you become a NSW resident, you can drive on your overseas licence for 3 months. Then you must transfer to a NSW licence.

First Month15 minutes research

Check overseas licence rules for your visa

Temporary visa holders can usually drive on their overseas licence in NSW without transferring. But rules vary by state and visa type.

Keep evidence of your genuine relationship

For Partner visa applicants, you need to prove your relationship is genuine. Start collecting evidence from day one.

First MonthOngoing

First Month30 minutes research

Check Centrelink eligibility on Partner visa

Partner visa holders have a 2-year waiting period for most Centrelink payments. Some exceptions apply.

Understand rental bonds in NSW

When you rent in NSW, you'll pay a bond (usually 4 weeks rent). This is held by NSW Fair Trading, not your landlord.

Know your tenants' rights in NSW

Tenants Union NSW provides free advice on rental issues, disputes, and your rights as a renter.

Know your tenants' rights in Victoria

Tenants Victoria provides free advice for renters in Melbourne and across the state.

Know your tenants' rights in Queensland

The RTA (Residential Tenancies Authority) manages bonds and provides advice for Queensland renters.

First Month15 minutes to search

Find a bulk-billing GP near you

A bulk-billing GP is a doctor who accepts Medicare as full payment - no out-of-pocket cost. Find one before you get sick.

Check your pay rate with the Fair Work calculator

The Pay Calculator shows your minimum legal pay rate based on your job, age, and employment type.

First Month5 minutes

First Month5 minutes to check

Know the minimum wage

As of July 2025, Australia's national minimum wage is $24.10 per hour (or $915.90 per week for full-time). Casuals get 25% loading on top.

First Month5 minutes online

Update your address in ImmiAccount

You must notify the Department of Home Affairs within 14 days of changing your address. Do it online through ImmiAccount.

First Month2-3 hours including appointment

Transfer your overseas licence to Victoria

If you become a Victorian resident, you can drive on your overseas licence for 6 months. Then you must transfer to a Victorian licence.

First Month2-4 hours including tests

Transfer your overseas licence to Queensland

Queensland residents can drive on overseas licences for 3 months. After that, transfer to a QLD licence.

Transfer your overseas licence to Western Australia

WA residents can drive on overseas licences for 3 months. Then transfer to a WA licence through DoT.

First Month2-3 hours

Transfer your overseas licence to South Australia

SA residents can drive on overseas licences for 3 months. Transfer via Service SA or online.

First Month2-3 hours

Understand rental bonds in Victoria

Victorian bonds are held by the RTBA (Residential Tenancies Bond Authority). Your landlord doesn't hold it.

Understand rental bonds in Queensland

QLD bonds are lodged with the RTA (Residential Tenancies Authority). Maximum is 4 weeks rent.

Understand rental bonds in Western Australia

WA bonds are held by the Bond Administrator at DMIRS. Maximum is 4 weeks rent.

Understand rental bonds in South Australia

SA bonds are held by CBS (Consumer and Business Services). Maximum is 4 weeks rent.

Understand Sydney's rental market

Sydney has Australia's most expensive rentals. Know median prices before you search to budget correctly.

Understand Melbourne's rental market

Melbourne offers better value than Sydney. Inner suburbs are popular but outer suburbs are much cheaper.

Understand Brisbane's rental market

Brisbane is more affordable than Sydney and Melbourne. The rental market has tightened recently.

Understand Perth's rental market

Perth has the most affordable capital city rentals. But availability can be tight.

Understand Adelaide's rental market

Adelaide has Australia's most affordable capital city rentals. Great value for newcomers.

Register on Australian job sites

Create profiles on Seek, Indeed, and LinkedIn. These are where most Australian jobs are advertised.

First Month1 hour

First Month15 minutes to prepare

Communicate your visa work rights to employers

Be upfront about your visa type and work rights. It's not a disadvantage if presented correctly.

First Month30 minutes research

Set up home internet

Most Australian homes use NBN. Compare providers carefully - prices and quality vary significantly.

Enrol children in school

School is compulsory for children 6-16 in Australia. Public schools are free for citizens/PR, fees apply for temporary visa holders.

First Month2-3 hours

Know your tenants' rights in Western Australia

WA tenant protections are managed by Consumer Protection WA. Know your rights for repairs, rent increases, and evictions.

Know your tenants' rights in South Australia

SA tenant rights are managed by Consumer and Business Services (CBS). They handle bonds, disputes, and tenancy advice.

First 3 Months

21 tasks

First 3 Months20 minutes online

Compare electricity and gas providers

Australia has many energy retailers with varying rates. Compare plans to find the best deal for your usage.

First 3 Months30 minutes research

Compare private health insurance

Consider private health insurance to avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge and get faster access to specialists.

First 3 Months5 minutes to check statements

Confirm your super guarantee rate

As of July 2025, employers must pay 12% super guarantee on top of your salary. This is going up each year.

First 3 Months15 minutes online

Get an ABN for freelance/contractor work

If you're doing freelance, gig economy, or contractor work, you may need an Australian Business Number (ABN).

First 3 Months30 minutes research

Check Centrelink support for new residents

Some PR holders and visa types can access Centrelink payments after waiting periods. Check what you're eligible for.

Format your resume for Australia

Australian resumes are different from other countries. Keep it to 2-3 pages, focus on achievements, and include a career summary.

First 3 Months1-2 hours

First 3 Months30 minutes per application

Write Australian-style cover letters

Cover letters are expected for most professional jobs in Australia. They should be brief, tailored, and address the selection criteria.

First 3 Months10 minutes research

Find an after-hours doctor service

Medical issues don't always happen during business hours. Know your local after-hours GP options.

Find your local pharmacy (chemist)

Pharmacists can help with minor ailments without a GP appointment. Know where your nearest one is.

First 3 Months5 minutes

First 3 Months30-45 minute GP appointment

Get a Mental Health Care Plan

If you're struggling with mental health, a GP can create a Mental Health Care Plan giving you Medicare-subsidised psychologist sessions.

First 3 Months2-4 hours/month

Volunteer to build Australian connections

Volunteering is a great way to meet people, gain local experience, and contribute to your community.

First 3 Months2-4 hours/event

Attend industry networking events

Many jobs in Australia come through connections. Networking events help you build your professional network.

First 3 MonthsVaries widely by profession

Check professional registration requirements

Some professions (nursing, teaching, engineering, accounting) require Australian registration or membership.

First 3 Months3-hour test + preparation

Take an English test if needed

Many visas and professional registrations require proof of English. IELTS and PTE are the most common tests.

First 3 Months3-5 days turnaround

Get documents translated by NAATI

For official purposes (driver licence, visa applications), you need translations by NAATI-accredited translators.

First 3 Months30 minutes to find and call

Know where to get free legal help

Each state has Legal Aid services offering free legal advice for those who can't afford lawyers.

First 3 Months20 minutes reading

Know your consumer rights

Australian consumer law is strong. You have rights when things are faulty, not as described, or services aren't delivered.

First 3 Months5 minutes on the form

Claim the tax-free threshold

Australian residents for tax purposes don't pay tax on the first $18,200 earned. Tell your employer to reduce withholding.

Get car insurance (compulsory and optional)

CTP (Compulsory Third Party) insurance is required for registration. Additional insurance protects your car.

First 3 Months30 minutes

Get contents insurance for your belongings

Contents insurance covers your stuff against theft, fire, and damage. Your landlord's insurance doesn't cover your things.

First 3 Months30 minutes

First 3 Months1-2 hours reading

Learn Australian road rules

Australia has unique road rules. Even experienced drivers should review them before driving here.

First 6 Months

16 tasks

First 6 Months2+ hours research

Plan your PR pathway early

If you want permanent residency, start planning now. Some visas require specific work experience, regional work, or employer sponsorship.

First 6 Months20 minutes online

Consolidate multiple super accounts

If you've had multiple jobs, you may have multiple super accounts. Each charges fees. Combine them to save money.

First 6 Months30 minutes review

Review super fund insurance

Many super funds include life, TPD, and income protection insurance. Check if yours covers you and if it's good value.

First 6 Months10 minutes to check

Understand Australian credit scores

Australia has credit scores like other countries. Your credit history here starts fresh, but matters for loans and rentals.

First 6 Months30 minutes to apply

Apply for Child Care Subsidy

If you have children in childcare, you may be eligible for the Child Care Subsidy to reduce fees.

Get travel insurance for overseas trips

When leaving Australia for holidays, get travel insurance. Medicare doesn't cover you overseas.

First 6 Months20 minutes

Review and compare MySuper products

MySuper is a simple, low-cost default super option. If you're in a default fund, check if a MySuper product or a different investment option suits you better.

First 6 Months30 minutes

Avoid Lifetime Health Cover loading

If you don't have private hospital cover by July 1 after your 31st birthday, you pay a 2% loading for each year you're late (up to 70%).

First 6 Months30 minutes

Check your credit report (free annual check)

You're entitled to a free credit report every 3 months from each credit bureau. Check for errors and understand your score.

First 6 Months20 minutes

Update your resume with Australian experience

After 6 months, you have Australian experience to add. Refresh your resume with local roles, achievements, and referees.

First 6 Months1 hour

First 6 Months2-3 hours/month

Join a community or cultural association

Connecting with others from your background or interests helps with belonging and mental health. Many associations exist across Australia.

First 6 Months15 minutes to apply

Get a National Police Check

Many jobs, volunteer roles, and visa applications require a National Police Check. It shows any criminal history in Australia.

First 6 MonthsVaries by profession

Register for Australian professional development

Many professions require Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Stay current with Australian standards and practices.

Get your RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol)

If you work or want to work in hospitality, you need an RSA certificate. It's mandatory for serving alcohol in Australia.

First 6 Months3-4 hours

Review your energy plan

Energy plan discounts often expire after 12 months. Check if you're still on a good deal or if it's time to switch.

First 6 Months20 minutes

Set up salary sacrifice for super

Salary sacrifice lets you contribute extra to super from your pre-tax salary. It reduces your taxable income and boosts retirement savings.

First 6 Months30 minutes

First Year

7 tasks

Lodge your annual tax return

Australian tax year runs July 1 to June 30. Lodge your tax return by October 31 to avoid penalties.

First Year30-60 minutes

Review your settlement progress and next visa steps

After a year, take stock of what you've achieved and plan your next steps. Are you on track for your goals?

First Year1 hour

File your first Australian tax return (step-by-step)

Your first Australian tax return can be confusing. Gather your documents, understand what you can claim, and lodge before the deadline.

First Year1-2 hours

First Year2 hours research

Check eligibility for permanent residency upgrade

If you're on a temporary visa, check if you're now eligible for PR. Requirements often include time in Australia, skills assessment, or employer sponsorship.