Australia Explained

What is road rage and how to deal with it?

09 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Aggressive driving is a continuum of bad driving behaviours which increase crash risk and can escalate to road rage. People who engage in road rage ma...

Why are Indigenous protocols important for all Australians?

01 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Observing the cultural protocols of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is an important step towards understanding and respecting the First ...

How to lodge your tax return in Australia

24 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In Australia, 30 June marks the end of the financial year and the start of tax time. Knowing your obligations and rebates you qualify for, helps avoid...

How to recycle electronic items and batteries in Australia

18 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Many common household items such as mobile phones, TVs, computers, chargers, and other electronic devices, including their batteries, contain valuable...

Exploring the rewards and opportunities of teaching in Australia 

13 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Teaching in Australia offers stable career and professional growth opportunities, making it an attractive field for aspiring educators and career chan...

Indigenous art: Connection to Country and a window to the past

11 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Embracing their oral traditions, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have used art as a medium to pass down their cultural stories, spiritua...

Facing religious discrimination at work? These are your options

04 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Australia is a party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which provides extensive protections to religious freedom. However, ...

Australia’s coffee culture explained

28 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Australians are coffee-obsessed, so much so that Melbourne is often referred to as the coffee capital of the world. Getting your coffee order right is...

Baby blues or postnatal depression? How to help yourself and your partner

21 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Are you an expectant or new parent? You or your partner may experience the so-called ‘baby blues’ when your baby is born. But unpleasant symptoms ...

What were the Australian Wars and why is history not acknowledged?

14 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The Frontier Wars is a term often used to describe the more than 100 years of violent conflicts between colonial settlers and the Indigenous peoples t...

Mushroom foraging in Australia: Is it safe?

07 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In Australia, authorities strongly advise against eating mushrooms that have not been expertly identified or purchased from a supermarket or grocer, a...

Should you consider private health insurance?

30 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Australians have access to a quality and affordable public healthcare system. There's also the option to pay for private health insurance, allowing sh...

Understanding the profound connections First Nations have with the land

23 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The land holds a profound spiritual significance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, intricately intertwined with their identity, belon...

How to maximise safety when using child car seats

16 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

All parents and carers want to ensure their children travel safely when in a car. In this episode, we explore some of the legal requirements and best ...

Navigating the implicit right to protest in Australia

09 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Every week, impassioned Australians take to the streets, raising their voices in protest on important issues. Protesting is not an offence, but protes...

Understanding Australia’s precious water resources and unique climate

02 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Australia is the driest of all inhabited continents with considerable variation in rainfall, temperature and weather patterns across its different cli...

Australian Easter: Exploring social and cultural traditions beyond religion

26 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Easter holds great significance for Christians. Yet, for those of different faiths or non-religious backgrounds, it presents a chance to relish a four...

Understanding bankruptcy and its consequences in Australia

18 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Bankruptcy can be complicated for many people, as it can bring about feelings of financial shame and stigma. However, it may be the only way to allevi...

The importance of understanding cultural diversity among Indigenous peoples

11 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Understanding the diversity within the First Nations of Australia is crucial when engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and buil...

What are Ramadan and Eid and how are they celebrated in Australia?

07 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

As Muslims in Australia and around the world observe Ramadan, a month-long period of devotion and fasting, in this episode, we explore the religious s...

How to prepare a job application: Tips for success

05 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When coming across an advertisement for a job that interests you, understanding the subsequent steps is crucial. Preparing the requisite documentation...

Tackling misinformation: How to identify and combat false news

26 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In an era where information travels at the speed of light, it has become increasingly difficult to distinguish between true and false. Whether deemed ...

Are you eligible for the Higher Education Loan Program?

19 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Around three million Australians have a government loan through HELP, the Higher Education Loan Program. You too may be eligible to defer your tertiar...

What is the cultural significance of First Nations weaving?

12 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Weaving is one of the most complex and sophisticated examples of First Nations technology and culture. It produces objects of beauty, and the process ...

Not married but in a de facto relationship? Here’s what this means in Australia

05 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Under the Australian Family Law Act, couples in a de facto relationship are treated similarly to married couples. But what are their legal rights and ...

What is Lunar New Year, and how is it celebrated in Australia?

01 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

"Lunar New Year", also known as the "Spring Festival", has become a significant part of Australian culture. The celebration is so popular that Sydney'...

How to start your small business in Australia

30 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Starting a business in Australia has several advantages. These include support for innovation, entrepreneurship, and small business growth through inf...

How to find a job in Australia?

23 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In Australia, most job opportunities aren't openly advertised, so to find work, we must understand the Australian labour market and create our own opp...

How to become a First Nations advocate

15 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

First Nations advocates help amplify the voices of Indigenous communities in Australia. Here are some aspects to consider related to advocacy and “a...

All you need to know about Boxing Day in Australia 

18 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Australian Boxing Day is a unique blend of cultural and commercial significance. While it doesn't have a solid religious connotation here, it's a da...

What's Christmas like in Australia?

14 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Australia celebrates summer Christmas with beach visits, barbecues, and outdoor activities, creating a unique blend of traditional festivities and sum...

Five ways to bring bush tucker to your festive plate

12 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Make your festive season celebrations unique by incorporating native Australian ingredients into dishes and drinks.

Five tips to keep safe and cool during an Australian summer

04 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Listening to what your body needs is important throughout the year, but it becomes even more crucial during extreme weather. Here are some essential t...

Facing a shark while swimming? Here's what to do

28 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Australia has thousands of kilometres of spectacular coastline, and a trip to the beach for a swim is a much-celebrated part of the lifestyle – whet...

How can parents help a child recover from trauma?

20 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Whether a child has experienced trauma overseas or in Australia, whether it occured recently or in the distant past, with the appropriate assistance, ...

Attending or hosting an Australian party? Here’s what you need to know

13 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Australians are known for their laid-back culture and seize every opportunity to celebrate special occasions. But it's not only business events that c...

Why do men's mental health and wellbeing matter?

06 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Many men are taught to remain strong in the face of adversity. However, when pursuing their dreams of resettlement in Australia, things can take an em...

When should you consider applying for a personal loan?

30 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As more Australians than ever seek ways to manage their living costs, many are turning to personal loans. When shopping for options, it's important to...

'Net Zero 2050' explained: Australia's long-term emissions reduction plan

23 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Australia’s long-term emissions reduction plan sets out to address climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions produced by the burning of foss...

Is it your time to learn a musical instrument?

16 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Do you have a neglected musical instrument sitting at home? Perhaps you want your child to experience the countless benefits of music lessons. Or mayb...

How can you dispose of your unwanted clothes in Australia?

09 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Australians throw more than 200,000 tonnes of clothing into landfill each year. That’s an average of 10 kilograms of clothing per person. We can hel...

What is a BioBlitz and how can you be involved in helping science

03 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Australia is home to an enormous variety of animal and plant species. Getting involved in a BioBlitz allows one to investigate what species exist in a...

How to sell your second-hand car in Australia

26 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Depending on where you live in Australia, selling a second-hand car differs. Regardless of your state or territory, the following checklist can help y...

What is Capital Gains Tax and who needs to pay it?

19 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is an important tax liability added to your taxable income for the financial year. It is not a separate tax. Read more to unde...

How do you prepare for the Australian citizenship test? 

12 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Becoming an Australian citizen is an exciting and rewarding experience for many migrants. But to achieve citizenship, you must first pass the Austra...

City park rules and etiquette in Australia: what's allowed and what's not

05 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Who doesn’t love a picnic outdoors when the weather is right? Park hangouts are a favourite for people in Australia. Here are some rules and etiquet...

How to help injured wildlife in Australia

29 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

If you’re out travelling or exploring in Australia and encounter injured or ill wildlife, knowing how best to help will ensure the animals get the r...

Managing daycare sickness: tips for new migrants and first-time parents

22 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The decision to begin childcare at an early stage might appear beneficial for both your child and your career. However, it has the potential to disrup...

Decoding Australia's inheritance laws: your rights and obligations explained

15 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Unlike some other countries, Australians do not pay an inheritance tax on the assets they inherit. Even so, strict inheritance laws are in place, and ...

Mastering English proficiency: steps to boost your language skills

07 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Learning English can serve as both a requirement for your student visa and a pathway to future academic pursuits. It also has the potential to enhance...

Voice Referendum: What is it and why is Australia having one?

01 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Australians will vote in the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum on October 14. Here’s what you need to know about the process, including why ...

'Settlement Guide' is now 'Australia Explained'

31 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The award-winning, SBS Audio's multi-platform series "Settlement Guide" has rebranded to "Australia Explained". The series will remain as a weekly pod...

Make friends in Australia: the importance of cross-cultural friendships

24 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Making friends is one of the biggest challenges people can face in a new country. We naturally form support networks with people from similar cultural...

What does responsible cat ownership involve?

18 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

If you own a pet cat or are planning to, being a responsible cat owner will help keep your cat safe and protect Australia’s native wildlife as well.

What accommodation is available to students?

10 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Australia is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations. It’s also currently one of the hardest places to find rental accommodation. More tha...

What are the requirements when moving interstate?

04 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Every year, hundreds of thousands of Australians relocate interstate for work, education, lifestyle, family, or better community support. As laws, reg...

What is negative gearing and how can it benefit property investors?

27 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Negative gearing is a common term associated with investment properties in Australia. It refers to a situation where the expenses incurred in owning a...

How to ask for a pay rise in Australia

20 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Regardless of your job, requesting for pay increase when you believe you deserve one is an expected part of Australian workplace culture. In some case...

Essential vaccinations Australians may need when travelling overseas

13 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When travelling overseas, Australians may require vaccinations to protect themselves against infectious diseases that are either absent in Australia o...

How do you make parenting arrangements after separation?

06 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Under the Family Law Act the welfare rights of the child guide all parenting negotiations following separation or divorce. A child under 18 cannot leg...

Understanding the Australian school sectors

30 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Australians are fortunate to have choice when it comes to finding a schooling system that suits our children and our circumstances. This is particular...

How to find a rental property in Australia

23 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Right now, fewer than 50,000 rental properties are available across the country. Two years ago, that number was almost double. With the vacancy rate a...

Caring for carers: How to access carer support services in Australia

16 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

About one in nine people in Australia are carers — people who look after an ageing or frail relative or friend, or for someone living with a health ...

How to prevent family violence in migrant communities in Australia

09 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Family, domestic and sexual violence are major health and welfare issues in Australia, as two in five people have experienced physical or sexual viole...

How to resolve disputes with your neighbours in Australia

02 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Home is supposed to be the place where we feel most comfortable. But our comfort zone can be shattered when we don’t get along with our neighbours. ...

What happens when you report non-consensual sex or rape in Australia?

25 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In Australia, sexual violence is a criminal offence. If you have been forced, threatened, coerced, or tricked into a sex act against your will, you ma...

How can you ensure sexual consent?

18 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In Australia, non-consensual sexual activity is a criminal offence, whether it takes place in real life or online. In some jurisdictions, alleged perp...

How to protect yourself from identity theft in Australia

11 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Identity crime is a significant threat in Australia, with a growing number of people falling victim every year. Those impersonated often face severe c...

Copped a fine? Here's what you need to do to pay it and avoid the hefty consequences of non-compliance

04 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fines are monetary penalties for breaking the law. Ignoring a fine comes with significant ramifications, no matter where you live in Australia.

What is migratory grief? Can migrants ever overcome their sense of loss and displacement?

27 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Moving to a different country long-term often comes with multiple emotional trials. As migrants endure the rollercoaster of culture shock and adapting...

Everything you need to do if you are in a car crash in Australia

21 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Being involved in a motor vehicle collision can be overwhelming, even when no one is injured and the damage to vehicles or property is minor. Here’s...

How to resolve divorce disputes without going to court

14 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Divorce is one of the most stressful transitions people can experience in life. Given the high financial and emotional costs of going to court, the Au...

Fire safety at home: How to prevent one of Australia's deadliest natural hazards

07 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Home fire safety goes beyond having smoke alarms installed. In Australia, fatal residential fires are sadly common, despite being preventable. Here’...

How to get an Australian driver’s licence

27 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Driving a car offers independence and increases job opportunities, but it also comes with the great responsibility of keeping roads safe. In Australia...

Knowing first aid can save lives. Here's where and how to get trained in Australia

21 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Accidents and sudden illness can strike anywhere. First aid training can make all the difference, from treating an injury at a critical time to saving...

How to protect your retirement fund, find lost super and what to do if moving overseas

14 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Superannuation is complex. Did you know that your savings are not forever lost even if you have an inactive super account? But what is the recovery pr...

How to access low-cost medical services in Australia

30 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Medicare subsidises a wide range of essential medical services, including visits to the doctor, blood and pathology tests, scans, x-rays, and some sur...

How to access abortion services in Australia

23 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Abortion is an essential healthcare service in Australia. Women have access to termination options early in the pregnancy, but navigating choices to s...

How to keep safe from Australia’s beach hazards

17 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When we think of Australian beaches, sharks often come to mind. On average one fatal attack is reported each year, but in the same period we averaged ...

The importance of greening where you live

10 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Australians place great value in green spaces. The personal, community and environmental benefits of plant life are profound. This is why regulations ...

How to call an ambulance anywhere in Australia

20 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In Australia, the quickest way to get an ambulance in a medical emergency, is by dialling Triple Zero (000).  Here is a guide on how and when to...

What to do if you get lost while bushwalking

13 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Bushwalkers are rescued every day in Australia. Careful preparation will reduce your chances of getting lost. But if you do lose your way, some smart ...

How to dispose of hard rubbish without getting fined

06 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Moving out or doing a home clean-up? Unwanted, bulky household items for disposal are considered hard waste. Here’s what you need to know to get rid...

Your aged care rights in Australia and how to make a complaint

29 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In Australia, there are 14 rights that protect anyone receiving government-funded aged care, whether at home or at a residential facility. But what ha...

Australian snakes and spiders: What to do if bitten

22 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Australia has many venomous animal and insect species. Knowing what to do and what to avoid when bitten by a snake or spider can help save a life. Her...

How to best prepare before a severe storm or a flood in Australia

15 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In the last decade, Australia has experienced some of its worst flooding in recorded history. Knowing how to prepare for severe weather could save you...

Why joining a community sport could be the best thing you ever did

07 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Regular physical activity is essential for good physical and mental health and wellbeing. Community sport is informal and inclusive, and the benefits ...

The Melbourne Cup: The horse race that captivates and divides Australia

24 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

The Melbourne Cup is Australia’s most famous horse race. While it has historically attracted huge crowds, it also raises questions over the ethics a...

Everything you need to know about the risks of online shopping in Australia

18 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Online shopping offers consumers a range of benefits such as convenience and savings, but it also carries a set of risks. While many legitimate online...

How sexual health is taught in Australian schools and tips for parents to talk about sex with their kids

11 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Sex education is still one of the most challenging topics for parents to discuss with their children. Fortunately, sexual health is widely taught in A...

How you can help a loved one suffering from alcohol dependence

03 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Alcohol is an intrinsic part of Australian culture and plays a central role in many people’s social lives. People with alcohol use disorders drink t...

What are Australia’s Emergency Warnings and Fire Danger Ratings and how should you respond?

27 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Australia, a country prone to extreme weather-related hazards, has a new nationally standardised Australian Fire Danger Rating System, and the Austral...

What happens when your child turns 18 in Australia?

20 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

By law, Australians are considered adults at 18. But how does transitioning to adulthood affect the life of a young person and their parents on practi...

What is the role of the British Monarchy in Australia?

09 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Australia maintains a formal and sentimental connection to the British Monarchy as a legacy of British colonisation. The passing of Queen Elizabeth II...

The Dos and Don'ts of Australian etiquette, how to avoid the pitfalls

06 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

As one of the most multicultural nations on Earth, Australia presents a unique blend of unspoken rules of etiquette. Learning the local protocols of '...

Stop the cycle of violence, be a positive role model

01 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

How often have we heard phrases such as “boys will be boys” or “it’s OK, he just did it because he likes you”, about disrespectful or aggres...

Antenatal care in Australia: what is it and why it’s important?

30 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

The latest statistics show that in Australia, just over 50 per cent of women attended antenatal care within the first 14 weeks of pregnancy. Health pr...

How are animals protected in Australia?

19 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Australia is a nation of animal lovers, with one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world. The country is home to unique native wildlife. Prote...

Getting help when your loved one has gambling problems

19 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

There is no cure when it comes to gambling addiction. But when family and friends of problem gamblers get the right support for themselves, they are m...

How allergies are managed in Australian schools

03 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Australia has one of the highest food allergy rates in the world. Sending children with allergies and anaphylaxis to school can be worrying for parent...