One of the oldest continents, Australia is the only country that occupies an entire continent and is known around the world for its stunning landscapes.

An increasing disillusionment with many aspects of life has seen a significant number of people make the decision to migrate to Australia with a warmer climate and a better quality of life.

Australia is a country with temperate climate, impressive landscape, growing economy, political stability and a quality of life envied by many. It is the sixth largest country in the world and has the lowest population density in the world - just two people per square kilometres.

Overall, the Australian economy has managed to avoid the recession. In the first three months of 2009, the economy actually grew by 0.4% through increased exports and consumer spending, prompting the Prime Minister to declare the country ‘the only advanced economy not in recession’.

Health Care Provisions

The Australian government provides help with medical expenses through a scheme called Medicare. Free public hospital care, help with the cost of out-of-hospital care and subsidized medicines are the services available under Medicare.

Culture

Australia's education system is managed by a national body to ensure a consistent standard of quality education. The Australian education system is divided broadly into six areas like Pre-schools, Primary School, Secondary / High School, Secondary Colleges, Vocational Training University or other tertiary institutions. Schooling is compulsory for students in most states and territories upto the age of 15 years.

Political arrangement

Australia is a stable democracy, with compulsory voting for those over 18 years of age, ensuring a representative government.

When you move to Australia there are some basic things you should do in order to maximize your chances of making a success of it.

Tax File Number (TFN)

Application for a TFN is necessary in order to receive wages from your job in Australia, or receive money earned from investments including interest on savings accounts.

Register with Medicare

You will be covered for basic medical expenses and have immediate access to health care services, including free public hospital care and subsidized medicines.

Open a bank account

This has to be done within six weeks of moving to Australia using your passport so you can get your salary, wages or government benefits paid directly into your account. If you leave it longer than six weeks you will need additional identification.

Register with Centrelink

This entitles you to get government assistance with your skills, qualifications and Family Assistance payments to help you raise your children.

If you need help with your English register for free classes. Australian Immigration believes this is key to your success and provide up to 510 hours of free tuition under the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP).

Enroll your children in school as soon as possible; under Australian law children must attend school up to the age of 15.

Apply for a driver’s license

Apply for a driver’s license within three months of arriving. If you have a drivers licence from another country you can use it for up to 3 months, after which you are required to have an Australian one.