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welcome to the Southern Inland

Hilltops Upper Lachlan Young Wingecarribee Crookwell Berrima MossVale Harden Exeter Gunning Goulburn Yass Yass Gouburn Mulwaree valley Sutton Queanbeyan- Braidwood palerang

Adaminaby

Cooma Perisher Berridale Valley Nimmitabel Thredbo Jindabyne Village Snowy

Bombala Delegate Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

CONTENTS

ABOUT RDA SOUTHERN INLAND 1 Who we are 1 our Region 1 our Charter 2 our Committee 2 our Staff 2 Hilltops 3 Upper Lachlan 6 Goulburn Mulwaree 10 Queanbeyan-Palerang 13 Snowy Monaro 16 Wingecarribee 19 Yass Valley 22 What to do soon after arrival IN 24 applying for a tax file number 24 MEDICARE 25 opening a bank aCcount in Australia 26 emergency services 28 Employment 31 Housing 33 transport 34 Schools 35 multicultural services 36 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

ABOUT RDA SOUTHERN INLAND

Who we are Regional Development Australia Southern Inland (RDA Southern Inland) is part of a national network of 52 RDA Committees across Australia. These committees are made up of local leaders who work with all levels of government, business and community groups to support the development of regional Australia. Our aim is to maximise economic development opportunities for the Southern Inland region by attracting new businesses and investment to the region, growing our local business potential and encouraging innovation. RDA Southern Inland is administered by the Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development and Cities and is an Australian Government initiative. Our Region RDA Southern Inland works across a region that takes in seven local government areas in the south-east of NSW, encompassing 44,639 square kilometres of NSW land area. It is uniquely located between the two biggest population centres and domestic economies in Australia - and Melbourne, and surrounds the Australian Capital Territory. RDA Southern Inland includes the following local government areas: Hilltops Upper Lachlan Goulburn Mulwaree Queanbeyan-Palerang Snowy Monaro Wingecarribee Yass Valley

1 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

ABOUT RDA SOUTHERN INLAND

Our Charter If you would like to look at our Charter please visit our website www.rda.gov.au/files/RDA-charter.pdf Our Committee The RDA Southern Inland Committee is comprised of people from across the Southern Inland region with a variety of backgrounds and skills, from local government, business and the community - each sharing a commitment to regional development. Our Staff • CEO and Director of Regional Development • Business Attraction & Development Manager • Communications and Project Officer • Skilled Migration and Administration Officer

2 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

HILLTOPS

ABOUT The Hilltops region is located in the Tablelands of . The area is just over an hour north of and features the thriving towns of Young, Harden and Boorowa, along with a wide range of villages that are bursting with a rich history. The region is renowned for agriculture, including sheep grazing, cropping, viticulture, stone fruits and horticulture. The area is located along a strategic transport corridor, including the , which is the busiest interstate road freight corridor in Australia, and is closely connected to major markets, including Sydney and Canberra. In fact, 60% of Australia’s population can be reached within 10 hours driving time from Young.

Young Boorowa

Harden

3 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

HILLTOPS

DRIVING TIMES FROM YOUNG 55 minutes Wagga Wagga 1 hour 50 minutes Canberra airport 2 hours Canberra CBD 1 hour 55 minutes Bathurst and Orange 2 hours 10 minutes Sydney airport 3 hours 45 minutes Sydney CBD 4 hours 5 minutes Melbourne 6 hours 10 minutes LIFESTYLE According to a recent Council survey, the relaxed country lifestyle, peace and quiet and the wide open spaces are the things that people most love about living in the region. Importantly, community is also high on the list. There is certainly evidence of this with there being plenty of services and cultural and community facilities, such as sporting grounds, golf courses, gardens and parks and more than 60 local clubs and recreational groups. Another major advantage of living in the Hilltops area is affordability of housing with low house prices and rent. There are also plenty of options to choose from at both the bottom and top end of the housing market. For families with children, there are a lot of choices in educational facilities including 16 primary and four high schools. There are also seven childcare centres in the area. There are many options for school leavers as well, including the Young TAFE, a regional music school, a campus of the Australian National University and of the Australian Catholic University. A Country Universities Centre (CUC) is also proposed with some CUC courses already delivered locally. The CUC is a facility that provides campus like facilities to regional students.

4 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

HILLTOPS

HEALTH CARE The Hilltops area is serviced by three hospitals, one located in each of the major centres of Boorowa, Harden and Young. There are a number of general practitioners and the region also boasts a range of allied health services including Podiatry, Occupational Therapy, Speech Pathology, Physiotherapy, Optometry, Audiology, Cardiac Rehabilitation, Diversional Therapy, Pulmonary Rehabilitation, Diabetes Education and Chiropractic. The Young Health Service incorporating Young District Hospital, Mercy Care Centre and Young Community Health Service offers a total of 50 beds covering modern acute care, sub-acute care, palliative care, surgical, emergency, paediatric and maternity service, a high dependency unit, a Renal Department and a separate Oncology Unit. The Boorowa MultiPurpose Service (MPS) is an 18 bed facility and the -Harden Health Service is a 33 bed facility with both services offering acute care and residential aged care along with a 24 hour emergency department. Senior residents of the community are exceptionally well catered for with a range of aged care facilities in the region including Mount St Joseph’s Nursing Home, Southern Cross Aged Care, Burrowa House and St Lawrence Residential Aged Care. CONTACT Boorowa/Harden/Young Office 6-8 Market Street, Boorowa NSW 2586 3 East Street, Harden NSW 2587 189 Boorowa Street, Young NSW 2594 1300 445 586 [email protected] https://hilltops.nsw.gov.au po Box 42, Gunning NSW 2581

5 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

UPPER LACHLAN

ABOUT Upper Lachlan is an area that is known for its quaint villages, fine wool, potato production, wind farms, history and picturesque countryside. The Upper Lachlan region sits high on the in the New South Wales and is bounded by the Abercrombie, Wollondilly and Lachlan rivers. The regional centre is the town of Crookwell which is 45km west of Goulburn, about 110km north of Canberra and about 130km south-east of Bathurst. Sydney’s CBD is a picturesque 2½ hour drive. Upper Lachlan has an estimated population of 7,841 people in the Shire. Approximately 3,000 people live in the major centre of Crookwell, with the balance made up of people living in the smaller towns of Gunning and Taralga and the villages of Collector, Dalton, , Bigga, Laggan, , Breadalbane and or on rural properties.

tuena

taralga crookwell

gunning

6 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

UPPER LACHLAN

DRIVING TIMES FROM CROOKWELL Goulburn 35 minutes Canberra 1 hour, 40 minutes Bathurst 1 hour, 55 minutes 2 hours, 15 minutes Port Kembla 2 hour, 20 minutes Sydney airport 2 hour, 30 minutes Sydney CBD 2 hours, 45 minutes Melbourne CBD 6 hours, 50 minutes LIFESTYLE There are three major shopping centres with general stores located in most of the villages. Crookwell’s main street has a great variety of shops including an IGA supermarket, butchers, vibrant cafes, unique gift shops, newsagents, hairdressers and massage therapists. Many of the villages have antique shops and cafes. The cafes are the heartbeat of the town and are always a great place for a quick cuppa or a relaxing lunch. Upper benefits from developed infrastructure, including roads, rail, telecommunications and a good transport system to the major centres of Goulburn, Canberra and Sydney. There is a relaxed rural atmosphere throughout the Shire with very little crime. The medical facilities are excellent with seven doctors, a dentist and an 18 bed hospital. The medical centre also has many visiting specialists. Upper Lachlan offers a quality rural lifestyle and the ability to make a comfortable living.

7 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

UPPER LACHLAN

CAREERS & BUSINESS While agriculture is the main industry in , there are many opportunities for employment in the area including manufacturing, retail, service industries, hospitality and much more. The diverse and unique market mix means there are opportunities to establish new business activities, including manufacturing, creating goods for a niche market or expanding upon the existing businesses and services already in place. In Upper Lachlan, there are also the possibilities to combine what you enjoy doing, with what you are good at doing. Community Social and economic factors are important influences on the health of a community. Health is strongly linked with opportunities for meaningful employment, education and lifelong learning, social and recreational activities and contributing to the community. Upper Lachlan Shire has a full range of support services, particularly in aged care. The diversity of the Shire’s recreational facilities ensures residents and visitors have many opportunities to spend time enjoying outdoor activities, including fishing, golf, boating, swimming, tennis and many other sports. The region also has a number of resident artists and crafts people so there is no shortage of cultural pursuits. Most days of the week you will find the golf course, squash courts and bowling-green are hives of activity. On the weekends, the hockey fields, football fields and tennis courts are flooded with keen sports people.

8 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

UPPER LACHLAN

TOURISM Upper Lachlan’s tourism industry provides a wide range of accommodation and experiences. Excellent visitor numbers, increasing over the years, have made tourism an important industry for Upper Lachlan Shire’s economy, with many entrepreneurs, investors and local communities contributing to the success of the area. Amongst the rolling hills of the shire, you will find pioneering villages each with its own rich history and individual contribution to the character of the area. Spend a few days and you can explore the stone architecture of Taralga, the mining history of Tuena, the fine wool region of Gunning and the bushranging past of Collector, just to name a few... The area has a range of retail stores to peruse, including the Lindner Sock Factory and Shop in Crookwell. The fourth-generation family owned and operated business, produces a variety of sock styles on site and visitors can see their machines in action. For more active visitors there are various bike trails throughout the area. For those who wish to relax there are numerous fine dining options, including the Laggan Pantry and the newly renovated Argyle Inn. The Shire is also well known for some exciting local events including the annual Crookwell Potato Festival, a celebration of over 150 years of growing potatoes in the area and the Collector Pumpkin Festival, where the humble pumpkin is celebrated. CONTACT Upper Lachlan Shire Council Crookwell Office 44 Spring Street, Crookwell NSW 2583 02 4830 1000 [email protected] www.upperlachlan.nsw.gov.au po Box 42, Gunning NSW 2581

9 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Goulburn Mulwaree

ABOUT Just two hours from Sydney and one hour from Canberra, Goulburn gives businesses great access to markets, resources and ports but with much lower overheads. Combined with a strong and ready labour pool, you can see why many businesses have chosen Goulburn for their next location. Location, with country and rural lifestyle benefits, as well as excellent services and amenities, makes the Goulburn area a fantastic place to live and work. DRIVING TIMES FROM GOULBURN Canberra airport 1 hour Canberra CBD 1 hour Wollongong 1 hour, 45 minutes Port Kembla 1 hour, 45 minutes Sydney airport 1 hour, 50 minutes Sydney CBD 2 hours, 10 minutes Melbourne CBD 6 hours, 45 minutes

middle arm

marulan goulburn

bungonia

lake bathurst

tarago

10 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Goulburn Mulwaree

LIFESTYLE Owning your own home with a backyard and a BBQ, living in a community of friends is the Great Australian Dream. In Goulburn, it’s still an affordable dream. Goulburn is a safe, community-orientated town with city advantages such as shopping, quality education and reliable telecommunications without the stress of traffic jams and supermarket queues. The city is surrounded by natural landscapes peppered with picturesque villages, views of the big skies, clean air and tranquil environment. The Goulburn region welcomes newcomers; in fact, 62% of the population were not born in Goulburn Mulwaree, and rather they have chosen to live in the area. In a recent survey, the most common reasons for moving were: for work, connection with friends/family already here and the rural/country atmosphere. EDUCATION When we say Goulburn is a family-friendly town, we mean it. There’s nothing more important for children than a good education and that’s guaranteed in the Goulburn district with 15 primary schools, 3 secondary schools and a special needs school to choose from. For Goulburn’s school leavers and mature age students, there is a wealth of tertiary education and training options available. There’s also a Country University Centre. The Country University Centre is a facility which provides ‘campus like’ access and opportunities to regional students. The Goulburn Campus of TAFE supplies a wide range of courses while the NSW Police Academy, Goulburn Regional Conservatorium of Music, Southern Tablelands Group Training, Allens Training and other private providers offer further training options. That’s just in Goulburn. Three universities in Canberra and a university campus in Moss Vale are all within a one hour commute.

11 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Goulburn Mulwaree

HEALTHCARE The Goulburn region has well-established health care infrastructure and a strong and efficient network of community support services. With the population growing at a sustainable rate, the region is well placed to deliver quality health care and community services to its residents - both now and into the future. When it comes to your health and well-being, Goulburn’s services don’t end with the highly regarded Goulburn Base Hospital and numerous medical clinics. Goulburn has a range of alternative practices when it comes to health care including natural therapies and alternative medicine. No matter what your preferences and needs, Goulburn Mulwaree accommodates them all. CONTACT Goulburn Mulwaree Council Civic Centre, 184-194 Bourke Street, Goulburn NSW 2580 02 4823 4444 [email protected] www.goulburn.nsw.gov.au locked Bag 22, Goulburn NSW 2580

12 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Queanbeyan-Palerang

ABOUT Queanbeyan-Palerang is an area of approximately 5,300km2 located between the eastern border of the ACT and the Great Dividing Range. Queanbeyan makes up the majority of the urban population and is a prospering river city. The balance of the population is made up by the townships of Bungendore and Braidwood and numerous smaller rural villages and hamlets such as Araluen, Captains Flat, , Majors Creek and . For more than 175 years, people have been moving to Queanbeyan and the region in search of a better lifestyle. Queanbeyan is the largest city in southeast NSW. It is on, or near, major transport routes – the Kings, Monaro, Federal and Hume Highways and the southern railway with links to Sydney and Melbourne. Queanbeyan is a mere 20 minutes from central Canberra, 10 minutes from the Canberra airport, 3 hours from Sydney and less than 2 hours from the South Coast.

lake george

bungendore

braidwood queanbeyan

13 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Queanbeyan-Palerang

DRIVING TIMES FROM QUEANBEYAN Canberra airport 10 minutes Canberra CBD 20 minutes 1hour, 50 minutes Snowy Mountains 2 hours, 5 minutes Wollongong 2 hours, 40 minutes Port Kembla 2 hours, 45 minutes Sydney airport 2 hours, 50 minutes Sydney CBD 3 hours, 10 minutes Melbourne CBD 7 hours LIFESTYLE The Queanbeyan region is a wonderful area to live and work in and has it all. Whether you’re interested in heritage, arts, culture, nature, sport, or food and wine. The city itself has a relaxed ambiance and offers many benefits to residents including events that occur throughout the year, along with all of the attractions of our nation’s capital. Around the district, there are many lovely historical towns such as Braidwood, a popular stop between Canberra and the South Coast. The Palerang region is known for its iconic Australian countryside with rolling hills and Lake George, wide plains and productive pastoral lands. The area also contains many nature reserves and is the gateway to the Snowy Mountains and the ski fields. The location of Queanbeyan within minutes of Canberra Airport, with freight and leisure flights to Singapore and Qatar, and all major Australian domestic cities, makes Queanbeyan a gateway to the rest of the world.

14 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Queanbeyan-Palerang

EDUCATION The area is incredibly well catered for in terms of education. There are eight primary schools and two high schools in Queanbeyan itself, as well as access to many other public and private schools just minutes away in Canberra. The village of Braidwood has a Catholic primary school and a Kindergarten to Year 12 public school. Other areas such as Bungendore and Captains Flat also have primary schools. Access to higher education is a big plus for school leavers and those seeking further education, as there are six university campuses within 20 kilometres of Queanbeyan. Canberra is home to three universities; the Australian National University, University of Canberra and the Australian Military Academy at Duntroon. Canberra also hosts satellite campuses of the Australian Catholic University, University of NSW, Charles Sturt University and the Queensland Institute of Technology. Access to high quality education produces skilled workers, higher incomes and expendable income which in turn ensures that Queanbeyan-Palerang is a thriving community. CONTACT Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council 256 Crawford St, Queanbeyan NSW 2620 10 Majara St, Bungendore NSW 2621 144 Wallace St, Braidwood NSW 2622 1300 735 025 [email protected] www.qprc.nsw.gov.au po Box 90, Queanbeyan NSW 2620

15 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Snowy Monaro

ABOUT With the three main population centres all on major highways, easy access to Canberra as well as Sydney, Melbourne and the coast, good services and amenities, Snowy Monaro offers unlimited potential for the astute investor. Couple this with vibrant, cohesive communities, a stable workforce, strong economic drivers and a post card perfect natural environment, Snowy Monaro really is the place to live, work and invest. DRIVING TIMES FROM COOMA Sydney airport 4 hours Sydney CBD 4 hours, 15 minutes Canberra airport 1 hour, 15 minutes Canberra CBD 1 hour, 25 minutes South Coast (Tathra) 1 hour, 40 minutes Melbourne CBD 7 hours, 15 minutes

Cooma

Jindabyne

Bombala

16 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Snowy Monaro

LIFESTYLE Only in the Snowy Monaro can you ski the highest mountain in Australia, take a specular drive through majestic forests to the coast to see the whales, come back up the mountain to see the platypus at Bombala and then continue on through undulating farmland to watch the moon rise over Lake Jindabyne. While the natural environment is a major highlight of living in the Snowy Monaro, the region also offers the opportunity to experience fine dining, boutique wines, beers and spirits, quirky retail outlets and cohesive, vibrant communities willing to share the unique history and legends of a region that is symbolic of adventure. Rich agricultural land, job opportunities and inexpensive housing and land packages add to the many benefits of living the dream within the inspiring Snowy Monaro region. EDUCATION Education is important to the Snowy Monaro communities, with the major centres and a number of the smaller villages boasting both private and public schools. Tertiary education is also catered for at the Cooma Campus of Illawarra TAFE and at the innovative Snowy Monaro Country University Centre which sees students studying and completing a range of degrees without the need to move from their home base. Ongoing training opportunities for business owners are provided via both State and Federal Government Agencies and lifelong learning opportunities are actively supported by the Council and numerous community groups. Businesses are further assisted by strong, active Chambers of Commerce and Development Associations which in turn are supported by Council.

17 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Snowy Monaro

HEALTH & RECREATIONAL FACILITIES Snowy Monaro has the highest mountain range in Australia, world recognised training sites and programs for snow based activities, a wealth of walking tracks, mountain biking tracks, miles and miles of waterways for fishing and paddling, well equipped gyms to tone the muscles, heated swimming pools, golf courses, pony clubs, horse riding schools, fishing clubs… the list goes on and on and people are sure to find a recreational pursuit that meets their needs. Health is well taken care of in the Snowy Monaro with a range of health providers, clinics and hospitals. Locals also have easy access to the new Regional Hospital at Bega and of course the numerous public and private hospitals in Canberra. Being a cohesive community means that the needs of older residents are also catered for via Council run aged care services at Berridale, Cooma and Bombala, private centres and non-government support services which are available across the region. CONTACT Snowy Monaro Regional Council 81 Commissioner St, Cooma NSW 2630 1300 345 345 [email protected] www.snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au po Box 714, Cooma NSW 2630

18 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Wingecarribee

ABOUT Perfectly located almost midway between Sydney and Canberra, Wingecarribee, also known as the Southern Highlands, is home to a vibrant and diverse community of urban, agricultural and natural environments working in harmony. With a population of around 49,000 people and covering an area of 2,700 square kilometres, the Southern Highlands is located at or above 640 metres above sea level. The region is made up of a number of towns, small villages and locations, with the main towns including Bowral, and Moss Vale and villages including Berrima, Bundanoon, Colo Vale, Hill Top and Robertson, Burrawang, Exeter, Sutton Forest and Canyonleigh. DRIVING TIMES BOWRAL Wollongong 1 hours, 6 minutes Port Kembla 1 hours, 7 minutes Sydney airport 1 hour, 10 minutes Sydney CBD 1 hour, 30 minutes Canberra CBD 1 hour, 55 minutes Melbourne 7 hours, 30 minutes

mittagong berrima bowral

sutton robertson forest moss vale fitzroy falls bundanoon

19 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region Wingecarribee

LIFESTYLE With 49,000 now calling the Southern Highlands home, it is guaranteed that living here will provide an enviable lifestyle – be it for business or pleasure. The Southern Highlands is close to the coast and the city, being approximately 1½ hours from both Sydney and Canberra. The region is beautiful, green, rural and relaxed. The region is safe and friendly, those who choose to settle here can enjoy great leisure and transport facilities and a wonderful place to study or do business. Wingecarribee has four distinct seasons, amazing walks, cycling for all interests, great schools and hospitals - both public and private - country lanes, boutique shopping, market days, roadside stalls and a real sense of community. The Southern Highlands is a place where people want to live. There are locals who are born and bred in the region living alongside a great assortment of others who have chosen to make the Highlands their home. It is a place you will feel welcome no matter what. EDUCATION A good education for all is not only desirable in the Southern Highlands it is achievable, with parents being able to choose from public and private options from pre-schools through to secondary schools, co-ed and single sex schools. Schools range from pre-schools designed like a home away from home in many cases, to small village primary schools offering a smaller overall school environment, to larger public and private primary schools offering extensive curriculums and public high schools and exclusive secondary boarding schools. There are tertiary options too with the Illawarra TAFE and a campus of the located in Moss Vale.

20 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Wingecarribee

HEALTHCARE Healthcare options, services and access are many and varied in the Southern Highlands including a public and private hospital, medical centres and a large component of private practice GPs and Specialists. Ancillary services include dental, optical, orthopaedic, physio, chiropractic, remedial, natural practitioners, podiatry and more. There is also a wide range of services for the elderly, with 46% of Southern Highlands residents aged 50+ years. TRANSPORTATION The Southern Highlands’ towns are linked by bus and rail services. Sydney Trains services link Yerrinbool, Mittagong, Bowral, Burradoo, Moss Vale and Bundanoon, offering access to and from Sydney. NSW Trainlink operates daily to and from Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne. Buses operate to and from Moss Vale to Nowra and Wollongong and link Colo Vale and Hill Top to Sydney Train services at Picton. CONTACT Council Civic Centre, 68 Elizabeth St, Moss Vale NSW 2577 02 4868 0888 [email protected] www.wsc.nsw.gov.au po Box 14, Moss Vale NSW 2577

21 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region Yass Valley

ABOUT Located on the doorstep of the nation’s capital, Yass Valley boasts a modern and well renowned food and wine scene, numerous education options, employment opportunities and medical and general services including a hospital, three large supermarkets, sporting facilities and housing opportunities well below the median house price of nearby Canberra. This combined with friendly, helpful locals, stunning landscapes and natural wonderlands contribute to why Yass Valley is capturing the interest of people wanting to live, work and invest within the region. Driving times from Yass Canberra 1 hour Sydney airport 3 hours, 5 minutes Sydney CBD 3 hours, 20 minutes Port Kembla 2 hours, 40 minutes Melbourne CBD 6 hours, 13 mins

Binalong

Yass lake burrinjuck Murrumbateman

22 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Yass Valley

services supports and facilitates a range of services and facilities to meet the social, recreational, educational, cultural and child care needs of residents and visitors to Yass Valley. Some of these facilities and services include: • Early learning and day care centres, primary schools and a high school • Home Living Support Services • Community transport • Library and mobile library van • Parks and playgrounds • Community Consultation Committees that include Yass Valley Youth Council and the Yass Valley Aboriginal Advisory Committee • Community Halls for hire and sporting facilities available for use including a swimming pool at Yass and Binalong • Emergency Services for the Shire that include Fire Control Centre, Rural Fire Service, SES, and the Yass/Gunning Emergency Management Committee. Such facilities and services combined with the welcoming and friendly locals, wide open spaces and wonderful experiences on offer make Yass Valley a sought after location for people wanting to live the good life. *Information from: https://www.yassvalley.com.au/live/ CONTACT Yass Valley Information Centre OPEN Monday to Sunday 9.30am to 4.30pm 259 Comur Street Yass NSW 2582 1300 886 014 Yass Valley Council 209 Comur Street, Yass 02 6226 1477 / after hours 0408 625 694 [email protected] www.yass.nsw.gov.au po Box 6 YASS NSW 2582

23 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

What to do soon after arrival in Australia

Apply for a tax file Register Open a number (TFN) with Medicare bank account The Following five could be important depending on your circumstances • Register with Centrelink • Contact the Health Undertaking Service • Register for English classes • Enrol your children in a school • Apply for a driver’s licence

Applying for a tax file number

Australian workers pay tax to the government on their income. To How to apply for a tax file number receive an income in Australia, you Apply by calling the telephone number listed below or by visiting a need a tax file number (TFN). Tax Office or Centrelink shopfront to get a tax file number application A tax file number is a unique number form. issued to individuals and businesses You can apply for a tax file number on the Australian Taxation Office to help the government administer (ATO) website www.ato.gov.au taxation and other government programs. The money collected from taxes is used to fund government programs and services such as roads, tax file number schools and hospitals. Telephone 13 2861 Income includes wages or salary from Translating and Interpreting Service 13 1450 – 24 Hour a job, payments from the government, Apply for a tax file number online Online individuals TFN and money earned from investments Visit an office ATO shopfront locations including interest on savings accounts. Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website www.ato.gov.au

24 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

MEDICARE

Some of your costs for medically necessary care in Australia may be covered if your country has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with Australia. What’s covered The agreements cover medically necessary What countries we have agreements with care. It must be: The agreement conditions tell you: • care for illness or injury that can’t wait till • what medical care you can get under Medicare while you you get home visit Australia, and • care that Medicare covers • the documents you need to show us to prove that you are eligible under the RHCA Read the agreement conditions for the RHCA country you were living in before coming to Australia, from the list below. Who they cover You must meet the agreement conditions to We have agreements with: be covered. Belgium •  To enrol you need to visit a service centre • Finland with a completed Medicare enrolment • Italy – you don’t need to have been living in Italy, but you form and documents you need to show. must be an Italian citizen and meet the other agreement For documents you need to show, refer to conditions information under your country. • Malta For treatment you had beforehand you can claim for an assessment of benefit after Netherlands •  enrolling. Your benefit starts the day you • New Zealand arrived in Australia. • Norway • Ireland • Slovenia Medicare Services • Sweden To find out more information on Medicare Services please visit: • United Kingdom https://www.humanservices.gov. au/individuals/services/medicare/ reciprocal-health-care-agreements/ visitors-australia/medical-care-visitors- australia#a1

25 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Opening a Bank Account in Australia

Making sure your finances are in order will make your transition much easier. Here is a list of banks that offer migration programs to make it easier for you. To help new sort out their financial situations before they arrive on Australian shores, some banks offer useful bank migration programs. These include:

ANZ aims to make the financial transition to Australia as hassle- free as possible. The bank has more than 800 branches throughout Australia and over 2,700 ATMs or cash points. ANZ can help you set up a bank account before you leave your country of origin, either online or through one of its regional contacts in your country. This means you can transfer money before you arrive in Australia, and can then access your money as soon as you have activated your account when you get Down Under. Activation typically takes just five minutes and you’ll soon receive an ANZ debit card. Other features at ANZ branches in most cities include complimentary personalised banking advice and bilingual personal bankers.

Commonwealth Bank operates the largest ATM and branch network in Australia. Its migration program allows you to open an account quickly and easily online up to three months before you arrive in Australia. There are two account types to choose from: one for those who want to live and work here, and one for students. Before you arrive you can transfer money from anywhere in the world and view your balance online. Once here, all you have to do is visit a branch to be identified before you can withdraw your money. You’ll also receive a Debit Mastercard, which allows you to make purchases with your funds in times when only credit is a payment option.

Westpac has almost 200 years of experience helping Australians with their banking needs and it has dedicated migrant banking specialists to help make your financial transition easier. You can apply for an account online in just 10 minutes without supplying an Australian address, and you can open an account up to 12 months prior to your arrival in Australia. You can also take advantage of no monthly service fees for the first 12 months, unlimited transactions at Westpac branches and some 2,800 ATMs, plus you’ll receive a debit Mastercard once you arrive in Australia.

26 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Opening a Bank Account in Australia

Established in 1895, Bankwest has migrant banking specialists to help look after the financial aspects of your move. You can apply for an everyday account or a savings account quickly and easily online, and this can be done up to 12 months before you arrive in Australia. You can then deposit funds into your account and monitor your balance online, plus you’ll have free access to Australia’s largest bank ATM network.

NAB aims to make it as easy as possible to open a bank account before you arrive in Australia. It has a dedicated migrant banking team to provide the financial knowledge you need for a smooth transition. You can open Australian bank accounts up to 12 months before you arrive here and NAB also provides you with a named banker who understands the financial needs of migrants. There are migrant accounts available with no application fees, no minimum deposit and no monthly account-keeping fees.

Citibank operates 20,000 ATMs and 4,000 branches in 42 countries, including 3,000 Citibank and partner ATMs across Australia. If you’re already a Citibank customer in your home country, the bank can set up your Australian account(s) before you leave. In addition, Citibank provides a wealth of information on finding the right visa, studying in Australia and investing in Australia.

Applying for a bank account WHEN you arrive When you apply for a bank account at a local branch, you’ll need to provide 100 points of identification, which may be made up of a valid passport, birth certificate (this may need to be translated to English), Australian driver’s licence (if available), or details of your Australian residential address. You can learn more about the accounts available either online or in a branch. * https://www.finder.com.au/moving-to-australia/opening-a-bank- account-in-australia

27 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Emergency services

• Police In an emergency, • Ambulance telephone 000 for • Fire brigade Calls to 000 (triple zero) are free. Be prepared to say your name, where you are, the telephone number you are calling from and the type of service you need. If you cannot speak English, first tell the operator what kind of help you need – say“ Police”, “Ambulance” or “Fire” – and then say your language. You will be connected to an interpreter, so do not hang up. The interpreter will then help you talk to the police, ambulance or fire service. If you are using a home telephone, the emergency services can find your location automatically while the phone is being used, so stay on the phone. You can find more information about the000 (triple zero) Service (including in languages other than English) at www.triplezero.gov.au

Police STATE OR TERRITORY POLICE SERVICE WEBSITE In an emergency, telephone 000 ACT Policing www.police.act.gov.au and ask for the “Police”. NSW New South Wales Police Force www.police.nsw.gov.au For non-urgent matters, ring your local police station. Their NT Northern Territory Police www.pfes.nt.gov.au numbers are listed under ‘Police QLD Queensland Police Service www.police.qld.gov.au stations’ in the White Pages SA South Australia Police www.sapolice.sa.gov.au telephone directory. There is no charge for police services. TAS Police www.police.tas.gov.au In Australia, the police aim to VIC Victoria Police www.police.vic.gov.au protect life and property in the WA Western Australia Police www.police.wa.gov.au community, prevent and detect National Australian Federal Police www.afp.gov.au crime, and preserve peace. The police may intervene in family issues where there is a domestic dispute or concern about physical, sexual or psychological abuse. Police are not connected to the military forces. The police do not play a part in politics. See below for information about state, territory and federal police services.

28 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Emergency services

Ambulance STATE OR TERRITORY AMBULANCE SERVICE If you need an ambulance, telephone 000 and ask for an “Ambulance”. Ambulances WEBSITE provide emergency transport to hospital ACT Ambulance Service www.ambulance.act.gov.au and immediate medical attention. NSW Ambulance Service of NSW www.ambulance.nsw.gov.au Remember, do not hang up the telephone NT St John Ambulance Australia www.stjohn.org.au if you do not speak English – say your language and an interpreter will be QLD Queensland Ambulance Service www.ambulance.qld.gov.au connected to help you with your call. SA Ambulance Services www.saambulance.com.au You may have to pay for using an TAS Tasmanian Ambulance Service www.dhhs.tas.gov.au ambulance depending on where you live, VIC Ambulance Victoria www.ambulance.vic.gov.au how far you travel by ambulance, the nature of your illness and whether you WA St John Ambulance Australia www.stjohn.org.au are eligible for a concession. Medicare does not cover ambulance costs. STATE OR TERRITORY FIRE SERVICE WEBSITE ACT Fire Brigade www.firebrigade.act.gov.au Fire brigade NSW Fire and Rescue NSW www.fire.nsw.gov.au In an , telephone and ask emergency 000 NSW Rural Fire Service www.rfs.nsw.gov.au for the “Fire brigade”. The fire brigade puts out fires, rescues people from NT Fire and Emergency Service www.pfes.nt.gov.au burning buildings and helps in situations QLD Queensland Fire and Rescue Service www.qfes.qld.gov.au where gas or chemicals become a danger. SA Metropolitan Fire Service www.mfs.sa.gov.au The services provided by fire brigades in each state and territory are free of SA Country Fire Service www.cfs.sa.gov.au charge. TAS Tasmania Fire Service www.fire.tas.gov.au Refer to the information on this page to VIC Metropolitan Fire Board www.mfb.vic.gov.au find out about fire safety and services in Country Fire Authority www.cfa.vic.gov.au your state or territory. WA Fire and Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia www.fesa.wa.gov.au Natural disasters In the event of natural disasters, such as bushfires, floods and cyclones, coordination of emergency services is managed by the state and territory government authorities. As well as assistance from professional fire, police and rescue services, assistance may be provided by volunteer-based services such as state and territory emergency services (SES) and rural fire services. During natural disasters and other emergencies Australia’s defence forces may also be called upon to provide assistance. Military forces in Australia do not play a part in politics.

29 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Emergency services

Other EMERGENCY SERVICE TELEPHONE emergency 24 HOUR Poisons Information Centre 13 1126 numbers Child Abuse Prevention Service (CAPS) Health advice telephone services 1800 688 009 Useful emergency telephone numbers are listed at the front of www.childabuseprevention.com.au your local White Pages telephone directory. NATIONAL AGENCIES WEBSITE The Salvation Army www.salvos.org.au Emergency St Vincent de Paul Society www.vinnies.org.au The Smith Family www.thesmithfamily.com.au relief Mission Australia www.missionaustralia.com.au If you need emergency food, clothing, shelter or furniture, Anglicare Australia www.anglicare.asn.au you could seek help from non- government organisations. Do not be afraid to ask for help. NATIONAL AGENCIES There are a wide range of Lifeline Helpline 13 1114 organisations that can assist www.lifeline.org.au people, although you may Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 have to be eligible or meet www.kidshelp.com.au certain requirements to receive particular services. Child Abuse Prevention Service (CAPS) 1800 688 009 www.childabuseprevention.com.au Refer to the links on this page to find out more about emergency Relationships Australia Crisis Line 1300 364 277 relief in your state or territory. www.relationships.com.au

Telephone crisis counselling There are various telephone counselling services that offer free crisis counselling 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you feel desperate, just need to talk to somebody or want to use their specialist counselling services, do not hesitate to call.

30 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Employment

Looking for work The Australian labour market can be very competitive. The daily newspapers advertise ‘Job vacancies’ (or ‘Positions vacant’). Job vacancies can also be found on the internet. There are also private employment agencies, which are listed in the Yellow Pages telephone directory and many online recruitment websites. You can also search for job vacancies across Australia on JobSearch. JobSearch is one of Australia’s largest free online jobs website funded by the Australian Government. Job Services Australia JOBGETTER Job Services Australia providers are private, JobGetter is a digital “hub” to help job seekers community and government organisations, contracted and businesses to connect in the region. JobGetter to the Australian Government to help people find helps create an employment and education employment. “ecosystem” to match job‐seekers with job Job Services Australia will give you the help and opportunities in their region by using a mix of support you need to find and keep a job. It will provide Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning. personalised services that are targeted to your needs, Once your JobGetter profile is set up, your regional including access to training opportunities and work information becomes part of a wider national‐level experience. JobGetter on‐line service, and vice‐versa. If you are a refugee or humanitarian entrant you are Every job seeker who applies for any job, on any of entitled to the full range of employment services from JobGetter’s platforms, receives a personalised Skills the day you arrive in Australia. Other newly arrived Gap Analysis showing where they need to up‐skill migrants may be eligible for more limited employment to improve their employment prospects. services. Centrelink or your Job Services Australia JobGetter provides great opportunities to offer provider can give you more information about your benefits, information and value to job seekers. eligibility. Your Job Services Australia provider will work with you to create an Employment Pathway Plan tailored to your individual needs. This plan will set out the training and services that will help you find and keep a job. This help Link to Southern Inland may include writing a resume, gaining work experience JobGetter and gaining new skills or qualifications. Your provider https://my.jobgetter.com/jobs/locations/ will also work with local employers, registered training australia/nsw/southern-inland/#/ organisations, government, community and health organisations to help you with any problems you may have finding work. You can get more detailed information at the Job JOB SERVICES AUSTRALIA Services Australia website. The site also contains Telephone 13 6268 information for job seekers translated into 18 Job Search website www.jobsearch.gov.au languages.

31 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Employment

Centrelink CENTRELINK CONTACT DETAILS Any Australian resident can Employment Services 13 2850 register with Centrelink or a Job Services Australia (JSA) Multilingual call – help in languages provider for help finding a job. other than English 13 1202 As a newcomer, it is often a good Visit a Centrelink office for information idea to talk to an experienced on newly arrived migrants. employment counsellor or the Website www.centrelink.gov.au Centrelink Career Information Centre to ensure that your approach to job-seeking is appropriate, particularly if you are having difficulties getting Chamber of Commerce an interview. Centrelink offers Each town has a Chamber of Commerce. These groups are dedicated a broad range of services support and information hubs for local business owners. Most and resources to people from Chambers meet regularly, a fantastic chance for local businesses and culturally and linguistically employees to network and find out about what is happening in the diverse backgrounds. You can call local area. In our region, the following Chambers of Commerce exist: Centrelink Employment Services • Goulburn Chamber of Commerce about Newstart Allowance, • Marulan Region Chamber of Commerce Exceptional Circumstances Relief Payment, Partner Allowance and • Southern Highlands Chamber of Commerce Employment Services Providers, • Bowral Chamber of Commerce including Job Services Australia. • Yass Valley Business Chamber Centrelink may also refer you for recognition of your qualifications • Bungendore Chamber of Commerce and skills, and can provide advice • Cooma Chamber of Commerce about other employment services • Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce locally. • Thredbo Chamber of Commerce Centrelink offices are located in cities and major country centres. • Boorowa Business Chamber Office locations are listed under Connect meetings are also another great way to network with local ‘Centrelink’ in the White Pages businesses and organisations. telephone directory and on the Connect meetings are held in Goulburn, Cooma, Jindabyne and Department of Human Services Braidwood each month. To find out when and where these networking website. sessions are held, visit www.rdasi.org.au/projects/business-connect

32 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Housing

Renting a private house or flat NSW Housing NSW Renting a house or flat is usually done through real-estate agents Telephone that act on behalf of landlords or you can rent directly from a private 1300 468 746 landlord. Rental properties are advertised on the internet and in newspapers in the ‘To let’ and ‘Accommodation vacant’ sections. You Website can also go to real-estate agent offices and ask to see their list of www.housing.nsw.gov.au vacant rental properties. In Australia, it is preferable to have a written agreement between a tenant and a landlord so any terms and conditions are agreed to and documented. A ‘lease’ or a ‘residential tenancy agreement’ is a written contract between a tenant and a landlord and will usually be for a fixed period of six or 12 months, however you are entitled to negotiate the time period of the lease with a landlord or their real- estate agent before you sign. You may be able to renew a lease at the end of a fixed term period. There can be significant costs if you break a lease before the end of the agreed period, so do not commit yourself to a lease that is for longer than you are able to stay. Do not sign a lease unless you have inspected the property and fully understand the terms and conditions in the document, as it becomes legally binding after you sign it. At the start of a tenancy you will generally be asked to pay one month rent in advance as well as a rental bond. A bond is a deposit paid Garbage to the landlord and generally should not be more than the monthly rental amount. The landlord or real-estate agent must lodge your collection and bond with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority. recycling Before you move in, the physical condition of the property is recorded The collection of garbage and in a document called the ‘condition report’ and is completed by you recyclable materials is managed and the landlord or their real-estate agent. This document can help by local government. There are avoid disagreements when you move out as it records any damage usually separate garbage bins that was already there when you moved into the property. When for ordinary household rubbish you leave a rented house or flat you get the bond back if you do not and recyclable material such owe any rent when you leave and the property is clean and without as bottles, cans, paper and damage. cardboard. To check garbage and Government agencies can also assist people on low incomes with rent recycling collection days contact assistance and temporary accommodation. Below is NSW information your local council or ask your to enquire about government housing. neighbours.

33 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region transport

Australia is a large country with many of its cities and towns separated by big distances. There are many transport options you can STATE OR TERRITORY use to go across your town or across the country. PUBLIC TRANSPORT AGENCY WEBSITE Public transport ACT ACTION There are a number of forms of public transport in Australia including www.action.act.gov.au buses, trains, trams and ferries. You will need to pay a fare or buy a NSW Transport NSW ticket to use most services. Concessions are generally available for www.131500.com.au students, seniors and Health Care Card holders. Brochures and timetables are available from many local government councils and visitor centres, railway stations, libraries and public information centres. For information about government operated transport in your state or territory, including ticketing, timetables and concessions, go to the websites below

Taxi services Taxis operate 24 hours a day in most parts of Australia. A meter on the dashboard of the taxi shows the fare. Taxi companies are listed in the Yellow Pages telephone directory under ‘Taxi cabs’ and online. Most cities have special taxis available for people using a wheelchair or with a disability.

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Schools

In Australia children must attend school from five years of age Government schools until they finish Year 10. After Government schools provide free education. However, most schools Year 10 they must participate in ask for a small fee or a voluntary contribution to enhance the school’s full-time education, training or educational and sporting programs. There are additional educational employment or a combination materials or services that parents are expected to provide or pay the of these activities (at least 25 school to provide. Parents may need to provide their children with hours per week) until they finish pencils, pens, textbooks and school uniforms (where appropriate). Year 12 or reach 17 years of Students holding temporary visas may be required to pay full school age. Generally, children attend fees. You have to check with individual schools for details. primary school until they are 12 or 13 years old and then attend high school (or ‘secondary school’) until they are 17 or Non-government schools 18 years old. Some colleges Non-government schools charge fees, and they may have a religious (senior secondary schools) affiliation or a particular educational philosophy. Parents who want to take only students in Years 11 find out about private education can make an appointment with the and 12 who are preparing for relevant non-government educational authority or contact the selected final high school examinations. school directly. If you need before or after school care or school You can send your children to holiday programs ask the selected school about these programs. These either a government or a non- programs are available to look after your children while you go to work. government school. To find schools in your area, look under ‘Schools’ in the White Pages telephone directory. Non-English speaking school children Enrolment In most states and territories, newly arrived children who do not speak To enrol your child in a school, English can enrol directly in English language schools and English contact the school by telephone language centres, which provide intensive English programs designed for or in person. You will need children. to take your visa or entry to Australia documents, proof of your child’s date of birth, and any papers including school reports relating to their previous education. You may also need to show immunisation documents.

35 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region

Multicultural services

Many local councils have multicultural or community workers who can give you valuable help and advice as you settle into life in Australia. Some have services designed to meet the particular needs of those from diverse backgrounds and may have a multicultural liaison officer. Contact your local council to find out what services they offer. Multicultural Centres and Contacts in each local government of the Southern Inland Region:

Goulburn Multicultural Centre (GMC) 148 Sloane St, Goulburn NSW 2580 02 4803 9042 [email protected] www.gmc.org.au Cooma Multicultural Centre (CMC) 12 Mittagong Rd (lower building) Cooma NSW 2630 0458 523 457 [email protected] www.cmc.asn.au Queanbeyan Multicultural/Multilingual Centre (QMLC) 12 Rutledge Street, Queanbeyan NSW 2620 02 6297 6110 [email protected] www.qmlc.org.au

The Beginning a Life in Australia booklet is produced by the Department of Social Services (DSS) and is published online at www.dss.gov.au/our-responsibilities/settlement-services/beginning-a-life-in-australia

36 Welcome to the Southern Inland Region contact us Goulburn - Main Office & Regional Migration

02 4822 6397

Shop 5, Central Arcade 158-162 Auburn Street Goulburn NSW 2580

RDA Southern Inland PO Box 775 Goulburn NSW 2580

www.rdasi.org.au

www.facebook.com/RDASouthernInland

@RDASI

@rdasoutherninland