DirectEmigreren
Chapter 9 of 15

Driver's License

Exchange by state, rego, RWC, compulsory third party insurance

Summary

In Australia, driver's licensing and vehicle registration are managed by each state. As a permanent resident, you must exchange your Dutch driver's license for an Australian one within 3-6 months (depending on the state). As a temporary visa holder, you can continue driving on your Dutch (or international) license as long as it's valid. Note: Australians drive on the left.

What you need to know

License exchange by state

New South Wales (NSW)

  • Exchange within 3 months of establishing residency
  • Via Service NSW
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Knowledge Base

Glossary
  • TFN (Tax File Number)

    The Australian tax number. Essential for working (otherwise 47% tax is withheld), opening a bank account and superannuation. Apply at the ATO after arrival.

  • Medicare (Australia)

    The Australian public healthcare system. Covers GP visits, hospital care and medicines (via PBS). The Netherlands has an agreement with Australia — you can access Medicare with your EHIC.

  • Superannuation (Super)

    The Australian mandatory pension savings. Your employer deposits 11.5% of your salary into a super fund. You can choose your super fund. When leaving Australia you can (partially) claim your super back.

  • ABN (Australian Business Number)

    The Australian business number for self-employed and businesses. Free to apply for. Without an ABN, 47% no-ABN withholding tax is withheld on payments.

  • Centrelink (Government Services)

    The Australian government service for social benefits: unemployment, child benefit, care allowances. Access via myGov. Wait times are notoriously long.

  • ATO (Australian Taxation Office)

    The Australian tax office. Tax year runs from July 1 to June 30. Returns due by October 31 (or later via a tax agent). Many Australians use a tax agent.

  • Skilled Visa (subclass 189/190/491)

    The main visa categories for skilled migrants. 189 = independent, 190 = state-nominated, 491 = regional. Your occupation must be on the Skilled Occupation List.

  • PAYG (Pay As You Go)

    The Australian payroll tax system: your employer withholds tax directly. As a self-employed person you pay PAYG instalments (quarterly prepayments).

  • PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme)

    The Australian medicine subsidy program. Subsidizes medicine costs. With Medicare you pay maximum ~$31 per prescription (or ~$7.70 with concession card).

  • myGov (Government Portal)

    The central online portal for Australian government services: ATO, Medicare, Centrelink. Comparable to MijnOverheid.nl. Create an account as soon as you have a TFN.

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