Australia Explained

The 2026 Census is on Tuesday 11 August and every person in Australia on this night must be counted. Census data is used to understand where we live, the languages we use at home (including Auslan), the support we need and how Australia is changing as a nation. Being counted helps ensure your community, culture and beliefs are represented. Here’s what you need to know about completing the Census f...

It’s no exaggeration when we hear that the FIFA World Cup is bringing the world together. After all, football is known as the world’s most popular sport. But football really begins on the suburban ovals and in the local clubs, with everyday players of all ages and abilities. Here’s how you can become one of them.

In Australia, you might see three flags flying together: the Australian National Flag, the Aboriginal Flag and the Torres Strait Islander Flag. Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples are the two distinct Indigenous peoples of Australia, each with their own histories, cultures, languages and flag. For many Torres Strait Islander people, the flag is a powerful symbol of identity and b...

What are the rules around raising money and charities? How can you ensure you don't get scammed? Here is what you need to know if you're donating, raising money yourself or launching an online crowdfunding appeal.

Electric vehicles are becoming more common on Australian roads as fuel prices remain unstable and more drivers look for cheaper ways to travel. Here's what you need to know if you are thinking about making the switch.

Regular veterinary visits play an important role in keeping your pet healthy and happy. Find out what to expect at a veterinary clinic in Australia, from routine check-ups and vaccinations to advice on caring for your pet’s wellbeing.

Drivers across Australia are paying more at the bowser as fuel prices remain unstable. So does it make sense to go for cheaper petrol options when filling up? The answer depends largely on your engine requirements, as not every fuel works for every vehicle.

At school, work, council offices or sporting events, you might see a red, black and yellow flag flying beside the Australian national flag. This is the Aboriginal flag, representing the Aboriginal people of Australia and their connection to land, community and stories.

Australia's petrol and diesel prices remain under pressure. The RBA’s decision to hike the cash rate this month is adding to the financial strain facing many households. We look at some free and independent support services that are available to help people manage financial stress.

Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection. As flu season begins in Australia, here’s what you need to know to protect yourself, your family and the most vulnerable in our community.

Rising fuel prices are putting pressure on household budgets across Australia, and for many people, it’s changing the way they travel. So what can you do to reduce your fuel costs without giving up your daily routine? Here are some simple, practical ways to save money on petrol.

Each year Australians gather on Anzac Day to remember those who served in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions. But whose stories are we remembering? Are there stories we don’t always hear? In this episode we explore an important part of Australia’s history that has often been overlooked—the service of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Workplace discrimination, gender-based violence and financial inequality—these are just some of the reasons why women need dedicated legal services. You don’t have to navigate the legal system alone. In Australia, free legal services exist to advocate for vulnerable women in ways that are safe, confidential and culturally appropriate.

Looking to step into a new career? You're not the only one, the stats suggest. No matter your age, background or whether English is your first language, a career change at some point is almost inevitable nowadays. In Australia, support is available to help you through the process.

Australia is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, home to wildlife and plant species found nowhere else on the planet. In this episode of Australia Explained you’ll learn about what makes Australia’s biodiversity so special, the threats it faces and how we can all help protect it.

Buying Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art can be meaningful, but how do you know if it's real and ethical? Fake art is still a problem in Australia, and protections are still developing. This guide helps you understand what to look for, what questions to ask, and where to buy safely. By choosing carefully, you can support First Nations artists and their communities.

Have you ever considered using your bilingual skills to assist others? A career in translating and interpreting might be for you. In Australia you can train for a TAFE certificate all the way to Master’s degree prior to getting certified. In this episode we help you navigate the pathway to becoming a qualified practitioner.

Customs is generally the first point of contact for people entering Australia. Our Border Force Officers are there waiting. They ensure that we don’t bring in prohibited goods that could threaten Australia’s unique environment, economy and communities. Before you zip up your suitcase, here’s what you need to know about what can—and can’t—cross the border, and what’s at stake if biosecurity rules a...

In Australia, government-subsidised rental housing is available for eligible households. Assessment is based on need under criteria that vary depending on your state or territory. Here’s what to expect when applying for different types of housing assistance, some common myths around social housing and where to reach out for help.

If you’ve spent any time in Australia, you’ve probably noticed how relaxed the style is. You might notice activewear, surf brands and casual clothes everywhere. But there’s another side to Australian fashion. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander designers have been creating clothes and accessories for thousands of years — and that work is very much alive today. You’ll see it on runways, in global...

Australia’s sun can be harsh. And sunscreen is one key measure protecting us against harmful sun exposure. We asked three scientists about sunscreen facts, myths and choosing the right products.

Australia’s hot, dry climate and unique landscapes make it one of the most bushfire-prone countries in the world. As climate change drives higher temperatures and drier conditions, we can expect more frequent and more intense bushfires in the future. But once the fire is out, how do you return home safely, find support, and look after yourself?

Did you know that IVF is not the first, but in fact the last step in a sequence of fertility treatments? In Vitro Fertilisation is regulated by state and territory laws. It can also be expensive and emotionally challenging. Here’s what to expect when aiming to start a pregnancy with IVF in Australia.

Like in most countries, public transport in Australia is the cheapest way to get around. It includes trams, buses, trains and ferry services. And each state or territory has its own transport network. However, navigating Australia’s public transport system with ease requires knowing the basics around how it works and what to expect.

January 26 is one of the most debated dates in Australia’s history. Often described as the nation’s birthday, the day marks neither the formal founding of the colony nor the creation of the Commonwealth. Instead, it reflects a layered history shaped by colonisation, political decisions, and ongoing First Nations resistance. Understanding what actually happened on January 26 reveals why the date is...