Australia Explained

Abortion is an essential healthcare service in Australia. Women have access to termination options early in the pregnancy, but navigating choices to suit personal circumstances isn’t always straightforward.

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 122 coastal drowning deaths, with 25 per cent due to dangerous rip currents. Knowing where and when to swim is the best defence against these beach hazards.

Australians place great value in green spaces. The personal, community and environmental benefits of plant life are profound. This is why regulations are in place to guide what we can and can’t do in our gardens and streets.

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 call an ambulance in all Australian states and territories.

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 choices will increase the likelihood that you are found.

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 of them responsibly and safely.

In Australia, there are 14 rights that protect anyone receiving government-funded aged care, whether at home or at a residential facility. But what happens if you or a loved one are unsatisfied with the service?

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. Here’s the expert advice on how to respond whether you suffer a venomous or non-venomous bite.

In the last decade, Australia has experienced some of its worst flooding in recorded history. Knowing how to prepare for severe weather could save your property. Deciding whether or not to evacuate and how, could save your life.

Regular physical activity is essential for good physical and mental health and wellbeing. Community sport is informal and inclusive, and the benefits for newly arrived migrants can be profound.

A free, independent and diverse press is a fundamental pillar of democracy. Australia has two taxpayer-funded networks that serve the public interest (ABC and SBS), plus a variety of commercial and community media outlets. Although publicly funded media receives money the government, it is unlike the state-sponsored outlets found overseas.

The Melbourne Cup is Australia’s most famous horse race. While it has historically attracted huge crowds, it also raises questions over the ethics and practices of the racing industry, its treatment of animals and influence on problem gambling.

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 retailers collect personal data, scammers are also taking advantage of the surge of e-commerce to target and defraud vulnerable Australians.

Sex education is still one of the most challenging topics for parents to discuss with their children. Fortunately, sexual health is widely taught in Australian schools, and parents can access many resources to help them overcome feelings of shame or awkwardness. Here are some experts’ top tips to help parents have these chats.

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 to excess, endangering both themselves and possibly others. Here's how to tell if a loved one has an alcohol dependence and how to help them.

Australia, a country prone to extreme weather-related hazards, has a new nationally standardised Australian Fire Danger Rating System, and the Australian Warning System to help communities and first respondents understand risks, prepare, and react to different emergencies. Here's what the severity levels mean and what you should do for each one.

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 practical terms?

Australia maintains a formal and sentimental connection to the British Monarchy as a legacy of British colonisation. The passing of Queen Elizabeth II at the age of 96, on 8 September 2022 raises the question of: What is the role of the British monarchy in contemporary Australia?

As one of the most multicultural nations on Earth, Australia presents a unique blend of unspoken rules of etiquette. Learning the local protocols of 'good manners' is vital for migrants looking to strengthen their communication skills.

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 aggressive behaviour towards girls or women? Experts say, although these phrases seem harmless on the surface, we are in fact unknowingly normalising aggression as something that is inherent in boys or something that is provoked by girls.

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 practitioners say that starting antenatal check-ups early in the pregnancy can make a significant difference. So, why is it important?

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. Protecting the welfare of animals is not only the right thing to do but in Australia it is a legal requirement

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 more likely to help their loved ones recover. In Australia, help is available in your language.

Australia has one of the highest food allergy rates in the world. Sending children with allergies and anaphylaxis to school can be worrying for parents who may not be aware of the systems and guidelines in place.

Choosing the right heating system for your home becomes easier when you understand what options are available. And if you can't change what is already installed, there are ways to improve energy and cost efficiency.