Australia Explained

After receiving a fine for not wearing his motorbike helmet correctly, Hugo decides to have the matter heard in court. His story explains how Parliament, government and the courts have different roles, and how some official decisions can be questioned. How Australia Works is an SBS podcast that uses real stories and clear explanations to help you understand how government work in Australia, how la...

Do you know who can help you with a business permit, a rental problem or family support? Through the stories of Fedele, Carol and Abeer, learn how Australia’s three levels of government work. Find out what local, state or territory, and federal governments are responsible for and where to turn for help. How Australia Works is an SBS podcast that uses real stories and clear explanations to help you...

How do Australia’s governments, laws and public services affect your everyday life? Through real stories, this introduction to the series shows you where to start when you need information and support, and how to question a decision. How Australia Works is an SBS podcast that uses real stories and clear explanations to help you understand how government work in Australia, how laws are made and cha...

Regular breast screening can help find breast cancer early, before you notice any signs or symptoms. Screening is free for eligible women or people at risk of breast cancer. It takes about 20 minutes, once every two years, and it’s an effective way to take charge of our health. Let’s take a closer look at why a breast screen is nothing to be anxious about.

National parks, nature reserves, marine sanctuaries and Indigenous Protected Areas protect different environments and operate under different rules. What makes an Indigenous Protected Area different, and how can you find out whether you are welcome to visit?

Australia is a vast and diverse country to explore, but driving in rural and remote areas can involve conditions you may not encounter in cities. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can help you travel more safely and confidently.

About one in five Australian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Understanding the prostate, your risk and the options for testing can help with early detection and treatment. In this episode of Australia Explained, learn about prostate cancer, PSA testing, treatment and support.

Supporting your child’s connection with the world’s oldest continuing living culture is one of the greatest gifts you can offer them while raising them in Australia. But if you’re new to the country, you may be unsure where to begin. Here are some starting points and ideas to help you and your child learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and history.

If you're first-time parents in Australia, choosing where and how to give birth can feel overwhelming. Whether you go through the public or private health system, it is important to understand your options and know where to reach out for advice to make the right decision for you and your baby.

Walking through an Australian suburb, you might spot everything from curry leaves and lemons to tomatoes and herbs growing in front gardens or on verges. But is it legal to pick it? This guide explains when it's legal to pick produce, why permission matters, and how community gardens offer another way to grow your own food.

Police officers have a range of operational powers they can exercise under legislation, including to ask questions, give ‘move on’ directions and conduct searches. Here’s what you need to know about your basic rights and obligations in a police interaction.

The Garma Festival is Australia’s largest Indigenous cultural gathering where thousands of people travel to a remote town in Nhulunbuy on northeast Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory. Here's what happens at Garma and who can attend.

Teenagers in Australia can undertake paid work under certain restrictions, with general employment rights also protecting young workers. Here’s what you need to know as a parent or guardian of a worker under 18.

Whether you’re new to taking photographs, a social media content creator or a professional photographer, it’s important to be aware of where you can and can’t take photographs. Here’s what to consider before you take that perfect photograph, legally.

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.