Australia Explained

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 are ignored.

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 fashion campaigns and in everyday clothing. Find out what makes First Nations fashion different, how it connects to the environment and what you should be aware of if you want to wear it.

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 experienced so differently across the country.

Australia is known as the allergy capital of the world. Our diverse population also means that we express our religious beliefs, ethics, health and personal choices through the food we eat. We called on some experts to help us navigate all the labelling, certifications and resources that can inform our food choices.

Going camping is an incredible way to experience Australia’s great outdoors whilst also taking a break from technology and daily routines. We unpack the benefits of camping, the preparation required, the equipment you should consider taking, and how to be a considerate camper.

Australia’s inland waterways are magical—peaceful rivers, natural hot springs, and still, shimmering lakes. But while they offer amazing places to relax and cool off, they can also be unfamiliar and dangerous for people new to Australia. Learn how to stay safe, respect Indigenous land, and enjoy these freshwater spots.

Summer in Australia can be very hot, and as our climate continues to warm, heatwaves are expected to become more frequent and more intense. In this episode of Australia Explained, we cover what a heatwave is, why they pose such a significant risk to human health, who is at most risk, and how to best prepare to cope with a heatwave.

Australia’s beaches are breathtaking, but they can also be dangerous—especially if you’re new to the country and unfamiliar with local water conditions. One activity that attracts many migrants is rock fishing. While it’s a popular pastime, it’s also considered one of Australia’s most dangerous sports.

New to Australia and want to enjoy boating safely? Discover essential boating safety tips, life jacket rules, and how to get started as a newcomer. Whether it’s a relaxing kayak ride, a fishing trip, or an afternoon cruise on a tinny, boating is not only fun—it can also be incredibly good for your mental health. But before you hop aboard, it’s important to understand how to stay safe.

Connecting with Indigenous Australia can be daunting for a newcomer to the country. So, where do you start? We asked Yawuru woman Shannan Dodson, CEO of the Healing Foundation, about simple ways to engage with First Nations issues and people within your local community.

How do you dip into the Aussie swim culture of backyard pool parties, laps at the local council aquatic centre, and family hotel holidays floating on a pool noodle? Can you join in if you’re not a strong swimmer? And is it ever too late to learn? Learning to swim is more than just about safety, it can be good for your mental health and even improve your family connections.

Australia is restricting access to social media accounts for under-16s, and many families are wondering what it means in practice. While the rules place responsibility on tech platforms rather than young people or their parents, the changes may still create stress for teens who rely on social media to stay connected. Find out how the ban will work, why connection still matters, and how experts suggest supporting young people through the transition.