Health and Safety Tips While Living in Australia

• byBudgetpolicy
• 2024-08-12

No matter what you are - a visitor, student, or a new resident, moving to Australia is an exciting moment. Other than taking care of your visa requirements, visa application, and travel plans, your primary concern should be making sure you are safe and healthy during your time in Australia.
To help you get started with safety and health measures, we have jotted down useful tips in the following blog.

Tips for Living Healthy and Safely in Australia
1. Secure Health Insurance
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) in Australia
You will have to buy Overseas Student Health Cover if you are moving to Australia as an international student. A basic health coverage include emergency ambulance services, prescription drugs, hospital and medical care. Top providers of OSHC in Australia are AHM, BUPA, NIB, or Medibank so you can choose the plan that fits best with your needs.

Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) in Australia
You will have to buy Overseas Visitor Health Cover if you are moving to Australia on a work or visitor visa. Basic health coverage include emergency ambulance services, prescription drugs, hospital and medical care i.e., similar to OSHC. Top providers of OVHC in Australia are AHM, BUPA, NIB, or Medibank so you can choose the plan that fits best with your needs.

2. Stay Informed About Local Healthcare Services
Learn about the medical services in your area, such as General Practitioner offices, hospitals, and emergency departments. In an emergency, it is important to know where the closest hospital is as well as having general practitioner handy to save time.

3. Understand Emergency Processes
Australia has a reliable and prompt healthcare system including emergency services. If you find yourself in a situation where you need immediate attention, dial 000 for ambulance, police, or fire emergencies. Make sure to save this number in your phone and make sure all your loved ones with you knows how to use it.

4. Be Sun Smart
Due of Australia's high UV index, wearing sunscreen is very important; especially if you are allergic to being out in sun. Therefore, to be safe in such situation, always use high-SPF sunscreen, cover up with hats, sunglasses, and protective apparel.

5. Stay Hydrated
Australia experiences a hot climate, especially in the summer. Throughout the day, make sure to sip on plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated and prevent heat-related problems.

6. Protect Yourself from Wildlife
There are various species of fauna in Australia, some of which are quite deadly. Therefore, you must be knowledgeable about the local wildlife and the preventive measures. Be careful with aquatic life in coastal areas, especially jellyfish and sharks.

7. Road Safety
Road safety laws are very strict in Australia. Therefore, you must be aware of all the rules at least the important ones to ensure road safety. Do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Make sure to fasten your seatbelt. Always wear a helmet and abide by traffic laws even when cycling.

8. Fire Safety
Make sure you know bushfire survival strategy and are aware of the local fire risk rating if you are living in a region where bushfires happen frequently. However, if you live in an urban location, make sure your house is equipped with fire safety measures and smoke alarms.

9. Mental Health and Wellbeing
The state of your mind is as important as your physical state. Therefore, make sure the support systems and mental health resources are accessible to you.

10. Stay Updated with Health Advisories
Check government health advisories regularly for information on any outbreaks or health risks. The Department of Health of the Australian Government provides up-to-date information on health-related matters, ensuring everyone’s safety.

Key Takeaways
Being aware of your health insurance is important. There are many healthcare options available as well as safety measures against environmental and lifestyle risks that you must consider to ensure your health and safety in Australia.

For additional details on comparing and buying Overseas Visitor Health Coverage or Overseas Student Health Coverage, get in touch with experts at Budget Policy. Budget Policy is your trusted partner for Australian health cover during your time in the country.

And the best part? Save big on your pocket on buying OSHC or OVHC through Budget Policy. Contact us to know more.