SEE Life Skills: Navigating Services Australia

Australia has a wide range of government services designed to support residents in various aspects of life – from healthcare and social welfare to tax, housing and employment. These services are essential in helping individuals access the support they need to live well, stay healthy and thrive in their careers. 

However, navigating these programs can feel overwhelming. To make this process easier, the team at Navitas Skilled Futures is here to explain of some of the key services provided by the Australian government. 

In this article, we’ll explore what each service offers, how it can benefit you and who is eligible to access them, so you can make informed decisions about the support that best suits your needs. 

We’ll also explore our Skills For Education and Employment (SEE) program, including how it relates to each government service and how the program can help you increase your confidence, find employment and develop new skills.  

What is Services Australia?

Services Australia is the government agency that delivers essential services such as Medicare, Centrelink, aged care and disability support. It helps Australians access government payments and programs to help them live a safe and comfortable life. 

What services does Services Australia offer?

Services Australia provides a range of services. In this article, we’ll outline the following: 

• Healthcare support via Medicare 

• Financial assistance through Centrelink 

• Paying tax and super via the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) 

• Housing support for Victorians through HousingVic Online Services 

• Aged care services via My Aged Care 

• Disability support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) 
  
  
• And employment support for job seekers through Workforce Australia. 

How to access Services Australia 

You can access Services Australia through: 

• MyGov: A secure online portal linking Medicare, Centrelink, ATO and other services, all in one place. 

• Mobile apps: Centrelink, ATO and Express Plus Medicare apps for managing claims and services. 
  
• Service centres: Physical locations for in-person assistance. 

To make the most of the support available through Services Australia, you need to be able to use digital platforms like computers and phone apps. If you need support to develop skills and confidence in using digital devices, then the SEE program can help you. It’s a free, government-funded program that can help you upskill in digital skills as well as reading, writing and spoken communication. Keep reading to learn more.

Medicare

What is Medicare?

Medicare is Australia’s government healthcare system that covers some or all of the costs for services like seeing a general practitioner (GP), getting mental health support, getting an x-ray and most surgical procedures.

Depending on the service you’re receiving, Medicare may cover the whole cost (called bulk billing) or part of the cost. Each service provider may offer different billing combinations, meaning you might pay a partial ‘gap’ payment between what is billed by the service provider and what is covered by Medicare. You will need to keep your Medicare card with you to get the free or discounted services.

What services are covered by Medicare?

Some of the goods and services covered by Medicare include: 

• doctor visits (GPs and specialists) 

• mental health support like counselling 

• hospital treatment as a public patient in a public hospital 

• diagnostic services like X-rays, scans and blood tests 

• some prescription medications under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) 
  
  
• some allied health services for eligible patients with chronic health conditions.

Who is eligible for Medicare?

Medicare is available to Australian citizens and permanent residents, as well as refugees, humanitarian entrants and eligible asylum seekers.

Depending on your specific family visa subclass, holders of certain family visas may be eligible for Medicare, but eligibility is not automatic and depends on the visa type and other factors.

Certain spouse visa holders are eligible for Medicare, particularly those who have applied for a permanent residence visa (subclass 820/801), are holding a valid temporary visa with work rights, or are from countries with reciprocal health care agreements.

Refugees and asylum seekers in Australia are eligible for Medicare mental health support, including accessing services like counselling and other mental health professionals through the Better Access Initiative.

How to enrol in Medicare

To enrol in Medicare, you need to complete a Medicare enrolment form and provide identification such as a passport or birth certificate. You can apply in person at a Services Australia service centre.

If you need help with understanding English, there is a free translator service available, as well as materials in your language.

Medicare vs Private Health Insurance 

While Medicare covers essential healthcare services, some Australians choose to pay for private health insurance to gain access to a wider range of services and avoid long waiting periods for non-emergency procedures in the public system.  

Private health insurance can provide benefits such as: 

• shorter wait times for elective surgeries 

• coverage for private hospital treatment 

• extras cover (e.g. dental, physiotherapy and optical services) 
  
  
• ambulance services (which Medicare does not cover in most states). 

For more information on private health insurance and whether it’s the right option for you, visit the Australian government’s website.

The SEE program can help you understand how to access the technology around Medicare services, ensuring that you can navigate Australia’s healthcare system with confidence. With SEE, you’ll get help to understand how to use technology like the Medicare website and app, and also get help with your reading and writing skills. 

Centrelink

What is Centrelink?

Centrelink is a government agency that provides financial assistance and support services to Australians in need. It helps individuals and families access social security (also called welfare) payments and services, ensuring they have financial support during different life circumstances such as unemployment, illness, disability, retirement and family care responsibilities. 

Centrelink plays a vital role in Australia’s social welfare system by offering support to those facing financial hardship or needing additional assistance to manage day-to-day living costs. If you are out of work and need money for living expenses, Centrelink can help you.

To get the most out of the support that Centrelink offers, you’ll need to be confident in using computers or apps. If you are not confident with using technology, the SEE program can help you. 

What services does Centrelink offer?

Centrelink offers a range of payments and services including: 

• income support payments (e.g. JobSeeker, Youth Allowance, Age Pension) 

• family assistance (e.g. Family Tax Benefit, Parenting Payment) 

• disability and carer support 

• crisis payments for emergencies. 

Who is eligible for Centrelink?

Whether you’re eligible for Centrelink depends on factors such as income, assets, residency status and personal circumstances. Each payment has specific eligibility requirements.

The Centrelink website has a helpful payment guide to determine which payments may be available to you.

Through the Skills for Education and Employment program, we’ll help you to develop the digital skills necessary to make the most of the Centrelink system and navigate it with confidence.

Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

What is the ATO?

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is the government organisation that collects taxes in Australia. Almost everyone in Australia pays tax – this money is used to fund important services like hospitals, schools, roads and emergency services. 

What services does the ATO offer?

The ATO provides services such as: 

• processing tax returns 

• managing the Medicare Levy 

• overseeing superannuation contributions 

• providing online tools to track your tax. 

Paying tax in Australia

If you work in Australia, your employer will automatically take tax from your wages and send it to the ATO. The amount of tax you pay depends on your income and tax bracket.

At the end of the financial year (30 June), you check if you paid the right amount by submitting a tax return. If you paid too much tax, the ATO will give you some money back. If you paid too little, you might need to pay extra tax. 

Tax File Number (TFN)

If you are new to Australia, it’s important to get a Tax File Number (TFN) so you don’t pay too much tax. Your TFN is a unique personal reference number provided by the ATO for tax and superannuation purposes. Your TFN is the same for life, even if you change jobs in Australia.

How to apply for a TFN

• You can apply for a TFN for free online through the ATO website. 

• If you are a new arrival in Australia, you can apply through a participating Australia Post outlet. 

• If you are a visa holder, you can apply once you have entered Australia. 

Superannuation in Australia 

Superannuation (or ‘super’) is a retirement savings system in Australia. Employers must contribute a percentage of an employee’s earnings (called the Superannuation Guarantee) into a super fund. The current rate is 11 per cent of earnings and is set to increase in future years, providing more money for your retirement. 

Superannuation funds invest your money for you, helping individuals build retirement savings over time. Employees can also choose to make extra contributions to increase their super. 

If you are new to Australia and working, it is important to choose a super fund or allow your employer to pay into a default fund of their choice. You can use your super when you retire or in some special cases. 

If you leave Australia permanently, you may be able to apply for a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP).

HousingVic

What is HousingVic?

HousingVic is managed by the Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing. This service provides information on housing and housing assistance in Victoria. It can help you find housing options including crisis and emergency counselling, public housing and private rentals.  

What services does HousingVic offer?

HousingVic’s online services allow users to: 

• apply for public housing 

• make rental payments 

• apply for a rental bond loan 

• access crisis and emergency housing support. 

Who is eligible for HousingVic?

Eligibility is based on income, residency status and personal circumstances. Those experiencing financial hardship or homelessness may qualify for assistance.

HousingVic’s online tool can help you find housing options that suit your needs. 

My Aged Care 

What is My Aged Care? 

My Aged Care is designed to connect older Australians with a range of services that help them live independently and with dignity. Whether you need assistance at home or require support in a residential care facility, My Aged Care provides the information and guidance you need to access services that meet your needs.

The system ensures that older Australians have access to the right services at the right time, enabling a more comfortable and fulfilling life in their later years. 

What services does My Aged Care offer? 

My Aged Care provides: 

• home care support (e.g. cleaning, meal delivery, personal care) 

• residential aged care facilities 

• short-term respite care 

• Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) assessments for care needs. 

Who is eligible for My Aged Care? 

Australian residents aged 65 and over (or 50 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples) may be eligible for aged care services. 

Visit the My Aged Care website for more information on how to get started with accessing aged care services for yourself or a loved one. 

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) 

What is the NDIS? 

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides personalised support and funding to people living with significant and permanent disabilities. Its goal is to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities by helping them access the services, supports and equipment they need to achieve their goals and live more independently.

The NDIS helps participants by offering flexibility in the support they receive, ensuring that their care is tailored to their individual circumstances. 

What services does the NDIS offer? 

The NDIS funds: 

• personal care and support 

• assistive technology (e.g. wheelchairs, communication devices) 

• therapeutic support (e.g. physiotherapy, speech therapy) 

• home and vehicle modifications. 

Who is eligible for the NDIS? 

To qualify for the NDIS, individuals must: 

• be under 65 years old 

• have a permanent and significant disability 

• be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a protected special category visa. 

Visit the NDIS website for more information on eligibility.

Workforce Australia 

What is Workforce Australia? 

Workforce Australia supports job seekers and helps businesses find the right employees. This service provides resources to help individuals find meaningful employment while supporting employers with training programs.

Whether you’re looking to re-enter the workforce, gain new skills or start a new career, Workforce Australia can help. They also assist employers in building a skilled workforce that meets their needs, contributing to a stronger Australian economy. 

What services does Workforce Australia offer? 

Workforce Australia provides: 

• job search assistance and career advice 

• employment and training programs 

• wage help for employers hiring eligible job seekers 

• support for starting a business. 

Who is eligible for Workforce Australia? 

Eligibility varies but typically includes Australian citizens and permanent residents who are unemployed or underemployed.

For additional employment support, Navitas Skilled Futures offers the Skills for Education and Employment program. This program provides support and training in language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills, giving you the confidence you need to prepare for work or further study.

This free course is funded by the Australian government and provides tailored support to help you: 

• identify jobs that match your skills 

• prepare for interview success 

• improve workplace communication 

• use digital technology 

• manage money and finances. 

Through SEE, we assist participants in engaging with Workforce Australia. This is particularly useful for those receiving JobSeeker payments through Centrelink, as the SEE program can help you fulfill your reporting obligations.

These obligations are tracked using Workforce Australia’s Points Based Activation System (PBAS). Through this system, you have the flexibility to choose which activities you’d like to complete to help you meet your individual points target – one of these activities can be completing the SEE program!

You can study the SEE program with us for as long as you need. It’s available to all Australians, whether you’re from a non-English speaking background or you’re a native English speaker.

You can enrol directly with Navitas Skilled Futures or via a referral from your Workforce Australia consultant.

You can also visit our Workforce Australia blog post to learn more. 

Navigating Services Australia: Our Final Thoughts 

Navigating the government services available in Australia may seem like a daunting task but understanding what’s available and how to access it can enhance your wellbeing in many ways.

From healthcare and employment to social welfare and housing, these services are designed to improve quality of life for all Australians. By knowing what each service offers and whether you’re eligible, you can make empowered decisions and access the resources that will help you succeed

For support in navigating these services, and building the skills you need to confidently use them by yourself, the SEE program is here to help. Explore the SEE program today.