Do I receive social welfare and unemployment benefit immediately upon arrival in Australia?
NO. Strict rules for newly landed migrants mean that it is not possible to claim social welfare benefits for the first 2 years after entering the country. This restriction applies to unemployment benefits, but not family benefits, maternity allowances or the state health-care insurance, Medicare, all of which are available upon arrival. However, if you encounter unexpected financial difficulties and there are genuine grounds for hardship, exceptions can sometimes be made.
