Australia Explained

Access to safe drinking water is essential, and Australia’s often harsh environment means that our drinking water supplies are especially precious. With differences in the availability and quality of drinking water across the country, how do we know if it’s safe to drink? In this episode we get water experts to answer this question and more.

Many Australians love rolling up their sleeves and undertaking their own home improvements. But before you grab a hammer or paintbrush, it’s essential to understand the rules and risks so you can renovate safely and legally.

Education is a pathway to opportunity, but for too long, Indigenous students in Australia have faced barriers to success. While challenges remain, positive change is happening. In this episode we’ll hear from Indigenous education experts and students about what’s working, why cultural education matters and how Indigenous and Western knowledge can come together to benefit all students.

Did you know that people offering taxi services from home need to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST)—regardless of how much they earn? Or that a fitness instructor needs local council approval to see clients at home? In this episode, we unpack the basic rules you need to know when setting up a home-based business in Australia.

At some stage you will probably need help from a Justice of the Peace. It may be to prove your identity, to make an insurance claim or to certify copies of your legal documents in your language. JPs are trained volunteers who play a crucial role in the community by helping maintain the integrity of our legal system. So what exactly does a JP do and where can we find one when we need their services?

In Australia, alcohol is often portrayed as part of social life—especially at BBQs, sporting events, and public holidays. Customs like BYO, where you bring your own drinks to gatherings, and 'shouting' rounds at the pub are part of the culture. However, because of the health risks associated with alcohol, there are regulations in place. It’s also important to understand the laws around the legal drinking age, where you can buy or consume alcohol, and how these rules vary across states and territories.

The representation of Indigenous Australians in media has historically been shaped by stereotypes and exclusion, but this is gradually changing. Indigenous platforms like National Indigenous Television (NITV) and social media are breaking barriers, empowering First Nations voices, and fostering a more inclusive understanding of Australia’s diverse cultural identity. Learning about these changes offers valuable insight into the country’s true history, its ongoing journey toward equity, and the rich cultures that form the foundation of modern Australia. Understanding Indigenous perspectives is also an important step toward respectful connection and shared belonging.

Home and contents insurance is a safety net many households expect to rely on during difficult times. But it’s also a financial product that even experts can find challenging to navigate. Whether you own or rent your home, understanding your level of cover, knowing what fine print to look out for, and learning how to manage rising premiums can help you make more informed choices as a consumer.

Australia may be known for its beaches, but its snowfields offer unforgettable winter experiences—whether you're skiing, tobogganing, throwing snowballs, or seeing snow for the very first time. In this episode, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know for a snow trip, from what to pack and where to go, to how to stay safe, warm, and ready for fun.

A free, independent and diverse press is a fundamental pillar of democracy. Australia has two taxpayer-funded networks that serve the public interest (ABC and SBS), plus a variety of commercial and community media outlets. Although publicly funded media receives money from the government, it is unlike the state-sponsored outlets found overseas.

Do you know someone who makes an extraordinary impact in the community? It could be a person from any background or field of endeavour. You can help celebrate their achievements by nominating them for an Order of Australia. The more we recognise extraordinary members within our communities, the more Australia’s true diversity is reflected in the Australian honours list.

Australia has a dark chapter of history that many are still learning about. Following European settlement, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children were removed from their families and forced into non-Indigenous society. The trauma and abuse they experienced left deep scars, and the pain still echoes through the generations. But communities are creating positive change. Today these people are recognised as survivors of the Stolen Generations.

Last year alone, over 3,200 romance scams were reported by Australians, resulting in losses of more than 23 million dollars. Three experts explain how scammers operate, the red flags to watch for, and what to do if you’re the victim of a romance scam.

Australia’s beautiful landscape is home to a stunning array of native plants and wildlife, and if you’re heading out to explore, it’s important to be a careful and respectful visitor.

Visiting the emergency department with a sick or injured child can overwhelm parents due to long wait times and stress. Understanding what to expect can help. This episode explores when to go to children's hospital emergency departments in Australia and what to expect upon arrival.