Your first 48 hours in Australia: do these five things first

A lot of backpackers start work before applying for a Tax File Number, and more tax comes out of their pay.

So in your first 48 hours, do these five things, in this order.

One: get a local SIM or eSIM. It's the number employers will call. The telco has to check your ID, so have your passport and an address ready. Two: open a bank account. Nearly all jobs pay straight into one. In your first six weeks, Home Affairs says your passport should be all the ID you need. After that, you'll need more.

Three: apply for your Tax File Number on the ATO website once you're in Australia. It's free, so don't pay anyone. It's posted out and should arrive within 28 days. If a job starts first, tell your boss you've applied. You then have 28 days to hand it over.

Four: city transport. In Sydney you can tap on and off with the same contactless card or phone, and pay the same fares as Opal. Other cities differ, so check the local transport site. Five: have a few nights booked, so you're not hunting for a bed and a job at the same time. Then start the job hunt.

There's a free arrival checklist at backpackaus.com.au. New tip every week.