Change of address checklist when moving in Australia: ATO, Medicare, Centrelink

Why no single update covers everything

Australia has no centralised government address database — each agency maintains its own records independently. Moving without updating all relevant parties can mean missing tax assessments, fine notices, bank cards, visa correspondence or Centrelink letters.

Priority 1: Update within 7 days

ATO (Australian Taxation Office)

• Via myGov → ATO → My profile → My details
• Or directly at ato.gov.au/updateaddress
• Critical: tax refunds, notices of assessment and HECS correspondence go to the address on file.

Medicare / Services Australia

• Via myGov → Medicare → Personal details
• Or call 132 011, or visit a Service Centre

Centrelink (if receiving any payment)

• Via myGov → Centrelink → Update contact details
• Or call the relevant payment line
• Legally required within 14 days of moving if receiving any Centrelink payment — failure may cause payment suspension.

Bank accounts and credit cards

• Each bank has its own app or branch process
• Critical for: statements, replacement cards, identity verification

Driver’s licence

• Each state has different notification timeframes (typically 1–3 months)
• NSW: Service NSW website or app; VIC: VicRoads; QLD: TMR

Priority 2: Update within 30 days

Vehicle registration (rego)

• Same authority as your driver’s licence (Service NSW, VicRoads…)
• Fine notices and rego renewal letters go to the registered address

Local council

• If you own the property: update to receive rates notices
• If renting: your landlord or agent handles the council record; you may optionally notify

ASIC (if you have a company or ABN registered)

• asic.gov.au → ASIC Connect
• Company directors must keep their registered address current

Electoral roll

• aec.gov.au or the AEC app
• Necessary to receive correct polling place information

AHPRA (if you are a registered health practitioner)

• myAHPRA portal

Priority 3: Update within 60 days

• Australia Post mail redirection: A temporary redirect (~$35 for 3 months) during the transition buys time to complete all updates without missing mail.
• Employer / payroll department
• Private health insurance, car insurance, home insurance
• Superannuation fund
• Loyalty programs, subscription services
• Children’s schools

Practical tip: myGov first

Start with myGov — updating your address there simultaneously updates ATO and Medicare (and Centrelink if linked). This single action covers the three highest-priority government agencies in one step.

Then set up Australia Post mail redirection from the old address — this catches anything that still goes to the old address while you work through the rest of the checklist.