Welcome to Australia! Moving to a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming. To help you settle in smoothly, here are the top ten things Filipino immigrants need to know when arriving in Australia. From where to find Filipino food to where to buy groceries, we've got you covered.

1. Finding Filipino Food
Australia boasts a diverse culinary scene, and Filipino food is no exception. In cities like Sydney and Melbourne, you’ll find a variety of Filipino restaurants and eateries. Some popular spots include:
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‍Sydney: Visit "La Mesa" in Haymarket for authentic Filipino dishes like adobo, sinigang, and halo-halo. "Pamana" in Rooty Hill also offers a delicious array of traditional Filipino meals.
‍Melbourne: Check out "Dahon Gourmet Tea Lounge" in Brunswick for a cozy Filipino dining experience, or "Sampaguita Fil-Asian Grocery and Restaurant" in Footscray for a taste of home.
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2. Buying Filipino Groceries
Missing the taste of home? You can find Filipino groceries in many Asian supermarkets across Australia. For convenience, you can shop online using the Mabuhey groceries app. Mabuhey offers a wide range of Filipino products and delivers straight to your door, making it easy to stock up on your favourite ingredients without leaving your home.
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You can also check out Filipino stores, although they may be some long travels needed:
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Sydney: "Filipino Food Store" in Blacktown offers a wide range of Filipino products from snacks to condiments. "Chona’s Filipino Asian Store" in Fairfield is another excellent option.
Melbourne: "Kalas Filipino Asian Groceries" in St Albans is a popular choice for Filipino ingredients. "Philippine Asian Grocery" in Footscray also stocks a variety of Filipino goods.

3. Exploring the Local Culture
Australia is a melting pot of cultures, and there are numerous festivals and events celebrating this diversity. Join in on the fun and learn about Australian customs by attending local events and festivals.

Sydney: Attend the annual Sydney Festival in January, which showcases music, dance, and theater from around the world.
Melbourne: Experience the Moomba Festival in March, a family-friendly event featuring a parade, carnival, and fireworks.

4. Connecting with the Filipino Community
Connecting with fellow Filipinos can make your transition smoother. Many cities have Filipino community organizations and social groups. Joining these can help you make friends, find support, and stay connected to your roots.

Sydney: The Philippine Australian Community Services Inc. (PACSI) offers various community programs and events.
Melbourne: The Filipino Community Council of Victoria (FCCVI) provides support and organizes cultural activities.

5. Navigating Public Transportation
Australia has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trains, and trams. Get familiar with the local transport options and consider getting a travel card like the Opal card in Sydney or the Myki card in Melbourne for easy commuting.

‍Sydney: Use the Opal card for seamless travel across trains, buses, ferries, and light rail. The Sydney Trains network covers the city and its suburbs extensively.

‍Melbourne: The Myki card works on trains, trams, and buses throughout Melbourne and regional Victoria. The tram network in Melbourne’s CBD is particularly convenient.

6. Understanding Healthcare
Australia has a world-class healthcare system. As a resident, you’ll have access to Medicare, which covers many medical services. It’s important to register for a Medicare card as soon as you arrive. Additionally, consider getting private health insurance for added coverage.

‍Registering for Medicare: Visit a Medicare Service Centre with your passport and visa details to register.
Private Health Insurance: Companies like Bupa, Medibank, and HCF offer various health insurance plans tailored to different needs.

7. Exploring Outdoor Activities
Australia is known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. From beaches to national parks, there’s plenty to explore. Popular activities include:

Beaches: Bondi Beach in Sydney and Surfers Paradise in Queensland are iconic spots for sunbathing and surfing.
National Parks: The Great Ocean Road in Victoria offers breathtaking coastal views, while Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory is rich in Aboriginal culture and wildlife.

8. Understanding Australian Slang
Australians love their slang, and it can be quite different from what you’re used to. Learning a few common phrases can help you communicate better and blend in.

Common Phrases: "Arvo" means afternoon, "brekkie" means breakfast, "mate" is a friendly term for a friend, and "barbie" refers to a barbecue.

9. Finding Employment
Australia offers a range of job opportunities, but it’s essential to understand the local job market. Tailor your resume to Australian standards and utilize job search websites like Seek and Indeed. Networking is also crucial, so attend industry events and connect with professionals in your field.

Job Search Websites: Seek, Indeed, and LinkedIn are popular platforms for job hunting.
Networking Events: Look for industry-specific meetups and events on platforms like Eventbrite and Meetup.

10. Embracing the Aussie LifestyleAustralians are known for their laid-back lifestyle and love for the outdoors. Embrace the local way of life by participating in BBQs, sporting events, and weekend getaways. Building relationships with locals can enrich your experience and help you feel more at home.

BBQs: Join community BBQs at local parks and beaches. It’s a great way to meet new people and enjoy the Australian tradition.
Sporting Events: Attend a cricket match, AFL game, or rugby league match to immerse yourself in Australian sports culture.

Moving to Australia from the Philippines is a big step, but with these tips, you’ll find it easier to settle in and enjoy your new home. Don't forget to stock up on your favorite Filipino groceries using the Mabuhey groceries app and enjoy the best of both worlds. Welcome to Australia!