Australia has a unique set of terms and abbreviations that can be confusing for new arrivals.
If you’re a Filipino or any other migrant moving to Australia — or just visiting — you’ll quickly notice that Aussies love to shorten words and use terms that don’t always have direct translations.
These aren’t just slang words; they’re often part of government services, healthcare, shopping, and daily life.
Understanding these terms can make life in Australia a lot easier, from getting medical care to applying for government support or even just paying for groceries. Here’s a guide to some of the most common Australian terms you’ll encounter.
Bulk billing: free medical visits with Medicare
In Australia, you’ll often see doctors and clinics offering “bulk billing.” This means that instead of you paying upfront for a visit, the clinic charges Medicare (Australia’s universal health insurance) directly.
If a clinic bulk bills, it usually means you don’t have to pay anything out of pocket for that visit — as long as you’re eligible and have a valid Medicare card.
For many Filipinos, this can be a surprise because in the Philippines, you typically pay upfront even if you have PhilHealth coverage. In Australia, bulk billing clinics make it simpler to see a doctor without worrying about cash.
Example:
“I found a bulk billing GP near my place, so I don’t have to pay anything for a consultation.”
EFTPOS: convenient card payments
EFTPOS stands for “Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale.” This is Australia’s term for card payments — whether it’s a debit card or a credit card.
Almost every shop, café, or petrol station has an EFTPOS machine, and you’ll often see a sign that says “EFTPOS available.”
For Filipinos who are used to paying cash for small purchases, it’s good to know that Aussies prefer using EFTPOS or “tap and go” (contactless payments) for almost everything.
Example:
“I forgot to withdraw cash, but no worries — I can just pay by EFTPOS at the supermarket.”
TFN: Tax File Number
One of the first things you’ll hear when you start working in Australia is “TFN,” which stands for Tax File Number. It’s a unique number assigned by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) that you’ll need to work legally, file taxes, and receive any tax refunds.
If you’re moving from the Philippines to Australia on a working visa or permanent residency, you’ll need to apply for a TFN online. Without it, your employer will have to withhold tax at a much higher rate from your pay.
Example:
“Make sure you apply for your TFN as soon as you arrive — you’ll need it to start working.”
ABN: Australian Business Number
If you’re planning to start a small business, freelance, or be self-employed in Australia, you’ll likely need an ABN, or Australian Business Number. This is a unique number for businesses and self-employed workers, used to invoice clients and report income to the ATO.
Unlike a TFN, which is for employees, an ABN is essential for anyone running a business or working as a contractor.
Example:
“I’m going to start my own cleaning service, so I need to apply for an ABN to invoice my clients.”
Centrelink: government assistance and payments
Centrelink is the agency that handles social support payments in Australia. Whether you’re looking for financial help while studying, finding work, or supporting a family, Centrelink is the place to go.
As a new migrant or permanent resident, you may be eligible for some payments (like Family Tax Benefit) once you meet the residency requirements. It’s important to understand that eligibility for Centrelink payments can depend on your visa type and how long you’ve lived in Australia.
Example:
“My friend applied for Centrelink support when he lost his job — they helped him get through a tough time.”
ATO: Australian Taxation Office
The ATO (Australian Taxation Office) is the government agency that manages taxes. It’s responsible for collecting income tax, superannuation (retirement savings), and ensuring businesses and individuals meet their tax obligations.
You’ll hear “ATO” mentioned a lot when you start working, do your tax return, or check your superannuation contributions.
Example:
“The ATO has an online portal where you can see your tax and super information easily.”
Medicare: public healthcare system
Medicare is Australia’s public healthcare system. It covers part or all of the costs for visits to doctors, specialists, and public hospitals. As a permanent resident or citizen, you’ll get a Medicare card, which you’ll use whenever you visit a GP or hospital.
For many Filipinos, this is similar to PhilHealth, but Medicare usually covers more basic healthcare services at no cost if bulk billed.
Example:
“Don’t forget to bring your Medicare card when you visit the doctor — it’s how they bulk bill the appointment.”
GST: goods and services tax
GST stands for Goods and Services Tax, a 10% tax added to most purchases in Australia. Unlike the Philippines where VAT (Value Added Tax) is also 12%, GST is already included in the displayed price, so you don’t have to calculate it separately.
This makes shopping easier because the price you see on the tag is what you’ll actually pay at the checkout.
Example:
“I noticed there’s a 10% GST on everything I buy, but it’s already included in the price.”
Opal card: transport made easy (NSW only)
If you’re in New South Wales (including Sydney), you’ll need an Opal card for public transport. It’s a prepaid card you tap when you get on and off buses, trains, and ferries.
Similar to how Beep cards work in the Philippines, Opal cards are essential for getting around the city. Other states like Victoria use Myki cards, while Queensland uses the Go card.
Example:
“I always load money onto my Opal card so I don’t have to buy tickets every day.”
Final thoughts: adjusting to Aussie abbreviations
Moving to Australia means picking up a lot of new terms — and it’s not just slang. These official terms like TFN, ABN, ATO, and Centrelink will quickly become part of your everyday vocabulary.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand a term. Many newcomers find that once they get the hang of these abbreviations, life in Australia becomes a lot simple.