The Answer
📦
Driver's licence, car rego, electoral roll, Medicare, and everything else that changes when you move to New South Wales.
What You Must Update When Moving to NSW
| What | Deadline | NSW Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Driver's licence | Usually 3 months | Transfer to a NSW licence at the transport authority |
| Car registration | Usually 3 months | CTP: Competitive — buy a Green Slip from 6 approved insurers. May need a roadworthy/safety inspection. |
| Electoral roll | 8 weeks | Update at aec.gov.au — you must enrol at your new address |
| Medicare | ASAP | Update through myGov — address change only, same card |
| ATO | ASAP | Update through myGov — affects your tax return address |
| Centrelink | Within 14 days | If receiving payments — your rate may change |
| Health insurance | ASAP | Ambulance cover in NSW: Not free — $401 callout + $3.62/km. Concession card holders may be covered. |
State-Specific Costs
Moving to NSW means different costs for rego, CTP, and everyday expenses:
- Car rego + CTP: Competitive — buy a Green Slip from 6 approved insurers
- Ambulance: Not free — $401 callout + $3.62/km. Concession card holders may be covered.
- Energy rebate (if concession card holder): $285–$350/year for concession card holders
- Working with children check: Your existing check from another state is NOT valid in NSW. Apply for a new Working With Children Check: Free for volunteers, $80 for paid workers (5 years). Apply here.
Things That Don't Change
Your TFN, Medicare number, super, ABN, passport, and federal payments (FTB, CCS) stay the same nationally. You just need to update your address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a new driver's licence when I move to NSW?
Yes. You generally need to transfer to a NSW licence within 3 months of moving. Visit https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/get-nsw-driver-licence
Do I need a new working with children check in NSW?
Yes. Working with children checks are state-specific. In NSW it's called the Working With Children Check and costs Free for volunteers, $80 for paid workers (5 years).
Is ambulance free in NSW?
Not free — $401 callout + $3.62/km. Concession card holders may be covered.
What Changed
Apr 2026
Verified for New South Wales