The Answer
📦
Driver's licence, car rego, electoral roll, Medicare, and everything else that changes when you move to South Australia.
What You Must Update When Moving to SA
| What | Deadline | SA Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Driver's licence | Usually 3 months | Transfer to a SA licence at the transport authority |
| Car registration | Usually 3 months | CTP: Competitive — included in registration. 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 SA: Not free — $270–$4,653 depending on distance. SA Ambulance cover: $106/yr single, $211/yr family. |
State-Specific Costs
Moving to SA means different costs for rego, CTP, and everyday expenses:
- Car rego + CTP: Competitive — included in registration
- Ambulance: Not free — $270–$4,653 depending on distance. SA Ambulance cover: $106/yr single, $211/yr family.
- Energy rebate (if concession card holder): $258/year for concession card holders
- Working with children check: Your existing check from another state is NOT valid in SA. Apply for a new Working With Children Check (DCSI Screening): Free for volunteers, $115.50 for paid workers, $63.25 for students (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 SA?
Yes. You generally need to transfer to a SA licence within 3 months of moving. Visit https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/driving-and-transport/licences
Do I need a new working with children check in SA?
Yes. Working with children checks are state-specific. In SA it's called the Working With Children Check (DCSI Screening) and costs Free for volunteers, $115.50 for paid workers, $63.25 for students (5 years).
Is ambulance free in SA?
Not free — $270–$4,653 depending on distance. SA Ambulance cover: $106/yr single, $211/yr family.
What Changed
Apr 2026
Verified for South Australia