The Ultimate Change of Address Checklist Australia [2025]

Whether you’re relocating for a fresh start, a new job, or simply shifting suburbs, one thing is guaranteed—it’s easy to forget things when life’s in boxes. Updating your address may sound like a minor task, but if you miss even one key organisation, it can lead to missed bills, lost mail, unpaid fines, or worse—identity theft.

That’s why Book A Move built this step-by-step, ultra-practical change of address checklist for Australia. It’s designed from your point of view—busy, tired, probably juggling 100 other things—and we’re here to make sure this one is done smoothly and completely.

Let’s dive in.

Why Updating Your Address Matters (More Than You Think)

You may be tempted to update just a few services and “figure out the rest later.” But here’s the thing: your address is connected to your financial identity, your government records, and your everyday convenience.

Failure to update it with even one critical provider could result in:

  • Missed insurance renewals
  • Disrupted utilities
  • Identity fraud
  • Late payment fees or fines
  • Lost tax refunds or voting rights


So while it feels like a boring admin task, doing it right means peace of mind in your new home.

Download Our Printable Change of Address Checklist

1. Start with the Essentials (Before Moving Day)

You should begin updating your address at least two weeks before your move. Some services may take time to update their records.

 

Australia Post Mail Redirection

Your first step: Set up a mail redirection with Australia Post.

Australia Post can redirect any mail arriving at your previous home to your new address for a chosen duration, giving you time to update your details everywhere.

  • Options: 1, 3, 6 or 12 months
  • Cost: Starts from approx. $33 for 1 month (as of 2025)

Redirect your mail here

2. Government and Legal Bodies

Changing your address with the right government departments keeps you compliant, secure, and eligible for important services.

 

Medicare

You can change your address with Medicare either by logging into your myGov account or by reaching out to their support line.

This ensures your medical records are up to date and that your new GP can access them if needed.

 

Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

Update via myGov to avoid missing important tax notices and refund alerts.

 

Centrelink & Services Australia

Receiving benefits? A change of address could impact your entitlements. Notify Services Australia via your myGov account.

 

Australian Electoral Commission (AEC)

You’re legally required to update your enrolment if you move. Do it online at the AEC website.

 

Department of Transport (State-based)

This one’s easy to miss but very important! Your driver’s licence, vehicle registration, and toll tags all need your current address.

Here’s how it works state-wise:

Some states require updates within 14 days to avoid fines.

3. Utilities & Household Essentials

There’s nothing worse than arriving at your new home only to find the internet’s down, the gas is off, or there’s no water. Get these sorted before the move.

 

Electricity & Gas Providers

Notify your current provider about your move so they can disconnect/reconnect your service, or switch to a new provider.

Compare providers for a better deal—moving is a great chance to save money.

 

Water Supplier

This may be managed by your council or a third-party supplier (like Sydney Water or Yarra Valley Water). Ensure you’re billed correctly from your move-in date.

 

Internet and Phone

Notify your NBN or mobile provider (Telstra, Optus, TPG, etc.) at least 7 days in advance.
This gives them time to transfer your service or set up new connections.

4. Financial Institutions & Insurance

Banks and Credit Unions

Log into your online banking or visit a branch to update your records. This helps:

  • Prevent ID fraud
  • Ensure you receive new cards
  • Keep contact info current for account recovery

 

Common banks:

  • Commonwealth Bank
  • ANZ
  • NAB
  • Westpac
  • ING
  • Bendigo Bank

 

Superannuation Fund

If your super fund doesn’t have your current details, you might miss vital account or beneficiary info.

 

Health, Home & Car Insurance

Update your address with every insurance provider to ensure:

  • Your coverage remains valid
  • Your premium is calculated correctly
  • You receive renewal reminders

Your new address might offer discounts—especially for car or home contents insurance.

5. Education & Childcare

Schools and Universities

Let the administration know your new address. This affects everything from transport eligibility to emergency contacts.

 

Daycare and After-school Care

Update your child’s records to ensure staff can reach you and mail (like invoices or newsletters) goes to the right place.

6. Subscriptions, Shopping & Memberships

It’s easy to overlook your subscriptions until a birthday gift or online order shows up at the wrong address.

Streaming Services

Netflix, Stan, Disney+, Kayo—you may want to update your region or payment details depending on your move.

Online Shopping Platforms

Update saved addresses on:

  • Amazon
  • eBay
  • Myer
  • Woolworths/Coles online
  • Uber Eats, DoorDash

Magazines, Newspapers &Loyalty Cards

Ensure you continue receiving your favourite reads and rewards by notifying:

  • Qantas Frequent Flyer
  • Flybuys
  • Everyday Rewards
  • Magshop

7. Workplace & Professional Services

Employer & Payroll

If you’re on a payroll system, make sure your HR or payroll department updates your address for:

  • Payslips
  • Payment summaries
  • Emergency contact


Accountant, Lawyer or Real Estate Agent

If you have a solicitor or financial advisor, make sure your contact details are accurate for sensitive documents.

8. Local Council & Pet Registration

Yes, even your furry friends need to be moved—legally.

 

Council Rates and Waste Collection

Inform your new local council to set up rate payments, bin collection, and other community services.

 

Pet Microchipping and Registration

Update your pet’s microchip registry with your new address and council. Some councils require re-registration if you move to a different area.

9. Health & Emergency Services

GP, Dentist & Specialists

Ask for your records to be transferred or update your file directly at the clinic.

This is crucial for continuity of care—especially if you’re on medication.

 

Private Health Fund

Let your insurer know in case your policy or coverage is affected by state-based health providers.

 

Ambulance Cover (State-based)

Each state has its own rules. For example, VIC residents pay via a subscription, while QLD covers all residents through state funding. Check and update your status accordingly.

10. Friends, Family & Miscellaneous

And most importantly, remember the personal touches—moving isn’t just logistics, it’s a life transition.

 

Notify Your Inner Circle

Send a quick group message or email to family and close friends—especially those who might visit or send you parcels.

 

Update Your Address Book & Calendar Apps

This is helpful for people who sync events or reminders like birthdays and anniversaries.

How to Stay Organised

  • Use a spreadsheet: List every category above and track dates updated.
  • Download our free printable address checklist
  • Set reminders: A week after moving, follow up on mail redirection to catch anything missed.
  • Keep proof: Screenshot or save confirmation emails for changes you made.
  • Redirect spam too: If you’re moving out of a shared space, consider changing passwords on shared accounts and unsubscribing from old mailing lists.

Wrapping Up

Changing your address isn’t just a task—it’s a transition. It’s the final piece of your move that ties the old with the new and helps you step into your next chapter fully prepared.

With this Change of Address Checklist Australia, you won’t miss a beat.

No more lost mail. No more overdue fines. No more running back to your old place to pick up packages.

Just a smoother, calmer move—and a properly updated new life.

writer's bio

Alice

Alice, an ace content strategist and writer with years of experience crafting compelling narratives across diverse industries, excels at turning complex topics into engaging, easy-to-understand content. Known for her knack for blending storytelling with strategic insight. Alice creates blogs, articles, and press releases that not only inform but also resonate with readers. Her dedication to understanding industry trends and audience needs ensures every piece he writes delivers value, clarity, and impact. Whether it’s simplifying gold trading insights, curating coffee shop strategies, or championing local businesses, Alice’s words leave a lasting impression.