once u get PR, you become eligible for medicare (funded by the government). every Aust permanent resident/citizen has one. that means you dont need a job/ company to sponsor your and your family's health insurance. but if you wish to have private coverage in addition, theres plenty for you to choose. public transport is fantastic, at least in sydney! theres the trains, buses, cabs, ferries all at your disposal. and it is quite cheap. and they run around the clock. i am not sure about social security and all..maybe someone can shed some light on this.