Useful Apps and Social Media to Assist in Your Relocation
MANAGING YOUR MOVE MORE EFFECTIVELY:
USING APPS AND SOCIAL MEDIA
(source: http://www.connectingup.org/blog/developing-mobile-apps-not-profits-%E2%80%93-where-start)
Relocating to a new city or country can often be overwhelming in light of the new location and surroundings, transport systems and general unfamiliarity with the new environment. However, there are a number of apps available on Smartphone, Tablets and Android devices as well as social media websites that can assist to make your move a smoother transition. The format allows you to keep up to date on information anytime, anywhere so that your move can be carried out in an efficient and successful manner.
TRANSPORT
The major transportation networks in States and Territories have a number of applications and twitter feeds available on Apple and Android devices which can provide information on train, tram and bus routes including your nearest transport option, and the estimated time of travel. Many of the apps also allow you to plan your trip in advance by providing information on wheelchair access, any disruptions to services and also transport routes that have rain shelters. Some useful transport apps and social media sites:
VIC: Tram Tracker
SA: Adelaide Metro
WA: Perth Public Transport
NSW: Transport for NSW
QLD: Go Brisbane
NT: Translink
TAS: Metro Tasmania Twitter
ACT: Action Bus Users
SAFETY
The state and territory police forces also have a number of ways to keep up to date about events in your local community including power outages, weather warnings and information on criminal activity that may affect your safety.
VIC:
https://www.facebook.com/victoriapolice
https://twitter.com/VictoriaPolice
SA:
https://www.facebook.com/SouthAustraliaPolice/
https://twitter.com/SAPoliceNews
WA:
https://twitter.com/WA_Police
https://www.facebook.com/WA.Police
NSW:
https://www.facebook.com/nswpoliceforce
https://twitter.com/nswpolice
QLD:
https://www.facebook.com/QueenslandPolice
https://twitter.com/QPSmedia
NT:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Northern-Territory-Police-Force/143359822402689
https://twitter.com/ntpolice
TAS:
https://twitter.com/TasmaniaPolice
https://www.facebook.com/Tas.Police/notes
ACT:
https://twitter.com/ACTPol_Traffic
https://www.facebook.com/AusFedPolice/
Also try downloading the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s ‘SmartTraveller’ app that can help you to make decision about the safest places to travel.
WEATHER
To ensure that you’re always prepared and dressed appropriately in your new climate, there are weather apps available that give you up to date information on your Android, Tablet or Smartphone about weather conditions across Australia.
Weather Zone
The sun in Australia can be particularly harsh, download the SunSmart app from the Bureau of Meteorology to quickly find out the UV level and the times when you should be seeking protection from the sun.
Also try downloading the Australian Government’s DisasterWatch Phone App which provides regularly updated information:
DisasterWatch Phone App
CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT
The following links provide information on different types of apps endorsed by state and territory governments, that provide information on a range of activities including travel guides, shopping and arts events.
VIC:
Visitmelbourne.com
Broadsheet Melbourne
SA:
sa.gov.au
WA:
Tourism WA
NSW:
Broadsheet Sydney
QLD:
Tourism Queensland
NT:
Northern Territory – Australia’s Outback
Travel NT
TAS:
Tasmania Travel Companion
ACT:
The Canberra Guide
AUSTRALIA:
Australia.com