Australia – Useful Information

The last continent to be explored by Europeans, Australia is a vast, unique, and contrasting land. Known for its unusual animal and plant life, Australia also boasts many beautiful cosmopolitan cities. In less than 200 years, the first English settlers (convicts) have combined with people from around the world to create today’s Australia, one of the most diverse and inspiring countries.

Such a large and varied place offers an enormous amount of options for visitors. City slickers will love Sydney and Melbourne for all their cosmopolitan flair. Outdoor lovers might head north to the Great Barrier Reef or south to the wilds of Tasmania. Food and wine enthusiasts can sample the vintages from any number of wine regions and savor the fresh cuisines which have put Australia on gourmet roadmap. No matter your age, your interests or the amount of time you have to visit, there’s something for everyone Downunder.

Size, Location, Population
As you start planning your vacation to Australia, keep in mind that the island of Australia is roughly the size of the USA. The majority of Australia's 21 million people live in the cities which line the country's eastern coastline; the center of Australia is a vast and mysterious desert, fondly referred to as "the Outback".

Most visitors to Australia who have a limited amount of time choose to fly between Australia’s major cities. There are half a dozen domestic airlines in Australia offering regular flights at reasonable prices and- surprisingly to many Americans- snacks, pillows and smiling service.

However, those with more time or looking to explore a specific region should definitely consider renting a car. Although Aussies drive on the opposite side to Americans, most visitors find driving in Australia to be reasonably easy with an excellent infrastructure throughout most of the country.

Language
English is the official language in Australia, and you will hear many of the colorful local expressions which make up part of the unforgettable Aussie experience. If you don’t understand the first time, do not hesitate to ask questions. The Australian people are some of the friendliest and most endearing people in the world.

Climate
Australia covers 30 degrees of latitude and is roughly the same size as the continental USA, so there is a wide variation in climate. About 30% of the continent is in the tropical, while southern regions are temperate. Remember that the seasons in Australia are opposite to those in the northern Hemisphere. Summer is December- February. Winter is June through August. In Australia, Santa arrives wearing a swim suit!

In the northern tropical zone (Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, the Outback) there are two seasons: Summer (wet- hot and rainy) and Winter (dry). Also during summer months some beaches in tropical North Queensland may be closed for swimming due to the presence of poisonous ‘stingers’ in the sea.

The southern temperate areas (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Tasmania) have four seasons, in winter averaging 50°F and in summer 80-90°F. Sydney is boats a warmer climate, similar to that of Los Angeles; Melbourne is more like San Francisco with locals joking that Melbourne can see all four season is just one day.

Australian National Holidays

1 January New Year's Day
26 January Australia Day
25 April Anzac Day
9 June Queen's Birthday
6 October Labor Day
25 December Christmas Day
26 December Boxing Day

Shopping
You’ll find no shortage of shopping opportunities in Australia. The big cities boast world-class shopping areas featuring both Australian made goods as well as international brands; make sure to put signature Australian goods such as Akubra hats, Driza-Bone bushman raincoats, Aboriginal handicrafts, boomerangs, didgeridoos and wool products on your shopping list. For those looking for the ultimate souvenir, consider one of Australia’s legendary opals or coveted pearls, available at any number of shops through out the country.

What to Wear
The typical Australian lifestyle is laid-back and informal. The accepted norm is to dress for comfort and weather.

We recommend you pack lightweight, comfortable clothes and shoes, while a sun hat and sunscreen are essential. Unless you are attending a special event or dining in a top restaurant, evenings in Australia call for no more than “smart casual” attire.

If you’re visiting during winter (June to September), leave space for a jacket or sweater especially is you’re visiting the southern half of Australia.

Currency
The Australian unit of currency is the Australian dollar (AUD, $) which is divided into 100 cents. Australian bills (notes) are different in size and color depending on the denomination and come in the following: $100, $50, $20, $10, $5. Australian coins are quite beautiful and come in denominations of: $2, $1, 50c, 20c, 10c and 5c. Remember, you cannot exchange coins at the end of your trip, so be sure to use the $1 and $2 coins for last minute treats at the airport. Travelers checks are widely accepted throughout Australia, as are most major credit cards including MasterCard, Visa and American Express. You can also use most American ATM cards at Australian banks and other outlets. Check with your bank before traveling.

Foreign exchange outlets are found in all airports, many hotels and throughout most Australian cities. Banks are generally open 9.00am-5.00pm Monday to Friday, but some banks offer extended hours and some are open on Saturday mornings.

Goods and Services Tax (GST) & Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS)
There is a 10% tax (GST) on all items - as well as on services- in Australia. In most cases it is included in the price. Departing travelers may be able to claim a refund for GST and WET (Wine Equalization Tax) paid on goods purchased in Australia. TRS facilities are located at international airports and cruise liner terminals. Travelers must show their passport, international boarding pass, retailer’s tax invoice, and the goods.

Departure Tax
Australian Departure tax is A$38 per person and is included in your international air ticket.

Customs Regulations
Australian customs enforce strict regulations concerning the importation of items such as drugs, firearms, agricultural and wood products, as well as very strict quarantine standards for animals, foodstuffs, plants, plant products and pets. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Australia, or one of Australia’s consulates for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Passports and Visas
All visitors to Australia must have a current passport, valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of arrival. In addition, visitors also require an Australian tourist visa, issued electronically (ETA- electronic travel authority). An ETA is valid for visits of up to 3 months.

Travelscene can issue the Australian ETA for most passport holders (additional fee).

Shots
If you are traveling from Canada or the United States directly to Australia, or arriving directly via New Zealand, Tahiti or Fiji, no shots will be required. If you make another stopover enroute to Australia, please check the requirements with the Australian Consulate.

Voltage and Electricity
Australia operates on 220/240-volt AC50Hz. Electrical outlets are two or three pin angled plugs. For electrical equipment that does not match the above configuration, an adapter/converter is necessary. NOTE: In order for an appliance to work safely in Australia, both the plug and the voltage of an appliance must be converted.

Tipping & Gratuities
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, and service charges are not added in hotels and restaurants. It is always up to you to tip if you have received good service. Taxi drivers and cocktail servers do not expect tips. However, is in better restaurants in larger cities it is now common to tip 10%.

Be Sun Smart
Due to Australia’s close proximity to the hole in the Ozone Layer, we suggest you wear a shady hat and cover up exposed skin with long sleeves or strong sunscreen. Wear factor 15+ and try to avoid exposure during the hottest part of the day – from 10am to 3pm.