More flight and travel news stories
More useful links for Australia
The official language is English.
Back to top
The Australian dollar is the official form of currency. Major credit cards are widely accepted, and you won’t have trouble finding an ATM. You can exchange money and traveler’s checks at a bank or exchange bureau. It’s better to bring checks in the form of a major currency, like US dollars. Banks charge commission to exchange, and you might be charged more for a more obscure currency.
Australia’s international access code is +61. To dial out from inside the country, dial 0011 followed by the appropriate country code. Internet cafés are easy to find and you can rent a mobile phone.
Hotels and restaurants don’t usually add gratuity to the bill, but it’s customary to tip 10 percent for good service.
Australia has a low crime rate, but visitors should always be smart and be aware of their surroundings and keep valuables hidden. Women should watch their drinks when out at nightspots; criminals have been known to spike drinks.
If you have visited a country infected with yellow fever in the last six days, you will need to provide a yellow fever vaccination certificate upon your arrival in Australia. There are no other vaccination requirements. In the northern parts of the country, you are strongly advised to use insect repellent because of the risk of several insect-borne illnesses like Murray Valley encephalitis, Ross River virus infections and dengue fever. Be aware of jellyfish in the ocean waters; some stings can be fatal. You should always carry your own health insurance.
The electrical current is 220 to 240 volts, AC 50 Hz. You will probably need an adapter for the three volt pin plugs.
* Required
Would you like to receive weekly travel deals? (optional)
The best bargains and up-to-the-minute deals
More travel tips
© 2003 - 2012 Cheapflights Media (USA) Inc all rights reserved
