More tips for Travellers to Australia
Currency in Australia
Australia’s currency is Australian Dollars (AUD) Notes come in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. Coins come in denominations of 5¢, 10¢, 20¢, 50¢, and gold $1 and $2 coins.
Travellers are able to exchange currently at banks, hotels, and international airports. The most commonly accepted credit cards are American Express, Bankcard, and Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa, JCB and their affiliates.
Goods and Services Tax (GST) in Australia
Like most countries Australia has a Goods and Services Tax (GST) which is currently 10 per cent. As a traveller, if you spend AUD$300 or more in one store and no more than 30 days before departing Australia, you may be able to claim a refund of the GST paid on goods bought here.
Australia’s Tourist Refund Scheme facilities are located in the departure area of international terminals. For more detailed information see Australian government information on the website of the Tourist Refund Scheme. https://www.customs.gov.au/site/page4643.asp
Tipping in Australia
Generally speaking the culture in Australia is NOT to tip. There is no requirement to tip in Hotels or Restaurants, unless you wish to, and people usually tip for good service. Tipping in Australia is at the choice of the traveller. It is also NOT the custom to bargain in Australia, as you might do in Asian and Middle Eastern countries. However, tipping is always your choice.
Emergency assistance in Australia
The emergency number and 999 equivalent in Australia for police, ambulance and or fire brigade is 000.
Language
Australia’s official language is English. You will find that almost 100% of the time you will be spoken to in English. But it is worth noting that Australia is a very multicultural nation so we enjoy a huge diversity of languages and cultures.
Electrical power points
Our electrical current is 220 – 240 volts, AC 50Hz. The Australian three-pin power outlet is different from some other countries, so you may need an adaptor, which are available in international airports and Australian travel shops.
Communication
Australia’s country code is 61. Local calls from public pay phones are untimed and charged at AUD$.050. Mobile, long distance and overseas calls are usually timed. Mobile phone network coverage is available across Australia; however coverage may be limited in some remote areas. Internet access is widely available at internet cafes, accommodation and libraries and many of the large franchise fast food outlets.
Postal services
Post offices are usually open 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday, with some city post offices open on Saturday morning. Travellers can arrange to collect mail at post offices throughout Australia.
Accessible Travel
If you have a disability and are planning to explore Australia, there is a host of services and special deals to meet your needs. Thorough preparation is essential to a successful trip, so speak to your travel agent about your specific requirements. For more information on accessible tourism in Australia go to Australia for All website. https://www.australiaforall.com/
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