Travellers Tips

Visa and vaccinations

A valid passport or similar acceptable travel document is required of all people wishing to travel to and enter Australia. UK passport holders must hold a visa before travelling to Australia. All clients of All Ways Pacific will be issued with a free of charge tourist ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) which is valid for 12 months and permits multiple entry into Australia for a stay of 3 months on each visit.

Vaccinations are not required unless you have come from, or visited a yellow fever infected country or zone within six days before arrival

Banking and Money Matters

Banks are open from 9.30am to 4pm, Fridays 9.30am to 5pm
Post offices are open 9am-5pm Mon-Fri with some in major cities/towns being open on Saturday mornings. Foreign currency can easily be exchanged at banks, some hotels and Bureau de Change kiosks, which are found at international airports and most city centres. All major credit cards can be used in Australia. Travellers Cheques are accepted at hotels, banks and some stores.

Most goods and services are subject to a 10 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST)

Electricity

Electricity is supplied throughout Australia at 220/240 volts (50 hertz). For all other equipment, an adapter/converter is necessary, unless the item has a multi-voltage option. Please note the Australian three pin outlet is different to the UK plug so an adaptor will be required. Universal outlets for 240V or 110V shavers are usually found in leading hotels.

Driving - licences, distances, cost

In Australia, all motorists drive on the left-hand side of the road. The speed limit on the open road is 100km/h (approx 60m/h). In urban areas the speed limit is 60km/h. Drivers and passengers must wear seat belts at all times, in both front and rear seats. You can legally drive in Australia for up to 12 months if you have either a current driver's licence from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP). You must carry the licence or permit at all times when driving. You will only be able to drive the same types of vehicles you are licensed to drive in your home country. The minimum legal age to rent a car in Australia is 21 years however a surcharge may apply for drivers under 25 years of age.

Cost of petrol approx AU$1.55 per litre, diesel AU$0.95 per litre