Australia

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    A land of astonishing natural beauty, Australia is home to some of the world’s most incredible wonders of nature - unique wildlife, majestic Ayers Rock (Uluru) and the spectacular Great Barrier Reef.

    While incredible scenery and a great climate are the main attractions for many visitors, Australia’s coastal cities provide endless opportunities for exploration, from world famous landmarks and beautiful harbour settings to pristine beaches and vibrant culture.

    Information Australia

    Country guide
    Capital city Canberra
    Population

    19,700,000
    Area 2,970,000 sq miles
    Local time

    Australia spans three time zones:

    Northeast/southeast/south: GMT + 10, Central: GMT + 9.5, West: GMT + 8.

    Some states operate daylight saving time during the Australia summer. Clocks in these states will be put forward by one hour in October and put back again in March.
    Language

    English
    Currency Australian Dollar / AUD / A$
    Australian Dollar = 100 cents.
    Religion

    26% Roman Catholic, 24% Protestant and smaller numbers of all other major religions.
    Travel information
    Passports and Visas

    Full ten year passports are required for all visitors to Australia and must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you intend to leave Australia. 

    Australian visas are required by all overseas visitors except for New Zealand citizens travelling on New Zealand passports. Go Touring will arrange these on your behalf (not available for British Subjects), for an administration fee of £12 per person. If you were born outside of the UK, do not hold a UK Passport or are a British Subject, it is essential you advise us immediately as you may need to apply to the Australian Embassy for the applicable visa.

    Payment options Credit/Debit Cards and ATMs
    MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted, although use may be limited in smaller towns. American Express and Diners Club are less common. ATMs are available throughout the tour.
    Traveller's Cheques
    Widely accepted in major currencies at banks or large hotels. Please note, some banks may impose a charge for exchanging traveller’s cheques.
    Climate
    Climate / season

    Australia’s summer is from December - March and its winter from June - August. Much of Australia is warm or hot throughout the year, and even along the cooler southern coasts the winters are mild rather than cold.

    Sydney, Melbourne and Perth

    Summers are hot with average maximum temperatures of 25 - 29C. Winters are generally mild (average maximum temperature 13C - 18C). Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year in Sydney and Melbourne, whereas Perth experiences lower rainfall levels in the summer months.


    Central Australia

    Alice Springs and Uluru (Ayers Rock) have comparatively little rainfall throughout the year. Hot and dry days are the norm throughout the summer (average maximum 30C - 35C). Winter days are pleasantly warm, with cooler temperatures at night.


    Tropical Queensland

    Cairns experiences a typically tropical climate. Summers are warm, wet and humid - resulting in beautiful lush green vegetation. Winters are still very warm, but significantly drier.
    Technical Details
    Telephone dialling codes The country dialling code for Australia is +61.
    Electricity

    220/240 volts AC, 50 Hz. 2-pin plugs are in use, however sockets are different than those found in most countries and an adaptor socket may be needed.  Outlets for 110 volts for small appliances are found in most hotels.
    Health
    Health care information Standards of hygiene are high in Australia, especially in food preparation.  Doctors and dentists are highly trained and hospitals are very well equipped. There is a Reciprocal Health Agreement with the UK, New Zealand, Italy, Malta and Sweden in emergencies only, which allows residents from these five countries free hospital treatment, prescribed medicines and ambulances. Treatment at some doctors' surgeries must be paid for.  Personal insurance for illness and accidents is essential for all visitors. Those wishing to benefit from the Agreement should enrol at a medicare office; this can be done after treatment.
    Culture
    Politics Prime Minister Kevin Rudd since 2007
    Customs


    Clothing

    Casual dress is generally worn throughout Australia. Lightweight clothing is recommended for the summer, and warmer clothing during the winter months,  especially in the southern states.

    Sunglasses, sun hats, and sun block lotion are recommended year round.  Comfortable walking shoes/sports trainers are advisable when visiting the Red Centre. Laundry facilities are available if required.

    Australia 

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