Hobart

Australia travel info

Electricity

Australia uses 230V, 50Hz electricity and Type I plugs with three flat pins. Most visitors will need an adapter.

Language

English is the national language of Australia.

Money

Australia uses the Australian dollar (AUD), which is divided into 100 cents. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs can be found easily throughout the country. Visitors can exchange most major foreign currencies at banks or currency exchange offices. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also commonly accepted in many shops, restaurants and on public transport in major cities, making it easy to pay without cash. Banks are generally open from 9.30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, although some branches may offer extended hours or open on Saturday mornings.

Tipping

Most service providers in Australia don't expect a tip, so travellers shouldn't feel pressured to give one. However, a tip of around 10 percent is common in restaurants for good service, and taxi passengers usually round up the fare to the nearest dollar or more.

Health

Travellers over the age of one who have recently stayed overnight in a country with yellow fever may need to show a vaccination certificate when arriving in Australia. For most visitors, no special vaccinations are usually needed, though some routine shots or travel vaccines such as hepatitis A and B might be recommended depending on the trip. It's advisable to use insect repellent, especially in areas where mosquito-borne illnesses can be a concern. Visitors should also take care in the sun, as Australia has strong UV rays. Medical care in Australia is very good but can be expensive, so having travel insurance is important. UK residents have access to free emergency hospital treatment under a reciprocal agreement, provided they can show proof of residency.

Safety

Australia is generally considered a safe country with a low crime rate. However, tourists may still be targeted by petty criminals, especially in busy areas such as the Gold Coast. Visitors are advised to keep a close eye on their belongings and travel documents.

Between November and April, tropical cyclones can occur in some parts of Australia, particularly in Western Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory. During the summer months (November to March), there's also a high risk of bushfires, especially in regions such as Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales, and the Australian Capital Territory.

In summer, the coastal waters of northern Australia and Queensland can contain dangerous jellyfish known as box jellyfish. Their sting can be extremely painful and potentially deadly. Visitors should always pay attention to beach safety signs and follow the advice of local lifeguards to avoid injury.

Local customs

Australians tend to have a relaxed and informal attitude in both social and many business situations, though expectations can vary by industry. Sport is a major part of Australian life, with cricket, rugby and Australian Rules Football being especially popular and widely followed.

Doing business

Australian business culture is a mix of professionalism, informality and equality. While it reflects British, American and local influences, the overall approach is pragmatic and collaborative. Management tends to be consultative, and respect is earned through competence rather than job titles.

Formality is minimal, as first names are used quickly, and eye contact is valued as a sign of trustworthiness. Punctuality is important, and meetings are usually booked in advance and confirmed closer to the date. The style of communication is direct and honest, with a preference for realistic promises over self-promotion.

Business attire in formal industries remains conservative, though expectations may vary across sectors. Men typically wear suits and ties; women usually choose tailored outfits. English is the language of business, and standard working hours are from 8.30am or 9am to 5pm or 5.30pm, Monday to Friday.

A respectful, down-to-earth approach is key to doing business successfully in Australia.

Duty free

Travellers to Australia aged 18 years or over do not have to pay customs duty on 2.25 litres of alcoholic beverages; and 25 cigarettes or 25g of cigars or other tobacco products. All alcohol and tobacco products in travellers' baggage are included in this concession, regardless of where they were purchased. Gifts and other general goods are included in the AUD 900 duty-free allowance. Fresh produce and many animal or plant products are restricted or prohibited and must be declared upon arrival.

Communications

The international dialling code for Australia is +61. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free WiFi are widely available; purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option than paying international roaming costs, which can be quite high.

Passport & Visa

Travellers to Australia need a valid passport and either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). An ETA is a type of visa electronically linked to the traveller's passport, with no physical stamp or label.

ETAs are issued for tourism or short business visits, and usually allow a stay of up to three months at a time and are valid for up to 12 months. During this period, travellers can enter Australia multiple times, as long as each visit does not exceed three months.

ETAs can be applied for online through the official Australian government website or the Australian ETA app.

Australia does not require passports to be valid for six months after departure, but it's advisable to have at least six months' validity, as some airlines or transit countries may require this.

Entry requirements

US nationals must have a valid passport on arrival. A pre-obtained Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is required for tourism or business visits of up to 90 days.

UK nationals must have a passport valid for the intended period of stay. A visa is required; most travellers are eligible to apply for an eVisitor visa or an ETA for short stays of up to three months.

Canadian nationals require a passport valid on the day of entry into Australia. An Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) must be arranged in advance for stays of up to 90 days.

South African nationals must have a valid passport and are required to obtain a visa prior to travel. Passport validity requirements are not clearly defined by official Australian sources; six months' validity may be advisable.

Irish nationals must hold a valid passport and are required to obtain a visa before entering Australia. While a visa or ETA may be available, official guidance does not confirm ETA eligibility. A minimum of six months' passport validity is recommended.

New Zealand nationals require a valid passport to enter Australia. A Special Category Visa (SCV) is typically granted on arrival after completing a passenger card, provided the traveller meets eligibility criteria.

Useful contacts

Australian Tourist Commission, Sydney: +61 (0)2 9360 1111 or www.australia.com

Emergencies: 000 (112 on cellphones)