Travel Tips
Visa Requirements
Non-Australian citizens (excluding New Zealand citizens) require a valid visa to enter and spend time in Australia. For more information go to the Immigration website or from any of its overseas offices.
Customs Regulations
Certain goods brought into Australia may require payment of customs duty and Goods and Services Tax (GST). Travellers should be aware of goods subject to controls, prohibition, or restriction such as drugs, certain foods, plants, weapons and firearms.
Medical/Emergencies
Travellers are advised to take out travel insurance that includes medical cover. Australia has reciprocal health care agreements with some countries. For emergencies that require police, ambulance or fire service attendance dial 000 (dial 112 on mobile phones).
Banking
Banks in South Australia are generally open 9.30am-4pm Monday to Thursday, 9.30am-5pm on Fridays. Most banks provide automatic teller machines.
Credit Cards
The most commonly used credit cards in Australia are American Express, Bankcard, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa.
Currency
Australian currency is decimal. Notes are in $100, $50, $20, $10 and $5 denominations and coins are in $2, $1, 50c, 20c, 10c and 5c denominations. Exchange facilities are available at all international airports in Australia and foreign currency and can be changed at most banks.
Driving in Australia
All Australian vehicles are right-hand drive, driving on the left hand side of the road. Reciprocal driving rights exist between Australia and overseas countries. Your driver’s licence must be current. By law, seat belts must be worn by the driver and passengers at all times. The driver should be familiar with Australian road rules.
Driving on Kangaroo Island
Many roads on Kangaroo Island are unsealed and the abundant wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk. Always check before taking a hire car to Kangaroo Island as some companies have restrictions. There are hire cars available on the Island.
Driving in the Outback
The Outback is within easy reach from Adelaide. Driving in the Outback can be a rewarding experience, however, because of long distances between towns and the possibility of extreme conditions, it requires very careful preparation. Ensure your vehicle is in good mechanical condition. If you are hiring a vehicle, make sure you know how to use the safety Equipment. Plan distances carefully and top up whenever fuel is available. For travellers planning a drive through the Outback, visit the Royal Automobile Association of SA (RAA) in Adelaide for more information about driving in the Outback, and proper driving maps.
Driving on the beach
There are many locations along South Australia’s coastline where visitors can take a car on the beach for a 4WD adventure, a spot of fishing or just to enjoy the sun and surf.
Four-wheel driving (4WD, Off road driving)
4WDs differ from conventional passenger cars. The driver needs knows how to use the vehicle’s tool kit and jack, how to manage the vehicle if bogged in mud or sand, and how to engage and disengage the 4WD system and freewheeling hubs.
Tax Refunds
Travellers may be entitled to a refund on the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) on goods purchased in Australia.
Tipping
Employees in Australia do not depend on tips or gratuities as part of their income, but for good service in a restaurant, the recommended amount is 10 per cent of the bill.
Telephones
Australia’s country code is 61. While mobile phone network coverage is available across Australia, coverage may be limited in some remote areas.
Postal Services
The General Post Office (GPO) in Adelaide is on the corner of King William and Franklin streets in the city centre and is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
Electrical Power
Australia’s electricity voltage is 240-volts AC. Some of the large hotels have power outlets at 110-volts AC. For travellers bringing 110-volt electrical appliances, it is advisable to bring a small 110-volt transformer and a plug conversion kit.
Drinking Water
Adelaide tap water is filtered, fresh and safe to drink. It conforms with Australian and international drinking water standards.
Surf & Water Safety
Some main beaches are often patrolled by volunteer surf lifesavers in the warmer months. Always swim between the red and yellow flags which indicate the safest area for swimming.