about perth

Climate

Safety
Australia is a stable, democratic and culturally diverse nation with a highly skilled workforce and one of the strongest performing economies in the world. With spectacular landscapes and a rich ancient culture, Australia is a land like no other. Australia is a very safe country to visit. The country has a stable political system and a low crime rate, and Australians generally experience a safe lifestyle. However, you should observe the same precautions with your personal safety and possessions as you would when travelling anywhere, whether at home or overseas.

Health

Australia has reciprocal health care agreements with eleven countries. If their country of origin is not in this list, delegates should consider taking out health insurance for their trip. It’s not a requirement for travel to Australia, but it will protect delegates from high upfront costs if they need to see a medical professional. Having health insurance is always a good idea while travelling, even if just for peace of mind, but particularly for delegates with a health condition.

Currency

In Australia, Australian dollars (AUD) are the prevailing currency. The Australian dollar is distinct from currencies such as the US dollar or the Hong Kong dollar. XE Currency Converter can assist in converting currency at the market exchange rates. Currency exchange services are readily accessible at banking institutions, hotels, and international airports. Cirrus compatible ATMs are widely available, while banks are prominently situated along main thoroughfares, and credit card payments are widely accepted. It is important to note that there exists a limit of AUD$10,000 for the importation of cash into the country. Should individuals exceed this amount, they are required to declare it upon arrival to the country.

Banks

Banks are open from 9.30am to 4.00pm Monday to Thursday, and 9.30am to 5.00pm on Fridays. Some suburban banks are open on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings. Automatic Teller Machines are plentiful and readily available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Banks provide a full range of financial services including currency exchange, all at nominal rates. Electronic fund transfer machines (EFTPOS) are commonly used at most retail outlets, as well as by taxis, restaurants and hotels, and can be used to access many types of bank accounts and credit cards.

Tipping

Tipping is generally not expected within Australia; however, it is acceptable to leave a small amount should you feel you have received exceptional service. Find out how much your currency is worth at today’s exchange rate.

Electricity

Electrical current is 240/250V, AC 50Hz. The Australian three-pin power outlet is different from that in many countries, so you will need an adaptor. If your appliances are 110V, check if there is a 110/240V switch. If not, you will need a voltage converter. Universal outlets for 240V or 110V shavers are usually found in leading hotels.

Time Zone

There are three time zones in Australia:
Western Standard Time (AWST – GMT + 8:00) in Western Australia
Central Standard Time (ACST – GMT + 9:30) in South Australia and Northern Territory
Eastern Standard Time (AEST – GMT +10:00) which operates in New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland.

Daylight Savings Time

Australian States except Western Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland have daylight saving. Also known as Summertime, Daylight Saving Time occurs when the time on local clocks is advanced forward by one hour at the beginning of Daylight Savings Time, and returned back by one hour at the end, during the summer months of December, January and February. The exact dates can be obtained from the relevant Australian State governments. Goods and Services Tax (GST) / Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS)

Goods and Services Tax (GST) / Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS)

The Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) enables travellers departing Australia to claim a refund for the GST and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) paid on goods purchased in Australia. For detailed information on the TRS please refer to the website of the Australian Border Force.

Smoking Policy

The Western Australian government imposes a strict no smoking policy in and adjacent to venues, restaurants, bars and shopping centres in Perth.