Welcome to South Australia with its zest for life and a taste of history, the state of colour and contrasts.

The fourth largest state, South Australia shares borders with all the other mainland States and the Northern Territory. It is the junction of the major north-south and east-west road, rail and air corridors.

Area

984,377 square kilometres (385,000 square miles)

Coastlines

3,700 kilometres (2,300 miles)

Capital City

Adelaide - a sophisticated, cosmopolitan hub and the center of the State's economic, cultural, political and social life.

Time Zones

There are three time zones in Australia. Eastern Standard Time (New South Wales, Queensland, Australian Capital Territory, Tasmania and Victoria); Central Standard Time (South Australia and Northern Territory) and Western Standard Time (Western Australia). Daylight savings fall from October to March when clocks are adjusted one hour ahead.

Time Difference between South Australia and Asia:
Singapore +1.5 hours
Malaysia +1.5 hours
Hong Kong + 1.5 hours
China +1.5 hours
Taiwan +1.5 hours
Korea + 0.5 hour
Thailand + 2.5 hours
Indonesia +2.5 hours
Vietnam + 2.5 hours
Philippines + 1.5 hours
India + 4 hours

Population

South Australia's population is 1.5 million with just over a million people residing in the metropolitan area.

Climate

Seasons:
Summer (December - February)
Autumn (March-May)
Winter (June - August)
Spring (September-November)

South Australia has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm dry summers. Rainfall is experienced mostly during the winter months of June, July and August. Very hot conditions can be experienced during summer, especially in the northern parts of the State where it is mostly desert.

Religion

Christianity is the predominant faith in Australia, however all major religions are represented.

Tipping

Tipping is not the general custom in Australia and taxi drivers, hairdressers and porters do not expect to be tipped. For good service in restaurants, the recommended amount is 10% of the bill.

Language

English is the official language of Australia, however interpreting services are readily available. In Adelaide, interpreters are available over the telephone 24 hours a day, seven days a week to assist with general information enquiries and communication between non-English speakers and various service providers. There is no cost for this service other than that of a local telephone call. On-site interpreters are also available (fees may apply).

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