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Entry Formalities/Visa |
You will need a valid passport for entry into Australia. Most visitors also require a visa. Contact your nearest Australian Government representative to ascertain your particular requirements and procedures to follow. For a short-term tourist or business entry to Australia, an ETA (electronic travel authority) is the recommended option, as there is no need for the traveler to then complete an application form for a visa. Visa forms can be obtained from the Department of Immigration's website www.immigov.au. Your travel agent can also assist you.
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Clothing |
The dress in Australia is mainly informal. Light weight clothes for summer and spring, sweaters, topcoats and umbrellas for winter. Pack your sunblock and a wide brimmed hat if travelling through spring and summer (Sept - Feb). Comfortable walking shoes are recommended when touring regions such as Kangaroo Island and the Flinders Ranges, or whenever bushwalking activities are planned.
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Voltage |
Australia's electricity voltage is 240 volts AC.
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Tax Refunds |
The Tourist Refund Scheme was introduced on 1 July 2000. Travellers may be entitled to a refund on the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) on goods purchased in Australia. Travellers can claim the refund from customs officers at Tourist Refund Scheme Booths located at international airports or cruise terminals when departing Australia. Conditions apply. Visit www.customs.gov.au
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Public Holidays 2005 |
| 1 |
January |
New Year's Day (Sat) |
| 3 |
January |
New Year's Day Public Holiday (Mon) |
| 26 |
January |
Australia Day |
| 25 |
March |
Good Friday |
| 26 |
March |
Easter Saturday |
| 28 |
March |
Easter Monday |
| 25 |
April |
Anzac Day |
| 16 |
May |
Adelaide Cup Day |
| 13 |
June |
Queen's Birthday |
| 3 |
October |
Labour Day |
| 25 |
December |
Christmas Day (Sun) |
| 26 |
December |
Public Holiday for Christmas Day (Mon) |
| 27 |
December |
Proclamation Day |
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South Australia State School Term |
| 31 January |
- |
15 April
|
| 2 May |
- |
8 July
|
| 25 July |
- |
30 September
|
| 17 October |
- |
16 December |
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Customs Regulations |
Certain goods brought into Australia may require payment of customs duty and sales tax. However, travellers are allowed to bring in a number of goods tax-free as hand luggage. Travellers must declare amounts of AUD10,000 or more, or the equivalent in foreign currency, on arrival or departure. Travellers should be aware of goods subject to controls, prohibition or restriction such as drugs, certain foods, plants, weapons and firearms. For further information, visit the Australian Customs website at www.customs.gov.au
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Medical |
Medical care in Australia is costly and all travellers are advised to purchase travel insurance.
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Banks |
Banks in South Australia are generally open:
- 9.30am - 4 pm Monday to Thursday
- 9.30am - 5 pm on Fridays
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Credit Cards |
The most commonly used credit cards in Australia are American Express, Bankcard, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. Restrictions may apply in country areas and smaller retail shops.
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Currency |
Australian currency is decimal. Notes are in $100, $50, $20, $10 and $5 denominations. 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 travellers' cheques can be changed at most banks.
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Postal Services |
The General Post Office (GPO) in Adelaide is located at the corner of King William and Franklin Streets in the city centre, and is open on weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm. International mail for collection by overseas visitors can be sent to the GPO Adelaide marked 'Poste Restante' and including the post code 5000. Mail will be held for a maximum of four weeks.
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