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Tourist InformationSydneySydney, the capital of the State of New South Wales, is Australia’s largest city with a population of almost four million people. It is one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world with people from 180 nations, speaking 140 languages. As such, it is a cosmopolitan city that offers a varied selection of entertainment, shopping and sightseeing. Sitting between the mountains and the sea, Sydney offers an abundance of outdoor activities. In addition to its famous harbour, there are many beaches, waterways and national parks. For further information about Sydney and the State of New South Wales see:
ClimateSydney spring temperatures range between 13°C and 22°C. Sydney experiences some rainy days in October although mostly the weather is fine. ClothingLayered outfits are the most practical clothing for Australian conditions. A waterproof jacket is useful, but even in mid-winter, an overcoat is not necessary in Sydney. Australian dress is generally casual by international standards. Customs (Computers)Expensive items (such as computers and cameras) that you bring and intend taking back can be registered on the Goods exported in passenger baggage form available from any Customs office or from the Customs website. Once registered, travellers do not need to declare these goods to Customs on return but should keep the form. To register you must have the goods inspected at the departure point. Proof of ownership may be required at the time of registration. You may be asked for personal assurance that you will be taking the computer with you when you are departing Australia. If you are unable to give this assurance, you will be charged with sales tax and duty on the computer and then claim the refund on return. Currency and banking
As there are no 1c or 2c coins, amounts are rounded up or down to the nearest five cents. If you have not already exchanged your currency for Australian dollars, you can do so on arrival at an Australian airport. Most major banks will exchange currency and major hotels will exchange currency after hours. Banking hours are 09:30-16:00 Monday to Thursday and 09:30-17:00 Friday and Automatic teller machines are widely available. Travellers’ cheques are accepted at banks and hotels. There is no limit on the amount of Australian and/or foreign currency that may be brought into or taken out of Australia. However, amounts of AU$10,000.00 or more, or equivalent in a foreign currency, must be reported on arrival or before departure. Link to currency converter www.oanda.com/ Major credit cards are accepted ie Visas, Bankcard, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club. Electrical equipmentIf you are bringing electrical equipment such an electric razor, you should note that Australian current is AC 220-240 volts 50 cycles. Adapters can be purchased at travel and duty free shops and at the airport. SmokingSmoking is prohibited inside all Australian airports, on all buses, trains, ferries and tourist coaches. Smoking is discouraged in most rental cars. Smoking is not allowed in cinemas, theatres, galleries, restaurants and cafes. Pubs, clubs and hotel bars generally allow smoking though it may be restricted to certain areas. Hotels offer smoking and non-smoking rooms. TaxationDeparture Tax A departure tax of AU$27.00 is payable by all persons 12 years or older upon leaving Australia. Children under 12 are exempted. Most but not all airlines flying into Australia now include departure tax in the ticket price. Goods and Services Tax A Goods and Services Tax of 10% is levied on most purchases in Australia and is included in the purchase price of the goods or service. You may be eligible for a refund of the GST on goods purchased in Australia. For more information visit http://www.customs.gov.au. TippingTipping is not common in Australia, and it is not regarded as obligatory but as recognition of good service. VisasAll participating delegates, with the exception of those from New Zealand, will need to apply for a visa. The Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs in Australia provides an electronic visa service through the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) System at a cost of AU$20.00. The ETA system is now available to passport holders from 33 countries and locations. For further information and application, see www.eta.immi.gov.au/ |
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