Australian Travel Guide
Australian Travel Information
Visas & Travel
There are a number of visas available for people wanting to visit Australia as a tourist. A temporary visa is generally granted for a stay of 3 months or 6 months, (In certain circumstances a stay of 12 months may be granted). For people seeking to visit family in Australia, formal sponsorship by an Australian citizen or permanent resident is required. An electronically stored authority for short-term visits to Australia of up to 3 months is also available to passport holders from 32 countries and regions. Applications must be made from outside Australia. Visit the Department of Immigration & Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs. We also advise you to check with your embassy before traveling.
Australia's capital: Australian Capital Territory
Phone Codes & Handy Numbers
- Australia Country Code
- +61
- State Telephone Codes
- QLD (07), NSW & the ACT (02), VIC & TAS (03), SA, WA & NT (08)
- International Access Code from Australia
- 0011
- Directory Assistance
- 12455
- Emergency
- 000 (for Police, Fire Brigade & Ambulance)
Australian Currency
- Currency
- Australian Dollar ($) - AUD
- Exchange Rate
- For current exchange rates: www.xe.com
- Tax
- A tax of 10% is applied to most goods and services (GST) in Australia. It is included in all advertised prices.
Specifications
- Electricity
- 240 volts AC
- Measurements
- Metric (Liquid - litres, Length - metres)
Driving in Australia
If you hold a valid driver's licence (in English) from your own country, you are permitted to drive throughout all of Australia. If your driver's licence is not in English, a translation may be necessary and you may also require an international licence. See our time & distances table for help while driving around Australia.
Australian Time Zones & Daylight Saving
There are three time zones in Australia: Eastern Standard Time (EST), includes New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory; Central Standard Time (CST), which includes South Australia and the Northern Territory; and Western Standard Time (WST) - Western Australia. CST is one half hour behind EST, while WST is two hours behind EST. Daylight savings runs from the last Sunday in October (Tasmania on the first Sunday) to the last Sunday in March in all states except Northern Territory & Queensland.
History of Australia
50,000 years before the arrival of European settlers, groups of Southeast Asians immigrated to the continent. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people lived and thrived in Australia's unique and challenging natural environment. Their complex social systems and highly developed traditions reflect a deep connection with the land and environment. Today it is believed the Aboriginals are the world's oldest civilisation.
The first recorded European contact with Australia was in March 1606, when Dutch explorer Willem Janszoon (c.1570 - 1630) charted the west coast of Cape York Peninsula, (Queensland). Later that year, the Spanish explorer Luis Vaez de Torres sailed through the strait separating Australia and Papua New Guinea. However It wasn't until Englishman Captain James Cook arrived in Botany Bay in 1770 that Australia was officially claimed for the British Crown.
In 1779 Britain decided to use its new outpost as a penal colony; the First Fleet of 11 ships carried about 1500 people—half of them convicts. The fleet arrived in Sydney Harbour on 26 January 1788, and it is on this day every year that Australia Day is celebrated. In all, about 160 000 men and women were brought to Australia as convicts from 1788 to 1868. The convicts were joined by free immigrants from the early 1790s.
Australia became a federated nation on 1 January 1901. Bound by one parliament, one constitution and one flag, Australia celebrated its Centenary of Federation in 2001. Today Australia is home to people from more than 200 countries.
Australia's defence force has a long and proud tradition dating back to the original ANZACS (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps). Australian soldiers fought in both World Wars and numerous allied conflicts. All Australian troops are remembered each year on Anzac Day, 25 April, the anniversary of the first landing of Australian 'Diggers' at Gallipoli Turkey, in 1915, during the First World War.
The First World War had a devastating impact on Australia. In 1914 the male population of Australia was less than 3 million. As many as 60,000 died and tens of thousands more were wounded. The period between the two world wars was marked by instability. Social and economic divisions widened during the Depression years when many Australian financial institutions failed. During the Second World War Australian forces made a significant contribution to the Allied victory in Europe and in Asia and the Pacific.
After the war Australia entered a boom period. Millions of refugees and migrants arrived in Australia. The economy developed strongly in the 1950s. Melbourne hosted the Olympic Games of 1956, shining the international spotlight on Australia.
Today Australia is one of the most cosmopolitan and dynamic societies in the world. The nation has thriving ethnic media, an international business reputation, an innovative artistic community, diverse religious and cultural activities and variety in foods, restaurants, fashion and architecture.
Events
- Australia Day
- 26 January
- Anzac Day
- 25 April
- Australia’s National Anthem
- Advanced Australia Fair
The Australian People & Culture
- Language
- English
- Government
- Constitutional Parliamentary Monarchy (since 26 Jan 1901), bound by one Federal Parliament, one constitution and one flag.
- National Anthem
- Advance Australia Fair
Australians enjoy a high standard of living on par with that of most major cities of Europe and the U.S. An informal and pioneering spirit strikes some people as being somewhat like the Americans while our social and economic preoccupations and attitude seem more like the British.
Popular Listings
-
Urban Tadka
For authentic Indian cuisine in Terrey Hills, take to award-winning Urban Tadka on Mona Vale Road. Enveloping diners in warm tones of red and black and submerged ambie...
-
Readers Choice 2018 - Regional
Modern Organic Yoga Cafe
Nurture the mind, body and soul at Modern Organic Yoga Café on The Entrance Road in Long Jetty. A cool green façade greets diners as they enter this café ho...
3 Nov to 3 Dec
$70 pp Tea Paired 5 Course Degustation -
Readers Choice 2018 - Asian
Fu Manchu Oriental Kitchen
Chevron Island Restaurants QLD
An exhilarating taste journey begins upon crossing the border into Fu Manchu Oriental Kitchen, a recent addition to the trendy dining scene found on C...
6 Aug to 31 Oct
Bookings Essential Yum Cha Tuesday -
Tamarind
An exotic sensory feast awaits diners at multi-award winning Tamarind, signature restaurant of Cairns’ Reef Hotel Casino. The journey begins with an ambient, low lit dining roo...
10 to 31 Oct
Two Course Dinner Special October special -
Readers Choice 2018 - Modern Australian
Mt Lofty Ranges Vineyard
An all-encompassing destination for wine tastings, functions, mouth-watering local cuisine and an enviable view, Mt Lofty Ranges Vineyard has fast warranted i...
10 Oct to 31 Dec
Perfect Venue FUNCTIONS -
Readers Choice 2018
Universal Bar
A landmark on Perth’s live music scene, Universal Bar is also one of the city’s most popular and exclusive function venues. Styled after a New Orleans jazz bar, this ...
9 Mar 17 to 1 Mar 19
$15 Offer Burger and Schooner Deal -
Readers Choice 2018 - Fine Dining
room81
On the ground floor of the Sofitel Broadbeach is room81, a refined and exclusive venue where dining finesse enchants. An intriguing food journey encompasses an array of mouth...
-
Annata
Treat yourself and loved ones to a fine dining experience north of Sydney Harbour Bridge and take to Annata in Crows Nest, along Willoughby Road. A harmony between rustic ele...
14 May to 31 Dec
Book Now! Special Offer -
Readers Choice 2018 - Thai
The Spirit House Restaurant
Lush palm fronds and tinkling wind chimes take you from the Hinterland haven of Yandina into the wondrous world of The Spirit House Restaurant. New dishes f...
-
Restaurant Plage
Fusing Japanese flavours with Australian fare, Restaurant Plage on Military Road in Cremorne is fast earning a loyal local following. Plage’s inviting, relaxed vibe o...
25 Sep to 31 Oct
3 Course Dessert Special Dessert Fan? -
Readers Choice 2018 - Modern Australian
Mercato @ Daylesford
Mercato is one of Daylesford's iconic restaurants, showcasing an eclectic Modern Australian menu, created for sophisticated tastes by Mercato's talented team. L...
25 Dec
5 Course Menu Christmas Lunch -
Readers Choice 2018 - Vineyard Restaurant
Wild Cattle Creek Estate Restaurant
Wild Cattle Creek Estate Restaurant in Seville combines picturesque views with refined Mod Oz fare, ideally matched elements for enjoyable dining. R...
6 Nov
Book Now Melbourne Cup Lunch -
Noosa Beach House Peter Kuruvita
Brainchild of multi-talented Chef Peter Kuruvita, Noosa Beach House is a recent addition to the suave, coastal dining hub of Noosa Heads’ Hastings ...
22 Nov
Special Event Book Launch Dinner -
Readers Choice 2018 - European
Geronimo Aperitivo Bar and Restaurant
Enjoy a fresh take on traditional European dining at Geronimo Aperitivo Bar and Restaurant on Launceston’s Charles Street. A simple, sophistica...
3 Oct to 3 Nov
Come and Enjoy Drink Specials -
Readers Choice 2018
Little Prince Catering
Serving meals fit for royalty, Little Prince Catering delivers personalised mobile menus for all occasions. Check out the 1960s food van ‘Frank’ as he meand...
15 Oct to 31 Dec
Platters Galore! Grazing Season -
Readers Choice 2018 - Vineyard Restaurant
Maximilian's Restaurant and Sidewood Cellar Door
Providing the ingredients for a quintessential Adelaide Hills dining experience is Maximilian's Restaurant and Sidewood Cellar Door. Nes...
-
Readers Choice 2018 - Turkish
Tulum Restaurant
Tasting is believing at Tulum Restaurant where Turkish cuisine is given a fine dining makeover thanks to the revival of classical Ottoman dishes. Homed on Carlisle S...
-
Readers Choice 2018 - Regional
Zev's Bistro
Enjoy special occasions over an ambiant evening at Zev’s Bistro, a Toowoomba establishment with a trendy style. Cosy and welcoming inside, this restaurant on Ruthven Str...
-
Cod's Gift
Succulent seafood and elegant surrounds await diners at Cod’s Gift on Ward Place in Dural. This latest restaurant offering from the team behind Wolfe & Co, embraces everything...
3 Sep to 31 Oct
Join us What are your plans for this Saturday & Sunday? -
Alachati Tapas Bar & Cafe
For a taste of the Aegean Sea in Broadbeach, head to Alachati Tapas Bar & Café on Surf Parade. Relax in true Gold Coast style at this vibrant restaurant, w...
8 Oct to 8 Nov
Come and Try Signature Cocktail -
Readers Choice 2018 - Cafe
Blessed Cheese
When exploring the rolling hillsides of the Fleurieu Peninsula, be sure to visit Blessed Cheese café on McLaren Vale’s Main Road and pick up a delectable assortment...
9 Oct to 30 Nov
$25pp Cheese & Wine Flights -
Shompen Dining Room
Perched along the bustling street of Rathdowne in Melbourne’s bohemian suburb of Fitzroy, you’ll find Shompen Dining Room. Enter from the tree lined street curb to ...
3 Oct to 3 Nov
Watch this Space! New Name: from Shompen Dining Room to Pagla! -
Readers Choice 2018 - Modern Australian
Harvest
Located in Newrybar in the pristine Byron Bay hinterland is the award-winning Harvest. Equal parts historic country charm and urban sophistication, Harvest truly offers an id...
31 Dec
$225 All Inclusive Wild - New Years Eve -
Readers Choice 2018 - Regional
Walter's Lounge
Venture down the southern end of Airlie Beach to Walter’s Lounge for a unique experience just a stone’s throw from the main street, at the Port of Airlie Marina. C...
-
Nero Dining
Kept under wraps by the locals of Broadbeach Waters, find Nero Dining nestled away from the hustle and bustle on the corner of Sunshine Boulevard and T.E. Peters Drive, ...
24 Sep to 24 Oct
Come and Try New Menu -
Readers Choice 2018 - Modern Australian
JAM
Effortlessly combining style with innovation, JAM continues to make its mark on Townsville's dynamic restaurant scene. A well-loved riverfront crowd pleaser, this versatile venu...
26 Jun to 23 Dec
New Menu! JAM Lunch Special Menu -
QT Kitchen
Melbourne foodies are flocking to modern Vietnamese restaurant QT Kitchen on High Street in Glen Iris. This trendy eatery is chic and stylish with hanging low lights and n...
19 Sep to 21 Nov
All of this for $30 QT Lunch Special
TYPE
STATE
- Queensland[9943]
- Northern Territory[489]
- Australian Capital Territory[782]
- New South Wales[15484]
- South Australia[3245]
- Western Australia[4461]
- Victoria[12966]
- Tasmania[1680]
Recently Viewed
New South Wales
New South Wales lays claims to being Australia's most diverse...
Victoria
Hugging the tip of the east coast is Australia's second-smallest sta...
Queensland
Widely known as Australia's 'Sunshine State', Queensland p...
South Australia
South Australia is referred to as the Festival State, offering a ...
Western Australia
Referred to as 'The Golden West' Western Australia is A...
Northern Territory
An uncompromising grandeur quite unlike any other region on ea...
Australian Capital Territory
Surrounded by New South Wales, 281km from Sydney and...
Tasmania
By far the smallest of the Australian States, separated from mainland Au...
