International Council of Archives

As the Congress and your trip to Australia draws nearer, we thought we’d give you some basic advice about the practicalities of travelling in Australia. You may also wish to consult a travel guide, such as Lonely Planet or Rough Guides, for more comprehensive information. Here are some tips and hints to help make your trip to Brisbane, and travels throughout Australia, as smooth as possible. (Stay tuned for next week’s article which will offer visitor tips specifically for Brisbane).

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ACCOMMODATION

Most hotel rooms in Australia have a small fridge for your use, often stocked with a mini-bar which will incur a charge for anything consumed. It is common for complimentary tea and coffee to be provided. Room tariffs do not usually include breakfast or any other meals unless stated otherwise.

COMMUNICATION

Australia’s country code is 61. Queensland’s area code is 07 but the zero is left off when calling from outside Australia. Mobile phone network coverage is available across Australia; however coverage may be limited in some remote areas. Internet access is widely available including at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC) where the Congress will be held.

CURRENCY 

The unit of currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). All Brisbane areas are serviced by cash machines including two at the BCEC. They generally accept Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus and Maestro cards. The most commonly accepted credit cards are American Express, Bankcard, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa, JCB and their affiliates. Banks and foreign exchange services are also available throughout the city centre.

GOODS AND SERVICES TAX

This 10% tax applies to most purchases and is included prior to bills being totalled. You may be able to claim a refund of the GST paid on goods bought here if you have spent AUD$300 or more in one store, no more than 30 days before departing Australia. Tourist Refund Scheme facilities are located in the departure area of international terminals.
LANGUAGE – English is predominant in Australia. Multilingual staff are usually available at international airports and major hotels. A free telephone interpreting service operates 24 hours a day within Australia offering communication assistance in over 100 languages; phone 13 14 50.

ELECTRICAL POWER POINTS

The Australian electrical current is 220–240 volts, AC 50Hz. The three-pin power outlet is different from some other countries so you may need an adaptor.

TIPPING AND BARGAINING

Service charges are included in the cost of goods and services in Australia so tipping is not expected (though of course appreciated). It is usually common to tip in up-market restaurants. It is not custom to bargain in Australia.

VISAS

All visitors to Australia must obtain a visa before arrival, except for New Zealand nationals who may obtain one on arrival. Visa types and requirements differ according to your nationality and the purpose of your visit to Australia. These requirements are subject to change, so ensure that you check the latest official advice at www.immi.gov.au.