AUSTRALIA | When to Go, Where to Go, and What to Bring? Practical Information

USEFUL INFORMATION ABOUT AUSTRALIA

Practical information to help you plan your trip to this destination, with details on when to go, required documents, getting around, and much more.

WHEN TO GO in AUSTRALIA

Australia is vast, and the climate varies greatly from region to region. In general, the Australian summer (December–February) is hot and sunny in the south (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth), while in the tropical north (Cairns, Darwin) it coincides with the rainy season. Winter (June–August) is mild in the south, ideal for visiting cities and inland areas like Uluru, while in the north it is the dry season, perfect for the Great Barrier Reef and the national parks of the Northern Territory. The intermediate seasons, spring and autumn, are excellent for traveling everywhere, with more pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS for AUSTRALIA

To enter Australia, a passport with at least 6 months’ validity is required. Italian citizens need a tourist visa (eVisitor or ETA), which must be requested online before departure. Health insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended, as medical expenses can be very high. For updated information, it is advisable to check the official Australian government website or the Italian Farnesina – Viaggiare Sicuri portal.

WHAT TO BRING in AUSTRALIA

• Comfortable shoes for walking and trekking

• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (UV rays are very strong)

• Swimsuit and towel for beaches and natural pools

• Layered clothing (variable climate between regions and seasons)

• Light jacket for evenings in desert areas and in cities in winter

• Credit card and cash for small expenses

• Mosquito repellent, especially for the tropical north

• Copy of passport and travel insurance

• Universal adapter (type I sockets, 230V)

CULTURE in AUSTRALIA

Australia is a modern and multicultural society, influenced by European, Asian, and Aboriginal cultures. The Australian Aboriginal peoples are custodians of one of the oldest cultures in the world, with deep ties to nature and sacred sites such as Uluru. Australians are known for their relaxed spirit, love of nature and sports—particularly rugby, cricket, and surfing. The cities offer art, music, and innovative gastronomy, while rural areas convey a strong sense of adventure and connection with the wilderness.

AUSTRALIA GAY FRIENDLY

Australia is among the world’s most progressive countries regarding LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2017, and the queer community is very visible. Sydney hosts one of the most famous Prides in the world, the Mardi Gras, while cities like Melbourne and Brisbane have a lively LGBTQ+ nightlife. In general, Australia is a safe and inclusive country for gay, lesbian, and transgender travelers.

LOCAL CURRENCY in AUSTRALIA

The official currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Banknotes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 AUD. ATMs are widespread everywhere, and credit cards are almost always accepted.

CREDIT CARDS in AUSTRALIA

Visa and MasterCard are accepted almost everywhere. American Express is used but less common. Many shops accept contactless payments, and some may charge a small fee.

TIPPING in AUSTRALIA

Tipping is not mandatory, as wages are adequate. In high-end restaurants or for exceptional service, leaving a 10% tip is appreciated. Rounding up in bars or taxis is welcome but not required.

BARGAINING in AUSTRALIA

Bargaining is not part of Australian culture. Prices in shops and restaurants are fixed. Exceptions include used cars, flea markets, or local tours, where it is possible to ask for a small discount.

ELECTRICITY AND TIME ZONE in AUSTRALIA

Electricity is 230V at 50Hz. Type I sockets are used, so a universal adapter is needed. Australia has multiple time zones (UTC+8 to +11), and some regions observe daylight saving time. It is advisable to check according to your destination.

Time zones in Australia

• Australian Western Standard Time (AWST) – UTC+8

  • Perth

  • Broome

  • Exmouth

• Australian Central Standard Time (ACST) – UTC+9:30

  • Darwin (does not observe daylight saving)

  • Adelaide (with daylight saving becomes UTC+10:30)

  • Alice Springs

• Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) – UTC+10

  • Sydney (with daylight saving becomes UTC+11)

  • Melbourne (with daylight saving becomes UTC+11)

  • Brisbane (does not observe daylight saving)

  • Canberra (with daylight saving becomes UTC+11)

  • Hobart – Tasmania (with daylight saving becomes UTC+11)

  • Gold Coast

  • Newcastle

  • Cairns

  • Townsville

HOW TO GET AROUND in AUSTRALIA

Given the huge distances, domestic flights are the fastest way to travel between cities. Long-distance buses connect regions, but travel times are long. The Ghan and the Indian Pacific trains offer unique scenic experiences across the continent. To explore coasts and the outback, renting a car or campervan is the best option. In the main cities, subways, trams, and buses work well, while taxis and apps like Uber are widely used.

Watch the Official Video Here • Australia

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