1. COVID-19 Requirements
2. Travel Documents
3. Health Insurance
4. Currency
5. Culture and Etiquette

COVID-19 Requirements

The Australian Government presently does not enforce any specific COVID-19 requirements for travelers arriving in or departing from Australia.

Nonetheless, COVID-19 remains a health concern both within Australia and globally. We highly recommend that travelers wear masks and receive vaccinations when undertaking international travel. It is important to maintain proper cough and hand hygiene and, wherever feasible, maintain physical distancing from others.

Travel Documents

eVisitor (subclass 651)

Elegible countries:

Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (Subclass 601)

If you are a citizen of one of the eligible countries, you may be able to apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) visa subclass 601. This is a convenient and easy way to obtain an online travel authority that allows you to enter and stay in Australia for up to 12 months.

With this visa, you can:

You can use it for holiday, cruise, visiting family or friends, and some business activities such as attending conferences, meetings or seminars.
Study or train for up to 3 months in total

Elegible countries:

Health insurance

For travelers coming to Australia without Medicare eligibility, we strongly advise arranging private health insurance independently, regardless of whether it is a visa requirement. This ensures comprehensive coverage for any unforeseen medical or hospital care needs during your stay in Australia.

While in Australia and in need of healthcare assistance, individuals without adequate private health insurance, as non-residents and non-citizens of Australia, will be categorized as private patients. Consequently, they will be responsible for covering all associated costs at the time of treatment, whether seeking medical care in the public or private healthcare systems in Australia. For routine medical treatment, consulting a general practitioner for out-of-hospital care is typically the most cost-effective option.

Currency

Australia’s currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). When traveling to Australia, it is advisable to have some local currency on hand for daily expenses and transactions. The Australian Dollar is widely accepted throughout the country.

Exchanging foreign currency into Australian Dollars is relatively easy, and you can do so at banks, authorized currency exchange bureaus, and some hotels in major cities and tourist areas. It’s recommended to exchange your currency at official establishments to ensure fair rates and avoid counterfeit notes.

While the Australian Dollar is the primary currency, US Dollars are occasionally accepted in Australia, especially in larger hotels, international airports, and some tourist-oriented businesses. However, it’s important to note that US Dollars are not commonly used for everyday transactions in Australia.

Credit cards with Visa or Mastercard logos are widely accepted in Australia, including in larger hotels, restaurants, and most businesses in urban areas. Contactless payments are also prevalent. However, it’s advisable to carry some local currency, especially for smaller establishments, local markets, and in more remote regions where cash may be the preferred payment method.

ATMs are readily available in major cities and towns across Australia, allowing you to withdraw cash in Australian Dollars. Ensure you inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card authorization. Having a backup payment method, such as cash or a second card, is also a good idea in case of any unforeseen issues with ATMs or card acceptance. 

Culture and Etiquette

Australia, often referred to as the “Land Down Under,” is known for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and friendly people. To make the most of your visit and ensure a positive experience, it’s helpful to understand some aspects of Australian culture and etiquette:

1. Informality: Australians are generally informal and easygoing in their interactions. First names are commonly used, even in business settings. It’s common to address people by their first name unless they specify otherwise.

2. Punctuality: Punctuality is appreciated in Australia. Arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings. If you’re running late, a courteous phone call to inform others is considered polite.

3. Greetings: A simple “hello” or “hi” is an acceptable way to greet someone in Australia. Handshakes are common in business and formal settings. In more relaxed situations, a smile and a friendly nod are often sufficient.

4. Personal Space: Australians value personal space. Maintain a comfortable distance when engaging in conversations, and be mindful of others’ personal boundaries.

5. Tipping: Tipping is not as common or expected in Australia as it is in some other countries. While it’s appreciated, it’s not mandatory. If you receive exceptional service, you can leave a tip, but it’s not customary to tip a percentage of the bill.

6. Respect for Indigenous Culture: Australia has a rich Indigenous culture, and it’s important to show respect. Many places in Australia have traditional Indigenous names, and it’s good practice to pronounce them correctly. If you’re visiting Indigenous communities, seek permission before taking photos and learn about their cultural customs and protocols.

7. Beach Culture: Australians love their beaches. When visiting the beach, it’s customary to dress modestly when not swimming, and always apply sunscreen to protect against the strong Australian sun. Follow safety signs and flags when swimming at beaches.

8. Alcohol Consumption: Australians enjoy socializing over drinks, but it’s important to drink responsibly. Public drunkenness is not well-received, and excessive alcohol consumption can lead to legal issues.

9. Wildlife Respect: Australia is home to unique and often fragile wildlife. When in natural settings, such as national parks, follow “Leave No Trace” principles and do not disturb or feed wild animals.

10. Language: English is the primary language spoken in Australia. While it’s not essential to know Australian slang, understanding common terms like “mate” (friend) and “barbie” (barbecue) can enhance your cultural experience.

11. Tolerance and Diversity: Australia is a diverse nation, and tolerance for different cultures and beliefs is highly valued. Respect for cultural diversity and open-mindedness are key aspects of Australian society.

By respecting these cultural norms and etiquette guidelines, you’ll find that Australians are warm and welcoming people who are eager to share their culture and beautiful country with visitors from around the world. Enjoy your time in Australia and embrace the laid-back and friendly atmosphere of this remarkable nation!