International Travellers
We've collated some handy information for you, to help you enjoy your time in South Australia. You may also want to visit one of our International websites - you'll find them linked to the flags at the bottom of every page on this website.
Climate & Clothing
Average Daily temperatures in Celsius:
Winter temperatures in Adelaide are maximum 15.9, Minimum 8.
Summer temperatures in Adelaide: Max 28.3 Min 16.5 (but it can soar past 30º.)
Autumn temperatures in Adelaide: Max 22.4 Min 12.5
Spring temperatures in Adelaide: Max 21.7 Min 11.6
Coastal South Australia has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm dry summers. Most rain falls in June, July and August. Very hot days and cool nights can occur in summer. In the north, temperatures can get really hot, particularly in the summer months (that's why you'll find some people living underground in places like Coober Pedy). Summer temperatures in the Outback regularly reach 40º Celsius.
For comprehensive weather information, please visit the Australian Bureau of Meteorology website.
Sun protection is a serious matter in Australia, as the UV is very high at all times of the year. To avoid skin burn, never go outside without a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 and a hat, and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
Australian clothing and shoe sizes are different from those in North America, Europe and Japan, so it's wise to try clothes before you buy. Generally, women's clothing sizes are: 8,10, 12, 14 and 16 and men's clothing sizes are: 37, 38, 39 and 41. South Australians are a casual bunch, so pretty much anything goes. But it pays to be well covered from the sun in summer (always wear a hat, shirt, sunglasses and SPF30 sunscreen).
Customs regulations and taxes
Some goods brought into Australia may require payment of customs duty and sales tax. However, you are allowed to bring in a number of goods tax-free as hand luggage. Amounts of $A10,000 or more (or the equivalent in foreign currency) must be declared on arrival and departure. Certain foods, plants, weapons, firearms and drugs are subject to controls or prohibition.
The Tourist Refund Scheme allows overseas travellers to receive a refund on the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) for goods bought in Australia. Travellers can claim the refund from customs officers at Tourist Refund Scheme booths at international airports or cruise terminals when departing Australia. For further information visit the Australian Customs Service website.
Electricity
Australia's electricity voltage is 240 volts AC. Some large hotels have power outlets at 110 volts AC, but if you're bringing 110-volt appliances into South Australia, it's advisable to bring a small 110-volt transformer and a plug conversion kit.
Emergency Telephone Numbers
Call 000 for emergency fire, police and ambulance assistance throughout Australia or if a crime is in progress. From mobile phones it's 112. For non-emergency police attendance call 131 444.
International websites
If you live outside of Australia, you may be interested in using the South Australian Tourism Commission's international websites for: visitors from Asia, France, Italy, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, China and the United States.
Internet Access - Public
You can find the locations of internet 'hot spots' throughout South Australia at Elhotspot.
Language
The official language in Australia is English, although many immigrants also speak in their native tongue (and there's more than 150 nationalities in Adelaide alone). Need an interpreter? The telecommunications provider Telstra offers a 24 hour translation and interpreter service. Dial 13 14 50. The local white pages telephone book will provide more information.
Medical & Emergency
Call 000 for fire, police and ambulance assistance throughout Australia. From mobile phones it's 112. For non-emergency police attendance call 131 444.
Australia's public health care system is called Medicare. Eligibility for benefits is generally restricted to permanents residents of Australia. While Australia does have reciprocal healthcare agreements with several countries, it is best to check before you leave home and to always have appropriate travel insurance.
Vaccinations are not required unless you have come from, or visited a yellow fever infected country or zone within six days before entering Australia. No other health certificate is needed.
Visas, Customs & Immigration
Non-Australian citizens (except our Kiwi cousins from New Zealand) need a valid visa to enter and spend time in Australia. The length of stay and purpose of your visit will determine the type of visa you are required to hold before you arrive. For short-term tourist entry to Australia, an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is the recommended option, as there is no need for the traveller to then complete an application form for a visa. All applications must be made from outside Australia. For full details, please see the Department of Immigration website.
Air Travel - Hand Luggage
Travellers flying to and from Australia may only take small quantities of liquids in their hand (cabin) baggage or on their person. These measures are consistent with similar steps being taken by the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union and Canada to minimise risk to travellers. Read more at the Department of Transport website. And you can read more more air travel safety guidelines at the Civil Aviation Authority's safety web pages.
Tips for International Travellers
- Driving Safety
- Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road and seat belts must be worn by both driver and passengers at all times. Read More
- Water Safety
- See our safety tips that will make your South Australian swimming, surfing and sunbathing even more enjoyable. Read More
- Money & Banking
- Australian currency (AUD) is decimal, with the dollar as the basic unit (100 cents equals one dollar). Read More
- Time Zones
- Within Australia there are three time zones. Read More
- For Muslim Visitors
- South Australia was founded as a province of England and one that supported freedom of religion for all. Read More
