population
22 million people

area
australia is the world’s sixth largest country and the only nation to cover an entire continent. it’s area is 7,686,850 square kilometres or 2,977,909 square miles.

states and territories
australia is made up of six states and two territories, each of which has its own parliament, flag and floral emblem. australia became a federated nation ofter the union of the six colonies on 1 january 1901 and celebrated its centenary of federation in 2001.

entry formalities
a valid passport is required of all people wishing to travel to and enter australia. everyone, except holders of australian and new zealand passports, requires a visa to enter australia.

customs
each traveller over 18 years of age can bring into australia 1125ml of alcoholic liquor and 250 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco products tax / duty free. for other goods, including those intended as gifts, a duty / tax free allowance of $A400 per person or $A200 per person under 18 is available, these articles must accompant you through customs and must not be intended for commercial purposes. there is no limit to the amount of foreign cash allowed to be brought into the country, however all amounts to the equivalent or over $A10,000 must be declared.

currency
the official currency is the australian dollar. notes are in the denomination of $5, $10, $20, $50, $100 and coins are 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2.

climate
with the reverse seasons of the northern hemisphere, australia enjoys a largely temperate climate. most of australia receives more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year.

voltage
australia's electrical outlets are different to those overseas with a 3-pin plug and 220/240 volt being the standard. leading hotels usually supply 110 voltage plugs for razors and small appliances.

water
tap water is safe to drink throughout australia.

business hours
general retail trading hours throughout australia are:

late night shopping is available in major cities on varying nights of the week.

driving licenses
tourists may drive in australia on a valid overseas driver's license for the same class of vehicle. licenses not in the english language must have a translation with the permit.

goods and services tax
a goods and services tax of 10% applies.

quarantine
australia has strict quarantine regulations. australia is free from many pests and diseases found elsewhere in the world. it’s vital that you declare any food, plant or animal items upon arrival including fresh and packaged food, fruit, eggs, meat, vegetables, seeds, animals, wood and plants. you can dispose of these items at bins found in international airports.