Australian Visas
Visitors to Australia must have a valid passport and the appropriate Australian visa. The type of visa depends on the purpose of the visit. Overseas visitors seeking to attend or participate in a Conference or event in Australia should, in most cases, apply for a short stay business visitor visa (subclass 456). You must apply for your visa early to ensure that details are confirmed prior to your departure for the Conference.

 
Information about this important requirement can also be found on the Australian Government website at www.immi.gov.au/visitors/business/iecn.htm Some participants will be able to obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).  You can apply for an ETA via the Internet www.eta.immi.gov.au or through a travel agent, an airline office or a specialist service provider to arrange an ETA on your behalf.

 
Invitation Letter and Visa
If you require an invitation letter for visa purposes please indicate this on your registration form or contact the Conference secretariat.

Please note this procedure is intended to assist participants who need to obtain a visa or permission to attend the Conference.
It is not an official invitation covering fees and other expenses.
It does not imply any financial support from the Conference.
 
Currency
Decimal currency is used in Australia - dollars and cents. Current exchange rates can be obtained from your bank and on-line at www.xe.com
 
Banking
Banks in Australia are open Monday to Thursday 0930 to 1600, and 0930 to 1700 on Fridays. Some banks are open on Saturday. Exchange facilities are available at airports and most major hotels. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are available at a wide variety of outlets. All major credit cards are widely accepted in Australia.
 
Travel and Health Insurance
It is strongly recommended that you take out insurance policies to cover medical and travel expenses. If necessary, consult your travel agent.
 
Electricity
Electricity in Australia is 220-240V AC 50Hz. The sockets are three pin and you may need an adaptor. Universal outlets for 240V or 100V shavers are found in most leading hotels. Multi-voltage appliances as well as adaptors are readily available in department stores and luggage shops.
 
Shopping
Most stores in Brisbane open Monday to Saturday until around 1700 to 1800. Some retailers may remain open until 2100 week nights, and between 0900 to 1800 Sundays. Grocery and department stores generally open seven days a week, with late night trading until 2100 on week nights.

Taxes
A Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10% applies to all consumer goods and is included in retail prices. Overseas visitors may be able to claim a refund of the GST through the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS). Further information available at: http://www.customs.gov.au/webdata/resources/files/travellersenglish1.pdf
 
Tipping
Tipping is acceptable in Queensland but it is not compulsory. Generally tips are only given for good service but even then it is not mandatory. If you do want to leave a tip, ten percent of the bill is customary.
 
Water quality
The water in Queensland (and throughout Australia) exceeds the standards for safe drinking water set by the World Health Organisation. It is safe to drink water straight from the tap in Queensland.
 
Smoking
In Queensland it is illegal for people below 18 years of age to be sold cigarettes or other tobacco products. Smoking is not allowed in public buildings, on public transports, in taxis and most restaurants and stores.