With the exception of New Zealanders, all nationalities require a visa to enter Australia.

British passport holders can apply for a free eVisitor visa direct with the Australian dept. of Home Affairs. There is no charge or application fee, and the visa entitles you to stay in Australia for up to 90 days within a 12 month period. Visa applications typically take 48 hours to be processed, but we recommend applying in advance in case of delays.

When to Travel

The climate in Australia varies dramatically due to the size of its landmass. The north experiences an almost tropical climate. Summers (Dec to Mar) can be oppressively hot - and wet - in Queensland, but the winter months (Jun to Aug) are very pleasant, with warm weather and typically dry conditions.

Further south the climate becomes temperate, and comparable to continental Europe. Summer in Sydney is gorgeous, but winter can be decidedly cold.

Australia is one of the driest landmasses on earth, but there are still distinct wet seasons to watch out for, particularly in the tropical north which experiences cyclones during its long summer. On the Western (Perth) and southern (Adelaide) coasts, conditions are reversed, with most rain falling between May and October – summer brings clearer, drier conditions. On the east coast, “Sunny” Sydney largely lives up to its moniker, but grey, moist days are not unusual in the winter months.

Like all countries in the southern hemisphere, Australia's seasons are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere. December to February is summer; March to May is autumn; June to August is winter; and September to November is spring.

Health & Immunisation

Seek medical advice before travelling and ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention, check with your local travel clinic/GP before travelling.

If you are traveling from another country before your arrival in Australia, make sure that you have had the correct vaccinations.

Although pharmacies are well-stocked and medical supplies easily purchased in Australia, you should carry an adequate supply of all medicines that you may need with you, particularly if you require prescription medicines. Do ensure, however, that you are not carrying any drugs/medicines that are prohibited in Australia or any countries you may be passing through en-route.

The biggest risk to travellers is dehydration and sunburn. If travelling in the summer, drink plenty of fluids (preferably non-alcoholic) and always carry a good sunblock.

Currency

Australia’s currency is the Australian dollar which comes in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 notes.

Currency exchange is available at banks, hotels and international airports. Australian banks offer services comparable to any UK or American bank. ATMs are widespread, although cash withdrawal facilities may be more limited in remote towns and the Outback.

When travelling in Australia, it is best to carry more than one type of credit/debit card, as not all cards are widely accepted. While Visa and MasterCard are universal, JCB, Amex and Diners Club are not. Ensure you always carry some cash, as shops and outlets may not accept cards for small purchases.

Tipping

Hotels and restaurants will very rarely add service charges to your bills in Australia. As in the UK, it is usual to tip waiters up to ten per cent of the bill for good service. However, tipping is always your choice.