General Information
Adelaide Airport and Airport Transfers
Adelaide’s international and domestic terminals are located 10 kilometres from the central business district, approximately 15 minutes by motor vehicle. For more information please visit the Adelaide Airport website: www.aal.com.au.
Taxis
As a general guide, a taxi fare from Adelaide Airport to ACC and North Terrace accommodation is approximately $15.
Public Transport
A public transport bus service is also available via Adelaide City through to the north/eastern suburbs, with connections to rail and other bus routes. Visit www.adelaidemetro.com.au.
Airport Shuttle
Skylink Airport Shuttle specialises in providing a regular scheduled bus service between Adelaide Airport, Keswick Interstate Railway Terminal and the Adelaide CBD with set-down and pick-up from most major city hotels. It operates every day of the year except Christmas Day. For further information, visit www.skylinkadelaide.com.
Banks
Banks in Australia are open from 0930 to 1600 Monday to Thursday and 0930 to 1700 on Friday. Select banks are open on Saturday, however all banks are closed on Sunday. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are located throughout the area.
Business Hours
General office and post offices are open from 0900 to 1700 Monday to Friday.
Climate
Adelaide boasts a Mediterranean climate, perfect for enjoying the great Australian outdoors. Alfresco dining, festivals, sport and fun in the sun is the way of life in Adelaide. The average temperature ranges from a mild 15°C (58°F) mid-winter in July, to a delightful 29°C (84°F) mid-summer average in January.
Currency
Australia has a stable currency (AU$/AUD) based upon the decimal system, being dollars and cents. All major credit cards are accepted throughout Australia. Exchange rates can also be viewed through www.xe.com/ucc/
Dress Code
The dress code throughout Ozwater will be smart casual or business attire.
Duty Free
Australia has a duty free quota per person of 2.25 litres of alcohol, 250 cigarettes and dutiable goods up to the value of AUD900. Duty Free stores are located at Adelaide International Airport and various loctaions in the central business district.
Electricity
Australian electricity supply is 240 volts, 50Hz. Appliance connection is via a flat 3-pin plug of unique design to Australia. Most hotels provide 110-volt outlets for shavers; however, adaptors can be purchased for 110v appliances as well as adaptors for 220v appliances with differing plug types.
Insurance
It is strongly recommended that at the time you register for Ozwater and book your travel, you take out a travel insurance policy. The policy should include loss of fees/deposit through cancellation of your participation in Ozwater, or through cancellation of Ozwater, loss of international/domestic air fares through cancellation for any reason, loss of tour monies through cancellation for any reason (including airline or related services strikes within Australia), failure to utilise tours or pre booked arrangements due to airline delay, Force Majeure or any other reason, medical expenses (including sickness and accident cover), loss or damage to personal property, additional expenses and repatriation should travel arrangements have to be altered.
The Organiser cannot take any responsibility for any participant failing to arrange their own insurance. This insurance is to be purchased in your country of origin.
Language
English is spoken throughout Australia and will be the official language for Ozwater.
Mobile/ Cell Phones
Analogue mobile phones will not work in Australia as it operates on a digital network. Mobile phones can be hired from telecommunication outlets in the central business district if required. Check with your telecommunication provider regarding coverage in Australia.
Parking at ACC
ACC operates both the Riverbank and North Terrace car parks, which are open 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. The car parks are situated under the Convention Centre (Riverbank) and beneath the Exhibition Hall. In total, 1200 spaces are available and provide easy access to the Adelaide Convention Centre. For current rates, download the ACC car park brochure.
Passport and Visa Information
All travellers to Australia, other than Australian and New Zealand citizens, are required to obtain a Visa to travel to Australia. The Business Visa allows people attending conferences and meetings in Australia to make a short visit of up to three months. For more information visit the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website at www.immi.gov.au or consult your travel agent.
Travellers form the countries listed below may be eligible to apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) via the internet - www.immi.gov.au/e_visa/eta.htm.
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Andorra
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Iceland
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Portugal
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Austria
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Ireland
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Republic of San Marino
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Belgium
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Italy
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Singapore
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Brunei
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Japan
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South Korea
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Canada
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Liechtenstein
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Spain
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Denmark
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Luxembourg
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Sweden
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Finland
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Malaysia
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Switzerland
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France
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Malta
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Taiwan **
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Germany
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Monaco
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United Kingdom - British Citizen
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Greece
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The Netherlands
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United Kingdom - British National (Overseas)
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Hong Kong (SAR) *
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Norway
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United States of America
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Vatican City
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* A Hong Kong Document of Identity (HKDI) cannot be used to apply for an ETA. Residents of Hong Kong require a citizen passport to apply for this visa.
** Holders of Taiwan passports can only be processed for an ETA if residing and applying in Taiwan. Applications can be lodged with an approved ETA Travel Agent in Taiwan or Australian Visa Services office in Taipei.
NOTE: If you require a letter of invitation for visa purposes, you must first register and pay to attend Ozwater as a delegate. Registration opens in October, 2010. Registration for Ozwater does not guarantee a visa will be granted as each visa applicant will still be required to meet normal Entry Requirements before a visa can be granted. Registration fees will be refunded should a visa be declined by the Australian Government.
The Ozwater Secretariat is unable to assist with processing or obtaining visa applications, other than verifying your intention to visit Australia. Visas are granted at the discretion of the Australian Embassy.
Please ensure that you allow 8-12 weeks for your visa application to be processed.
Quarantine
Australia is free from many plant and animal diseases prevalent in other countries. Very strict quarantine rules apply to the import of animals and plants, which cannot be brought into the country without prior application. Animal and plant products are also restricted. Information can be sourced at www.aqis.gov.au.
Shopping
Trading hours are generally Monday to Friday 0900 - 1730, Saturday 0900 - 1700 and Sunday 1100 - 1700. There is late night shopping in Adelaide city stores every Friday until 2100, and at Adelaide suburban stores every Thursday until 2100. Trading hours on public holidays may be limited. Trading hours vary in country areas, with many larger stores opened extensively, seven days a week.
Taxes: Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS)
The Goods and Services Tax is a broad based tax of 10% on most goods and services supplied in Australia. GST replaces wholesale sales tax which was applied at varying rates to a range of products. GST exemptions include food, health services and international airfares. A Tourist Refund System is available at airports, for more information call 1300 363 263.
Time
Adelaide’s central time zone is GMT + 9.5 hours. Adelaide is based on Central Standard Time and observes daylight saving time from early October to late March, when clocks are advanced one hour.
Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping is not standard practice in Australia but is welcomed when the service exceeds expectation. It is recommended to tip 5 - 10% in bars, cafes and restaurants.