Conference Travel Information

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Airport Transfers
Welcome Guides will be at Adelaide Airport Friday 7th April to Sunday 9th April to assist you on your arrival in Adelaide.
A taxi fare between Adelaide Airport and the main hotels is approximately $15-20. Skylink runs a shuttle service from both the domestic and international airport terminals every thirty minutes. The fare is, at the time of writing, $7.00 one way and $12.00 return. The trip takes approximately 30 minutes.

Climate
Australian seasons are the converse of the northern hemisphere. Weather conditions vary between regions in Australia, the north being more warm and tropical, and the south being milder and Mediterranean.

April is mid-Autumn in Australia. While the weather can be variable, days are usually mild to warm and evenings cool. The average temperature is in the low to mid 20s, with some days in the 30s.

Currency
Decimal currency is used in Australia with the dollar as the basic unit (100 cents= $1). Notes come in $100, $50, $20, $10 and $5. Coins come in 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 denominations.

Banks in Australia are open from 0930 - 1600 Monday to Thursday and from 0930 to 1700 on Fridays. Banks are closed on Saturday and Sunday. Automatic teller machines (ATM's) are conveniently located throughout Adelaide.

Currently exchange facilities are available in most banks, hotels and airports. Credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops, the most widely used being MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Diners Club.

As a guide, the current exchange rate is approximately AUD$1 to USD$0.75

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Goods and Services Tax (GST)
In July 2000 the Australian Government introduced a Goods and Services Tax (GST). When international delegates purchase air travel within Australia or outside of Australia, the travel will be GST free. GST is payable on Conference registration fees whether the person attending is a resident or an international delegate.

Dress Code
Generally Australians dress informally and 'smart casual' would be acceptable for Conference sessions.

Duty Free
Stores are located at the International Airport and on King William Street in the city.

Electricity
Electrical voltage is 240/250V, AC 50Hz. The Australian three-pin power outlet is different from that in many countries, so you will need an adaptor. If your appliances are 100V, check there is an 110/240V switch. If not, you will need a voltage converter plug. Universal outlets for 240V or 100V shavers are usually found in leading hotels. Most hotels and motels provide 2 and 3 pin plugs or similar adaptors.

Travel Insurance
It is strongly recommended that all delegates take out their own travel insurance prior to coming to the Meeting. The Conference Secretariat will not take any responsibility for any participants failing to insure. Please seek further information from your travel agent or airline in regard to this matter.

Language
English is the official language of Australia, however interpreting services are readily available. In Adelaide, interpreters are available over the telephone 24 hours a day, seven days a week to assist with general information inquiries and communication between non-English speakers and various service providers. There is no cost for this service other than that of a local telephone call. On-site interpreters are also available (fees may apply).

Medical and Emergency Services
For all emergency services, dial 000. This applies in every State of Australia. Medical services are not provided free to visitors.

It is strongly recommended that health insurance be organised before your arrival. Visitors requiring pharmaceuticals after normal shopping hours should check with their hotel reception or the local Yellow Pages under 'Chemists'.

Shopping
The main shopping area of Adelaide is Rundle Mall, a short 10 minute walk from the Adelaide Convention Centre. Shops are open from 0900 to 1730 Monday to Thursday with late night shopping on Fridays to 2100. Most shops are open on Saturdays from 0900 to 1700 and from 1100 to 1600 on Sundays.

Telephone
International Dialling Direct Call 0011 followed by country code, area code and then the local number. International Dialling with Operator Assistance Call 1234 (fees apply).

Time
Adelaide, South Australia time is Standard Time + 0930 UTC.

Click here to see what the Time is in Adelaide

Tipping
Tipping is not the general custom in Australia and service charges are not added to accounts by hotels and restaurants. You may, however, tip hotel porters and food and drink waiters for example for exceptional service. At any time, tipping is your choice.

Transport
There is good public transport in Adelaide incorporating train, bus, tram and taxis. Within the Central Business District a free bus enables ready transport between Adelaide's major attractions. You can find out further information, including timetables and costs at www.adelaidemetro.com.au

Tours to the nearby tourist regions can also be readily arranged directly through the Hotel or visiting the South Australian Travel Centre conveniently located in the city centre.

Hire cars are also available. An international visitor may drive in Australia on a valid overseas driver's licence for the same class of vehicle. Make sure you carry your licence when driving. If your licence is not in English, you must carry a translation. An international driver's permit is not sufficient by itself and must be accompanied by a valid driver's permit