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Currency & Costs
The Australians use Australian
dollars. On arrival or departure, cash amounts in excess of A$ 5000 in any currency, must
be declared. A$ are available in denominations of 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2 coins and $5,
$10, $20, $50, $100 notes.
Australia is generally cheaper than the US, Canada and some of the
European countries. Where it really scores is in cheaper accommodation and cheaper food.
Both are good quality and yet extremely reasonable in price. What are expensive are
manufactured goods as a lot are imported and prices include import duties on them. Those
that are made locally are made in small quantities, hence higher costs.
What will be most expensive, in terms of that you'll do a lot of, is
travel. Since Australia is so enormous, you'll end up spending a lot on transport. If
there are a lot of you together, hire or buy a car – it’s sensible, practical
and relatively easy on the pocket. If travelling alone, then check out the airlines
discounts and the airpasses.
Banks & Money Changers
Banking hours are 9:30 am – 5 pm,
Mondays to Fridays, in most cities but may differ. All banks across Australia close on all
public holidays and on bank holidays. Look up the specific city, Money & Business sections for details.
Money changing is not a problem at any of the banks or at
moneychangers, who are sprinkled all over the cities and in important tourist towns.
Travellers cheques enjoy a better exchange rate than currency. Carry your passport and
some form of identification, like a driver's license. On Australian Dollar Travellers
Cheques, no commission is charged and it’s not subject to exchange rate fluctuations.
Major credit cards are widely accepted here.
Business Guide
Trading hours for shops and the stock
exchange are 8.30/9 am to 5/5.30 pm in most places. Shops open for longer durations on
Thursdays and/or Friday evenings, and may close as late as 9 or 10 pm. Weekends are closed
for business, though some shops may open for half a day, till 1 pm.
Business travellers to Australia need only follow standard western
business practice. Dress code should keep the weather in mind, no sense in sweating in a
business suit when a shirt and tie could have been as appropriate. The Aussies are casual
but not in business matters, so check appointments and confirm schedules and always be on
time. |
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