Visitor information for Western Australia
Accommodation
Standards Guide, Hotels, Motels, Apartments, Resorts, Hostels,
Back-Packing, B&B Home Stays, Farm Stays, Country Pubs.
Driving
Obtaining Road Maps etc., Tourist Info., Road Rules, Licenses,
Breakdowns, Outback Safety.
Transport
services
Western Australia is a big state, with very long distances between
towns, and few public transport services outside the main metropolitan
area of Perth. Therefore if you do not intend to drive you must
thoroughly plan your transport arrangments well in advance.
Vehicle Hire
Rental Cars, Rates, Insurance, Credit/Costs, Motor Homes &
Caravans, Motor Cycles, Four Wheel Drives.
Documents -
Q&A's
Passports, Visas, Visa Costs, Applications, Length of Stay, Lodging
Applications.
Travel Tips
Backpackers, Banking, Climate, Clothing, Credit Cards, Currency,
Customs, Disabilities, Electricity, Emergencies, Getting Around,
Liquor, Medical, Outback Safety, Petrol and Diesel Supplies, Shopping,
Sun Protection, Surf Safety, Telephones,Vaccinations, Weights &
Measures.
Camping
Free Camping, Camping Grounds, Caravan (Trailer) Parks, National Parks
& Reserves, Regulations.
DISCLAIMER
Although all care and attention to detail was taken in the preparation
of this visitor information we can take no responsibility for the accuracy of
the information.
Travel
Documents
Q: What are Passport requirements?
A: A valid passport is
required of all people wishing to travel to and enter Australia.
Q: Do I need a visa?
A: Yes. Everyone
except holders of Australian and New Zealand passports requires a visa
to enter Australia.
Q: How do I apply?
A: The Australian
Visitor Visa or Working Holiday Maker Visa may be obtained from your
nearest Australian High Commission, Embassy or Consulate. The
application form must be signed by the applicant.
Q: How long does it take to get a visa?
A: In person:
Generally, a visitor or working holiday visa can be issued on the spot.
By mail: Allow at least 21 working days.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: There is no visa
fee for visitors planning to stay in Australia for 3 months or less. A
processing fee applies for visitors intending to stay more than 3
months and for visitors requiring a four year multiple entry visa.
Q: How long can I stay?
A: As a visitor, you
are expected to apply for a visa which covers the full period of your
intended stay. As a visitor, you are not allowed to work or undertake
formal study in Australia. The Working Holiday Maker Visa, valid for up
to 12 months stay, allows for a holiday with only casual employment
(with no more than 3 months with one employer), to supplement holiday
funds.
Q: How should I lodge my visa application?
A: Completed
application accompanied by the passport, photograph and, if applicable,
any fee may be lodged in person or by a representative of the applicant
or sent by registered mail to your nearest Australian Consulate. If
applying by mail, include a stamped, self addressed envelope large
enough to enable return of your passport by first-class, certified,
registered, express, or special-delivery mail. Please make sure you
read the application form carefully.
Australian
Visa Applications
Travel
Tips
Backpackers: Hitchhiking is illegal in some states and
strongly discouraged throughout the country. The potential dangers have
to be weighed up against the price of a discounted bus ticket or travel
pass.
Banking/Business Hours: Banks - 9.30am-4pm
Mon-Thu; 9.30am-5pm Fri. In some states Sat a.m. General office hours -
9am-5pm, Mon-Fri. Post offices - 9am-5pm Mon-Fri. Stamps are available
at some hotels and motels and retail outlets.
Climate: Australia's seasons are the
opposite to those of the Northern Hemisphere. In the north, above the
Tropic of Capricorn, about 40% of Australia is in the tropical zone.
The remaining areas lie in the temperate zone. There are variations
within these zones.
Clothing: In the tropics lightweight
(natural fibres) clothing is suitable all year round. In the southern
temperate regions, keep a jacket or sweater handy as nights may be
cool. For southern winters, warmer clothes are advisable.
Credit Cards: American Express, Bankcard,
Carte Blanche, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and affiliates. Check with
your bank before leaving home.
Currency Exchange and Travellers Cheques: Exchange
facilities at all international airports. Changing foreign currency or
travellers cheques can be done at most banks or large hotels.
Customs: Strict laws prohibit or restrict
the entry of drugs, steroids, firearms, foodstuffs, protected wildlife
and associated products. The penalties for breaking these laws are
severe. There is no limit on the amount of Australian and/or foreign
cash that may be brought into or taken out of Australia. However,
amounts over $A5000, or equivalent, must be reported. Travellers 18
years and over may bring 1 litre of alcohol and 250 cigarettes or 250g
tobacco duty free. There is a duty free allowance of $A400 per person
18 years ($A200 per person under 18) and over. Short-term visitors may
bring most articles into the country duty free, provided Customs is
satisfied that they are for personal use.
Disabilities: Australia is very aware of
the needs of people with disabilities. Advance notice and details will
ensure the best possible assistance from airlines, hotels or transport
offices. Many cinemas and restaurants are happy to assist although not
all can cater for severe disabilities or wheelchairs. Most new
buildings provide wheelchair access. Guides to facilities are available
from the National Information Communication Awareness Network (NICAN),
Tel: (06) 285 3713 Fax: (06) 285 3717.
Electrical Voltage: 240/250 AC 50 cycles,
with 3 flat-pin so you will need an adaptor socket. If your appliances
are 110V check if there is a 110/240V switch; if not you will need a
voltage converter. Universal outlets for 240V or 110V shavers are
usually found in hotels. Tipping is not obligatory and there are no
extra service charges at hotels and restaurants. For special service, a
tip of 10% is acceptable for waiters. At any time, tipping is your
choice. Smoking is not permitted on public transport including domestic
airflights, and it is not permitted in many public buildings and some
restaurants. In North Queensland, take care from late October to early
May when box jelly fish (stingers) are found along the coast. Beaches
where stingers are prevalent usually have warning signs, and many
popular areas have protective enclosures for safe ocean swimming.
Emergency: For serious emergency calls to
Ambulance, Fire and Police -
Dial 000.
Getting Around: Aussies drive on the left
and seat belts must be worn at all times. Taxis: Meter operated taxis
service cities and towns.
Liquor Laws: General licensing hours for
public bars are Mon-Sat 10am-10pm. Sunday liquor trading hours are from
Noon to 6pm. Restaurants, clubs and hotel lounges have more flexible
hours. You must be 18 years or older to buy or consume alcohol.
Medical: Visitors can bring reasonable
quantities of prescribed medications. For large quantities, bring a
doctor's certificate to produce to customs if necessary. Chemists can
fill most prescriptions but some may need to be re-issued by an
Australia-registered doctor. In the event of illness, your hotel can
call a doctor or you can call your country's High Commission, Embassy
or Consulate-General for a list of doctors.
Outback Safety: Plan your trip with the
aid of a reputable map, stay on recognised routes and check facilities
and road conditions before departure. If travelling on little used
roads always notify the authorities of your destination and
E.T.A..Always carry extra petrol, oil, tyres and water. Emergency
radios can be hired from the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Allow at
least one gallon of water per person per day. In the case of a
breakdown, stay with your vehicle where there is shade and protection
from the heat, if you have notified someone of your plans the search
parties will know where to find you.
Petrol and Diesel Fuels: Leaded and
unleaded petrols and dieselene are sold by the litre. Petrol costs
between $A0.85 to $A0.1.10 per litre (in remote areas). Suppliers
(called service stations) are reasonably plentiful in towns and cities;
trading hours vary. Most accept international credit cards.
Shopping: Big department stores, arcades,
malls, gift shops, boutiques and specially stores abound in WA. Good
buys include opals and semi-precious stones, sheepskin and leather
goods, Aboriginal artefacts and paintings. Dutyfree shops are located
in city centres and at international airports.
Sun Protection: Wear a shady hat, a
long-sleeved shirt, and apply SPF 15+ sun screen on exposed skin. Try
to avoid the sun 10am-2pm (l l am-3pm daylight saving time) when UV
rays are strongest.
Surf Safety:Popular beaches are patrolled
by volunteer Surf Life Saving Association members. Always remember to
swim between the flags. Many suburban beaches are patrolled Oct-Apr.
Telephones: The minimum cost of a local
call is 40c. Subscriber Trunk Dialling (STD) and International Direct
Dialling (IDD) calls can be made on public pay phones. Check the
telephone directory or local operator for charges.Phonecard (available
at many retail outlets) is a pre-paid card for use in over 75% of
public pay phones.
Vaccinations: Vaccinations are not
required unless you have come from or visited a yellow fever infected
country or zone within six days prior to arrival.
Weights and Measures: Australia uses the
metric system of weights and measures. For example, speed and distance
are measured in kilometres; weight and volume in kilograms and litres;
temperature in Celsius (centrigrade).
Driving
in Western Australia
Road Maps and Motoring Guides: Comprehensive
road maps and motoring guides are available from motoring
organisations, petrol stations and the WA Tourism Commission. Street
directories are provided with all rental vehicles.
Tourist Information Centres: Even in the
smallest town you will find an outlet distributing tourist information.
Look for the international "I" sign which may be displayed at an
information centre, community hall or petrol station.
Road Rules: Australians drive on the left
hand side of the road. The maximum speed limit in cities and towns is
60km/h (35mph) and 100km/h (62mph) on country roads and highways,
unless signs indicate otherwise. Strict drink driving laws apply.
Random breath testing applies with the driver's permitted alcohol level
is .05 percent. It is compulsory for drivers and passengers to wear
seat belts at all times. Contact the WA Police Dept. for further
information.
Driver's Licences: A bona fide tourist
may drive in Australia on a valid overseas driver's licence for the
same class of vehicle. Licences must be carried when driving, in
addition to a valid passport. If the driver's licence is not in the
English language, the visitor must carry a translation with the permit.
In some States visitors should present their licence to the motor
registration authority on arrival. An International Driver's Permit is
not sufficient by itself and must be accompanied by a valid driver's
permit.
Visitor Information for Drivers With Disabilities: There are few
vehicles for hire in WA for people with disabilities although recent
legislation has allowed for an increase in taxis catering for the
disabled. Drivers are advised to travel with their own hand held
controls and have them adjusted to a standard vehicle on arrival. The
Paraplegic and Quadriplegic Associations within each State can assist
with the fitting of controls and should be contacted before departure.
Breakdowns: If driving a rental car, you
should contact the car rental company which will arrange to send road
service to your location to repair the vehicle. Alternatively, most
petrol stations will be able to assist or, at least, direct you to the
nearest repair centre. Check also with your own motoring club regarding
reciprocal membership facilities.
Outback Safety: Take precautions when
travelling independently in isolated outback areas. Plan your trip with
the aid of a reputable map, stay on recognised routes and check
facilities and road conditions before departure. Make sure you carry
ample
supplies of petrol and water. Allow at least one gallon
of water per person per day. Drink water regularly and in sufficient
quantities to prevent dehydration.
In the case of a
breakdown, stay with your vehicle where there is shade
and protection from the heat.
As a road safety measure, many country cafes and road-houses offer a
free cup of coffee to the driver to keep you awake on "long hauls".
Transport
Services
Greyhound
Australia
Bus
Australia
Vehicle
Hire
Rental Cars: Available at major air and
rail terminals, and from central city locations, suburbs and resorts
throughout Australia. Vehicles can be hired on arrival in Australia
however it is advisable to pre-book particularly during school and
Chrismas holidays.
Rates: Rental rates vary according to the
operator, hire location, type of vehicle and the rental period
required. Vehicles come with a full tank of petrol and must be returned
with a full tank. All rates include unlimited free kilometres in
metropolitan areas. Weekly discounts usually apply.
Insurance: Compulsory third party
insurance and collision damage waiver are included in car rentals.
Personal accident insurance plans are also available at an extra
charge. A premium may be charged for driven under 25 years of age.
Credit/Payments: Most car rental
companies will ask for a major international credit card for credit
identification. With cash rentals it is customary for the estimated
rental charge (including insurance and petrol) to be paid in advance.
The petrol bond is refunded, if appropriate, when the car is returned
to the depot.
Campervans and Motor homes: Travelling by
campervan or motorhome gives you flexibility and independence.
Australia's agreeable climate and abundance of camp sites makes this an
ideal way to explore the country.
Motorcycle Hire: Interstate travel is
permissible but motorcycles must be returned to the place from where
they were rented.
Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles: Most
four-wheel-drive rental companies require a previous knowledge of 4WD
vehicles. Proper preparation for your trip is extremely important and
you should seek advice before and during your journey and report your
intentions along the way.
Accommodation
Standards Guide: Accommodation in WA is
divided into categories based on facilities and location. The following
star ratings provided by the Australian Automobile Clubs are a guide to
prices only and are subject to change.
5 stars: Large establishments of
international standard (1-2 pers $A170-350; suites $A400-2100)
4-4,5 stars: Exceptionally well-appointed
establishments with high-quality furnishings and a high degree of
comfort (1 -2 pers $Al10-240)
3-3,5 stars: Well-appointed establishments
with comfortable, clean rooms and quality furnishings (1-2 pers
$A80-180)
Less than 3 stars: A range of
establishments offering a basic, well maintained standard (1-2 pers
$A55-85; hostel accommodation $A12-16 per person) Serviced apartments:
Fully equipped apartments, 1-3 bedrooms with living area, complete
kitchen, laundry and separate bathroom. ($A120-200)
Hotels: Most hotel groups in Australia
offer high quality accommodation. You will also find a wide range of
comfortable, three-to-four-star hotels in the cities and country areas.
Motels: There is a wide choice of modern,
comfortable motels located around Australia. They oiter self-contained
rooms with private bath or shower, telephone, television, tea and
coffee-making facilities and a small refrigerator. Many have
restaurants and other facilities such as swimming pool.
Apartments: Self-contained apartments are
available for those who wish privacy and the option of cooking their
own meals. Linen and cooking utensils are usually provided, or can be
hired for an additional cost. There is a good selection of serviced
apartments in major cities.
Resorts: Western Australian resorts offer
high-quality service and facilities with an extensive range of
recreational activities. Many cater for specific interests such as
diving, golfing, tennis and fishing.
Hostels:In WA, there are two types of
hostel accommodation specifically for the budget traveller. They
include the privately owned backpacker hostels and YHA hostels (Youth
Hotels Association). Both types provide self-catering accommodation in
a warm, relaxing atmosphere. Hostels have become big business as more
and more budget travellers flock to Australia.
Backpacking: Backpacker Resorts of
Australia (BRA) is an association with hostels throughout Australia.
BRA offers a VIP membership which gives discounts on travel and
accommodation. The group issues a small yellow booklet which lists and
details all the member hostels.
Bed and Breakfast Home Stays: Bed and
Breakfast in Australia means a warm welcome into someone's home.
Staying in a BB gives travellers the opportunity to experience the feel
of the "real" country, and a chance to meet the people. Australian BBs
offer a wonderful variety of places to stay: some are located in
historic houses and country homesteads, inner city townhouses and
conventional family homes. You will find BBs throughout Australia -
from major cities, towns and resort areas, to remote country areas and
sleepy villages. Remember that BB hosts cannot offer hotel facilities,
so please telephone ahead to book your accommodation.
Farm Stays: Farm stays offer meals and
accommodation on a rural property and they range from those marked by
simplicity to the frankly luxurious. What distinguishes most farm stays
is that they are working properties where guests become one of the
family and are accommodated in the homestead or in an adjoining cottage
or cabin.
Country Pubs: When you're on the road,
don't overlook that famous West Australian institution - the good old
country pub. These offer cold beer, meals and simple but comfortable
accommodation for travellers. From $A35 a night they won't send you
broke.
Camping
Information
swag (bed roll) under the southern stars. Given
its size, relatively small population and variety, Australia is
ready-made for camping.
Free Camping: "Free" camping, or pitching
a tent wherever one fancies, is the very essence of life in the great
outdoors, and while this mode of travel poses few problems in most
areas of WA, a number of considerations do apply. Permission will be
required to camp on private property; in some areas there are local
regulations against camping. If in doubt check with local council or
police. "Free" campers are also advised to carry portable stoves. In
many areas of Western Australia, particularly during summer, open camp
fires and all flame producing outside cooking devices are prohibited on
days of
Very High or
Extreme Fire
Danger rating due to the high bushfire risk.
Camping Grounds: Camping grounds are
plentiful and well-located. Standards vary but basic amenities include
electricity hook-up, hot and cold water, showers, toilets and laundry
Facilities. Site fees are between $A12 and $A20 a day for two people.
Caravan Parks: Facilities vary but basic
amenities include electricity hook-up, hot and cold water, showers,
toilets and laundry facilities. Sites cost from $A8-15 per day for two
people. At many caravan parks you can rent onsite vans or cabins from
$A16-65 for two people. In most cases, linen and blankets can be hired.
National Parks: National parks allow
camping in designated areas; some allow bush camps (minus amenities),
with fees varying from park to park. In any national park or reserve
special environmental and safety considerations apply. Many parks do
not allow open fires, so campers will need to carry fuel stoves.
Bushfires are a serious menace particularly during the summer months
and fire ban warnings must be heeded.
Commonsense Regulations: Carry all rubbish
out, wash away from streams and lakes (detergents, tooth paste and soap
should not be used as they harm fish and wildlife), attempt to camp on
existing sites rather than creating new ones, and if lighting a fire
use only dead fallen wood (cutting vegetation is an offence) and ensure
a fire break at least two metres wide. Much more information is
available from the WA Department of Conservation and Land Management.