General Information

Banks

Monday – Friday: 0930 – 1600/1700
There are numerous 24 hour automatic teller machines (ATM).

Climate

Sydney enjoys a temperate climate, and has more than 340 sunny days a year. September is a great time in Sydney. The days are cool to warm with sunny early spring days, and low humidity.

Currency

Decimal currency is used in Australia - units are dollars and cents. Current exchange rates can be obtained from your bank. All major credit cards are widely accepted in Australia.

Electricity

The electrical supply is 240 volts, 50Hz. The connection for appliances is a flat, 3-pin plug of unique design. Most hotels provide 110 volt outlets for shavers.

Language

English is spoken throughout Australia and is the official language for the Conference.

Mobile Phones

Australia operates on a digital network, therefore analogue mobile or cell phones cannot be used. Mobile phones can be readily hired at Sydney Airport or telecommunication outlets.

Shopping

Sydney City retail shopping hours:

Monday – Friday: 0900 – 1730
Saturday & Sunday: 1000 – 1600
Hours vary at smaller shopping centres.

Taxes

A Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10% applies to all consumer goods, and is included in retail prices.

Tipping

Service charges are not added to accounts by hotels and restaurants. You may tip hotel porters and restaurant wait-staff (up to 10% of the bill) if you wish to acknowledge exceptional service. At any time, tipping is your choice.

Transport

From the airport
The Conference does not provide any transfers from the airport to the Conference venue or hotels. All delegates must make their own transport arrangements from the airport.

Public Transport
Public transport is the easiest way to get around Sydney. Call the transport line on 131 500 or go to for timetable information. Once you've arrived at Sydney Airport, travel into the city centre with Sydney Trains. A free shuttle bus operates in the city centre (Route 555) while Sydney buses will take you to all the major tourist attractions around the city including Bondi Beach, Manly, The Rocks and Sydney Opera House. If you are travelling late at night, be sure to plan your trip using the 131500 trip planner.

The best way to really appreciate the natural beauty of Sydney is on board a ferry or a leisurely cruise across the sparkling harbour. Water taxis can deliver you to prime harbour locations or take to the air in a seaplane. Other ways to get around Sydney are by hiring a bike, going for a coastal walk or hiring a car and using the inner toll roads for speedy cross-city travel. Use the Tripview app to plan your journey.

Travel and Health Insurance

We strongly recommend that you take out insurance policies to cover medical and travel expenses. If necessary, consult your travel agent.

Wheelchair access, or other mobility disability access, during Conference

When you register, please notify the Conference Secretariat of mobility disabilities you have, so any venue access challenges can be addressed.