The Gold Coast is one hour by road and rail south of Brisbane and a 75-minute flight north of Sydney. A fabulous holiday destination with something for everyone.

Climate
The region enjoys a subtropical climate and an average of 300 days of sunshine a year.

Average Temperatures:
Spring: September to November 15-25C (59-77F)
Summer: December to February 20-28C (68-83F)
Autumn: March to May 16-25C (61-77F)
Winter: June to August 11-21C (52-70F)

Currency
Australian dollar: 100c = $AUD1.00
Coin denominations: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2
Note denominations: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100

Duty Free
For details on duty-free allowances please visit www.customs.gov.au

Electricity
240/250 volts AC 50HZ
Universal outlets for 110 volts (shavers only) are standard in hotels, apartments and motels.

Emergency
Dial 000 for emergency ambulance, police and fire services.

Passports and Visas
Visitors entering Australia need a valid passport and the appropriate Australian visa (visa type depends on the purpose of the visit). Arriving visitors need a passport, incoming passenger card and boarding pass. Visitor and business visitor visas are available in Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) form from more than 300,000 travel agents, 75 airlines, Australian diplomatic offices overseas and online. If you do not hold a passport approved for ETA you need to apply for a label visa from Australian diplomatic offices overseas (embassies, High Commission offices or consulates).

Road Laws
Australians drive on the left hand side. A 50kmh speed limit applies in most residential areas, going up to 100 to 110kmh on open highways. Seatbelts must be worn by drivers and passengers and strict drink driving laws are enforced. Australian Road Rules can be viewed online www.transport.qld.gov.au

Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST): GMT + 10 hours.
Daylight Saving is not observed in Queensland.

Tipping
Tipping is not compulsory in Australia but appreciated for exceptional service.