Australia

Entry requirements Everybody (except New Zealanders) requires a visa in advance of travel. If you are visiting for a holiday of less than 90 days, there are three types of visas you may apply for, depending on your nationality. • Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601 is available to nationals of many countries, and you must apply using the Australian ETA app with a service fee of $20. It is valid for 12 months. • eVisitor (subclass 651) is for citizens of the European Union, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and a few European microstates. These visas are free, but otherwise effectively identical to the ETA. You must apply online. • Visitor Visa (subclass 600) Citizens of most other countries can make an application online by creating an ImmiAccount; some may need to visit an embassy or visa processing centre as part of the process. …

Emergencies • The number 000 (called 'triple zero' or 'triple oh') can be dialled from any telephone in Australia free of charge. This number will connect you with the police, fire brigade, coastguard or ambulance service after you tell the emergency operator which service you need. If you want to contact these services but the situation is not an emergency, don't call 000: you can call the police assistance line on 131 444. This includes requesting a call out for noise complaints. Poisons information advice, which can also advise on snake, spider and insect bites, is available on 131 126. To speak to a registered nurse for free health support, or for information on locating the nearest medical services, call 1800 022 222 (except for Tasmania). …

Travellers are generally unlikely to insult or cause offence to an Australian through any kind of cultural ignorance. • Australian modes of address tend towards the familiar. It is acceptable and normal to use first names in all situations, even to people many years your senior. Many Australians are fond of using and giving nicknames — even to recent acquaintances. It is likely being called such a name is an indication that you are considered a friend and as such it would be rare they are being condescending. It is generally acceptable to wear revealing clothing in Australia. Bikinis and swimming attire are okay on the beach, and usually at the kiosk across the road from the beach. It is normal to wear at least a shirt and footwear before venturing any further. Most beaches are effectively top optional (topless) while sunbathing. …