Nice to know

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Currency

Australia’s national currency is the aptly named Australian Dollar (AUD), which is decimal, with the dollar the basic unit. Keep in mind that 100 cents = $1 dollar. Notes are available in $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 denominations, while coins are available in 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 denominations.

ATM 

Automatic Teller Machines (or ATMs) are found scattered across the state. Be aware - money is generally deposited in $20 or $50 notes and some banks charge a small fee to withdraw.

Credit Cards and Traveller’s Cheques

Major credit cards are widely accepted, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Diners Club. Traveller's cheques are also accepted in Queensland, though a fee is often charged for cashing them in. Craving cash? Currency exchange facilities reside at all international airports and most city centres.

Tipping

Here in Australia, tipping is not expected. Instead prices are generally inclusive of GST, and tipping is reserved for exceptional service (around 10% at restaurants).

Taxes

All goods and services purchased within Australia are subject to a 10% tax. Tourists can claim a refund of this Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) on certain goods placed in hand luggage or worn when departing the country. Want to know more? Visit the Tourist Refund Scheme Australia’s website of Home Affairs.

Travel Documents

Passports

A valid visa and current passport are essential for entry into Australia. Though, it’s wise to carry an ongoing ticket out of Australia and proof of funds to sustain your stay, in case those are also requested. The only exceptions are current New Zealand and Australian passports. 

Visa

Unless you are an Australian or New Zealand citizen, a valid visa is required for entry, with the visa issued in the visitor’s own country and entered in the passport pre-travel date. Once arrived in Australia, a visa is not needed to enter Queensland from another state. There are a number of visa types. A tourist visa is intended for those visiting Australia for a holiday, sightseeing, or visiting friends or relatives. Apply for a tourist visa online. If you are a non-resident seeking work in Australia, a Working Holiday Visa or Work and Holiday Visa are required. Find more detailed information here.

Customs

On arrival to Australia, you’ll complete a Traveller’s Statement. Keep in mind each traveller is granted a duty-free allowance, provided purchases aren’t intended for retail. There are also regulations related to importing certain goods, including firearms, and medication. Discover more on the Department of Home Affairs website. 

Quarantine 

Unique flora and fauna calls Australia home, meaning there are strict quarantine laws to protect it from pests and disease. The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and the Department of Agriculture enforce that all goods of plant or animal origin must be declared on entry. For more information, see the Department of Home Affairs or the Department of Agriculture. 

Travel

Taxi Services operate across Queensland and can be contacted via 131 008 or 131 924. For a list of taxi service areas, visit the Department of Transport and Main Roads. 

Bus/Coach 

You’ll find bus and coach travel across Queensland easy and economical. Most boast air conditioning, reading lights, adjustable seats and videos, and are available for quick transfers, long-haul journeys or door-to-door services. For a range of service options visit the Transportation and Hire section of our website. 

Planes

Air travel is easy in these parts - International airports reside in Brisbane, Cairns and the Gold Coast, with domestic airports scattered across regional areas and islands. Qantas, Virgin Australia and Jetstar operate across Queensland.

Trains

Not to boast, but Queensland Rail is second to none; in fact, it’s the largest and most comprehensive network of long distance and tourist trains in the nation. Ever-reliable, the train network stretches from the top tip of the Tropical North to the red desert of the Outback.

Public Transport

Whether bus, train, ferry, or tram is your preference, Queensland has you catered in terms of public transport. The TransLink network stretches as far north as Gympie, as far south as Coolangatta, and as far west as Helidon. With prepaid services common, it’s best to travel with a GoCard or a card.

Visitor Information

Centres dotted throughout Queensland. Here you’ll find local area information and hints on what to see and do, booking services for accommodation, activities and transport, and complimentary maps and brochures. Business Hours and Holidays You’ll find trading hours differ across Queensland, especially when it comes to Public Holidays.

Welcome to Queensland - Plan your trip and read much more here

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