Useful Information for Visiting Broome

Here is some information that should help Broome holiday run smoothly.

Phone Numbers

• Emergency (Police, Fire & Ambulance): 000
• International dialling code: +61

Weather

Broome has two seasons, the dry season and the wet season.

The dry season starts in late May and goes on until October, maintaining temperature around 30C/86F and giving Broome it’s warm sunny days. The nights are considerably cooler with the weather sometimes dropping down to 12C/54F. The dry season is the most popular time to visit Broome, with May and June being the most sought after months as the wet season would have just finished and everything in Broome would be green and lush.

The wet season starts in November and continues on until April. Even though the wet season is not a popular time for tourists it is still a great time to visit Broome. The rain does not fall constantly; instead you will experience short heavy rainfalls and spectacular lightening storms. The wet season gives Broome a balmy feel, with the temperature during the day ranging around 30C/86F and dropping to around 20C/68F.

Sun/Surf safety

Australia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world so it can be tempting to throw caution to the wind. Always play it safe by swimming between the red and yellow flags in beaches that are patrolled by lifeguards. Protect your skin from sun damage by following the simple Slip, Slop and Slap rule- Slip on a shirt, Slop on some sunscreen and Slap on a hat.

Money

ATMs are easily found in the city of Broome. Most places accept the major credit cards, American Express, MasterCard, Diners Club and Visa. Smaller shops and restaurants usually only accept cash.

Currency Converters can be found at the Broome International airport as well as some hotels and the banks, such as:

• NAB
  Address: Fredrick Street, Broome
  Phone: 13 22 65
• Westpac
  Address: Frederick Street, Broome
  Phone: 13 20 32

GST

A 10% Goods and Services Tax is added to most items that you purchase and is included in the display price. For visitors to Australia, the GST of goods over $300 purchased within 30 days of leaving Australia and packed into your hand luggage is refundable at the airport.
For more information on these policies, visit the Australian Government's customs website or phone: 1300 363 263.

Tipping

Tipping is not expected in Australia. However, if you experience really good service and want to show your appreciation, 10% of the bill is an acceptable amount for a tip.

Time Zone

The Standard time zone in Broom is GMT +08.00

Bars

The minimum age for the purchase and consumption of alcohol is 18. Minors will not be permitted to enter a bar if not accompanied by an adult.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited at indoor public places and cigarettes will not be sold to minors

Medical services

• Cable Beach Pharmacy
  Address: 1 Dakas Street, Cable Beach
  Phone: (08) 9192 3298
• Broome Pharmacy
  Address: Frederick Street, Broome
  Phone: (08) 9192 1866
• Broome Hospital
  Address: Robinson Street, Broome
  Phone: (08) 9194 2222

Visitor information

• Vistor Information Centre
  Open weekdays from 8.30am till 4.00pm
  Open weekends and public holidays from 8.30am till 2.00pm
  Address: 1 Hamersley Street (First round-about as you enter town)
  Phone: 1800 883 777