Useful information for visiting Sydney

Phone Numbers

Emergency: Police, Fire & Ambulance dial 000

International dialling code +61

What to do in Sydney by Month:

• Sydney in January
• Sydney in February
• Sydney in March
• Sydney in April
• Sydney in May
• Sydney in June
• Sydney in July
• Sydney in August
• Sydney in September
• Sydney in October
• Sydney in November
• Sydney in December

Sydney Accommodation

Sydney is one of Australia's most popular destinations, so finding cheap accommodation can sometimes be harder than you'd think. That's why Quickbeds.com have worked to provide exclusive deals and great rates at Sydney hotels. Check out their site for cheap hotel deals today.

In addition, check out our other accommodation partners at the links below:

Weather

Spring: September to November, 13-22C (55-72F)

Summer: December to February, 17-30C (62-86F)

Autumn: March to May, 14-25C (58-77F)

Winter: June to August, 5-18C (41-65F)

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

Banks are open from 9am till 4.30pm Monday to Friday with selected banks open Saturday morning. There are ATMs on almost every corner throughout Sydney with 7 day currency exchange bureaus located at all airports and foreign exchange kiosks including the below:

Central Station (Coach Terminal, 9am-4pm) Circular Quay (Wharf 6, 8am to 9.30pm) Kings Cross (cnr Springfield Ane & Darlinghurst Rd, 8am till midnight)

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. 1300 363 263 www.customs.gov.au

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 Sydney is GMT +10 hours (GMT + 11 hours during the Summer months for Daylight Savings)

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

Kings Cross Travellers Clinic
02 9358 3066
13 Springfield Ave, Kings Cross. 9am till 1pm & 2-6pm Mon-Fri, 10am till noon Sat. Bookings recommended.

St Vincents Hospital
02 8382 7111 Cnr Victoria & Burton Sts, Darlinghurst.
24 hr emergency

Sydney Hospital & Sydney Eye Hospital 02 9382 7111
8 Maquarie Street, Sydney

Travel Doctor
02 9221 7133 Level 7, 428 George St, Sydney. 9am till 5pm Mon-Wed & Fri, to 8pm Thurs and 9am till 12.30pm Sat.

Visitor Information

Sydney Visitor Information Centres provide unbiased information on Sydney and its surrounds:

• 33 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour (behind IMAX Theatre)
• Cnr of Argyle and Playfair Streets, The Rocks. 1800 067 676
• Town Hall (cnr George and Bathurst Streets)
• Circular Quay (corner of Pitt & Alfred Streets)