This page contains much of the information you will need to plan and enjoy your holiday in Western Australia.
Accommodation
Standards Guide, Hotels, Motels, Apartments, Resorts, Hostels, Back-Packing, B&B Home Stays, Farm Stays, Country Pubs.
Driving
Obtaining Road Maps etc., Tourist Info., Road Rules, Licenses, Breakdowns, Outback Safety.
Transport services
Western Australia is a big state, with very long distances between towns, and few public transport services outside the main metropolitan area of Perth. Therefore if you do not intend to drive you must thoroughly plan your transport arrangments well in advance.
Vehicle Hire
Rental Cars, Rates, Insurance, Credit/Costs, Motor Homes & Caravans, Motor Cycles, Four Wheel Drives.
Documents - Q&A's
Passports, Visas, Visa Costs, Applications, Length of Stay, Lodging Applications.
Travel Tips
Backpackers, Banking, Climate, Clothing, Credit Cards, Currency, Customs, Disabilities, Electricity, Emergencies, Getting Around, Liquor, Medical, Outback Safety, Petrol and Diesel Supplies, Shopping, Sun Protection, Surf Safety, Telephones,Vaccinations, Weights & Measures.
Camping
Free Camping, Camping Grounds, Caravan (Trailer) Parks, National Parks & Reserves, Regulations.
DISCLAIMER
Although all care and attention to detail was taken in the preparation of this information we can take no responsibility for the accuracy of the information.
Q: What are Passport requirements?
A: A valid passport is required of all people wishing to travel to and enter Australia.
Q: Do I need a visa?
A: Yes. Everyone except holders of Australian and New Zealand passports requires a visa to enter Australia.
Q: How do I apply?
A: The Australian Visitor Visa or Working Holiday Maker Visa may be obtained from your nearest Australian High Commission, Embassy or Consulate. The application form must be signed by the applicant.
Q: How long does it take to get a visa?
A: In person: Generally, a visitor or working holiday visa can be issued on the spot. By mail: Allow at least 21 working days.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: There is no visa fee for visitors planning to stay in Australia for 3 months or less. A processing fee applies for visitors intending to stay more than 3 months and for visitors requiring a four year multiple entry visa.
Q: How long can I stay?
A: As a visitor, you are expected to apply for a visa which covers the full period of your intended stay. As a visitor, you are not allowed to work or undertake formal study in Australia. The Working Holiday Maker Visa, valid for up to 12 months stay, allows for a holiday with only casual employment (with no more than 3 months with one employer), to supplement holiday funds.
Q: How should I lodge my visa application?
A: Completed application accompanied by the passport, photograph and, if applicable, any fee may be lodged in person or by a representative of the applicant or sent by registered mail to your nearest Australian Consulate. If applying by mail, include a stamped, self addressed envelope large enough to enable return of your passport by first-class, certified, registered, express, or special-delivery mail. Please make sure you read the application form carefully.
Australian visa applications can be complex. Using the services of an Australian Migration Agent can ensure that your Australia visa application is valid and increase your chances of a successful Australian Visa Application outcome.
Australian Visa Applications
Backpackers: Hitchhiking is illegal in some states and strongly discouraged throughout the country. The potential dangers have to be weighed up against the price of a discounted bus ticket or travel pass.
Banking/Business Hours: Banks - 9.30am-4pm Mon-Thu; 9.30am-5pm Fri. In some states Sat a.m. General office hours - 9am-5pm, Mon-Fri. Post offices - 9am-5pm Mon-Fri. Stamps are available at some hotels and motels and retail outlets.
Climate: Australia's seasons are the opposite to those of the Northern Hemisphere. In the north, above the Tropic of Capricorn, about 40% of Australia is in the tropical zone. The remaining areas lie in the temperate zone. There are variations within these zones.
Spring: September - November. Summer: December - February. Autumn: March - May. Winter: June - August.
Clothing: In the tropics lightweight (natural fibres) clothing is suitable all year round. In the southern temperate regions, keep a jacket or sweater handy as nights may be cool. For southern winters, warmer clothes are advisable.
Credit Cards: American Express, Bankcard, Carte Blanche, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and affiliates. Check with your bank before leaving home.
Currency Exchange and Travellers Cheques: Exchange facilities at all international airports. Changing foreign currency or travellers cheques can be done at most banks or large hotels.
Customs: Strict laws prohibit or restrict the entry of drugs, steroids, firearms, foodstuffs, protected wildlife and associated products. The penalties for breaking these laws are severe. There is no limit on the amount of Australian and/or foreign cash that may be brought into or taken out of Australia. However, amounts over $A5000, or equivalent, must be reported. Travellers 18 years and over may bring 1 litre of alcohol and 250 cigarettes or 250g tobacco duty free. There is a duty free allowance of $A400 per person 18 years ($A200 per person under 18) and over. Short-term visitors may bring most articles into the country duty free, provided Customs is satisfied that they are for personal use.
Disabilities: Australia is very aware of the needs of people with disabilities. Advance notice and details will ensure the best possible assistance from airlines, hotels or transport offices. Many cinemas and restaurants are happy to assist although not all can cater for severe disabilities or wheelchairs. Most new buildings provide wheelchair access. Guides to facilities are available from the National Information Communication Awareness Network (NICAN), Tel: (06) 285 3713 Fax: (06) 285 3717.
Electrical Voltage: 240/250 AC 50 cycles, with 3 flat-pin so you will need an adaptor socket. If your appliances are 110V check if there is a 110/240V switch; if not you will need a voltage converter. Universal outlets for 240V or 110V shavers are usually found in hotels. Tipping is not obligatory and there are no extra service charges at hotels and restaurants. For special service, a tip of 10% is acceptable for waiters. At any time, tipping is your choice. Smoking is not permitted on public transport including domestic airflights, and it is not permitted in many public buildings and some restaurants. In North Queensland, take care from late October to early May when box jelly fish (stingers) are found along the coast. Beaches where stingers are prevalent usually have warning signs, and many popular areas have protective enclosures for safe ocean swimming.
Emergency: For serious emergency calls to Ambulance, Fire and Police - Dial 000.
Getting Around: Aussies drive on the left and seat belts must be worn at all times. Taxis: Meter operated taxis service cities and towns.
A modern suburban commuter rail and bus service operates around Perth with some country passenger sevices available. Coaches abound to country areas. There is a range of well priced travel passes.
Liquor Laws: General licensing hours for public bars are Mon-Sat 10am-10pm. Sunday liquor trading hours are from Noon to 6pm. Restaurants, clubs and hotel lounges have more flexible hours. You must be 18 years or older to buy or consume alcohol in public.
Medical: Visitors can bring reasonable quantities of prescribed medications. For large quantities, bring a doctor's certificate to produce to customs if necessary. Chemists can fill most prescriptions but some may need to be re-issued by an Australia-registered doctor. In the event of illness, your hotel can call a doctor or you can call your country's High Commission, Embassy or Consulate-General for a list of doctors.
Residents of the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Italy, Malta, Finland, Netherlands and Sweden are covered by Australia's health insurance scheme, Medicare. Reciprocal healthcare agreements provide care for immediately necessary medical treatment only. You should protect yourself from risks such as exposure to HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Outback Safety: Plan your trip with the aid of a reputable map, stay on recognised routes and check facilities and road conditions before departure. If travelling on little used roads always notify the authorities of your destination and E.T.A..Always carry extra petrol, oil, tyres and water. Emergency radios can be hired from the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Allow at least one gallon of water per person per day. In the case of a breakdown, stay with your vehicle where there is shade and protection from the heat, if you have notified someone of your plans the search parties will know where to find you.
Petrol and Diesel Fuels: Leaded and unleaded petrols and dieselene are sold by the litre. Petrol costs between $A0.85 to $A0.1.10 per litre (in remote areas). Suppliers (called service stations) are reasonably plentiful in towns and cities; trading hours vary. Most accept international credit cards.
Shopping: Big department stores, arcades, malls, gift shops, boutiques and specially stores abound in WA. Good buys include opals and semi-precious stones, sheepskin and leather goods, Aboriginal artefacts and paintings. Dutyfree shops are located in city centres and at international airports.
Sun Protection: Wear a shady hat, a long-sleeved shirt, and apply SPF 15+ sun screen on exposed skin. Try to avoid the sun 10am-2pm (l l am-3pm daylight saving time) when UV rays are strongest.
Surf Safety:Popular beaches are patrolled by volunteer Surf Life Saving Association members. Always remember to swim between the flags. Many suburban beaches are patrolled Oct-Apr.
Telephones: The minimum cost of a local call is 40c. Subscriber Trunk Dialling (STD) and International Direct Dialling (IDD) calls can be made on public pay phones. Check the telephone directory or local operator for charges.Phonecard (available at many retail outlets) is a pre-paid card for use in over 75% of public pay phones.
Vaccinations: Vaccinations are not required unless you have come from or visited a yellow fever infected country or zone within six days prior to arrival.
Weights and Measures: Australia uses the metric system of weights and measures. For example, speed and distance are measured in kilometres; weight and volume in kilograms and litres; temperature in Celsius (centrigrade).
WA has a good network of well maintained roads and highways and, for the more intrepid, quite a few dusty tracks to take you into the outback.
Road Maps and Motoring Guides: Comprehensive road maps and motoring guides are available from motoring organisations, petrol stations and the WA Tourism Commission. Street directories are provided with all rental vehicles.
Tourist Information Centres: Even in the smallest town you will find an outlet distributing tourist information. Look for the international "I" sign which may be displayed at an information centre, community hall or petrol station.
Road Rules: Australians drive on the left hand side of the road. The maximum speed limit in cities and towns is 60km/h (35mph) and 100km/h (62mph) on country roads and highways, unless signs indicate otherwise. Strict drink driving laws apply. Random breath testing applies with the driver's permitted alcohol level is .05 percent. It is compulsory for drivers and passengers to wear seat belts at all times. Contact the WA Police Dept. for further information.
Driver's Licences: A bona fide tourist may drive in Australia on a valid overseas driver's licence for the same class of vehicle. Licences must be carried when driving, in addition to a valid passport. If the driver's licence is not in the English language, the visitor must carry a translation with the permit. In some States visitors should present their licence to the motor registration authority on arrival. An International Driver's Permit is not sufficient by itself and must be accompanied by a valid driver's permit.
Drivers With Disabilities: There are few vehicles for hire in WA for people with disabilities although recent legislation has allowed for an increase in taxis catering for the disabled. Drivers are advised to travel with their own hand held controls and have them adjusted to a standard vehicle on arrival. The Paraplegic and Quadriplegic Associations within each State can assist with the fitting of controls and should be contacted before departure.
Breakdowns: If driving a rental car, you should contact the car rental company which will arrange to send road service to your location to repair the vehicle. Alternatively, most petrol stations will be able to assist or, at least, direct you to the nearest repair centre. Check also with your own motoring club regarding reciprocal membership facilities.
Outback Safety: Take precautions when travelling independently in isolated outback areas. Plan your trip with the aid of a reputable map, stay on recognised routes and check facilities and road conditions before departure. Make sure you carry ample supplies of petrol and water. Allow at least one gallon of water per person per day. Drink water regularly and in sufficient quantities to prevent dehydration. In the case of a breakdown, stay with your vehicle where there is shade and protection from the heat.
As a road safety measure, many country cafes and road-houses offer a free cup of coffee to the driver to keep you awake on "long hauls".
Rental Cars: Available at major air and rail terminals, and from central city locations, suburbs and resorts throughout Australia. Vehicles can be hired on arrival in Australia however it is advisable to pre-book particularly during school and Chrismas holidays.
Most rental companies offer advice and provide guides and maps relevant to the area in which you will be travelling. A list of office locations around Australia can be obtained from the respective companies.
Rates: Rental rates vary according to the operator, hire location, type of vehicle and the rental period required. Vehicles come with a full tank of petrol and must be returned with a full tank. All rates include unlimited free kilometres in metropolitan areas. Weekly discounts usually apply.
Insurance: Compulsory third party insurance and collision damage waiver are included in car rentals. Personal accident insurance plans are also available at an extra charge. A premium may be charged for driven under 25 years of age.
Credit/Payments: Most car rental companies will ask for a major international credit card for credit identification. With cash rentals it is customary for the estimated rental charge (including insurance and petrol) to be paid in advance. The petrol bond is refunded, if appropriate, when the car is returned to the depot.
Campervans and Motor homes: Travelling by campervan or motorhome gives you flexibility and independence. Australia's agreeable climate and abundance of camp sites makes this an ideal way to explore the country.
A campervan is a light van which has been converted by replacing the fixed roof with a "pop-top", and fitting out the interior with sleeping and living arrangements. Campervans have two or three berths.
A motorhome has its living area built onto a truck chassis, with either a single or twin cabin. Motorhomes usually acconunodate four-to-six people.
A campervan is easier to drive and manoeuvre while a motorhome has more living and storage space. Campervans can be driven in city centres however due to their height they cannot be parked in multi-storey carparks. An option would be to park the vehicle in a suburb where transport to the city is available. Well-equipped campervans and motorhomes are available for rental and can be sited in many of the caravan parks or camp sites throughout WA. Rates vary according to the length of rental, time of year and type of vehicle. Minimum rental period is usually 7 days and savings can be made on rentals of one month or longer. During December and January (school holidays) a surcharge of SA10-$A15 per day normally applies.
Motorcycle Hire: Interstate travel is permissible but motorcycles must be returned to the place from where they were rented.
Rental varies from $A60-95 per day and $A300-500 per week depending on the engine capacity. A refundable deposit of around $A500.00 is required. Discounts normally apply when hiring a bike for more than a week.
Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles: Most four-wheel-drive rental companies require a previous knowledge of 4WD vehicles. Proper preparation for your trip is extremely important and you should seek advice before and during your journey and report your intentions along the way.
You can expect the highest standards of accommodation in a range designed to suit every budget. Make your choice from luxury hotels and resorts, comfortable motels, apartments and hostels, to farms and private homes. Where possible, reservations should be made before you leave home - just ask your travel agent to make the arrangements for you.
Standards Guide: Accommodation in WA is divided into categories based on facilities and location. The following star ratings provided by the Australian Automobile Clubs are a guide to prices only and are subject to change.
5 stars: Large establishments of international standard (1-2 pers $A170-350; suites $A400-2100)
4-4,5 stars: Exceptionally well-appointed establishments with high-quality furnishings and a high degree of comfort (1 -2 pers $Al10-240)
3-3,5 stars: Well-appointed establishments with comfortable, clean rooms and quality furnishings (1-2 pers $A80-180)
Less than 3 stars: A range of establishments offering a basic, well maintained standard (1-2 pers $A55-85; hostel accommodation $A12-16 per person) Serviced apartments: Fully equipped apartments, 1-3 bedrooms with living area, complete kitchen, laundry and separate bathroom. ($A120-200)
Hotels: Most hotel groups in Australia offer high quality accommodation. You will also find a wide range of comfortable, three-to-four-star hotels in the cities and country areas.
Motels: There is a wide choice of modern, comfortable motels located around Australia. They oiter self-contained rooms with private bath or shower, telephone, television, tea and coffee-making facilities and a small refrigerator. Many have restaurants and other facilities such as swimming pool.
Apartments: Self-contained apartments are available for those who wish privacy and the option of cooking their own meals. Linen and cooking utensils are usually provided, or can be hired for an additional cost. There is a good selection of serviced apartments in major cities.
Resorts: Western Australian resorts offer high-quality service and facilities with an extensive range of recreational activities. Many cater for specific interests such as diving, golfing, tennis and fishing.
Hostels:In WA, there are two types of hostel accommodation specifically for the budget traveller. They include the privately owned backpacker hostels and YHA hostels (Youth Hotels Association). Both types provide self-catering accommodation in a warm, relaxing atmosphere. Hostels have become big business as more and more budget travellers flock to Australia.
Hostels are self-catering which means that cleaning up is the responsibility of each individual who stays there. In terms of value for money, many travellers would not believe the facilities they can get for $A15 or less a night. The list of available "extras" at both types of hostel is extensive. Bedrooms range from singles, twins and doubles, to huge dormitories with 24 beds. Some hostels even use three-tier bunks in order to pack in as many eager lodgers as possible.
Youth Hostels and backpacker venues provide budget-priced accommodation with 24 hour access and minimum restrictions. There is no age limit and room sizes vary. Fees average $A14 per night.
YHA, which has offered budget accommodation in Australia since 1939, now has more than 150 hostels. You can stay at YHA Hostels if you hold a YHA Membership from another country, or purchase an International Guest Card (IGC) for $A24. The card can be obtained on arrival from any YHA membership centre in a capital city, or at the first hostel you visit. Joining YHA before leaving on a trip to Australia can have a cost benefit as the association frequently offers membership discounts - including an exclusive coach travel discount - to people who sign up before they travel.
Backpacking: Backpacker Resorts of Australia (BRA) is an association with hostels throughout Australia. BRA offers a VIP membership which gives discounts on travel and accommodation. The group issues a small yellow booklet which lists and details all the member hostels.
Bed and Breakfast Home Stays: Bed and Breakfast in Australia means a warm welcome into someone's home. Staying in a BB gives travellers the opportunity to experience the feel of the "real" country, and a chance to meet the people. Australian BBs offer a wonderful variety of places to stay: some are located in historic houses and country homesteads, inner city townhouses and conventional family homes. You will find BBs throughout Australia - from major cities, towns and resort areas, to remote country areas and sleepy villages. Remember that BB hosts cannot offer hotel facilities, so please telephone ahead to book your accommodation.
Some BBs are members of regional associations, which inspect the property, and guarantee a minimum standard of facilities. Hosts belonging to associations display the symbol in their listing. A one-night stay including breakfast costs about $A50-100. Most BBs do not have credit card facilities.
Farm Stays: Farm stays offer meals and accommodation on a rural property and they range from those marked by simplicity to the frankly luxurious. What distinguishes most farm stays is that they are working properties where guests become one of the family and are accommodated in the homestead or in an adjoining cottage or cabin.
Farm holiday properties are so varied ranch style or homestead; small holdings within farming regions to remote Outback stations; and special interest farm holidays where rural visitors can enjoy specific activities. These may include horseriding, skiing at nearby ski fields, bushwalking in national parks, bird and wildlife watching, fishing, tennis or swimming.
Some farmers offer transfers to and from properties from the nearest railway station or airport. Make enquiries at the time of booking. Prices range from $A75-$350 daily per person for accommodation with shared or private bathroom, all meals, activities and local transfers. To arrange a farm stay, contact Travel Centres or RACWA.
Country Pubs: When you're on the road, don't overlook that famous West Australian institution - the good old country pub. These offer cold beer, meals and simple but comfortable accommodation for travellers. From $A35 a night they won't send you broke.
There is no better way to appreciate WA's great outdoors than to pitch a tent or unroll a swag (bed roll) under the southern stars. Given its size, relatively small population and variety, Australia is ready-made for camping.
Free Camping: "Free" camping, or pitching a tent wherever one fancies, is the very essence of life in the great outdoors, and while this mode of travel poses few problems in most areas of WA, a number of considerations do apply. Permission will be required to camp on private property; in some areas there are local regulations against camping. If in doubt check with local council or police. "Free" campers are also advised to carry portable stoves. In many areas of Western Australia, particularly during summer, open camp fires and all flame producing outside cooking devices are prohibited on days of Very High or Extreme Fire Danger rating due to the high bushfire risk.
Camping Grounds: Camping grounds are plentiful and well-located. Standards vary but basic amenities include electricity hook-up, hot and cold water, showers, toilets and laundry Facilities. Site fees are between $A12 and $A20 a day for two people.
At many caravan parks you can rent on-site vans or cabins from $A20-70 for two people. In most cases linen and blankets can be hired. Areas are also set aside for those wishing to use tents.
Advance bookings are recommended. RAC of WA and the State Government tourist offices produce guides to camping and caravan parks.
Caravan Parks: Facilities vary but basic amenities include electricity hook-up, hot and cold water, showers, toilets and laundry facilities. Sites cost from $A8-15 per day for two people. At many caravan parks you can rent onsite vans or cabins from $A16-65 for two people. In most cases, linen and blankets can be hired.
National Parks: National parks allow camping in designated areas; some allow bush camps (minus amenities), with fees varying from park to park. In any national park or reserve special environmental and safety considerations apply. Many parks do not allow open fires, so campers will need to carry fuel stoves. Bushfires are a serious menace particularly during the summer months and fire ban warnings must be heeded.
Commonsense Regulations: Carry all rubbish out, wash away from streams and lakes (detergents, tooth paste and soap should not be used as they harm fish and wildlife), attempt to camp on existing sites rather than creating new ones, and if lighting a fire use only dead fallen wood (cutting vegetation is an offence) and ensure a fire break at least two metres wide. Much more information is available from the WA Department of Conservation and Land Management.