Local information

Currency and banking

The currency used in Australia is the Australian dollar (AUD).  Once you’re here, you can exchange currency in many places, including at the airport when you arrive.

ATMs will take most international cards and nearly all international networks.  Travellers should contact their bank at home for information on availability and service charges.

Credit cards such as MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted for most accommodation and services.  Diners Club and American Express cards are not as widely accepted.

Tipping

Tipping is not expected or required in bars and pubs or hairdressers in Australia.  It is appreciated in restaurants if the service warrants it (10% of the bill is the norm).  Taxis drivers appreciate you rounding up the fare to the nearest dollar or two.

Bargaining

Bargaining and haggling isn't really part of Australian culture. However you might get a lower price on a purchase if you pay cash rather than use a credit card.

Weather and what to wear

Hobart weather can be four seasons in one day.  The average maximum daily winter daily temperatures sit between 3° and 11° C.  Hobart, with an average annual rainfall of 626 millimetres is Australia's second-driest capital city (after Adelaide).  Hobartians are casual when it comes to what to wear, but the guiding principle is to layer-up to adapt to the changeable weather.  The 'Tassie tuxedo' (a black puffer jacket) is the unofficial uniform all year round.

Water

Water in Hobart is safe to drink from the tap.

Time

From October to April, Hobart operates on Australian Standard Time (UTC + 10 hours)

Electricity

240 Volts