Visas
Unless you are a citizen of New Zealand, you will need to apply for a visa to enter and stay in Australia. For further information click here.

Customs and Quarantine
The Australian environment has been isolated for millions of years and is extremely fragile. To this end Australia must be extremely vigilant on what we allow into the country. Customs prohibits the importation of foods, plants, seeds, feathers and animal products. We also have strict rules regarding drugs, steroids, firearms and animals. Check what you can and cannot bring in at the Australian Governments Customs and Quarantine Site.

Medicines & Vaccinations
Australia prohibits the importation of steroids and body enhancement drugs. Personal medication must be declared upon arrival. It is advisable to bring with you a letter from you doctor detailing any prescription drugs you may have with you. For further information go to the Australian Government Medicare site. Australia does not require you to have vaccinations unless you have come from a Yellow Fever effected country.

Insurance
It is just plain sense to take out travellers insurance. The Australian Government has reciprocal medical insurance arrangements with some countries. To check this out go to the Australian Government Medicare site. To travel on a Diamantina expedition travel insurance is compulsory.

Airport Transfers
Australia is an easy country to get around, and that begins when you arrive. All our international airports are serviced by cheap busses and public transportation to the CBD. There are also taxis and hire cars available.

Climate
Australia is a continent and has a varied climate. Our seasons are opposite the Northern Hemisphere. In the north the climate is tropical, with the wet season during the summer months. In the south the climate is more temperate, but the summers are hot nonetheless. For further information on the climate in the Outback click here

Currency
Australia uses the decimal system, the currency is Dollars and Cents. Foreign Currency is easily changed in cities, but is difficult to change in remote areas. There are few banks outside major towns in the Outback so travellers should change their money prior to leaving major population centers. Use the handy currency converter to the right to see how many Aussie Dollars your money is worth.

Credit and Charge Cards
Most Australian Businesses accept major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. Many also accept Diners and Amex, however they may charge a small surcharge to use these. Cirrus and Maestro are available, and in towns there are ATM machines where you should be able to withdraw funds. Check with your bank before travelling.

Duty Free
Once you have your airline ticket you can go duty free shopping. There are limits for how much liquor and cigarettes you can bring into the country. Check with the Australian Government Customs and Quarantine website.