Griffith University

Airports

There are two main airports in South East Queensland:

1. Gold Coast Airport (Coolangatta - OOL)
   This airport is the closest to the Griffith University Gold Coast campus. It is approximately 30km south of the central Gold Coast area.
2. Brisbane International Airport (Kingsford Smith - BNE) This airport is approximately 110km north of the central Gold Coast area.

Travel Tips

Alcohol

Legal drinking age is 18 years and older. Bring photographic identification to prove your age. Alcohol can only be purchased in liquor outlets and hotels (not in supermarkets).

Electricity

240/250 volts AC 50Hz universal outlets for 110 volts (shavers only) standard in hotels, apartments, motels.

Emergency

Dial 000 from a fixed line or 112 from a mobile phone. Police, ambulance, fire.

Language

English.

Measures

Metric system.

Post Offices

Australia Post offices are generally open 9am to 5pm weekdays and 9am to 12pm Saturdays. 

Religion

Australia is multi-cultural. Discrimination is an offence. Mosques, temples, Christian churches and prayer rooms are located on the Gold Coast. Specific dietary requirements are available (halal, kosher).

Road Rules

Left hand side driving. A 50kmh (31 mile) speed limit applies in most residential areas.

Open highways

100 - 110kmh (62 - 68 mile). View speed limit signs. Seat belts are mandatory. Strict drink driving laws apply. Bring your current driver’s licence if you want to hire a vehicle. Contact Queensland Transport for more information.

Smoking

Queensland has strict tobacco laws with new legislation being phased in. There is no smoking in indoor public places and no sales to children under 18 years.

Sun and Surf Safety

Australian beaches are beautiful! Never underestimate the power of the Pacific Ocean. Always swim between the red and yellow flags in a patrolled beach and heed life guards’ advice. Gold Coast beaches are patrolled by professional life guards and volunteers (weekends).

Swimmers must accept responsibility for their own safety. Sun protection is vital – always wear a hat, collared shirt with sleeves, maximum sun block and avoid the heat of the day 10am – 2pm.

Telephones

Australia’s international code is 61. Public telephones and international dial cards are available.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia. Some restaurants may charge surcharges on public holidays.

Currency and Money

• Travellers’ cheques can be cashed at banks and major hotels.
• ATMs widely available 24 hours a day.
• Major credit cards accepted at shops, hotels, restaurants. Common credit cards include American Express, Bankcard, Diner’s Club, MasterCard, Visa.
• Bank hours: 9am to 4pm (Monday to Thursday) and 9.30am to 5pm (Friday).
• Bureau de Change offer more flexible hours.

Currency Exchange Facilities

Currency exchange facilities are available at airports, hotels and key tourist centres. Australia has a Federal Goods and Services Tax on all goods and services. Travellers may be eligible for a GST refund on departure through Customs.Contact Australian Customs and Border Protection Services for more information. 

Travellers must declare substantial amounts of foreign currency (valued at $10,000 AUD or more) through Customs.

Australia’s Gold Coast has some of the nation’s largest duty free stores. View Customs for allowances. All shoppers in Australia are protected by consumer legislation. Some heritage items may be protected against export.

Passports and Visas

All visitors to Australia need a valid passport and an Australian visa or Electronic Travel Authority. Visa types depend on length of stay and the visitor’s purpose. Lodge online applications for ETAs or acquire forms from more than 300,000 travel agents, 75 airlines and Australian diplomatic offices worldwide. If you do not hold a passport approved for ETA, get a ‘label’ visa from Australian embassies, high commission offices or consulates. View Immigration website.

Letter of Invitation

Should you require a letter of invitation to attend the International Student Research Forum 2009, after registering for the forum, please email k.agnew@griffith.edu.au and include your full name as it appears on your passport. A letter of invitation will be emailed to you within 14 days of receipt of your email.