General Information

Public Transport: Free Tram Zone

The Free Tram Zone in Melbourne's CBD makes it easier for commuters and tourists to move around the city. The principal boundaries of the Free Tram Zone are Spring Street, Flinders Street and La Trobe Street. Additionally, the tram routes along Victoria Street, William Street and Elizabeth Street that surround Victoria Market are also included as well as the Docklands area.

All stops within the zone are clearly marked and tram drivers will make regular announcements when approaching the zone boundaries.  Zone boundaries are signed and free tram zone maps are across the network. If your tram journey is exclusively within the zone, travel is free, meaning you do not need to touch on with a myki.  If your journey begins or ends outside of the zone you must touch on with a valid myki when boarding the tram.

Up-to-date travel and ticket information can be found here.

Visa Information

Australia is a great place to visit but whether you are here for just the conference or you decide to stay for a holiday, you must have a valid Australian visa.

The Australian Border Force website is provided to assist our participants with visa applications located at the Department of Home Affairs.

Visa applications can be found in the section "Individuals and Travellers" on the Home Affairs website.

We strongly encourage and recommend that you visit the Australian Border Force website for the latest and most comprehensive information.

Climate

The average temperature for Melbourne in February ranges from 16°C (minimum) to 26°C (maximum). 

Transport from the Airport

SkyBus is an express bus service from Melbourne airport to Southern Cross Station in the city centre. This service operates 24/7, including all public holidays and takes approximately 20 - 30 minutes. Buses run from every 10 minutes throughout the day. An adult ticket - one way cost $18, return $36. Tickets can be purchased on arrival at the airport terminal bus stop or purchased online at www.skybus.com.au.

On arrival at Southern Cross Station in the city, SkyBus provides a complimentary hotel transfer service, subject to availability, during the following hours: 0600-2230 Monday to Friday; 0730-1730 Saturday and Sunday.

There is an abundance of taxis that can be engaged at ranks at Melbourne Airport. The taxi ride from the airport to the Melbourne CBD can take between 30-45 minutes and may cost about $50 - $70 depending upon the time of day.

The Conference does not provide any transfers from the airport to Conference Hotels. All delegates must make their own transport arrangements from the airport.

Special Requirements

Please provide details of any special diet, special needs or disability assistance required when you register.

Taxes

A Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10% applies to all consumer goods and is included in retail prices. All fees are quoted in Australian Dollars and are subject to GST. In some cases the GST is able to be claimed back on exiting the country. Full details can be found here under the Import, export and buying online menu option.

Travel & Health Insurance

The Conference does not provide insurance to delegates. We strongly recommend that you take out insurance policies to cover medical and travel expenses. If necessary, consult your travel agent.

Currency

Decimal currency is used in Australia - units are dollars and cents. All major credit cards are widely accepted in Australia. Visit www.xe.com for current exchange rates.

Disclaimers

In the event of industrial disruption the meeting organisers cannot be held responsible for any losses incurred by delegates. The program is correct at the time of printing; however the organisers reserve the right to alter the program, if and as is deemed necessary.