International Visitors

The Shoalhaven welcomes visitors from overseas. If you’re visiting Sydney and want to get out and explore the east coast of NSW without having to travel too far, it makes a great option for day trips. And if you’re able to linger longer you’ll enjoy discovering what the Shoalhaven has to offer for a few days or more.

Click on the links below for a few tips for our international visitors:

• Language
  • If you require an interpreter, one of our major telecommunications providers, Telstra, provides a 24 hour translation and interpreter service for various languages. Phone 13 14 50. This service also provides assistance to those with hearing and visual impairments.
• Electrical Appliances
  • Electricity supply in Australia is supplied at 240 volts. Check your appliance has automatic switching for a 240v supply. It is advisable to purchase the appropriate transformers before arrival. Wall plug adaptors for appliances with different pin arrangements can be purchased from most electronic stores.
• Tips and Gratuities
  • You do not have to tip while in Australia, as employees are paid a minimum salary. While tipping is not required, if you feel the level of service has been exceptional it is appropriate to tip as a sign of gratitude. In this instance a tip of around 10% would be suitable.
• Tips for Road Travel
  • For those who are unsure about the validity of your driving licence in Australia, you should obtain an international drivers’ licence prior to your arrival in Australia. They are available from local automobile associations. For information about car rentals, see our car hire page.
  • Motorists and pedestrians please be aware that Australian drivers drive on the left hand side of the road.
  • Use caution when driving on country roads at night and early in the morning, as animals tend to be more active during these hours, foraging on the side of the road. The local Native Animal Network Association (NANA) rescue injured or orphaned animals. If you come across injured wildlife call the rescue hotline on 0418 427 214.
  • Always ensure your vehicle is in good order and check the water, oil and battery before heading off an a road trip, particularly when travelling on unsurfaced or poor quality roads.
  • Road speed limits in New South Wales are generally 50-60 kilometres per hour in urban areas and 100-110 kilometres per hour on highways and freeways. Driver fatigue is a serious hazard when travelling on Australia’s lengthy roads, see the driving tips on the travel safety page.
• Religion
  • Australia does not have an official religion. Church of England and Catholic Churches can be found in most towns, while other common religions are Methodist, Presbyterian and Uniting Church. Mosques for Muslim and temples for Buddhist, Jewish and other religious congregations are not widespread in Australia and are generally only found in major towns and cities.