Tap water
Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Oceania country brief
Australia travel essentials
Australia uses Type I power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. The general emergency number is 000. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Last reviewed
Verify visa and entry rules with official authorities before travel.
Quick answer
Australia uses Type I power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. The general emergency number is 000. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
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Power and plugs
- Plug types
- Type I
- Voltage
- 230V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Australia runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
E
Emergency numbers
General
000
Police
000
Ambulance
000
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Travel notes
Tipping
Tipping is optional in Australia. Service wages are higher than in many countries, so tips are not expected, but rounding up or leaving 10% for excellent restaurant service is appreciated.
Best season
Australia is highly regional. September to November and March to May are comfortable for many cities. Visit the tropical north in the dry season from May to October, and plan beach trips around local summer conditions.
Visa basics
Most foreign visitors need a visa or Electronic Travel Authority before arrival, even for short tourism trips. Use the Australian Department of Home Affairs website to choose the correct visa for your passport and purpose.
✓
Before you go: Australia checklist
- Pack a Type I plug adapter for Australia.
- Australia runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
- Bring a refillable bottle — tap water in Australia is generally safe.
- Save the emergency number 000 in your phone before you arrive.
- If you'll drive, remember traffic keeps to the left in Australia.
Tool
Check adapter needs for Australia
Compare your home country with Australia for plug and voltage compatibility.
Reference
Emergency numbers by country
Browse emergency numbers across all published TravelReady Guide country briefs.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can I drink tap water in Australia? ⌄
Yes. Tap water in Australia is considered safe to drink.
What power plug and voltage are used in Australia? ⌄
Australia uses Type I plugs running at 230V, 50Hz. Australia runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
What is the emergency number in Australia? ⌄
Dial 000 for general emergencies in Australia. Police: 000. Ambulance: 000.
When is the best time to visit Australia? ⌄
Australia is highly regional. September to November and March to May are comfortable for many cities. Visit the tropical north in the dry season from May to October, and plan beach trips around local summer conditions.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Australia? ⌄
In Australia, traffic drives on the left side of the road, so the steering wheel is on the right. Visitors from right-hand-drive countries should take extra care.
What is the country calling code for Australia? ⌄
The international dialing code for Australia is +61. Dial this prefix after your exit code (e.g. 00 or +) to call a Australia number from abroad.
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Sources
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