Money and duty free for Australia
Currency and Money
Currency information
Australian Dollar (AUD; symbol A$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of A$100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of A$2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10 and 5 cents.
Credit cards
Major credit cards are accepted. Use may be restricted in small towns and outback areas.
ATM
Found in all major towns and cities. However you may have limited or no access to ATMs in small towns and outback areas.
Travellers cheques
Widely accepted in major currencies at banks or large hotels. However, some banks may charge a fee for cashing traveller's cheques. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in a major currency.
Banking hours
Mon-Thurs 0930-1600, Fri 0930-1700. These hours may vary slightly throughout the country.
Currency restrictions
The import and export of local and foreign currency is unrestricted. Amounts over €10,000 or equivalent must be declared.
Currency exchange
Exchange facilities are available for all incoming and outgoing flights at all international airports in Australia. International-class hotels will exchange major currencies for guests. It is recommended that visitors change money at the airport or at city banks.
Australia duty free
Overview
The following items may be imported into Australia by travellers of 18 years of age and older without incurring customs duty:
• one unopen pack of 25 cigarettes or 25g of tobacco.
• one open pack of cigarettes.
• 2.25L of alcoholic drinks.
• Personal belongings that you've owned and used for at least 12 months.
• General goods to a value of A$900 (A$450 if under 18) (for example perfumes, jewellery, watches, souvenirs, cameras, gifts etc.). Business travellers can bring in general goods to a value of A$1000.
Banned Imports
There are very strict regulations against the import of non-prescribed drugs, weapons, firearms, endangered wildlife or plant species and some foodstuffs (including uncanned meat and certain types of fish and other potential sources of disease and pestilence (such as vaccines or viruses). There are severe penalties for drug trafficking.
For further details on customs regulations, contact the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection (www.homeaffairs.gov.au)
Banned Exports
The export of protected wildlife and associated products is strictly controlled, including the export of coral, turtle shell, snake or reptile skin, orchids, caviar, ivory products, hunting trophies and traditional medicinal products.
If you plan to export any heritage-listed goods, including works of art, stamps, coins, archaeological objects, minerals and specimens, you need to apply for a special permit.
The export of Australian native animals and plants is either prohibited or restricted.
Also prohibited are firearms, pornography and narcotics.
