**Q:** What is the capital of Australia? / **A:** Canberra.
**Q:** What is the population? / **A:** Approximately 26.5 million people.
**Q:** What is the currency? / **A:** The Australian Dollar (AUD).
**Q:** Do they drive on the left or right? / **A:** Australians drive on the left side of the road.
**Q:** When are the seasons? / **A:** The seasons are opposite to the Northern Hemisphere: Summer is Dec-Feb, Autumn is Mar-May, Winter is Jun-Aug, Spring is Sep-Nov.
**Q:** What is the best time to visit? / **A:** It depends on the region. Spring (Sept-Nov) and Autumn (March-May) generally offer pleasant weather nationwide.
**Q:** Is it dangerous because of the animals? / **A:** The danger is often exaggerated. While venomous animals exist, urban areas are safe, and severe incidents are exceptionally rare.
**Q:** Is tipping expected? / **A:** No. Tipping is not customary or expected, as workers receive a high minimum wage, though rounding up for exceptional service in high-end restaurants is appreciated.
**Q:** Do I need a visa to visit? / **A:** Yes, almost all nationalities require a visa or an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) before arriving.
**Q:** Is tap water safe to drink? / **A:** Yes, tap water is safe, clean, and strictly monitored across all major cities and towns.
**Q:** What is the internet/Wi-Fi like? / **A:** Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and cities. The cellular network (4G/5G) is extensive, though coverage drops in the remote Outback.
**Q:** What type of electrical plug is used? / **A:** Type I (three flat pins in a triangular pattern). Voltage is 230V.
**Q:** What is the emergency number? / **A:** Dial 000 (Triple Zero).
**Q:** How does the healthcare system work for tourists? / **A:** Australia has excellent public healthcare (Medicare). Some countries have reciprocal healthcare agreements, but comprehensive travel insurance is strongly advised for all visitors.
**Q:** Can I bring food into the country? / **A:** Australia has extremely strict biosecurity laws to protect its environment and agriculture. Always declare food, plant, and animal materials, or face heavy fines.
**Q:** What is the official language? / **A:** Australia does not have an official language by law, but English is the de facto national language.
**Q:** Does Australia observe Daylight Saving Time? / **A:** Yes, but only in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the ACT. Queensland, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory do not.
**Q:** Which is the oldest city? / **A:** Sydney, established in 1788.
**Q:** When is Australia's National Day? / **A:** Australia Day is observed on January 26th, though it is a date of complex significance and mourning for many First Nations people.
**Q:** What is the legal drinking age? / **A:** The legal age to purchase and consume alcohol is 18.
