Australia

ETA (Electronic Travel Authority, subclass 601) required for Japanese passport holders. Passport must have 6 months validity. Onward ticket required.

💬 Language

English is the native language (Australian English with distinct slang). All services are in English. Australians are informal and friendly. Some slang may be unfamiliar (arvo = afternoon, brekkie = breakfast, no worries = you're welcome). No language barrier for English speakers.

🚆 Transport

Domestic flights are essential for intercity travel (Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia). Sydney and Melbourne have good public transit. Rental cars are the best way to explore outside cities. Driving is on the left. Road trips are iconic (Great Ocean Road, Pacific Highway). Distances between cities are huge (Sydney to Melbourne is 9 hours by car).

💳 Payment

Very cashless society. Tap-and-go (contactless) is the default payment method almost everywhere. Credit/debit cards universally accepted. Cash rarely needed. ATMs at banks and convenience stores. Australian Dollar is stable. Eftpos (local debit system) is ubiquitous.

📋 Travel Basics

Climate varies: tropical north, arid center, temperate south. Southern hemisphere seasons are reversed (summer Dec-Feb, winter Jun-Aug). Sun protection is critical — Australia has the highest skin cancer rates in the world. Tap water is safe everywhere. Wildlife can be dangerous (snakes, spiders, jellyfish, crocodiles in the north). Power outlets use Type I plugs (230V).

General assessment