| GENERAL INFORMATION
Dates
The Annual Meeting will take place from 15 – 18 June 2011
Language
The official language of the Conference is English.
Name Badges
All delegates will receive a name badge upon registration. This badge
is the official pass and must be worn to obtain entry to all Conference
sessions and associated activities.
Climate for June
Average maximum temperature 15°C
Average minimum temperature 7°C
For more information on average temperatures, rainfall and lots of
other great information about Australian destinations, visit www.australia.com
Time
Melbourne is 10 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time
Exchange Rate
Australian currency fluctuates on the international monetary exchange.
Therefore we recommend checking with your local bank for the exchange
rate just prior to your arrival in Australia.
Currency and Banking
Australian currency is the dollar. Coins have values of 5, 10, 20 and
50 cents, and AUD$1 and AUD$2; notes have values of AUD$5, AUD$10, AUD$20,
AUD$50 and AUD$100.
Banks and Foreign Exchange
Melbourne's banking hours are generally Monday to Thursday 0900-1600
and Friday 0900-1700. All the major banks are equipped to exchange foreign
currency. You can also exchange foreign currency any day or night at
the airport o r during normal business hours in Melbourne's central
business district.
Shopping
Shops in Melbourne are generally open from 0900 to 1700, Saturday to
Wednesday and 0900 to 2100 Thursday to Friday. In most stores and shopping
centres major credit cards are accepted and tax-free shopping is possible
within the city.
Walking is the best way to shop, especially along Melbourne's arcades
and laneways. Outside the city centre, visit shopping precincts like
Chapel Street in South Yarra and Brunswick Street in Fitzroy, especially
on weekends. Here you'll find everything from retro homewares to funky
shops selling cult-in-the-making jewellery. These strips also have numerous
streetside cafes. Travelling between Melbourne's suburbs is best done
by tram or train.
For bargains, head for Richmond (especially Bridge Road and Swan Street),
where designer outlets and factory seconds sell jeans, swimwear, trainers,
tops and bags at heavily reduced prices.
Climate and Clothing
With its variable climate, Melbourne is cool to mild in spring (September
to November), with temperatures averaging 20 C during the day and 10
C at night. It is recommended that visitors bring clothing suitable
for cool days and cold nights.
Restaurants
Melbourne is a multi-cultural city and a wide range of cuisine is available
throughout its many restaurants.
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Australia has a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10% on most goods and
services such as accommodation, day tours, guides, translators, food,
transport (including coach, rail and cruise) and other tourism services
within Australia.
Electric Current
Electric current is 240 Volt, AC 50 cycles. Two or Three pin rectangular
plugs are used. For more information, please visit your local travel
store.
First Aid and Hospital Services
A first-aid room will be available to delegates during the Conference.
In the event of an emergency, transfer to the nearest hospital will
be provided by ambulance.
Driving License
International Driving Licenses are recognized throughout Australia.
Car rental companies ask for a valid driving license.
Private Touring/Hospitality Arrangements
Should you have any specialised group requirements for private touring,
transportation or hospitality services, other than those organised for
the official Program, please contact the Conference Managers who would
be pleased to assist with arrangements.
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