AIRPORT – HOTEL TRANSPORTATION
Most major airlines fly directly to Melbourne International Airport, with frequent domestic flights from other Australian cities.
An express SkyBus operates 24/7, every 10 minutes between the airport and the bus terminal at Southern Cross Railway Station. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes. The station is located only a few blocks from the Congress venue and many of the hotels. Taxis are also available at the airport.

VISA AND ETA ASSISTANCE
To enter Australia, all visitors must have a valid visa or an ETA (an electronically stored authority equivalent to a visa). For detailed information, consult Australia’s Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) at http://www.eta.immi.gov.au/  which is available online 24 hours a day seven days a week. This allows instant online applications to be made for over 30 countries. An ETA is linked to the passport number that is used in an ETA application and the holder must use the same passport to travel to Australia. Delegates are urged to lodge visa applications at least 6–8 weeks before their intended date of travel to Australia (or two weeks for online visa applications). Your travel agent or airline can also book your ETA.

VACCINATIONS
Other than being up to date with routine vaccinations, no particular vaccinations are required for travel to Australia.

INVITATION TO ATTEND INTERNOISE 2014
Some delegates may require a letter inviting them to attend the Congress. This may be obtained by requesting a letter from the Congress Secretariat, (liz@internoise2014.org)  once your abstract has been accepted. Please include your abstract reference number and the title of your paper. It must be understood that such an invitation is only to help visitors obtain approval for travel or a visa and is not a commitment on the part of the Organizers to provide any financial support.

TOURIST REFUND SCHEME
Delegates will be eligible to claim a refund of the 10% Goods and Services tax (GST) paid while in Australia, on any goods over AUD$300 purchased in one store on one receipt. The refund can be claimed on more than one item, providing they are taken as carry-on luggage or worn on their person when leaving Australia. Visitors can collect their refund at the airport up to 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure of their international flight.  All they need to do is produce the item and a tax invoice (receipt).

GETTING AROUND MELBOURNE
Melbourne is a great walking city with a variety of hotels, restaurants, cafes and shopping areas, including the city centre, within easy walking distance of the Congress venue.
Stops for the free City Circle Tourist Tram and the free Melbourne Visitor Shuttle Bus are a short stroll away. www.visitmelbourne.com
Delegates who wish to use the public transport system will require a “myki” card which gives you the flexibility to travel on trains, trams and buses all around Melbourne and on public transport in some regional centres. A myki visitors pack can be obtained from the Melbourne Visitor Centre at Federation Square, SkyBus terminals at Melbourne Airport and Southern Cross Station and from many hotels and accommodation providers. (http://ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/myki/myki-visitor-pack/)
The myki Visitor Pack includes:

• a full fare, concession, child or seniors myki card, pre-loaded with enough value (myki money) for one day’s travel in Zone 1, which includes the entire tram network
• discount offers at 15 attractions including Melbourne Aquarium, the National Sports Museum, Eureka Skydeck and Puffing Billy, saving visitors more than $130
• a public transport map and information on how to use myki.

A full fare myki Visitor Pack costs $14 and includes $8 myki money for travel.

CLIMATE
Melbourne’s climate is characterised by low humidity and low rainfall, with the average daily temperature in late spring being 20°C (or 68°F).

CURRENCY AND CREDIT CARDS
The unit of currency is the Australian dollar (AUD). Exchange counters are located at the airport and at booths in the city. Internationally recognized credit cards are accepted at most hotels, shops, and restaurants. ATM’s are located at many venues.

 TIPS
Modest tipping is common for good service but is not obligatory.
 
ELECTRICITY
Australia uses a 240 volt AC at 50 Hz system although many hotels also have 110 volt outlets.  Always check the power supply before using electrical equipment. You may need to have an adapter to fit the Australian 3-pin socket.

LANGUAGE
The official language of the congress is English.