Perth is the most readily accessible of any Australian capital to South East Asia, and is in the same time zone. Settled on the banks of the Swan River, the city of Perth offers a clean, safe environment. More than 1.5 million people call this city home, three quarters of the State's entire population.

Banking

Banks are open from 09:30 to 16:00 Monday to Thursday and 09:30 to 17:00 on Friday. On Saturday, some banks, credit and building societies and agencies open for limited hours.

Car Parking

Car parking is available at the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre. The current rate is A$15.00 per day.

Climate

The Western Australian climate ranges from tropical in the far north to temperate in the south. Perth enjoys a Mediterranean climate with an average of eight hours sunshine each day. November is the end of Spring in Australia and the days are generally sunny and warm, with temperatures in Perth ranging from 12°C at night to 24–27°C during the day.

Currency and Credit Cards

Australia has a decimal system of dollars and cents. Exchange facilities are available at Perth International Airport or city banks. International class hotels will also exchange major currencies for guests. The most frequently accepted credit cards are American Express, Diners Club, Visa and MasterCard (only Visa and MasterCard are accepted for Conference transactions). For up to date exchange rates, a currency converter is available at www.australiatravelsearch.com.au/ucc/

Disabled Facilities

If you require disability specific facilities, please notify the Secretariat by indicating on your registration form.

Dress

Smart casual/business attire for all Conference sessions and social functions.

Electricity

The electricity supply is 240 volts, 50 Hz. The Australian three–pin power outlet is different from many countries, including Asia, so visitors may need an adaptor socket. Higher standard hotels and motels provide universal 110V outlets for electric shavers.

Insurance

It is strongly recommended that delegates take out adequate medical, travel and personal insurance before travelling.

Language

All conference sessions will be presented in English.

Letter of Invitation

Letters of invitation will not be issued for the Conference. To assist in obtaining any necessary visas that you may require, it is essential that you register and pay your fees for the conference. A confirmation of your registration and receipt of your payment will then be sent to you, which you should provide to your Embassy/High Commission to assist with the application of your visa.

Liability Disclaimer

In the event of industrial disruption or other unforeseen circumstances, the Conference organisers accept no responsibility for loss of monies incurred by delegates. The organising committee and Conference organisers accept no liability for injuries/losses of whatever nature incurred by participants and/or accompanying persons, nor for loss or damage to their luggage and/or personal belongings.

No Smoking Policy

Delegates should be aware that smoking is not allowed in public buildings and many hotels and restaurants throughout Australia, including the Conference venue.

Passport & Visa Requirements

A valid passport with a visa is required for all non citizens of Australia. Delegates seeking to attend the Conference should, in most cases, apply for a short–stay business visitor visa. Residents from a number of countries, including most of Europe, Japan and the United States, can obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) through participating airlines and travel agents when booking their airline ticket. Alternatively, you can visit the Australian Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs website at www.eta.immi.gov.au to apply for an ETA. Visas can be applied for at any Australian High Commission, Embassy or Consulate.

IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU APPLY FOR YOUR VISA WELL IN ADVANCE OF YOUR DEPARTURE DATE.

Time Zones

Perth operates on Western Standard time, which is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Travellers crossing the Pacific will lose one day by crossing the International Date Line.

Tipping

There is no tradition of tipping in Australia, it is therefore not expected and service is given with a smile. However, where the service has been particularly good, you may tip if you wish. About 10% of the bill is usual if the service is exceptional.

Transport

Perth Airport is approximately 20 minutes drive to the city. The Perth Airport City Shuttle departs from both the International and Domestic terminals with transfers to most of the major hotels. In Perth, a modern bus system links all suburbs and surrounding towns to the city, while a free Central Area Transit (CAT) service operates within the main city area. In addition, travel is free on all Transperth buses within the Perth Free Transit Zone.