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General Info
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OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
The official language for the Congress is English.
CURRENCY AND BANKING
Australia uses a decimal currency system, with units in dollars and cents. All major banks or their agencies have branches in Melbourne. Normal banking hours are Monday-Thursday 9.30am-4.00pm and Friday 9.00am-5.00pm. Most banks are closed on weekends and public holidays. All major credit cards are commonly accepted.
ELCTRICITY SUPPLY
Throughout Australia mains electricity is supplied at 240 volts 50Hz AC. The flat 3-pin connecting plugs are different from those in other countries. Most hotels provide converters for 110V equipment.
PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Every effort has been made to ensure that people with special needs are catered for during the Congress. Should you require any specific assistance, please let us know in advance, with a notation on your registration form, to enable to assist in making your stay in Melbourne a pleasant and comfortable one.
TIPPING
Tipping up to 10% for outstanding service is normally accepted, but not necessarily expected in restaurants, hotels and taxis in Australia.
WEATHER
November is late Spring in Melbourne. Days should be warm and sunny with occasional rain showers. The average temperature range for Melbourne in November is 13°C (55°F) - 23°C (73°F).
WHAT TO WEAR
Smart casual clothes are suitable for all Congress sessions and tours. A coat is advisable for outdoor activities. The attire for the Welcome Reception is smart casual or business attire, and the Congress Dinner is business suit or cocktail dress.
CHILD MINDING
Child minding for accompanying children can be arranged through the Hilton.
HEALTH INSURANCE
Australia has reciprocal health care agreements with Finland, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Sweden, UK, and the Republic of Ireland. For further inforamtion check: http://www.hic.gov.au/yourhealth.services_for_travellers.htm. Medical insurance is advisable when travelling to any destination, and Australia is no exception.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
The public transport system of Melbourne is known as The Met. Trains and trams form the basis of the system which covers the metropolitan area, with buses providing addtitonal dervices. It's one of the best urban systems in Australia and one ticket can be used for all three. Tickets must either be purchased from dispensing machines or trams and at some railway stations. Machines on trams only accept coins
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