Special purchases include excellent local
wines; wool, clothing, leather and
sheepskin products; precious or semi-precious stones; and
modern art sculpture and paintings. Indigenous artworks and artifacts are prolific in some parts of the country and paintings,
boomerangs, didgeridoos and other objects are on view and for sale in Darwin, Alice Springs and the state capitals; many depict stories from the Dreamtime. Ensure you are purchasing an authentic item, however, as much so-called Aboriginal art is fake, consisting of designs ripped off from the real artists. The
best places to buy are outlets supported or owned by Aboriginal communities.
Many cities and towns have small shops devoted to the sale of ‘Australiana’, where Australian souvenirs, ranging from T-shirts to boomerangs, can be bought. The country’s national gemstone, the opal, makes beautiful jewelry and the best places to buy are at or near opal mining towns such as Coober Pedy in South Australia. Towns like Broome in Western Australia grew on the back of pearl diving, and cultured pearls are still sold in large quantities and make popular souvenirs.
Shopping hoursOpening hours for most stores in the cities are Mon-Fri 0900-1730, Sat 0900-1700. Late-night shopping is available Friday to 2100 in Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Hobart and Darwin. Late-night shopping is available Thursday at the same times in Sydney, Canberra and Perth. Major stores in some states are open 1000-1600 Sunday. Most supermarkets are open until 2000, and are sometimes 24-hour. Corner stores, restaurants and snack bars are open in most cities until well into the night.
Currency Information:CurrencyAustralian Dollar (AUD; symbol A$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of A$100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of A$2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10 and 5 cents.
Currency ExchangeExchange facilities are available for all incoming and outgoing flights at all international airports in Australia. International-class hotels will exchange major currencies for guests. It is recommended that visitors change money at the airport or at city banks.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMsMajor credit cards are accepted. Use may be restricted in small towns and outback areas, as is ATM availability.
Traveller's ChequesWidely accepted in major currencies at banks or large hotels. However, some banks may charge a fee for cashing traveller's cheques. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveller's cheques in a major currency.
Banking HoursMon-Thurs 0930-1600, Fri 0930-1700. These hours may vary slightly throughout the country.
Exchange Rate Indicators| Date | Jan 09 |
| £1.00= | A$2.04 |
| $1.00= | A$1.41 |
| €1.00= | A$1.93 |
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