Currency, payments, and realistic day-to-day costs -- so there are no surprises once you land.
Australia's currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD, $). Notes come in $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 denominations (all polymer/plastic, not paper), and coins in 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, and $2. Prices are typically rounded to the nearest 5 cents for cash transactions, though card payments are charged to the exact cent.
Australia is a heavily card-first, tap-and-go society. Contactless card payment (and phone/watch payment) is accepted almost everywhere, including taxis, market stalls, and small cafés. Carrying cash is rarely essential, though useful as a backup in small regional towns. Let your bank know your travel dates in advance to avoid transactions being flagged, and check foreign transaction fees before you go -- a travel-friendly card or account can save a meaningful amount over a multi-week trip.
Airport currency exchange counters typically offer the least competitive rates. Better options: withdraw AUD from an ATM using a fee-free or low-fee international debit/travel card, or exchange a small amount before departure for initial cash needs (taxis, tips at your discretion, small purchases) and rely on card payments for the rest.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $40-90 (hostel/budget hotel) | $150-280 (3-4 star hotel) | $400+ (5-star/luxury lodge) |
| Meals (per day, 3 meals) | $35-55 (cafés, casual dining) | $70-120 (mix of casual & restaurant) | $150+ (fine dining) |
| Coffee | $4.50-6.00 (standard across all budget levels -- coffee culture is strong nationwide) | ||
| Local transport (per day) | $15-20 (public transport day pass) | $40-70 (mix of transport & occasional taxi) | $150+ (private transfers) |
| Attraction/activity entry | $25-50 per major attraction (museums, wildlife parks); day tours from $100-350+ depending on inclusions | ||
| Domestic flights | $100-350 one-way, depending on route, booking window, and season | ||
| Car hire (per day) | $50-70 (economy) | $90-140 (SUV/mid-size) | $180+ (premium/4WD) |
Figures are indicative guides only and vary by season, city, and current market rates -- particularly during peak season (Dec-Feb and school holidays) when accommodation and flights can run notably higher.
Tipping is not expected in Australia -- staff are paid a proper minimum wage and menu prices reflect the full cost. Rounding up or leaving 10% for exceptional service at a nicer restaurant is a nice gesture, never an obligation.
A comfortable mid-range daily budget (excluding accommodation) for most travellers sits around $150-250 per person per day, covering meals, local transport, and one activity. We build detailed cost breakdowns into every itinerary we prepare, so you'll always know exactly what's included and what's extra.
Tell us your dates and interests and we'll send a fully costed itinerary -- no surprises.
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