Useful Information

Destination: Australia

Healthcare

Medicare is Australia's health insurance scheme and was introduced to provide affordable treatment for all permanent residents of Australia funded through income tax.

The Australian Government has signed reciprocal health care agreements with:

• New Zealand

• The UK

• The Republic of Ireland.

Generally you will be entitled to free treatment as a public hospital in-patient or outpatient and subsidised medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

Dentist

If you require a dentist whilst working in Australia you will need to pay for treatment (you do not need to register with a dentist until you need dental care). The Dental Association can provide you with a list of dentists in your local area and any recommended treatments via www.dentist.com.au. Your best option is to ask for a recommended dentist at any established health organisation.

By Car

If you intend on driving in Australia you will need to produce your own national driving licence or apply for an International Driving Licence. Only permanent residents are required to obtain an Australian Driving Licence.

Useful Telephone Numbers

Australian Public Holidays 2008-2009

If one of these holidays falls on the weekend, it is celebrated the following Monday.