History
Sydney is a major city in New South Wales, Australia, situated on the ocean coast. Its history as a harbour dates over 50,000 years with the first aboriginal people. Sydney became the capital of the British colony, New South Wales, in the 18th century, and has since emerged as the largest city in Australia and a major international capital of culture and finance. Today, more than 180 nationalities call the city home.
Visas
All visitors to Australia need a visa. A visitor may be eligible for an eVisitor, Electronic Travel Authority (ETA), or other form.
Visa application forms are available from Australian diplomatic missions overseas, travel agents or the website of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.
Contact the CTBUH Sydney Conference Team to obtain a visa support letter: [email protected].
Weather
Sydney has a mild, subtropical climate with generally pleasant weather all year round. The conference, being held at the end of October, will be approaching the end of springtime in the Southern Hemisphere. The weather at this time of year is typically warm and sunny, with daily temperatures around 64°F – 72°F (18°C – 22°C).
Temperatures do drop in the evenings, so a jacket is recommended.
Getting Around
The best way to get around town is either by taxi, bus, or train.
To use the public transport system you will need to buy an Opal card. The card can be obtained (for free) and loaded with credit at numerous transit stops, newsagencies, and convenience stores across Sydney. The “City Circle” is Sydney’s underground railway network, which serves as a loop around the Central Business District (CBD).
Also, walking is a great way of seeing most city attractions downtown! The CBD, Chinatown, and Darling Harbour are all within walking distance of most city hotels.
Currency: AUD
In Sydney and throughout Australia, the Australian dollar (AUD) is the standard currency. For the current exchange rate, and conversion to other world currencies, see a currency conversion guide.
Currency exchange is available at most banks, hotels and international airports. Australian banks offer the same range of services typical in other western nations, and cash withdrawal machines or ATMs are widespread.
Banks are generally open 9:30am-4pm Monday to Thursday, and 9:30am-5pm Friday, but some banks offer extended hours and some are open on Saturday mornings.
Emergency Numbers
The telephone number for all emergency services in Australia including Ambulance, Fire, and Police is “000”.