Read about Australia’s currency, banking, foreign exchange facilities, credit cards, ATMs, Goods and Services Tax and the Tourist Refund Scheme.
Australia’s currency is Australian Dollars (AUD). It’s a decimal currency, with 100 cents to the dollar. Notes come in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. Coins in denominations of $1 and $2, and in cents: 5c, 10c, 20c and 50c.
Foreign exchange facilities
There are foreign exchange bureaus in Darwin and Alice Springs, facilities at Darwin International Airport, and at most banks and major hotels.
Banking
Australia’s largest banks, as well as some of the smaller banks and credit unions, have branches in the Northern Territory. Banking hours are generally 9.30am–4pm.
Credit cards & EFTPOS
All major international credit cards are accepted and EFTPOS is available at most major businesses, but not all businesses accept all cards, some may charge transaction fees. Note that some small businesses may not have any credit card or EFTPOS facilities.
Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs)
ATMs are located throughout the Northern Territory, except in some remote areas.
Banking in remote areas
Remote areas in the Northern Territory may have limited, if any, banking facilities. Many businesses in these areas do not have credit card or EFTPOS facilities. Check before you go, and carry some cash.
Good and Services Tax (GST) & the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS)
Australia has a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10%, which is payable at the time of purchase. Some GST is refundable through the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS).
For details, visit the Australian Customs website.
Tipping & bargaining
Restaurants don’t add a service charge in Australia; tipping is at your discretion. It’s increasingly customary to tip wait staff in restaurants 10–15% for good service, particularly in high-end establishments. Tipping taxi drivers is also fairly commonplace. Bargaining in Australia is not custom and is not likely to be welcomed.
