The Optimist

Melbourne Ambulance
Call 000 for an ambulance.
Melbourne Banks
Banks and ATM machines are everywhere. Banking hours are 9.30 – 4 on Monday to Thursday and until 5pm on Friday. Melbourne Consulates
America
03 9526 5900
China
03 9822 1600
German
03 9864 6888
Italy
03 9867 5744
UK
03 9652 1600
Melbourne Drinking laws
The legal age for drinking is 18.

Electricity
The current is 240V and uses a three pin plug (not the same three pin plug as the UK).

Melbourne Health
Royal Melbourne Hospital
03 9342 7000
Royal Children's Hospital
03 9345 5522
Royal Women's Hospital
03 9344 2000
Melbourne lost property
Melbourne Town Hall, Swanston Street (03 9658 9658)
Money
The currency is the Australian dollar that uses the standard “$” sign. However due to confusion with the US dollar the abbreviation AUD is often used or sometimes A$.

Public Holidays
Everything closes on Christmas Day. Other public holidays are New Years Day; Boxing Day; Australia Day (26 January); Good Friday; Easter Sunday; Easter Monday; Anzac Day (25 April); Queen's Birthday (12 June); 1st Monday in August (banks only) and the 1st Monday in October (Labour day).
Melbourne Police
The emergency number is 000.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected in Australia. However due to the large number of visitors tipping does occur and like most places in the world is appreciated.
Tourist Refund Scheme
Visitors to Australia can reclaim any GST on good purchased over $300 from a single store no more than 30 days prior to departure. Refunds are payable at the designated refund facility located past Customs up to 30 minutes before flight departure. You will need your tax invoice and goods to obtain a refund.
Melbourne Visitor Information
The Melbourne visitor centre is in Federation Square (03 9658 9658).
Melbourne City Ambassadors
Melbourne has very helpful City Ambassadors who were red uniforms and move around street help visitors. They will provide directions and ideas for things to do.