Ramadan is a very popular Islamic festival celebrated by millions of people all over the world, even in Australia. It is a sacred month filled with reflection, spirituality and community.
There are several cultural and religious diversities in Australia, including close to a million Muslims, which is why this celebration is a very important one in the country.
There are several activities and religious practices that take place during the Ramadan month and celebrations during Eid ul Fitr.
So, let’s give you a quick guide to celebrate Ramadan and Eid in Australia.
What is Ramadan and Eid ul Fitr?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, observed by Muslims all round the world as a month of fasting, prayer, worship, service, community and reflection.
During Ramadan, Muslims engage in a daily fast without any food and drink from dawn until sunset.
This act of fasting not only drives a physical discipline but is also a means of spiritual purification, inward reflection, and empathy for the less privileged.
After a month-long fasting and sacrifice of Ramadan, the ‘Eid ul Fitr’ is celebrated. It is usually a 1 to 3 days celebrations.
Eid is an arabic word which means feast or festival.
Who celebrates Ramadan and Eid?
Ramadan and Eid is celebrated all over the world by Muslims.
All individuals from different cultures, traditions and countries who are Muslim celebrate the month of Ramadan and observe the requirements during the period.
Even non-muslims also value the Ramadan month and celebrate what it stands for. People participate by giving to Muslim communities, practicing self-reflection, listening to teachings and giving to the less privileged.
Why is it Celebrated?
Ramadan is a very deep part of the Islamic tradition. It symbolises a time in history, the 7th century, when the Quran was sent down to Prophet Muhammad from heaven to be revealed to men and women as a guide and means of salvation.
The celebration period focuses on spiritual meditation, reflection, fasting, seeking forgiveness, and strengthening connection with God.
Ramadan is also celebrated to boost community bonding through family time and community gatherings during iftar. It is the time when food is shared to break the fast and prayers are done collectively.
Ramadan reminds people to be empathetic and compassionate by being kind and generous to others.
How is Ramadan and Eid Celebrated in Australia?
Australia, a center of cultural diversity, embraces Ramadan with open arms. The celebration period is highly recognised in schools, workplaces, homes and communities.
The Ramadan month is often characterised by different activities that reflect the essence and key parts of the period. Usually the Muslim communities gather during Iftar which is the evening meal to break the fast.
There is often an array of diverse foods for everyone to partake of. There are also night prayer times at the mosques during the month called Tarawih. These prayers are held after the iftar meal, creating a sense of unity.
Muslims also carry out charitable activities to celebrate during this period such as food drives, donations and initiatives to support the less privileged.
Eid ul Fitr marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. In Australia, many events are organised by the local muslim communities and mosques to celebrate Eid ul Fitr.
Cleaning house, preparing sweet dishes, buying new clothes, gifts are common activities to celebrate Eid.
Families and friends come together to enjoy the festival in community spirits.
When is Ramadan and Eid in 2025?
In 2025, Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1st and conclude on Saturday, March 29th. It’s a month-long journey of fasting from dawn to sunset.
And the Eid ul Fitr is likely to be celebrated on 30th or 31st March 2025, depending on the new moon sighting.
The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, as a result the dates for Ramadan and Eid ul Fitr can vary.
List of Ramadan and Eid Events around Australia
1. New South Wales (NSW):
Event Name: Ramadan Nights Lakemba (Sydney)
Date: 27 February – 30 March (every Thursday to Sunday)
Location: Lakemba
Timing: 6pm – 2am
Details: A market showcasing diverse cuisines, crafts, and entertainment to mark the festive season.
Australia has a good public transportation system.
But because the country is so huge and spread out, it can sometimes be tricky to travel from one place to another.
Apart from that, there are some jobs or gig work that require a car.
As a result, many international students in Australia opt to buy their own cars.
If you are thinking of buying a car in Australia, this guide on how to buy a car in Australia will give you all the necessary information.
Let’s go!
Why Buy a Car in Australia as a Student?
As a student, buying a car can be a smart move for several reasons:
Getting around daily: Having a car makes it easier to go to school, sports, or fun places whenever you want.
No More Public Transport Stress: You won’t have to worry about train/tram/bus schedules anymore.
Adventures and Social Life: Australia has so many amazing places to visit. You can explore beaches, national parks, and mountains with your friends using your car.
Job Opportunities: As a student, you might want to work part-time. Having a car means you can take jobs that are far away and not easy to reach by public transport. You could even work part-time with companies like Uber or DoorDash.
Easy Shopping: Getting groceries and other things you need for your home is much easier with a car. You don’t have to carry heavy bags on the public transport.
Factors To Consider Before Buying A Car In Australia
Getting a car has its advantages as shown above, but there are some important factors to consider before buying one. Some of the factors include:
Purpose and Usage: Before you get a car, think about why you want one. Is it for going to school every day, having fun trips sometimes, or driving around Australia for adventures?
Fuel Costs: Fuel can cost a lot. So, it’s smart to pick a car that doesn’t use too much fuel and has a higher fuel efficiency.
Insurance Costs: Having insurance for your car is a big deal. Different cars can have different insurance costs. So, it’s a good idea to check and find the best insurance for the type of car you want. The cost can depend on things like what kind of car it is, how old it is, and where you live.
Maintenance and Repairs: Some cars are easier to fix and maintain than others. It’s important to choose a car that doesn’t break down often and has parts that are easy to find. Different car brands have different reputations for being easy to maintain.
Size and Features: Think about how big your car needs to be. If you want to work as a driver for a delivery company, your car needs to meet certain requirements. Also, consider how many people it can carry and some essential features like air conditioning and safety.
What Are the Costs Involved in Buying a Car in Australia?
Buying a car isn’t just about the price you pay upfront.
There are other expenses you need to think about for the future and to keep the car running.
Here are some of those costs:
Purchase Price: First, you have to pay for the car itself. You need to find one that fits your budget, and that means looking at different types of cars and their prices.
Registration and Transfer Fees: In Australia, when you get a car, you have to pay some fees to the government. These fees can be different depending on which state you live in. You will also need to factor in yearly registration fees as well. It’s a good idea to know about these fees, so you don’t get surprised by them later
Insurance Premiums: Insurance premiums are required to pay for your insurance policy. It’s important to have this protection in case something bad happens, like if your car gets damaged or stolen. The price you pay for insurance depends on things like what kind of coverage you want, how you’ve driven in the past, the type of car you have, and where you live. You should always do research on different insurance types and costs from different providers.
Depreciation and Taxes: Depreciation is how much your car loses value over time. It’s important because it affects how much money you can get if you sell your car later. Some cars lose value faster than others. Taxes can also depend on your car, like luxury cars can have higher tax costs.
Loan Interest: If you’re taking a loan to buy a car in Australia, you have to think about the interest you’ll have to pay back. How much interest you pay depends on the interest rate and how long it takes to repay the loan. Also, consider that international students may not be able to access loan options when getting a car. So you may have to find alternative funding arrangements.
Maintenance and Repairs: Owning a car means you have to spend money to keep it running smoothly. This includes things like getting regular check-ups, changing the oil, and fixing any problems that come up. Different cars can have different costs for these things, so it’s a good idea to find out how much they might cost for the car you want. Want to know more about the service costs of a car in Australia? Check this article out.
What Are The Most Affordable and Popular Cars in Australia?
Here is a list of affordable and popular cars in Australia:
Toyota Corolla
Mazda 2
Hyundai i30
Honda Civic
Toyota Yaris
Suzuki Swift
Kia Cerato
Mazda 3
Toyota RAV4
Kia Rio
You can find used cars for some of these brands under $5000. But if you are looking for a newer used car, then you should be ready to spend around $10,000 or more.
Brand-new cars from these brands can start from $24,000 onwards.
How Much Do You Need to Budget for Buying a Car in Australia?
Budgeting for a car in Australia can be a bit tricky because it depends on so many things. If you want a new car, it can cost a lot more than a used one. The type of car you choose also affects the price.
On average, people in Australia spend around $40,916 for a new car. But if you go for a small car, it’s about $26,346, while sedans are around $45,728, and SUVs are about $40,453. So, you need to think about what kind of car you want and how much you’re willing to spend.
When budgeting for a car, you should think about two main types of costs:
1. Purchase Price: This is how much you’ll pay to buy the car. It’s important to research and find a car model that fits your budget. Make sure it’s something you can comfortably afford without straining your finances.
2. Additional Costs: These are the expenses that come after you buy the car. They include things like registration fees, insurance premiums, taxes, and ongoing maintenance costs. These additional costs are essential to consider because they add to the overall price of owning and operating the car.
So, when planning to buy a car, you should not only focus on the purchase price but also factor in these additional costs to ensure you have a clear and realistic budget.
Steps Involved In Buying a Car in Australia
Buying a car requires proper planning to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here are the steps involved in buying a car in Australia.
Step 1: Determine Your Car Needs
When you want to buy a car, it’s important to think about what you really need the car for. This will help you pick the right car for you.
For example, if you want a car for ride-sharing service like Uber or food delivery, consider getting a Toyota. Two good choices from Toyota are the Camry or Corolla. These cars are great because they are comfortable, use fuel efficiently, and are economical to maintain. So, they’re a good match for what you want!
But consider your personal needs and decide which car might suit your needs better.
Some questions to ask yourself are:
Budget for the Car
Short term or Long term Car
Fuel efficiency
Car features
Residence or Workplace or School Landscape
Personal Car or Family Car
Step 2: Do your Research
Once you know what kind of car you need, there might be a few different cars that could work for you. So, it’s time to do some research to find out more about these cars. Here are some things you should look into:
Dealerships vs Private Sellers
Used vs New Car
Financing options
Insurance costs
Taxes and other government fees
Availability of parts
Customer reviews
Step 3: Find a Good Dealership or Look for Private Sellers
Now that you know which car you want to buy, it’s super important to find a good and trustworthy place to buy it from.
Buying from a trusted dealership reduces the risk of fraud or stolen cars, comes with a warranty and the final price includes taxes or transfer fees. But it also means a higher purchase price.
These days, you can actually buy a car without leaving your home! You can do it online through trusted dealership websites. They’ll help you pick the car you want, and then they’ll deliver it right to your doorstep.
Buying from a private seller usually means a cheaper price, but you need to consider taxes and roadworthy certification expenses. Some private sellers may provide you with a roadworthy certificate, but some may not. It’s best to ask the seller for a roadworthy certificate. This will give you peace of mind that the car is safe to drive.
Here are some trusted websites for looking for cars in Australia:
After selecting the car of your choice, conduct an inspection and test drive to get the feel of the car. If the performance is satisfactory, you can move on to the next phase. Here are some things to look out for during vehicle inspection:
Exterior and Interior Condition
Tires and Wheels
Undercarriage
Engine Compartment
Fluid Levels
Battery
Odometer Reading
Service History
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Suspension and Steering
Brakes
Safety Features
Ownership Documents
Roadworthy Certificate
If you are unsure about inspecting the car, you can hire the service of specialised mechanics. It can cost you $200 to $300, depending on your location, but it is money well spent to understand any issues with the car.
You can always negotiate the price of the car with the seller.
Step 5: Get the Paperwork Ready
If you’re happy with how the car looks and drives, and it ticks the inspection box, then it’s time to start dealing with the paperwork. The paperwork process can vary depending on which state you’re in. It’s important to follow the rules and regulations of your location.
Here are some of the documents you need for processing:
Proof of Identity and Address
Proof of Income and Financial Information (If applicable)
Insurance Documents
Roadworthy Certificate
Pre-approval Documents (If applicable)
Things to Be Mindful of When Buying a Car in Australia
When you’re buying a car, there are some really important things to be careful about:
1. Vehicle History: Get a report that tells you about the car’s past. This can show if it’s been in any accidents or had problems before. It helps you make sure you’re not buying a car with hidden issues. Here is a useful website on how you can check the vehicle history for free.
2. Warranty: Look into what kind of warranty the seller or manufacturer offers. This is like a promise that they’ll fix any unexpected problems for a certain amount of time. Knowing the details of the warranty can save you trouble later on.
3. Ownership Transfer: When you buy a car, you need to make sure all the necessary formalities are done right. This means filling out the right paperwork and following the rules for transferring ownership. It’s super important to make sure you officially own the car. You will get in touch with the local transport authority within 14 days of purchasing.
4. Roadworthy Certificate: Also known as a pink slip sometimes, it is important to get this certificate when buying a car in Australia. This certificate ensures the car meets the standard requirements to drive on public roads in Australia. We suggest not buying a car without a roadworthy certificate.
How To Transfer A Car Ownership In Australia?
Transferring a car ownership in Australia is an important step when buying a car.
Each state has its own specific steps and rules regarding the transfer. To find out exactly what you need to do, you can go to your state or territory’s transportation website. They will have all the details and instructions you need to register your car properly.
Make sure to visit the transport authority office within the required timeframes after the purchase of the car to avoid late fees or penalties.
Usually you will be required to have the following when transferring the ownership of the car in Australia:
Vehicle
Proof of Purchase
Your driving licence
Roadworthy certificate
Transfer of Ownership form
Local government transfer fee
Here are the websites for each of the states transport authority to know more:
Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, is a major cultural celebration around the globe.
In Australia, there are many events happening at this time of Lunar New Year that you can’t afford to miss. From the well-known Sydney landmarks to Melbourne’s famous Chinatown and other cities, there is a lot to see and do.
So, in this guide, we are covering details on celebrations for the Lunar New Year in Australia.
What is a Lunar New Year?
Lunar New Year is a traditional festival celebrated in Asian cultures to welcome the new year as per the lunar calendar.
The festival is celebrated with joy, pride and reflection by millions around the world each year.
Each lunar year is characterised by the animal of that year which is part of the Chinese Zodiac.
2025 is the year of the Snake (Wood Snake), which symbolises wisdom, charm, elegance, and transformation.
Who celebrates the Lunar New Year?
As mentioned previously, the Lunar New Year is mainly celebrated by Asian communities, but in Australia, many people from different backgrounds also join the festivities.
Here is a list of the countries where Lunar New Year is celebrated:
China
Hong Kong
Korea
Malaysia
Japan
Vietnam
Singapore
Phillippines
Indonesia
Thailand
Mongolia
Tibet
Taiwan
Cambodia
Keep in mind that celebrations for the Lunar New Year may vary among different cultures.
When is the Lunar New Year?
In 2025, Lunar New Year will be celebrated on Wednesday, 29th January.
Please note that the date for the Lunar New Year changes each year as it is based on the lunar calendar. However, it usually falls between January 21 and February 15 as per the Greogian calendar.
The Lunar calendar is based on the monthly cycle of the moon’s phases.
The festivities for the Lunar New Year typically run for 15 days.
How is the Lunar New Year celebrated in Australia?
Lunar New Year festivities include various events such as parades, food, dragon dances, and traditional customs.
Some of these events are listed in the next section.
Lunar New Year festivities usually start with house cleanings and decorations (usually red colour) prior to the festival.
Many people visit temples on the day to pray for good health, wealth and prosperity for the year ahead.
Most of the families celebrating will have a reunion dinner with some symbolic dishes like fish, dumplings and noodles.
It is common to give red envelopes (usually money inside), to younger family members and visiting friends. This tradition symbolises good luck for the year.
Giving other gifts as a token of goodwill is also a part of the celebrations.
Here is a list of gifts commonly exchanged during Lunar New Year:
Money (In Red Envelope)
Clothes
Food hampers
Fruits
Tea
Alcohol
One of the most common greeting to wish someone a Lunar New Year is Gōng xǐ fā cái, which means wishing you happiness and prosperity.
Depending on the events, there could be fireworks or firecrackers being lit in the late evening to welcome the new year.
List of Lunar New Year events around Australia
Here is a list of popular Lunar New Year events across Australia:
Sydney
🧧 Event: Sydney Lunar Streets 📅 Date: 1st February 2025 📍 Location: Haymarket ⏰ Timing: 5pm – 10pm
For a complete list of events in Sydney, click here.
Melbourne
🧧 Event: Melbourne Chinese Lunar New Year Festival 📅 Date: 2nd February 2025 📍 Location: Chinatown ⏰ Timing: 10am – 8pm
For a complete list of events in Melbourne, click here.
Brisbane
🧧 Event: Lunar New Year Celebrations 📅 Date: 1st February 2025 📍 Location: Chinatown Mall and Brunswick Street Mall, Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley ⏰ Timing: 2pm – 9pm
For a complete list of events in Brisbane, click here.
Perth
🧧 Event: Perth Chinese New Year Fair 2025 📅 Date: 2nd February 2025 📍 Location: James and Lake St, Northbridge and Yagan Square ⏰ Timing: 12pm – 9pm
For a complete list of events in Perth, click here.
Adelaide
🧧 Event: 2025 Chinatown Adelaide Lunar New Year Street Party 📅 Date: 8th February 2025 📍 Location: Gouger Street and Moonta Street, Adelaide SA ⏰ Timing: 2pm – 9pm
For a complete list of events in Adelaide, click here.
Gold Coast
🧧 Event: Lunar New Year 📅 Date: 1st February 2025 📍 Location: Chinatown, Davenport and Young Streets, Southport ⏰ Timing: 3pm – 7.30pm
For a complete list of events in Gold Coast, click here.
Hobart
🧧 Event: Lunar New Year Festival 📅 Date: 2nd February 2025 📍 Location: Parliament Lawns, 1 Salamanca Place, Hobart, 7000 ⏰ Timing: 10am – 4pm
For a complete list of events in Hobart, click here.
Canberra
🧧 Event: Canberra Lunar New Year 📅 Date: 1st February 2025 📍 Location: Woolley Street, Dickson ⏰ Timing: 10am – 10pm
For a complete list of events in Canberra, click here.
Darwin
🧧 Event: Darwin Chinese New Year Festival 2025 📅 Date: 1st March 2025 📍 Location: 235 Abala Road, Darwin, NT ⏰ Timing: 11am – 7pm
For a complete list of events in Darwin, click here.
We hope you found the guide useful and wishing you all a very Happy Lunar New Year ahead.
When it comes to navigating your way around the vibrant streets of Melbourne in Australia, public transport is undoubtedly your best friend.
This cosmopolitan city is known for its great transport network that offers a variety of options to help you get around comfortably and efficiently.
As a local resident, international student or a tourist exploring the city, understanding Melbourne’s public transport system is very essential.
In this article, we give you a guide to public transport in Melbourne, including different modes of public transport, the ticketing system, travel costs, student concessions and more.
Ready? Buckle up.
Mode of Public Transport
Melbourne’s public transport system has different travelling modes to help you get around including:
Trains:
Melbourne’s train network spans through the metropolitan area, connecting the Central Business District (commercial and economic heart of a city, concentrated with businesses, offices, financial institutions, and commercial activities) to the outer suburbs (residential areas located on the outskirts of the city).
The train system operates on a strict schedule, so you must familiarise yourself with the train timetables through the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) website or the smartphone app to plan your journeys and get information about any service disruptions or changes in schedules.
During peak hours, you can expect trains arriving every 5 to 10 minutes, while during off-peak you can expect them running every 20 to 30 minutes.
Trams:
Melbourne is known for its tram network, and it has the largest operational tram in the world.
Tram is a very convenient and environment-friendly mode of transportation popular among both residents and tourists.
Use of trams within the CBD (Central Business District) is completely free , and you don’t even need a myki card for travelling in that area.
Trams also offer seamless scenic travel, giving you a comfortable tour to explore Melbourne’s unique neighbourhoods.
Trams usually run every 10 minutes during peak hours and 20 minutes during off-peak peak.
Buses:
Buses in Melbourne provide transport to places or locations that are not directly accessible or covered by trams or trains.
While trams and trains are the primary modes of transport for many public transport users, buses help bridge the gaps, ensuring that even the most remote neighbourhoods are accessible and connected to the larger public transport network.
There are various types of buses, each with their specifications tailored to meet the requirements of the routes they cover. Some bus types are standard buses, articulated buses, low-floor buses etc.
Peak time buses usually arrive every 10 to 15 minutes, while 20 to 30 minutes during off-peak hours.
Ticketing System Used in Melbourne
The Melbourne public transportation system operates on a unified ticketing system called the ‘myki’– a contactless smart card-based ticketing system.
It is often viewed that the word ‘myki’ is a play on the words ‘my key’ which signifies that the card is your pass to accessing various modes of public transportation in Melbourne.
This card lets you add money and pay for rides by tapping on and off the myki machine when you get on and off a tram, bus, or train.
Here are some rules regarding the touch on and touch of the myki card around Melbourne:
Trains: You need to touch on the card before boarding the train and touch off on the exit.
Trams: No touch on/off required in Free Tram Zone. Only touch on is required if you are travelling in Zone 1 and 2. Both touch on and touch off are required when travelling in Zone 2 only.
Buses: Touch on your card when entering and touch off while existing.
The fare is automatically calculated based on the zones travelled, ticket type, and concessions. This makes it convenient and efficient to use.
The public transport in Melbourne is divided into 3 main zones:
Free Tram Zone
Zone 1
Zone 2
You can purchase and top-up your myki card at several locations, including train stations, tram stops, retail outlets, convenience stores or even top-up with the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) app.
Cost of Travel in Melbourne
As mentioned earlier, the cost of your travel in Melbourne is dependent on certain factors like the number of zones you are travelling through, type of ticket or if you have access to concessions or not.
There are two ways to pay for your travel using the myki smartcard and the fares are calculated differently.
Myki Money: Myki money is a pay-as-you-go method that allows you to load specific credit on your card and the fare for a journey is calculated based on the where you travelled. This is a good option if you don’t use public transport regularly, so you can just top up the credit you need and use it whenever you like.
Myki Pass: This particular package is a prepaid option that offers unlimited travel within selected fare zones for a fixed duration. This is a great offer for commuters who regularly travel with public transport, like students and workers. This pass can be prepaid for 7 days, 28 days or 365 days depending on which suits your regular travel needs.
Both options can be managed through your myki card and you can easily switch as your travel needs change.
As per the Public Transport Victoria website, the fares for 2 hours start from $5.30 (concession $2.65) and $10.60 (concession $5.30) for daily fare. For up-to-date fares, we suggest checking the PTV website here.
Want to save money on Public Transport in Melbourne? Try Early Bird Train Travel. Travel on metropolitan trains and touch off before 7:00 AM (with 15 additional minutes buffer) on weekdays to enjoy free rides.
Concession for international students
Eligible international students can save up to 50% on public transport with an International Student Travel Pass.
This travel pass comes in three options: 90-day, 180-day, and 365-day. They offer savings of $270, $540, and $975, respectively.
You can use this pass for all your travel needs whether school, work or just going out for leisure time.
Here are the eligibility requirements to participate in the International Student Travel Pass:
A full-time international student
Enrolled in a bachelor’s or associate degree, diploma or advanced diploma
Studying at an educational institute that is signed up for the International Student Travel Pass program.
Note that mobile myki is not available for the International Student Travel Pass.
How does the Public Transport Concession Work for International Students?
According to the official website of Public Transport Victoria, here are the steps to follow to get started:
Look into the International Student Travel Pass program to determine if your institution is a participant.
If so, find out how to get an International Student Travel Passcode from your institution.
Go to the website for the International Student Travel Pass after you have gotten your code from your institution.
Purchase an international student travel pass, register your information and make an account.
Submit your picture and current postal address.
You will receive your international student travel pass in three weeks.
With your international student travel pass collected, you can start travelling immediately.
Getting from the Airport to the City
The closest airport to the city of Melbourne is the Tullamarine Airport also known as the Melbourne Airport, which handles most of Melbourne’s domestic and international flights.
There is no train or tram link from the airport to the city at the moment, but there is provision for bus transport. You can take a bus route number 901 from the airport to the nearest train station Broadmeadows. Other buses routes 478, 479 and 482 are also available. You can take these buses from Terminal 4.
Although the most popular bus service, SkyBus Express Bus Service runs a regular express service from Tullamarine Airport to the City Centre (and vice versa) every 10 minutes all through the day.
The SkyBus also operates at other airports like the Avalon Airport. At the airport, other buses operate from the airport to areas throughout the Victoria region. Once in the city center, you can easily find trams and trains to reach your final destination.
Other Transport Options
In addition to public transport in Melbourne, there are other options available, such as ride-sharing, biking, renting a car, and taking taxis.
Bicycles:
Cycling is very much encouraged in Melbourne as it’s a sustainable and healthy mode of transportation. The city has a good network of cycling paths that make it easy to get around. If you are interested, you can either do:
Bike sharing: You can always rent a bike from the rental system with stations located around the city. This mode is great for short and quick trips. You can explore the city or reach your destination and then return it to any docking station.
Personal bike: You can get your own bike if you would likely be going on short trips from time to time. There are also designated spaces around Melbourne where you can park your bike.
Ride-Sharing Services:
Car ride-sharing service companies like Uber, DiDi and Ola offer transportation services if you prefer convenient on-demand rides. Their services are usually accessible through apps that allow you to order and pay for the rides electronically.
Taxis:
There are also traditional taxis available in Melbourne. You can hail a mobile taxi on the street or book one in advance.
Car rentals:
In Melbourne, you can also access car rental services. This mode of transportation is best for trips outside the city or for day trips. The rental agencies are located at the Melbourne airport and throughout the city.
Other Useful Information
There are some necessary information you need to be aware of when travelling using the public transport system. This cuts across timetables and routes, accessibility, safety and technological updates amongst others which enhance your general travel experience.
Timetables and Routes: You need to familiarise yourself with the timetables and routes of the public transport systems that you will be making use of. You can find this information on the Public Transport Victoria website or app. It will help you plan your trips and stay updated on any changes.
Accessibility: Public transport in Melbourne has inclusive facilities for individuals with disabilities, making it easy for their mobility on Trams, Trains and Buses.
Safety: Public transport in Melbourne is generally safe, but it is important that you stay alert and be conscious of your surroundings and with your personal items, especially at night.
Apps: There are multiple smartphone apps like PTV, metroNotify, tramTRACKER, etc. available to travel on public transport. They also provide you with real-time information regarding the operations of particular transport modes.
Understanding how Melbourne’s public transportation system works is essential for a smooth city experience for students, tourists, and locals.
Hope this guide helped you understand the public transport in Melbourne.
Want to know more about Melbourne? We have a complete city guide. Check it out here.
During summer Australia becomes a wonderland of adventure at several incredible destinations. From pristine beaches to ancient rain forests, there is a spot for everyone to enjoy their getaway.
In this guide, we’ll take you on an adventurous journey, exploring the best getaways in every state or territory in Australia.
So buckle up and grab your sunscreen, beach gear and hiking boots as we look into the top 10 summer getaways in Australia.
Byron Bay
📍 State/Territory: New South Wales
🏙️ Closest City: Gold Coast (in Queensland).
🚗 Distance: Approximately 75 km south of Gold Coast.
Byron Bay has some of the most stunning beaches in New South Wales. If your way of having fun at the beach is surfing or just relaxing and enjoying the warmth of the beach sun, you’d definitely want to check out Main Beach, Wategos Beach or Tallow Beach.
During the cool evenings, you can take a calm serene walk up to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
You can also visit the Byron Bay hinterlands to enjoy the experience of the picturesque town’s boutiques and cafes as well as the special market days when everywhere comes alive with the local artisans, music and of course, delicious food. This happens on the first Sunday of each month.
Byron Bay is a place full of exciting activities like hiking, sightseeing, kayaking with dolphins, and enjoying the beaches and nightlife.
So pack up your surfboard, sunscreen and hiking boots. You’re in for a massive treat!
Great Ocean Road
📍 State/Territory: Victoria
🏙️ Closest City: Melbourne
🚗 Distance: Approximately 100 km southwest of Melbourne.
The Great Ocean Road is not just another road in Australia but a path of adventure waiting to be experienced one step after the other.
For a start, you can kick off at the famous Bells Beach where you can enjoy away surfing or just relaxing under the warming sun.
Along the way, you would go through the enchanting Great Otway National Park and experience nature’s beauty in its pure form. Strolling through the lush rainforest you just might get to spot Aussie wildlife like the koala, kangaroos, emu, and platypus.
Journeying through the Great Ocean Road will bring you to the most popular spot called The Twelve Apostles. Limestone rock formations look majestic with the golden lights of sunset or sunrise, giving them a magical glow. It’s a truly beautiful sight.
You also get to experience the Bay of Martyrs and Bay of Islands, spots with gracious views and fewer crowds where you can have a scenic walk or have some quite time and even take lovely pictures.
From the fun beaches to the park’s wildlife, stunning rocks to the ports, villages, restaurants and other spots, you’d see that this adventure can’t be forgotten in a lifetime.
Imagine a massive tropical paradise of mini utopias filled with pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs and powdery white beaches, that’s the Whitsunday Islands.
These islands offer so much to nature lovers and adventure-spirited folks. You can kick-start your experience with the yacht sail.
Join a tour or charter to enjoy the sightings of the islands with the cool breeze and sail feeling. You can also indulge in snorkeling among the colourful coral gardens and swim with an array of marine life like tropical fish and turtles.
A visit to Whitehaven Beach, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, would make your adventure even more glamorous with the crystal clear waters and overall beach experience.
And to top it all, explore the island’s lush rainforests and witness amazing scenic views inkling the unique wildlife like the wallabies and goannas.
The Whitsunday Islands are tropical havens that offer unforgettable experiences. You can embark on thrilling adventures or simply enjoy the natural beauty.
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Mornington Peninsula
📍 State/Territory: Victoria
🏙️ Closest City: Melbourne
🚗 Distance: Approximately 80 km southeast of Melbourne.
Summer in the Mornington Peninsula will be incomplete without experiencing the spectacular beaches in the area. Whether it’s the still waters of Dromana or the surfable shores of Gunnamatta, there’s something suitable for your taste.
The Peninsula Hot Springs is also a fantastic place to relax and enjoy nature’s soothing thermal pools and spa treatments. The unwinding and renewing process only gets better.
For the wine lovere, you don’t want to miss exploring the boutique wineries and cellar doors where you can taste wines of exceptional quality.
Another stop at the Mornington Peninsula is the Regional Gallery, a place of spectacular local art, exhibitions and workshops. A great place to enjoy the local culture and possibly even pick up a souvenir.
To make your visit to the peninsula even better, you can visit the Enchanted Adventure Garden and enjoy a stroll or picnic, observing the beautiful vibrant garden. There are also fun activities like hedge mazes, zip lines and tree surfing.
The Mornington Peninsula is a must-visit to experience so much adventure and beauty in places, art, and food and have the most relaxing time.
Kangaroo Island
📍 State/Territory: South Australia
🏙️ Closest City: Adelaide
🚗 Distance: Approximately 110 km south of Adelaide.
Kangaroo Island is known as a zoo without fences because it is home to many different types of wildlife, including koalas, sea lions, various bird species, and, of course, kangaroos.
This island is more like a sanctuary for these animals, a special place worth experiencing. You can start your adventure by heading to Sea Bay for a personal encounter with the sea lions on the beach. That man-wildlife connection might just be what you need to fire up your enthusiasm for wildlife conservation.
Up next, don’t miss the sighting of the Iconic Remarkable Rocks and their massive granite boulders sculpted directly by the hands of nature. Their sight is most stunning at sunrise or sunset with the Southern Ocean as the perfect backdrop.
There is also the Little Sahara where you can do sandboarding adventures on the sand dunes or just enjoy the scenic view of the landscape.
To enjoy breathtaking views of the island you can hike to the oldest lighthouse in South Australia at Cape Willoughby and also learn about the island’s maritime history.
At the peak of your adventure, don’t forget to explore the delightful flavours of the island like the food, honey, wine and cheese.
If you are a wildlife enthusiast, this place is a must-visit for the full personal up-close experience.
The Margaret River is famous for its remarkable landscapes, wildlife, remarkable wineries and the arts and culture. You’re definitely in for an amazing ride in this adventure.
Start by exploring the limestone caves in the Margaret River area. Discover their intriguing structures and hidden passages as you connect with nature at every step.
The Jewel and Mammoth Cave are popular ones in this region, giving the full cave experience. Down the Margaret River way, you can visit renowned wineries to taste world-class quality wines. These wineries give quite an unforgettable wine-tasting experience.
There is also the Jahroc Galleries and Boranup Gallery available to immerse yourself in local arts and culture while enjoying the adventures of the location.
After the thrilling adventures of the day, you will definitely love the serene and cool atmosphere of the beaches of Margaret River.
The Margaret River is filled with lots of activities and is a great getaway as it has something for everyone.
Rottnest Island
📍 State/Territory: Western Australia
🏙️ Closest City: Perth
🚗 Distance: Approximately 19 km off the coast of Perth.
Rottnest Island is a car-free class A reserve known for its spectacular beaches, paradise environment and unique wildlife.
One of the island’s famous residents is the Quokka, a friendly animal known for its adorable smile and photogenic nature.
With no cars allowed, you can enjoy biking adventures as they are the primary mode of transportation. Rent a bike and explore the scenic parts of the island, discovering wonderful viewpoints.
You will be spoiled for choice for water activities like snorkelling, swimming, surfing and diving on the island. You can also engage in fishing at any of the many fishing spots on the island, you could even cook what you catch.
How about learning the history of the island’s aboriginal heritage and involvement in World War II at the Rottnest Island Museum and Oliver Ill Battery, right? It is all amazing from one thing to the other.
Don’t forget to go ferrying during the beautiful sunset to put the cherry on top of your whole experience.
Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park
📍 State/Territory: Tasmania
🏙️ Closest City: Hobart
🚗 Distance: Approximately 140 km northwest of Hobart.
Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park is infamous for its glamorous wilderness, ancient forests, glacial lakes and rugged mountain ranges. The Cradle Mountain stands at the centre of the park with its majestic peaks towering over surrounding landscapes, truly a spectacle worth seeing.
The mountain has many hiking adventures with beautiful views of the paths from the forest to the sky. This place is a paradise for hikers.
There is also the fun wildlife encounter part of the exploration as you are likely to come in close contact with some wildlife like the wallabies, wombats, echidnas, varieties of bird species and sometimes the revered Tasmanian devil.
At night the Cradle Mountain is a wonderful place for stargazing when the air is clean and the southern skies come alive with the elements. You would also enjoy a tour of the Lake St Clair, the deepest freshwater lake in Australia where the atmosphere is tranquil and the wilderness surroundings are calm.
A great place to take pictures and maybe add to your silhouette collections.
Alice Springs is a place filled with adventure, nature, culture and exploration at its peak. Kickstart your getaway with the thrilling hot air balloon ride soaring above the stunning landscapes at sunrise.
This experience is like nothing ever seen as you get to glimpse the beauty of Alice as a whole. The serene experience gives you a bird’s eye view of the Mac Donnell Ranges the vast site.
Exploring the range, you will encounter stunning gorges, waterholes, fascinating rock formations and the Ellergy Creek Big Hole if you fancy a swim. If your visit coincides with the annual Alice Spring Cup don’t miss the fun experience of watching the camels race and enjoy the lively atmosphere entertainment.
No matter your taste, you are sure to have a really good time at Alice Springs.
Kakadu National Park
📍 State/Territory: Northern Territory
🏙️ Closest City: Darwin
🚗 Distance: Approximately 240 km east of Darwin.
The Kakadu National Park is well known for its ancient aboriginal rock art, wetlands and unique wildlife.
You can begin exploration at the Ubirr and Nourlangie Rock Art sites where you’d definitely marvel at the art and hear the historic stories and traditions of the indigenous people.
All over this park are these aboriginal rock arts, and you’re free to explore as much of it as you want. For a more adventurous step, you can visit the Mamukala wetlands to explore the wildlife more closely and get to see some rare animal species in the park.
The twin waterfall is a soothing sight and relaxing as you can choose to cool off in it. The falls are accessible by a boat cruise or a walk.
In general, the Kakadu National Park is a great place to unwind, relax and have great fun.
Summary
These top 10 summer getaways in Australia offer a variety of experiences, from relaxing by the beach to exciting mountain hikes.
Whether you love nature, culture, or simply exploring, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and have fun!
So, pack your bags and let’s embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Australian adventure!
Feel free to check our articles on Top Getaways during Winter, Spring or Autumn Season in Australia.
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Tips for Black Friday Shopping
Before we end this article, here are some key tips that will help you plan your shopping:
Create a budget: Always create a budget regarding your spending during these shopping events. And importantly stick to it as well.
Shortlist the most wanted items: Prepare ahead by creating a list of items you want to buy during the Black Friday. You can make it in categories like must buy and may be buys
Wait till midnight for special offers: Some of the best deals on retailers like Amazon appear during midnight and last only for few hours. So you can plan your sleep accordingly if you want to check the best bargains.
Look for student discounts: Always see if there are options to get further student discounts. Check our student discount page for exclusive codes.
Compare prices and price match: You should compare prices between different retailers and try to price match from retailers you are planning to buy.
Buy what you can afford, not what you can’t: A very basic principle for any shopping event.
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