Australia

DEPARTING OR ARRIVING –what you must know:
http://www.customs.gov.au/knowbeforeyougo/default.asp
​VISATo get any kind of Australian Visa you need to visit this website:
http://www.immi.gov.au/Pages/Welcome.aspx

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WORKING HOLIDAY VISA – what to do once in the country:
​TFN, A tax file number is a unique nine-digit number we issue to individuals and organisations to help us administer tax and other Australian Government systems.https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals/tax-file-number/
It’s not compulsory to have a TFN, but if you don’t have one you may have more tax withheld than you need to, or you may not be able to receive certain government benefits.You can apply for your TFN online, filling in a form.
https://smarteform.com.au/onlineforms/ato/tax-file-number-application-or-enquiry-for-individuals/
It is really easy to get it and You should receive your TFN within 28 days after your interview. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will mail your TFN to the postal address on your application.
SUPER ANNUATION, is a way to save for your retirement. The money comes from contributions made into your super fund by your employer and, ideally, topped up by your own money. Sometimes the government will add to it through co-contributions and the low income super contribution. Once you leave Australia, you can apply online for a refund.https://applicant.tr.super.ato.gov.au/applicants/default.aspx?pid=1
BANK ACCOUNT, Westpack is one of the esiest bank account to open in Australia.It is free and you will get one Choice Account and one Saving Account.
Ask them to do an online banking for you, it will be good to enter online to do payment and transfer beetween your accounts. You should ask them to open your personal superannuation, it will be easier for you to manage it and you will give to any employer always the same. You must go to any branch with your Passport and one address to open it. You will receveid your card in one week at the address you gave them.
Check also Travel card option, in case you travelling with a tourist visa.
http://www.westpac.com.au/personal-banking/bank-accounts/Travel-card/?from=leftnav
PHONE SIMTelstra, is the best company you can get to get a good cover when you travel.
With more than 3500 4G sites, Telstra 4G is available in all the capital CBD’s, many suburban areas and in over 300 regional towns across Australia today.
You must go to any Telstra shop, with your Passport to get a SIM.
http://www.telstra.com.au/personal/
Lebara, it is a really good company if you are staying in main cities and you like to get a cheap plan (only $ 49.90 per month) to call in many European countries and more, unlimited on mobile and landline. The sim is free, you don’t need to give any identification and you can recharge in many shop monthly pas as you go. So you can decided month by month if renew it or not. Lebare is not good if travelling, because the coverage is none in remote area.
http://www.lebara.com.au/
TAX BACKYour tax return is due by 31 October each year.
Tax returns cover the financial year, not the calendar year. The financial year begins on 1 July and ends on 30 June the following year. After the financial year ends, you have until 31 October to lodge your return (unless you use a tax agent). For example, you should have lodged your tax return for the financial year 1 July 2012 - 30 June 2013 by 31 October 2013. In some circumstances you can lodge your tax return before the end of the financial year. Generally, this can only be done if you are certain of your income and you are leaving the country permanently. The best way to claim tax, is to go to a Tax office, with the Final payment of all your place where you have been working in Australia and fill a form in. In max 6 weeks you should get your money back into your back account. Make sure to keep all the receipts about work (if you buy any working clothes or working tools, or if you have to take transport during working hours, …) because they will refund it.
https://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/International-tax-for-individuals/Going-overseas/When-you-leave-Australia/Lodging-your-tax-return-early/
https://www.ato.gov.au/
SUPERANNUATION BACKhttps://applicant.tr.super.ato.gov.au/applicants/default.aspx?pid=1

• MEDICARE

Medicare is the basis of Australia's health care system and covers many health care costs.Reciprocal Health Care Agreements (RHCA) are in place with the United Kingdom, Sweden,the Netherlands, Belgium, Finland, Norway, Slovenia, Malta, Italy, Republic of Irelandand New Zealand, which entitle visitors from these countries to limited access to Medicare and entitles Australian residents to reciprocal rights while in one of these countries.To get a medicare, you need to go to a medicare office, with your Passport and a copy of your working holiday visa. Every time you go in and out Australia if your are from one of the eligible country you can get an extension in any medicare office.
http://www.privatehealth.gov.au/healthinsurance/whatiscovered/medicare.htm
http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/dhs/medicare

• SECOND YEAR VISA

If you apply in Australia, you must be in Australia when the visa is granted. If you apply outside Australia, you must be outside Australia when the visa is granted. To be eligible for a second working holiday visa, you need to do 3 months of specif work (farm work or woofing) in certain áreas of Australia (defined by sfesific postcodes) and evidence. You also need to meet the same general requiments as your first working holiday visa. For example, you must be aged between 18 and 30 at the time of applying, have no dependent children accompanying you and have proof of funds. In most of informatin center you can get a free copy of the Harvest Guide of Australia, to understand the harvest work in the country.
http://jobsearch.gov.au/harvesttrail/

1. DRIVE LICENCE

Drivers in Australia require a valid driving licence. Foreign licences in English are considered valid for driving in Australia for visitors for three months. If your licence is not in English, an International Driving Permit which is issued in your home country before arrival in Australia is required. So or you need to make an International driving licence, or a transalation at your ambassy in english will be enough to drive.
http://wikitravel.org/en/Driving_in_Australia

1. CAR AND REGO

• WHER TO BUY A SECOND HAND CAR:                              

Gumtree, is the cheapest way to buy a car in Australia. Maybe is not the safest, but if you make sure to check the most important things before buying it could be really a good deal. Carparks, more expensive but safest.
http://australia.angloinfo.com/transport/vehicle-ownership/buying-a-used-car/

• REGO,  Australian car registration system, or Rego as it is known. By law every car on the roads should have current registration papers, which are renewed annually. The car has to undergo a Rego inspection, if it passes the garage issue a pink slip which then entitles the car to get its papers. The registration fee covers the vehicle's road tax and compulsory third party insurance. Rego charges vary greatly across Australia; in NSW it can cost over $800( is one of the most expensive and you can register only for 1 year not less then that), while in WA it can be half that(is one of the best place where to buy and register a car. Minimun of REGo is 3 months). Queensland also is a good state where to register a car.
• INSURANCE, In New South Wales and the Northern Territory Compulsory Third Party Insurance (commonly known as CTP Insurance) is a mandatory requirement and each individual car must be insured or the vehicle will not be considered legal. Therefore, a motorist cannot drive the vehicle until it is insured. In Victoria, Third Party Personal insurance from the Transport Accident Commission is similarly included, through a levy, in the vehicle registration fee. A similar scheme exists inTasmania through the Motor Accidents Insurance Board.In Queensland, CTP is a mandatory part of registration for a vehicle. There is choice of insurer but price is government controlled in a tight band.In South Australia, Third Party Personal insurance from the Motor Accident Commission is included in the licence registration fee for people over 17. A similar scheme applies inWestern Australia.These state based third party insurance schemes usually cover only personal injury liability. Comprehensive and Third Party Property insurance is sold separately to cover property damage and cover can be for events such as fire, theft, collision and other property damage.CTP only covers personal injury liability.Third Party Property Insurance covers damage to someone else's property or vehicle, but not your own vehicle.Third Party Property Insurance with Fire and Theft is the same as above, but will cover your vehicle in the event of fire or theft normally up to maximum of $5,000.Comprehensive Insurance covers damage to someone else's property or vehicle as well as your own. My suggestion is to get a cheap online insurance just to be sure and relax. This is the one I have made and it is easy to cancel, once you leave.

http://www.sgio.com.au/wa

• FRUIT FLY EXCLUSION ZONE

Don't travel with fresh fruit in the major fruit growing regions of South Australia, New South Wales and Victoria - this is the Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone.
Key facts about the Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone are:

• Signs with 'Fang' the fruit fly, warn you when you are approaching the Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone.
• It is illegal to take fresh fruit into the Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone without a permit.
• Do not bring fruit, including tomatoes, capsicums, avocados and mangoes into the Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone.
• Random mobile roadblocks operate within borders of the Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone.
• Motorists who ignore roadside warning signs and are caught carrying fresh fruit face fines, with a minimum $200 on-the-spot fine.
• For further advice or information please visit fruitfly.net.au or www.pestfreearea.com.au or call the Quarantine Domestic Freecall 1800 084 881.

1. RENTAL VEICHELS

If you plan to do a short road trip in Australia and you don’t want to buy a car, the best option is to rent a car/van. Below some of the most famous rental company and website:

• Wicked http://www.wickedcampers.com.au/
• Apollo http://www.apollocarrentals.com/
• Jucy http://www.jucy.com.au/

1. COACHES

Greyhound, is Australia’s only national coach service. Hop on, Hop off passes are advice if you plan to make more stops.
 http://www.greyhound.com.au/
(Also there are other company)

1. TRAINS

Australia is a huge country and has some of the most spectacular and unforgettable rail journeys in the world. the best way to appreciate its vastness is to cross it at ground level by train, in comfort. It could be more expensive then other transport, but if you are a rail’s lover this is the way to travel.
http://www.railmaps.com.au/
http://www.railaustralia.com.au/
http://www.seat61.com/Australia.htm

1. SUPERMARKETS AND SHOPS

• Aldi (Lidl in Europe), is the chepest supermarket where you can shop in Australia. There are many of them in Melbourne and Sydney. No one in the West Coast or North of Queensland. In the Great Ocean Road, you will find some, but only in the biggest city.
• Coles, is the second cheapest. There is a bigger choice of products and if you buy Coles products, it will still be cheap. Rember if you go to Coles in the late afternoon, the daily bakery section and the other daily will be on sale.
• Wolly, it is expensive, but sometime if you are in small town is the only option you will have.
• 7/11
• Salvation Army, is the biggest charity shop in Australia. There are shop everywhere. You can find interesting things, cheap or not, and is the best place to donate things, when you don’t need them anymore.

http://www.salvationarmy.org.au/

• Op shop, are also charity shop. There are many  around the country.
• K martes, is a big chain of cheap shops around Australia.

http://www.kmart.com.au/

• Big W

1. PUBLIC SERVICES

• Visitors Information centres, wherever you go, drop by a local visitor information centre to help you get the most out of your stay. Visitor information centres are staffed by friendly, professional and trained people with extensive local knowledge. They can provide reliable information on attractions, activities and events, help you make reservations for accommodation or sightseeing tours, or give up-to-the-minute advice on travel in the area. They have a lot of free maps and brochure.
• Library, there are a lot of public library around Australia. Is the best place where to go for books, dvd, free WIFI, computers, printing and nice air con if you are in really hot places.

 
 
 
 

1. DANGEROUS ANIMALS

When you travelling in Australia, is good to get know which are the poisons insect and dangerous animals. Is good too to be able to reconize them. Everything will be fine at the end, so don’t be too stressed about it.

• Spiders

http://www.australiangeographic.com.au/topics/wildlife/2012/08/australian-spiders-the-10-most-dangerous/

• Snakes

http://www.australiangeographic.com.au/topics/science-environment/2012/07/australias-10-most-dangerous-snakes/

• Ants

http://littleaustralia.blogspot.com/2011/01/australias-deadly-ants.html
http://www.minibeastwildlife.com.au/Bullants.htm

• Ticks

http://www.australiangeographic.com.au/topics/science-environment/2011/07/ticks-poisonous-hitchhikers/

• Sharks

http://www.australiangeographic.com.au/topics/wildlife/2013/07/ultimate-guide-to-australian-sharks/Crocodille

• Jelly fish

http://www.jellyfishart.com/kb/jellyfish-biology/most-dangerous-jellyfish
http://www.irukandjijellyfish.com/

• Dingo (Personally I think Dingo are not dangerous, but humans are stupid)

http://theconversation.com/the-australian-dingo-to-be-respected-at-a-distance-8320

• Top 30 dangerous animals in Australia

http://www.australiangeographic.com.au/topics/wildlife/2013/03/australias-dangerous-animals-the-top-30/

• Flyes, are not dangerous, but they are really annoying. Read the link below to knows everything about them, including fly season in Australia

http://www.viacorp.com/flybook/fulltext.html

1. NATIONAL PARKS

Australia has over 500 national parks. National parks are usually large areas of land that are protected because they have unspoilt landscapes and a diverse number of native plants and animals. This means that commercial activities such as farming are prohibited and human activity is strictly monitored. A lot of National Park are free. Sometime you have top ay a small fee, usually rangers come to collect them daily (but not all the time) between 8am to 10 am, so if you plan to stay only one night and you don’t have too much money, just leave early in the morning.Others National Parks you should get a permit in advance, you will find sing telling you what to do and numbers to call to pay the fee over the phone.
http://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/experiences/camping/index.html
 
 

1. FESTIVALS AND EXIBITIONS

• Vivid Sydney, Each year the city of Sydney is transformed into a spectacular canvas of light, music and ideas when Vivid Sydney takes over the city after dark. Colouring the city with creativity and inspiration, Vivid Sydney highlights include the hugely popular illumination of the Sydney Opera House sails; performances from local and international musicians at Sydney Opera House and the Vivid Ideas Exchange, featuring public talks and debates from leading global creative thinkers. For 18 days, creative types, corporate professionals, families and people of all generations take advantage of Sydney's mild winter weather and immerse themselves in the truly spectacular show.

 http://www.vividsydney.com/

• World press photo, at the State Library of New South Wales, is happening every year and is free to visit.

http://www.worldpressphoto.org/

• Rainbow Serpentine

http://www.rainbowserpent.net/

• Confest

http://www.confest.org.au/

• Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Grass

http://www.mardigras.org.au/

• Nimbin Mardigrass, is a cannabis law reform rally and festival held annually in the town of Nimbin, in north east New South Wales

http://www.nimbinmardigrass.com/

• Doof, The slang term doof or bush doof refers to a type of outdoor dance party in Australia and New Zealand, generally held in a remote country area or just outside big cities in surrounding bush or rainforests[1] and similar to raves or teknivals. Doofs generally have live electronic artists and DJs playing a range of electronic music, commonly Goa, dub techno, Acid heavy sounds and Psychedelic trance. "Doof doof" is an Australian term for loud electronic music centred on a heavy bass drum kick.

https://www.facebook.com/OZDOOF
 


 
PERTH
Perth is the capital and largest city of the Australian state of Western Australia. It is the fourth most populous city inAustralia.
SIGHTING

• The bell tower
• Heirisson Island
• Art gallery of WA
• King’s park
• Northbridge

FREEMANTLE (FREO)
Located on the coast just 30 minutes from Perth's city centre, the bustling and dynamic port city of Fremantle has long been renowned for its eclectic mix of arty and alternative types. Its streets buzz with the song of buskers, the side walks fill with a wild collection of art and music floats out from trendy cafés and bars.
http://www.visitfremantle.com.au/Home
BEACHES

• SOUTH BEACH
• COTTSLOE BEACH, is one of the most popular of all Western Australian beaches. The clean, clear coastline and smooth terraced lawns are filled with Perth's most buff bods, while kids hang out in playground heaven.
• SCARBOROUGH BEACH, wide, clean and beautiful sands, grass areas for picnics – ideal for families and a wonderful view of Rottnest island, located 20 kilometers away – these are the main points that made Scarborough famous. Although you might say it’s the perfect beach for families, it’s actually the favorite place for the twenty-somethings, due to the high waves and loud clubs

 
MELBOURNE
SIGHTING

• Federation Square, is a home to major cultural attractions, world-class events, tourism experiences and restaurants, bars and specialty stores, this modern piazza has become the heart and soul of Melbourne.
• Luna Park (St Kilda), is a old style Park, builded more then 100 year ago. A day at Luna Park cannot be missed when visiting Melbourne, no matter your age. Enter at the park is free!

http://lunapark.com.au/

• St Kilda pier and the Penguins.  A little penguin colony established itself on the St.Kilda Breakwater in the 1970's.  They come in after sunset, every night of the year. In mid winter you may only see a few but in summer there are plenty.
• Veg Out St Kilda, is an organic, chemical free garden run by volunteers. It really nice to visit and you can relax or have a pic nic in this alternative Green space.

http://www.vegout.asn.au/

• The Astor Theatre, is a cinema in the grand, old manner. The theatre’s proud boast is Fine Films and Atmosphere and it is now the last single screen cinema of its kind in continuous operation in Melbourne. It shows a diverse range of classic, modern and cult films. If you go on Wenesday, we can see two movies for $10.

http://www.astortheatre.net.au/

• ACMI, Australian Centre for the Moving Image 

http://www.acmi.net.au/

• National Gallery of Victoria

RESTAURANTS

• Lentil as anything, is a unique not for profit community organisation, that runs three vegetarian restaurants in Melbourne (Abottsford convent, St Kilda and Footscray). Go in for lunch or dinner, choose your meal, enjoy the vibe and music at before to leave don’t forget to make a donation.

http://lentilasanything.com/

• Tuck Shop Take Away, homemade helthy Burger shop.

https://www.facebook.com/TuckShopTakeAway/info

• Villaggio Pizza,

https://www.facebook.com/VillaggioPizzaKitchen
-La spiaggia,
http://www.laspiaggia.com.au/
AROUND MELBOURNE:

• BRIGHTON, is a beach-side suburb of Melbourne. The most famous spot on Brighton's coastline is the Dendy Street Beach. The colourful bathing boxes which line this stretch of coast are a well-known Melbourne icon and reflect a bygone era where swimmers and visitors to the beach had private changing and storage facilities. Good views of the bathing boxes and Melbourne's skyline can be enjoyed from the gardens at Green Point. Get a bycicle and with half hour from St Kilda you can reach it and the same day if you are not tired and you have time you could cycle half hour more to HALF MOON BAY. The cycling path is nice and safe to drive.
• YARRA VALLEY, less than an hour from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is recognised as one of the world’s premier wine growing regions and also has a significant history with beer and cider production. You could just make a day trip from Melbourne or spend longer time in this beautiful landscape. Where to go:
  Healesville – The place to be for great coffee, food, shopping and art.

Warburton – With the Yarra River meandering through the town, lined with gorgeous trees and numerous parks, Warburton offers a relaxing experience. The Lilydale-Warburton Rail Trail ends here.
Yarra Glen – Home to some of the country’s best known wineries as well as the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery family attraction.
http://www.experienceyarravalley.com.au/

• PHILLIP ISLAND, is an island located about 140 km south-southeast of Melbourne.  A 640 m concrete bridge connects the mainland town San Remo with the island town Newhaven. Famous for the Gran Prix Circuit, stunning beaches, wildlife (penguins) and perfect surfers spot.

http://www.visitphillipisland.com/

• BLUE MOUNTAINS

 
SYDNEY
Sydney is one of the world’s most loved cities is the largest and famous city in Australia. . It's home to beautifulbeaches, iconic buildings, historic landmarks, award-winning restaurants, and a vibrant culture . There are always plenty of things to do in Sydney during the warmer months and during the Winter you can actually enjoyo t the quite and peacefull atmosphere especially on the desertic and drammatic beaches. http://www.sydney.com/
SIGHTING:

• Sydney Harbour bridge, take a walk up, along the pedestrian way on the eastern side of the Harbour Bridge for great views of Sydney City, Circular Quay and the Harbour. (This is one of my favourite spot in Sydney). If you really love to climb and you have some money saved (between 250-300 AUD) , you can climb up the higher part of the bridge, with a team of  experts.

http://www.bridgeclimb.com/

• Opera house
• Circular Quay
• Royal Botanic gardens (free entrance)
• The rocks and Millers Point
• Luna park (free entrance), is located at Milsons Point, on the northern shore of Sydney Harbour. The park was constructed at the foot of the Sydney Harbour Bridge during 1935. Go there “just for fun!” and especially to enjoy the special view of the bay and of the bridge.
• Waverley Cemetery, opened in 1877 and is a cemetery located on top of the cliffs at Bronte in the eastern suburbs of Sydney. It is noted for its largely intact Victorian and Edwardian monuments and for his amazing view and old statues.

WALKS, Sydney is a walker's paradise, the perfect city to explore on foot with lots of walking tracks around the Harbour and beaches:

• The Bondi to Cogee Walk, a cliff top coastal walk, the Bondi to Coogee walk extends for six km in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. The Bondi to Coogee walk features stunning views, beaches, parks, cliffs, bays and rock pools. The beaches and parks offer a place to rest, swim or a chance to eat at one of the cafes, hotels, restaurants or takeaways. Most beaches offer picnic shelters, play areas, kiosks, toilets and change-rooms, Tamarama, Bronte, Coogee and Maroubra have free electric barbecues. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is a medium grade walk but there are some steep gradient paths and several staircases along the track. It takes about two hours to complete the Bondi to Coogee Beach section of the walk and another hour and a half if you choose to continue to Maroubra.
• Rose bay to Nielsen Park Walk and Watson Bay, A lovely walk through nature,bays and parks with awesome views of the city, and all free!

http://www.wildwalks.com/bushwalking-and-hiking-in-nsw/sydney-harbour-south-side/
BACHES:

• Bondi                   - Coogee             - Manly
• Bronte                 - Marubra          

DISTRICTS:

• King Cross,  the area is known as Sydney's red-light district, and is reputed to be home to organised crime groups. Once known for its music halls and grand theatres, it was rapidly transformed after World War II by the influx of troops returning and visiting from the nearby Garden Island naval base. Today, it is dominated by bars, restaurants (particularly cafes), nightclubs and strip clubs ;
• Surry Hills, Inner-city Surry Hills is one of Sydney's most artistically-vibrant neighbourhoods. Start on Crown Street, stopping at small galleries and boutiques to explore this art, design and fashion hub. Surry Hills is a dining hot spot in Sydney with alfresco dining, busy gastro pubs and funky bars.;
• Bondi Junction, is a really good location where to live. 15 minutes walking to the sea and well connected to the center, by buses and trains. So many shops, included Aldi, Salvation Army, Coles and a beautiful Library where to get dvd, books and free wifi or computer.
• Rose bay, is a great distric where to do some walking on the coast and visiting parks, bay and get some of the most brilliant view of the city. (Shark Bay, Nielsen Park, Double Bay. And in Wentworth Rd you will fell like in a cinematographic set. Every house is a villa with different architecture and impressive gardens.)
• Chinatown,  is a good district to shopping and eat some of the best Asian food in Sydney;
• New town,  is Sydney's most vibrant and eclectic district. A bohemian’s vibe is all over the place and art and music too.  The Sunday afternoon (4pm-8pm)is great and free at NewTown Hotel.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1401864223398555/?ref=22 http://www.newtownprecinct.com.au/
PARKS:

• Centennial Park                                             - Cooper Park
• Secret garden                                                - Nielsen Park
• Hyde Park                                                        - Opera house park
• Reservoir Paddington

MARKETS:

• Paddy’s market, are located at Haymarket (near Chinatown) and as part of Sydney Markets at Flemington (near Sydney Olympic Park). The markets cater for both locals and tourists and is home to over 1,000 stalls that sell almost everything from fashion and accessories, sporting goods, fresh fruit and vegetables (really cheap in the afternoon before the closing), pets supplies, clothing, electrical goods to arts and crafts and souvenirs.
• Bondi’s beach market, is open every Sunday in the grounds of Bondi Beach Public School at Bondi Beach;
• The Rocks Market is  located at the northern end of George Street, in the The Rocks and under the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The market has a distinctive amount of arts and crafts. It has recently been expanded to include a large weekend market and a farmers market Friday nights, Saturdays and Sundays;
• Manly Market is  held every Saturday and Sunday just off Manly Corso at Sydney Road, Manly;

GREAT OCEAN ROAD

 
The Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic road, starting from closet o Melbourne to Adelaide. You can drive or you could walk through the Great Ocean walk. You could make it in a week if you don’t have enough time, but if you want really to enjoy  it, just take it slow. There are many free bush camping on the way, where you can get really close to wild life, like koalas, kangaroos, wallaby, possum, snake and spider!! Tiger snake and Brown snake are common in Victoria, so you need to be careful, especially during night when they hunting. Always close your tent if you want to sleep safe. Many are the place to visit or to stop over, I will talk about the place that me, my boyfriend and two good friends stop to. When have started our trip on Christmas day from Melbourne. Before to go, is best to do some shopping like food, tobacco and rolling papers, gas bottle for the cooker, First Aid Kit, medicines, Aerogard (the best repellent spray against insect and flyes)and all you think you might need, because shopping on the G.O.R. is expensive and you won’t find Coles, Aldi or cheap shop or shop at all if you are in National Parks or remote areas.  Winds in the G.O.R. can be rough, even in summer time and during the night it could be cold. You can get in the Information centers some map and info about “Free bush camping-Great Ocean Road” and “Camping guide – Great  Otway National Park & Otway Forest Park”.
Some of them will be mention below:

• Bells beach, scenic lonely beach, with no services, but really beautiful, so pack a lunch and a lot of water if you like to spend a day there.
• Apollo bay, is one of the main towns in the G.O.R.  There is a main Info center, which worth  a visit, because you won’t find many on the way. You can camp at “Recreation Reserve” a pet friendly camping in front of the beach. Not all the time you will find some staff there, so you could just arrive in the afternoon, use the services (hot showers and laundry) and if you wake up early in the morning no one will realize that you have been there.
• Parker Hill- Free bush camping, is located in “Otway National Park”. It has 8 sites in the middle of a bush, overlooking Parker River Mouth. It’s a wild and peace full place. You can get to a wonderful isolated beach in 5 minutes walking. There are no services here. Only toilets and some not drinkable water. Is far from shops so you need to get organize with food and water and lights for the night.
• 12 Apostles, is one of the main attraction. Is free, but really touristic and crowed. I guess the best time to enjoy this nature stone in the middle of the ocean you need to be there for the sunrise, but you never be by yourself. We have made a daily trip from Johanna Beach camping. Which is one hour from there.
• Cape Otway, right on the bottom of Otway National Park. Is a great place to do some walk and to visit the lighthouse, which is not free (20 $), but It could be really interested if you into ghost and shipwreck
• Johanna beach, has 50 camp FREE sites nestled in the sand dunes of Johanna Beach. There are toilets, but not showers or drinkable water. Many people where camping there, and some regulars also. But the space it’s so big that you can find a nice spot if you like to be quiet but at the same time you can meet people and hang out together in the dark nights. Amazing sunset view over the cliff. The nearest big town is Colac (60 Km away), where you can find K-mart, Aldi, Coles…
• Prince town, is a small street. There is not much to see, a part from 2 restaurants and some accommodation.
• Port Campbell, nice little sea’s side town, with some restaurant, pubs, café and one shop open until 8pm, where you can buy some food, alcohol and souvenirs. You can camp at “Port Campbell Recreation Reserve”, a small fee is applied (25$ per night for 2 people and 1 car, 10$ extra per person in unpowered site), but you can enjoy of HOT showers in new refurbished bathrooms and a nice open kitchen with some common power points.  The place is clean daily and the manager Evon is a lovely Australian lady which come in twice a day for managing bookings or a have a chat with guests. Laundry with dryers where under construction when we have been there, but they should be ready by now. Otherwise if you need a Laundry you need to get to Timboon (20 km away). The laundry is open from 6am to 11 pm. In Timboon there is IGA and a Op shop.
• London Bridge
• Warrnambool, is the first big city after Apollo Bay on the G.O.R. There are all the shops you can imagine and need.  You will find a big Information center. We have stayed at “Hotel Victoria”, it is a pub, but at the top floor offers some rooms. It’s a basic, clean place with a common kitchen and common living room. No internet.
• Tower Hill, is a really nice reserve. It’s free. You can spend a day walking, cooking on the free BBQ in the middle of a valley. There is a volcano and a lot of wild life included struzzi.
• Port Fairy is a small cozy village on the Ocean

Watch out for Koalas all around the G.O.R. whenever you will see some eucalyptus and tourist looking at them, means that there are some wild koalas.
MILDURA
Mildura is a regional city in northwestern Victoria, Australia and seat of the Rural City of Mildura local government area. It is located in the Sunraysia region, and is on the banks of the Murray River. The current population is estimated at just over 30,000 in 2009. Mildura is a major agricultural centre notable for its grape production, supplying 80% of Victoria's grapes Many wineries also source grapes from Mildura. Mildura is well known as a “haven” for travelling workers with an abundance of large fruit properties needing many willing hands to harvest their valuable crop. Many hostels offer work and transport, which means that you can enjoy your time in Mildura while earning extra dollars. But mainly the reason why a lot of backpackers are them is to get the second year papers sign off, because sometime the pay it will be not good. When the working day is finished you can relax at the numerous entertainment venues such as pubs, the swimming pool (Mildura waves)and the library.
http://www.visitmildura.com.au/index.html
If you have a car, and your are travelling with some friends, you could just stay in some cheap caravan park (The palms Caravan Park) and look for a farm job by yourself knocking door to door. Mildura in summer time (Dec, Jan, Feb) coul be really hot (up to 46 degree), so working in crops it is hard.
EAST COAST
SYDNEY TO CAIRNS in 5 weeks
DAILY BUDGET: 22 $ per person travelling by car in 2 people
KM: Around 3000 (but we have made 5000 Km in total counting all the visiting)
THE HIGHWAY
The M1 or A1 (free) will get to you trought all the East Coast. The highway it looks like more a country road for most of the time, only in some spot there are more than one lane. So you need to consider that the distances are bigger then you think and the speed limits are no more than 110 Km/h. For only one driver is best to do no more than 400 Km per day. The road is plenty of works, so the speed limit keep changing and many times you have to stop on the way. Is not safe to drive during the night, because of the road condition, kangaroos and heavy veichls. Is plenty of services (BBQ, toilets, pic-nic tables), Resting Areas, Information centers and petrol station on the way.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Highway_1_(Australia)
RESTING AREAS
Once in QLD get a “Guide to QLD roads” in any info center, it will be really important to have it, if you like to camp for free in Resting Areas. Not in all the resting Area it is allowed to stay overnight, but most of the time you will find the right one, and a sing we will be there to tell you how many hours you can stay (24/48 or 72). Get there by the sunset if you like to find a space, sometime depending of school holidays or high season they get full quickly. Every Resting Area has, toilets, cold showers (open or closed), running water and sometimes BBQ and tables. The nights Resting Areas are mainly in QLD, but in NSW you will find more National Parks open over night for free or for a really cheap fee (5 $ per person per night). Police is everywhere in the highway especially in QLD. They mainly checking speed limits and alcohol level. They have stop me twice in two weeks for no reason, just for check alcohol level and they both times asked me only for my Italian driving license, they don’t really care about International driving licence. It’s always better to camp in authorized places, if you don’t want to have heavy fine on the spot. It happened to us to sleep sometimes on the side of the road, but it is stress full and you need to leave really early in the morning.
NSW

• Palms beach, If you enjoy surfing or coastal walks, head to Palm Beach on Sydney’s northern beaches (50 min drive from Sydney city center) for great surf and easy walks along the beach or to Barrenjoey Lighthouse;
• Crowdy head National Park, near Port Macquarie and Taree, Crowdy Bay National Park is one of the most glorious coastal parks of NSW. It offers jaw-dropping ocean and mountain views, an abundance of wildlife includeing kangaroos and koalas. Our favourites place where to camp in the National Park, are Indian Head campground and Diamond Head campground (5$ per person per night plus 7$ fee per car per night. Rangers comes around 10 am to collect fees). Do not miss the Diamond Head Loop walk and the Arch point view.

http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/crowdy-bay-national-park

• Akuna bay, is an exceptional place to spend a day off if you live in Sydney or longer if we have time. It is situaded in the picturesque Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in the middle of the spectacular cruising grounds of the Cowan/Hawkesbury River system.
• Ballina, is situated at the mouth of the Richmond River on the Far North Coast of New South Wales, and boasts some of the most beautiful surfing beaches and picturesque headlands on the east coast of Australia.
• Byron Bay, is the town for everyone, from hippies over surfers to just normal backpackers, everybody finds his home here. It is an absolute havens for the alternative and new-age folk. Live music, art, exibithion  are all over the town. We can meet a lot of interesting people doing crazy things around the world. I would call it a big community, where everybody knows each other! The landscape and the bay are stunning. Visit the lighthhouse for free to have an amazing view point for sunset or sunrise. There are also a lot of shops (Aldi, Coles, Westpac…), pubs, restaurants and a beautiful Library, where you can refresh and use WIFI. On the beach many BBQ and pic nic tables. The pubblic toilets are open 24 hours. You can basicly camp for free (watching out for police, of course!) and use all this amazing structures. A good and cheap place where to stay otherwise is called “Arts Factory backpackers lodge” (camping site, caravan park, dorms or private romos). It is a massive place, where more then sleeping is going on…arts, music, events and many many cool people! (We have slept for 3 nights on the caravan park for free, arriving late at night and leaving early in the morning, because sometime people from the staff could come over and check if the people are paying. Plus you can get in the “Hostel” like visitor if you live an identification at the reception and using all the services, included HOT showers.)

http://nomadsworld.com/arts-factory/

• Crystal Castle (open hours: 10 am to 5 pm), was Australia’s first direct importer of quality natural crystals from around the world, supplying wholesale crystals from the hills of Mullumbimby. Today is a place where people can find peace and tranquility, be touched by sacred beauty, ignite their senses and enrich their spirit! They always looking for volunteers who are interested in gardening and organic farming to assist us with the many wonderful ongoing projects here at the Crystal Castle. You will be warmly welcomed into the tribe by their  unique and amazing team of people, and each day you will be given tea/coffee, cake and lunch “on the castle” plus 50 AUD voucher to spend in gem stones. Call 02 6684 3111 tree days in advance to book your volunteer day at the caslte, ask about Matt.

http://www.crystalcastle.com.au/

• Nim Bin, A picturesque village situated on the North East Coast of the state of N.S.W., Australia, on the Eastern edge of the Caldera of an extinct volcano, Nimbin has a subtropical climate, creeks and waterfalls, rolling forested hills, abundant wildlife and stunning views. Often called the Alternative/Hippies Capital of Australia, Nimbin has a large population of people looking for sustainable alternatives to the current economic system. Many people in Nimbin grow their own food, build their own houses, and use energy from natural systems such as the sun, the wind and water. Nimbin has many cafes and restaurants and a variety of accommodation from backpackers to self contained hand crafted cottages in the forest. Nimbin is a highly tolerant town with citizens from all over the globe, an eclectic vibrant multicultural mix gives Nimbin its personality and warmth.
• The rainbow temple, is located in the hills half an hour from Byron Bay. The Rainbow Temple is primarily a meeting place for people from all walks and paths. It is a place of celebration, of healing and inspiration. It is and shall always be a work in progress... a continuance of becoming, reflective of the soul of human progress. Guy, the owner of the place, just open is home to everybody to share. You can volunteer there sometimes, or you need to pay $150 per week per person fpr the accomodation and all the meals.

http://www.byronevents.info/rainbowtemple/index.html
https://www.facebook.com/rainbow.temple.9
QLD
OUR FAVOURITE PART OF QLD IT WAS THE NORTHERN!

• Gold coast, TO AVOID!!!! There  is notghin about nature there. You will only find skyscaper, shopping mall and resort. A many rich people in holiday spending money!
• Sunshine coast, (from Colaundra to Noosa Heads) is so much nicer and greener then the Gold Coast. I would reccomend it for sure! Lovely Little towns, wild beaches and beautiful National Parks. If you caoming from south stop at Colundra Info center and grab some usefull info and maps. Staff is really friendly there. At the back of the info center there are cold close shower for free. Visit Pellicans water, if you never have seen a Pellican, you can see a lot of them in the water and in the shore, usaully fisherman feed them with the waste of the fishes. You can sleep in Caloundra resting Area, right at the entrance of a park called, Mooloolah, next to Daisy’s place restaurant (basic toilets and pic nic table).
• Glass house mountains National Park, about 70 km, north of Brisbane, this special National Park it really worth a visit. Do no miss it! A magical vibe will embrace you as son you get in, especially if is during sunrise or sunsent at one of the view point all over mountains, valley and volcanic peaks. Walking tracks, ranging from easy to very challenging, lead through open forests to lookouts offering panoramic views. Challenging summit routes, abseiling and rock climbing sites. Unfortunatly is not allowed to camp in the park, but here below a link offering you camp site close by the area:

http://www.glasshouse-mountains.com/glass-house-mountains-camping.html

• Rainbow beach, is a tiny town at the base of the Inskip Peninsula with spectacular multicoloured sand cliffs overlooking its rolling surf and white sandy beach. It is really touristic because it is in front of Fraiser Island (dingo’s island, we avod to go because dingo’s rights. People should live them alone, but they just go there and annoying them) but it also so beautiful and it is the perferct spot to sea the sun going down into the ocean. If go in slow season you wont regreat it. The camping is right on the beach, so the bush side is not that remote and affscinating like in other national parks, but the ocean there is calm, nice for swimming and fishing. 4x4 veichels can drive on the beach. To camp you must to buy a permit in advance, at the “Manta Ray” office on the way to Rainbow beach. $5.60 per person per night. Only toilets. No showers. Bring a lot of water with you, at least 5lt per person per day.
• Hervey Bay, It is a natural bay between the Queensland mainland and nearby Fraser Island. The local economy relies on tourism which is based primarily around whale watching in Platypus Bay to the North, access to Fraser Island, accessible recreational fishing and boating and the natural north facing, calm beaches with wide undeveloped foreshore zones;
• Bowen, is on a peninsula, with ocean on three sides. This gives eight beaches surrounding the town, namely Kings Beach (is a beach of contrst and colours), Queens Beach, Horseshoe Bay (cozy and small beach protect by two granite outcrops) , Murrays Bay, Greys Bay, Rose Bay, and the Front Beach (info center and pic nic tables/BBQ). Kings Beach offers views of nearby Gloucester Island. Flagstaff Hiil lookout, offers 360 degree view of the area. Perfect spot for a pic nic, enjoying the view of the lighthouse in a small island just in front of it. The Big Mango, costing $90,000 to create, was erected in 2002 as a tourist attraction at the Bowen Tourist Information Centre. In February 2014, the 10-metre high, seven-tonne fibreglass structure was stolen in an overnight operation. The mango was found the next day and it was later revealed that the theft had been a publicity stunt. In December 2006, it was announced that Bowen was chosen as a filming location for a third of the production of the movie “Australia”;
• Guthalungra, 45 km north of Bowen, is a really nice resting area. It is clean, with a lot of lights, flushing toilets, pic nic tables and the petrol station in front of it, offers hot shower for $3.
• Girringun Nationl Park and Wallaman falls, 51 km south-west of Ingham, is situeded the highest, permanent, single-drop waterfall in Australia. The Wallaman Falls is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, home to some of the oldest rainforests on earth and many endangered plants and animals. Do the 2 km (one way) walk down the falls to have a great view and vibe of this magic place. % min by car from the falls view point there is a lovely campground. You need a permit to stay overnight, $5.60 per night per person. To make a reservation just use the phone box, but if you stay only one night you don’t really need to pay, just leave early in the morning. (Toilets and cold shower);
• Cairns, It serves as a starting point for people wanting to visit the Great Barrier Reef and Far North Queensland. Cairns city, it a rare mixture of backpackers, family in holidays, Chinise and locals. It is becoming modern and it has a vaste choice of night life, like restaurants, pubs, clubs and free events.  At the Esplanade there is a free swimming pool lagoon right in front of the ocean. Many different kind of accommodation. It also has a free resting area (it is allowed to stay overnight) right on the center of the city Abbott/Aplin corner, close by the Library (Free WIFI, but not allowed to you their plugs). It looks like a parking but is not, you will find many other travellers camping there.

Unfortunatetly there are not facilieties, but you could use the one close to the Lagoon. The hostel we have stay in it was called “Flying monkey backpacker” ($50 for a double room with breakfast). The Northern Beaches consist of a number of beach communities extending north along the coast. In general, each beach suburb is located at the end of a spur road extending from the Captain Cook Highway. This last part of the highway it has the most scenic view. You drive with on your side the ocean and beautiful tropical landscape. Our favourites were Palm Cove and Ellis Beach.

• Port Douglas, is a short one hour drive north of Cairns along one of the most scenic coastal roads in Australia. Home to golden beaches and some of Tropical North Queensland’s most exclusive resorts, the quiet former fishing village of Port Douglas is both sophisticated and relaxed and the perfect place to escape and unwind;
• Daintree Rainforest;
• Kuranda, Surrounded by World Heritage-listed rainforest, the picturesque mountain retreat of Kuranda, 25 kilometres northwest of Cairns, is called the ‘Village in the Rainforest’. The Djabugay aboriginal people have lived in this region for more than 10,000 years and their culture continues to thrive today. They called the present Kuranda village Ngunbay, or place of the platypus;
• Atherton Tableland, less than an hour’s drive from Cairns, the cool, tropical Tablelands are set in rolling plateaux at an average of 700 metres above sea level, and are a true mountain retreat, refreshing, invigorating, climatically perfect, with a superb range of natural and developed attractions. Atherton and Mareeba are the largest towns in the area. Visit also Tolga (The peanut place), Tinaroo Lake (you can camp there), Lake Eacham and Yungaburra.

http://www.athertontablelands.com.au/