Plan to drench up the fashion and daylight of Sydney! Domestic to wonderful, sundrenched shorelines, a shining harbor and lavish national parks, Sydney’s warm climate advances an dynamic, open air way of life. It has an extraordinary expressions and social scene, is domestic to awesome eateries, cafes and bars and best of all, it contains a brilliant buzz.
Australia uses a Decimal currency system, where 100 cents = one dollar ($). We have six coins – 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, which are silver coloured, and $1 and $2, which are gold. We have five notes, made from plastic – $5 (pink /purple), $10 (blue), $20 (red), $50 (yellow), and $100 (green).
If you have had a licence in your own country for more than a year, you can apply for an Australian Driving Licence, but you must pass a driving test. If you are on a Student or Working Holiday visa and studying for 10 weeks or less you can drive using your International Licence, if you already have one. Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) which is part of Service NSW, is at 19 York Street (near Wynyard Station) and will be able to advise you of what you have to do and where you need to go to arrange an Australian Licence.
If you are a member of your country’s motoring club and you have your membership card, you can get free information and maps from NRMA, located on George Street.
Sydney enjoys a sunny climate with mild winters and warm summers, perfect for making the most of the outdoors. Plan ahead with this information on temperature and rainfall.
Summer (December – February)
During summer, average temperatures range from 18.6 - 25.8°C (65.5 - 78.4°F), and average humidity spikes to 65%. This is a great time to enjoy Sydney’s abundant beaches when water temperatures rise to 21.9 - 23.7°C (71.4 - 74.7°F).
Autumn (March – May)
Autumn is the mildest time of year in Sydney when the humidity drops and average temperatures fall between 14.6 - 22.2°C (58.3 - 72°F). Crisp, fresh air makes autumn the season for enjoying Sydney’s coastal walks. Keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales, which migrate north from May to August.
Winter (June – August)
Sydney’s winter months are June to August when average temperatures drop between 8.8 - 17°C (47.8 - 62.6°F). Sydney’s rainfall is generally highest in June, with an average of 132 mm (5.2 inches), while July is the coolest month when average daytime temperatures reach about 17°C (62.6°F).
Spring (September – November)
In spring, days are warmer but the humidity is not as high as summer. Average daily temperatures range from 11 - 23°C (51.8 - 73.4°F).
There are many cafes, restaurants, pubs and theatres located throughout Parramatta, Harris Park, Nort Rocks, Sydney Olympic Park, Epping and Dundas. There is also a good selection of gyms and health clubs. Parramatta Westfield, Paramatta Square and Parramatta Eat Streat are all within easy walking distance. The stunning Parramatta River and Riverside Theatre precinct are within walking distance. You must be 18 years of age to go to a pub, club or gambling venue (Club Parramatta or Parramatta Leagues Club ). You may be asked to show your ID or passport in order to enter these places.
There is always something new to explore and discover in Sydney. You can visit famous landmarks here, including the iconic Sydney Opera House and Queen Victoria Building and climb the Harbour Bridge.
You can experience outdoor beach culture in the stunning beachside suburbs of Bondi Beach and Manly. Manly beach was one of two Australian beaches named in TripAdvisor’s Top 15 beaches on the planet and came second in the Top 10 beaches in the South Pacific.
In Sydney, you can also access beautiful natural green spaces both in the city and outside, such as the Royal Botanic Gardens and Centennial Parklands.
You can enjoy a beach walk from Bondi to Coogee, take a bushwalk or hike or see Australia’s wildlife at Taronga Zoo or Sydney Zoo.
Sydney is also an excellent place for a weekend road trip. Venture out to witness the world’s whitest sand in Jervis Bay, trek along coastal cliffs in the Royal National Park or view the spectacular Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains.
If you prefer indoor activities, you can spend hours at various shopping centres around the city, museums, theatres and the Sydney Aquarium.
Every week, Sydney has exciting events to offer. From musicals, theatre, and art exhibitions to food festivals, markets and sporting events. When you choose to study in Sydney, you also choose it's vibrant lifestyle.
Some of the major events include The Sydney Festival, Vivid Sydney Festival, Mardi Gras, the Royal Easter Show and Sculpture by the Sea with many being free to join.