Going to en Australie: Formalities and administrative steps
Organize your stay en Australie
Money en Australie
The Australian currency is the Australian dollar (AU$ or AUD). It is available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 dollars, in coins of 1 and 2 dollars, and 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents. The bills are made of polypropylene (plastic), not paper. They are water-resistant and therefore wrinkle-free. Cash is used less and less, with the exception of open-air markets, where it is almost never needed. In May 2025, the exchange rate was : 1 AU$ = 0.58 € and 1 € = 1.74 AU$.
The overall cost of living in Australia is higher than in Europe. Even if car rentals remain attractive, as they are widely available, and there are many economical forms of accommodation(backpackers and youth hostels), you'll have to be prepared to make some concessions if your budget is limited.
You should also bear in mind that, while fuel prices remain advantageous, many vehicles (especially campervans) consume more than 10 liters per 100 km. Finally, for those staying several months and other Working Holiday Visa holders, remember that everything is paid for by the week (salary, accommodation, etc.).
Budget & Tips en Australie
The cost of living in Australia is slightly higher than in France, and this is particularly true when traveling: on average, you'll need to budget at least €100/day per person. Although Australia is reputed to be an expensive country, its purchasing power is far greater than that of France. As a local, expatriate or temporary resident (and income earner), Australia is far from overpriced. The most expensive products remain packs of cigarettes (at almost €20) and alcohol.
Some prices in 2025:
A round-trip flight Paris-Sydney: around €1,200, but this rises in high season.
A domestic flight Sydney-Melbourne: from AU$ 50 on special offer.
Greyhound's Whimit Pass: unlimited bus travel for 7 days or more from AU$ 289 with Greyhound.
A ferry trip in Sydney: about AU$ 9 with the Opal card to Manly.
Cab from Sydney airport to the city center: AU$ 45-60.
Car rental in Sydney: from AU$ 100-150 per day + insurance.
1 liter of gasoline: AU$ 1.80 to AU$ 2.10. Diesel is generally more expensive than other fuels.
Camping: AU$30 to AU$40, AU$50 and more for the most luxurious or in the big cities.
Youth hostels and backpackers : on average, AU$30 to AU$50 for dormitories and AU$80 to AU$180 for double rooms with or without private bathroom. Higher rates in major cities.
Mid-range hotel: AU$120 to AU$170 for a double room. Higher rates in larger cities.
Restaurant meals: à la carte, between AU$25 and AU$45, not excessive.
Beer in a pub: AU$ 7 to AU$ 12
Stadium tickets: AU$30 to AU$70.
Museum: from free and on donation to AU$ 10/30.
A day trip to the Great Barrier Reef or the Whitsundays: from AU$ 120 to much more.
Advice before you leave. Remember to tell your bank advisor about your trip. He or she can check with you whether your payment and withdrawal limits have been set. If necessary, ask for an exceptional authorization to increase your limit. Your bank advisor may also be able to suggest that you take out an international offer to limit charges for banking transactions abroad. All payment methods are accepted in the main cities. However, you'll need to bring some cash if you're going to be in the Australian bush . For cash withdrawals, look out for ATMs in major cities. Generally speaking, they operate in the same way as in France. If the French language is not available, select English. "Retrait" is then " withdrawal ". If you are asked to choose between withdrawing from a " checking account ", a " credit account " or a " saving account ", select " checking account ". Select "debit" for debit and "credit" for credit. Enter the desired amount and confirm (" enter "). To the question " Would you like a receipt ?", answer " Yes " and keep your receipt in a safe place. As the euro is not the local currency, a commission is deducted from each withdrawal. Withdrawal fees vary from bank to bank, and generally comprise a fixed fee averaging 3 euros and a commission of between 2% and 3% of the amount withdrawn. Some banks have partnerships with foreign banks or allow you to benefit from their network, offering you advantageous fees or even free withdrawals (this is particularly the case for online banks). Ask your bank advisor for details. Note also that some ATMs may charge a commission, in which case this will be mentioned at the time of withdrawal. Generally speaking, you should pay with your bank card whenever possible. Charges are lower than for ATM withdrawals, and the spending limit is often higher. Note that when paying by credit card, you may not need to enter your pin code: contactless payment is now widely available throughout the country.
Passport and visas en Australie
Visa. To enter Australia, you'll need either an eVisitor visa (free, 3-month visa for tourists), an ETA (Electronic Travel Authority), or a specific visa (such as the Working Holiday Visa, which allows you to work). The eVisitor(subclass 651) is intended for citizens of 35 European countries (including France, Switzerland and Belgium), while the ETA(subclass 601) costs AU$20 and is intended for countries outside Europe (Canada, for example). Both are valid for 1 year from the date of issue. Travel agencies or airlines offering to carry out the formalities on your behalf will only be able to provide you with an ETA, which is then valid for all, and the cost of which will be added to their fees. To obtain an eVisitor or an ETA easily and on your own, simply follow the link from the Australian Embassy to www.homeaffairs.gov.au or type directly: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing.
Passports. Passports issued in France are now biometric. They include your photo, fingerprints and a secure chip. To obtain a passport, go to the town hall with a tax stamp, proof of address, proof of identity and two passport photos. It is valid for ten years. Children must have a personal passport (valid for five years). Before you leave, remember to scan all your official documents. Photocopies of documents, to take with you, are also very useful. In the event of loss or theft, it will be much easier to renew your passport with the consular authorities. You can also keep copies on the official website www.service-public.fr. Simply create an account and scan all your identity papers and other important documents into the confidential area.
Driver's license en Australie
In addition to your national license, you needan international license to drive in Australia. On site, the company may refuse to rent you a car, without any refund, if you are unable to produce the required documents. Remember to apply for your international license before you leave (valid for 3 years, obtained free of charge, but with a processing time of several months). Pre-application is made online on the ANTS website, and paper documents must then be sent to confirm the application. A word of advice: if you're short of time, you can request a NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters) certified translation of your driving license. This is an official translation recognized by the Australian government. It's a quicker and more cost-effective solution, but be warned that the translation is worthless without its French original, so make sure you have both your French license and the translation when you drive.
Driving. Australians drive on the left. Be extremely careful at intersections, where people will naturally turn left first. You should also be aware that most vehicles are automatic (except campervans). There are two useful signs: " No Through Road " and " Turn left anytime with care ", which means you can turn left with care at an intersection when the light is red. With very few exceptions, speed is regulated at 50 or 60 km/h in towns and 100 km/h on roads and freeways, which can vary from state to state. There are many types of speed cameras (twins, on-board, red-light cameras, etc.). Cameras are also installed on certain roads to measure the average speed between two sections of the route. In all cases, the police strictly enforce the law, whether you're a foreigner or not. Beware of drinking and driving: 0.05% alcohol in the blood is the maximum legal limit (which corresponds to the maximum limit of 0.5 in France, but beware: in Australia, drinks served in bars can be larger than one unit of alcohol, so it's best to limit yourself to just one glass). In some (most) states, it is an offence to have an open can of beer in the passenger compartment. Similarly, using a telephone while driving is prohibited, including sending and receiving messages.
Off the main roads. There are some basic rules of survival to be observed when setting off on an adventure, particularly in 4x4 vehicles, in desert regions. It's important to prepare your trip well, seek local advice and make your route known to the police or rangers in national parks. Make sure you have, at the very least, a full tank or tanks (never go below half their capacity), detailed road maps, a spare wheel and water supplies. It may be useful to have a satellite phone or emergency satellite transmitter (rental often possible with 4x4s), or at worst a Telstra NextG phone.
Health en Australie
All Australian States and Territories are equipped with modern infrastructures guaranteeing quality care. If you find yourself in the heart of the desert, contact the Royal Flying Doctor Service for medical emergencies. The service is available 24 hours a day. Dial 1300 69 7337.
There are no illnesses to worry about in Australia, but the most important thing is to take care of your skin when out in the sun: Australia is the country with the highest incidence of skin cancer. Exposure to the sun can be dangerous, so it's advisable to protect your skin, eyes and head from day one. An SPF 50 cream is the minimum required for first-time exposure.
There is no malaria in Australia. However, in some rural areas of Queensland and the Northern Territory, mosquitoes can carry diseases such as Ross River fever and dengue fever. Use mosquito repellent on exposed skin and wear covering clothing, especially in the evening. For your bedroom, opt for a good insecticide and/or a mosquito net. The same measures should be taken to protect against sandflies (or biting midges), tiny insects whose bites are very irritating and which are found in particular near beaches and estuaries in tropical or subtropical zones (QLD, NT, WA).
There is no bilateral social security agreement between France and Australia. As a result, tourists, temporary residents and students have no medical or hospital cover. Take out travel insurance before leaving France, valid for the duration of your stay and covering both medical expenses and medical repatriation.
Mandatory vaccination en Australie
For a typical holiday, Australia presents no major health risks. However, make sure that all vaccinations required in France are up to date before you leave (hepatitis A - for children aged 1 and over, diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis). Depending on the length and type of your stay, vaccination against hepatitis B and Japanese encephalitis may be recommended. The vaccinations listed in the vaccination calendar are given free of charge by public-sector vaccination services (e.g. maternal and child protection centers, municipal or departmental vaccination services). For further information, please contact your local town hall, your departmental council or the Ministry of Health website.
Security en Australie
Australia has always been one of the safest countries in the world. However, as everywhere else, it's important to bear in mind a few standard precautions. In cities, these include walking at night in less-frequented areas. Similarly, wherever you are in the country, don't leave your valuables in your car, even if it's locked, or in your room if there's no safe. But then again, Australia is a pretty impressive country in terms of the sense of security it can create: muggings remain pretty rare, and as a woman in particular, you'll easily notice the absence of pitfalls and the sense of serenity in wandering the streets and other public spaces without being stared at, tackled or assaulted. Even at night!
In Australia, the danger lies more on the road. If you're travelling alone in the Outback, it's important to signal your departure, prepare your itinerary and take along a means of communication. As soon as daylight falls (between 4 and 6 pm depending on the season), or if the weather is relatively cool, the kangaroos come out and have the annoying habit of jumping under the wheels of cars. Be very careful, especially as other animals may also be present on or near the road (camels, cows, sheep, horses...). A final piece of advice that might seem obvious: in Australia, you drive on the left. In the Outback, after hours of driving without any other car, you tend to forget!
Apart from the roads, there are also dangers in the ocean: in Australia, swimming in the sea presents considerable risks. On the Indian and Pacific coasts, currents can be particularly strong and waves powerful. Do not swim on unsupervised beaches; stay within the flagged area, the only one supervised by lifeguards. Because of the risks posed by sharks, it is preferable to only visit beaches in or near built-up areas, which are equipped with protective nets. For scuba diving, check with local diving clubs. Contact with certain jellyfish present at certain times of the year can be dangerous, even fatal. Similarly, certain bodies of water, rivers and beaches in Queensland and the Northern Territory are closed to swimming due to the presence of saltwater crocodiles. Be sure to follow local instructions.
Time difference en Australie
Australia has 3 time zones. The time difference varies from 6 to 10 hours with France depending on the season and the state where you are.
Western Standard Time: WA = GMT + 8 hours.
Central Standard Time : SA and NT + Broken Hill (NSW) = GMT + 9 hours 30.
Eastern Standard Time: QLD, ACT, NSW (except Broken Hill), VIC and TAS = GMT + 10 hours.
NT, QLD and WA do not apply the time change at the beginning of summer (Summer Time or Daylight Saving Time). This explains, between April and the end of October, the difference of only 6 hours between Perth (GMT + 8 hours) and Paris (GMT + 2 hours).
Spoken languages en Australie
The official language is English, but you will soon have doubts because it is peppered with slang and local terms that the accent makes even less understandable.
Communication en Australie
Coverage is good on the east, southeast and southwest coasts and in the major cities, but inland, there is nothing to do without a satellite phone or, at the very least, a phone running on the Telstra network, which provides the best coverage. When you arrive in Australia, , you can find SIM card offers valid for up to one month (national and international calls, SMS, MMS, Internet) at the airport. Several operators offer travelers SIM cards at very interesting rates (around AU$ 30). You should also know that your French cell phone will work with an Australian chip as long as it is unlocked. The biggest operators are Vodafone, Optus and Telstra. For those who have a Free 5 G package at 19,90 €, you will be able to enjoy free calls, SMS and internet in Australia without any additional fees. Internet and Internet cafes are very common in Australia. Accommodation and some roadhouses can also offer this service. Wifi connection for your laptop is common in major cities. It is then very easy to use Skype or WhatsApp, for example, for contacts with your relatives.
Electricity and measurements en Australie
In Australia, distances are given in kilometers, not miles, but height is measured in feet rather than centimeters (1ft = 0.30 m). Electrical voltage is 220/240 volts - 50 Hz. All of your electrical appliances should work as long as you have a flat three-prong adapter. Temperatures are indicated in degrees Celsius.
For clothing and footwear sizes, label correspondences between Europe, USA and Australia are often random. Try on your chosen model in any case.
Luggage en Australie
How to optimize your suitcase and what to pack? Of course, it all depends on the season and the regions you'll be visiting. Don't forget that the seasons are reversed: the austral summer runs from the beginning of December to the end of February. When it comes to clothing, opt for lightweight materials, and don't forget your swimsuit, a hat or cap, a waterproof jacket, hiking boots and a warm sweater. In addition to your wardrobe, don't forget high-index sun cream (minimum 30, or even more for the first few days), sunglasses, a flashlight (a flashlight or headlamp is essential for camping, and also very practical for resorts, bungalows and residences far from the main building), insect repellent (mosquitoes and sandflies), a few basic medicines, a water bottle or reusable bottle and a waterproof bag in case of heavy rain. It's a good idea to remember to bring an adapter for three-prong electrical sockets. If you're traveling outside the major cities, you can add: a light sleeping bag or at least a sheet for your nights outdoors or in accommodation, and a fly net for the bush. Good to know: in casinos, certain chic restaurants and nightclubs, you'll need to dress with care. Denim pants, T-shirts and bare feet may not be accepted.
From October to March, if you're heading south, pack light, casual clothes. If you're heading north, you'll also need a waterproof windbreaker, as this is the rainy season. In any case, you'll need to bring a woollen jacket for the nights, which can be chilly.
From April to September, in southern Australia , it's autumn and then winter. You'll need shorts and T-shirts, warm clothing and a raincoat. Be aware that a lot of accommodation, especially older houses and some youth hostels, or backpackers, have no heating. In tropical regions, it's the dry season and light clothing is de rigueur. However, don't forget to bring a woollen jacket, as evenings on the coast may be pleasant, but nights inland can get chilly.
Be careful what you pack! TheAustralian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) is present at airports. Its agents work alongside those of the Department of Immigration and Border Protection to ensure that travellers do not bring into the country contaminated or prohibited plants, food, products or animals. Be particularly careful with foodstuffs other than canned goods (fruit, cheese, cold meats....), which you may be obliged to dispose of on arrival, or objects or belongings soiled with soil that you have not cleaned beforehand (sports shoes, camping gear, etc.). Be careful, as the fine can be very high if you forget to fill in the declaration on the plane and hand it in on arrival!
Daily life en Australie
Hello? en Australie
The international dialing code for Australia from France is +61. Then dial 2 for NSW and ACT, 3 for VIC and TAS, 7 for QLD, 8 for SA, WA and NT. Then dial your correspondent's 8-digit number.
Remember that to call France from Australia, dial +33 (0033) and your correspondent's number without the initial 0.
To call from one state to another in Australia, dial 0 before the state code (e.g.: to call Sydney from Cairns: 0 + 2 + your correspondent's local number - usually 8 digits).
To call within the same state, enter your correspondent's number (usually 8 digits) without the area code (e.g.: 5332 8871).
Numbers starting with 1800 are free from a landline. Calls to 6-digit numbers starting with 13 are charged at the price of a local call throughout Australia, if dialed from a landline. Numbers starting with 19 are surcharged. Finally, all Australian mobile numbers begin with 04.
Cell phones. Coverage is good on the east, south-east and south-west coasts and in the major cities, but inland, you can't do without a satellite phone or, at the very least, a phone running on the Telstra network, which provides the best coverage. When you arrive in Australia, you'll find SIM card offers at the airport valid for up to a month (national and international calls, SMS, MMS, Internet). Several operators offer travelers SIM cards at very attractive rates (around AU$30). You should also be aware that your French cell phone will work with an Australian chip, provided it has been unlocked. The biggest operators are Vodafone, Optus and Telstra. For those with a Free 5G package at €19.90, you can enjoy free calls, SMS and Internet (35 GB per month) in Australia at no extra cost. With other packages, beware of data costs, which can rise very quickly. Please note that 3G is no longer available in Australia.
Accessibility en Australie
Although traveling to the other side of the world can be a challenge for people with disabilities and mobility impairments, Australia has a special focus on travelers with disabilities. The country has a real accessibility policy and there is an ongoing dialogue between the government and citizens to maintain the effort to live together despite differences. In the city, buildings and public transportation have ramps and dedicated spaces. All major parking lots have reserved spaces and ramps for people with disabilities. The accommodations are very well equipped and seriously apply the standards set by law. In addition, national parks and other tourist sites are wheelchair accessible. However, for a trip in the best conditions, it is better to go through a specialized agency that will be able to personalize your stay: several tour operators offer activities and visits accessible to all persons with disabilities (www.yoola-voyage.com).
Health en Australie
For a typical holiday, Australia presents no major health risks. However, make sure that all vaccinations required in France are up to date before you leave (hepatitis A - for children aged 1 and over, diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis). Depending on the length and type of your stay, vaccination against hepatitis B and Japanese encephalitis may be recommended.
All Australian States and Territories are equipped with modern infrastructures guaranteeing quality health care. If you find yourself in the heart of the desert, contact the Royal Flying Doctor Service for medical emergencies. The service is available 24 hours a day. Dial 1300 69 7337.
Another key element in preventive health care: the sun. Here, the sun's rays are particularly strong, as we're close to the hole in the ozone layer that lets UV rays through. It's imperative to use a high factor sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Australians have become aware of the dangers of the sun in recent decades: they have the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. This is now taken very seriously, and you'll often see Australian tourists wearing hats and long sleeves on their excursions.
As far as drinking water is concerned, tap water is safe to drink in all major Australian cities. In rural areas, however, its quality may leave something to be desired. If in doubt, opt for bottled water (try buying a reusable flask or bottle and a stick of charcoal, a 100% natural water filter).
Emergency numbers en Australie
In the event of a problem, dial 000. This number can be used in all Australian states. The operator will forward the call to the appropriate department (police, fire department, ambulance, etc.). For emergency translation, dial 1300 655 010. To contact the federal police, dial 131 444. This number is available 24 hours a day. Dial +61 8 8091 5155 to contact Central Carling Shire Road Reports for road conditions, and remember to pre-register with Wildlife Rescue (RRANA) on +61 4 2920 4416 to report injured animals.
First aid. In Australia, you may be exposed to bites and stings from spiders, snakes and other animals that inhabit the territory. It can be useful to know what first aid measures to take: if you are stung or bitten, a cold compress can relieve symptoms while you wait for medical attention. As for the symptoms of a spider bite, some are similar to those caused by Funnel Web (excessive sweating, hypertension and muscle contractions) and can worsen during the 24 hours following the bite. Apply a compress of ice cubes to the bite. It is not necessary to administer anti-venom if symptoms do not manifest themselves with intensity. In all cases, medical advice should be sought. To avoid being attacked by a snake, avoid walking in tall grass without shoes or pants, avoid putting your hands in holes and crevices, and remain vigilant when picking up branches. In the event of a bite, call for help immediately. Avoid washing the wound (to allow identification of the venom), and bandage the bitten limb without using a tourniquet. Finally, keep movement to a minimum. In the case of jellyfish, very few nematocysts (stinging capsules) immediately release their contents, whereas the transparent tentacles remain attached to the victim's skin. Initially, avoid rubbing the lesions to avoid discharging the nematocysts, and immediately rinse the wounds with seawater to eliminate any undischarged nematocysts. Do not use fresh water, as this will activate the nematocysts. Then rinse the affected areas with vinegar. Vinegar is an excellent nematocyst inhibitor (alternatives include 40° or 70° alcohol, bicarbonate and olive oil). However, while vinegar calms the pain, it is not an anti-venom. After application, carefully remove any residual debris without exposing yourself, using sand to "trap" jellyfish debris, which can then be removed with a stiff cardboard or plastic card. Rinse again with sea water and quickly evacuate the victim to a medical center.
Securty en Australie
Australia has always been one of the safest countries in the world. However, as everywhere else, it's important to bear in mind a few standard precautions. In cities, these include walking at night in less-frequented areas. Similarly, wherever you are in the country, don't leave your valuables in your car, even if it's locked, or in your room if there's no safe. But then again, Australia is a pretty impressive country in terms of the sense of security it can create: muggings remain pretty rare and as a woman, in particular, you'll easily notice the absence of pitfalls and the sense of serenity in wandering the streets and other public spaces without being stared at, tackled or assaulted. Even at night!
In Australia, the danger lies more on the road. If you're travelling alone in theOutback, it's important to signal your departure, prepare your itinerary and take along a means of communication. As soon as daylight falls (between 4 and 6 pm depending on the season), or if the weather is relatively cool, the kangaroos come out and have the annoying habit of jumping under the wheels of cars. Be very careful, especially as other animals may also be present on or near the road (camels, cows, sheep, horses...). OnOutback roads, watch out for road trains- huge trucks with two or three trailers, up to 100 m long. It's strongly advised not to overtake them on the back roads of theOutback, unless they give you a sign. A final piece of advice that might seem obvious: in Australia, you drive on the left. In theOutback, after hours of driving without any other car, you can tend to forget this!
Apart from the roads, there are also dangers in the ocean: in Australia, swimming in the sea presents considerable risks. On the Indian and Pacific coasts, currents can be particularly strong and waves powerful. You should never swim on an unsupervised beach; stay within the flagged area, which is the only one supervised by lifeguards. Because of the risks posed by sharks, it is preferable to only visit beaches in or near built-up areas, which are equipped with protective nets. For scuba diving, check with local diving clubs. Contact with certain jellyfish present at certain times of the year can be dangerous, even fatal. Similarly, some rivers, beaches and waterways in Queensland and the Northern Territory are closed to swimming due to the presence of crocodiles. Be sure to follow local instructions.
LGBTQ en Australie
In Australia, the LGBTQIA - Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual - community is represented in all major Australian cities, and in recent years the island-continent has become a preferred destination for gays and lesbians of all backgrounds. While Sydney is world-renowned for its many gay and lesbian venues, other cities such as Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and Hobart also offer a wide range of accommodation options. You'll find many friendly establishments conveying these values of respect, support and non-judgmental equality. Of course, this is not the case in the Outback, where life is still very much "traditional" in many respects. In the more remote corners of the country, you may sometimes be surprised by the resistant reaction of some people in need of kindness. Friendly accommodations or agencies organize tailor-made stays and are particularly open and welcoming to members of the LGBTQIA community.
Embassies and consulates en Australie
The role of French consulates is to protect their country's nationals when they are outside their country of origin. Embassies, on the other hand, play an essentially diplomatic role, representing a state within another country. During your stay, in the event of loss of your passport, financial difficulties, serious accidents or other difficulties, you should contact the consulate (not the French embassy in Canberra). The Consulate General of France in Australia is based in Sydney (St Martins Tower, 26th floor, 31 Market Street - +61 2 9268 2400), but there are other consulates in : Melbourne (Victoria), Brisbane (Queensland), Perth (Western Australia), Darwin (Northern Territory), Adelaide (South Australia), Cairns (Queensland) and Hobart (Tasmania).
Mail en Australie
You'll find post offices (Australia Post) in almost every town. It takes between two weeks and a month to send a letter or parcel to Europe. To send mail from Australia to France, you need to stamp the envelope with a stamp generally between AU$3 and AU$4.
Local media en Australie
The press. In Australia, every major city has a few large daily newspapers. The Sydney Morning Herald and the Telegraph for Sydney, The Age for Melbourne, The West Australian for Perth... The NT News is also renowned throughout the country for its hilarious, often provocative front pages. If you're looking for French news, most French dailies and magazines are available from Alliances Françaises and major newsagents, with a few days' delay.
Radio stations are plentiful, but difficult to get hold of when you're far from the big cities, even though they're more than necessary for weather reports in remote areas where there's no human presence. If you can't find anything on FM, try long-wave (AM) on your car radio. Radio has broken a once almost complete isolation, and for over 60 years, the School of the Air has enabled children far from school centers to attend classes via radio. Several radio stations broadcast programs in French. These are mainly SBS network stations and community radios. For a list of community radio stations and their frequencies, consult the AAPREFA website (Association des animateurs de programmes radiophoniques en français d'Australie). Radio France Internationale (RFI) is available on shortwave, in the TV5 bouquet and on the web.
As for television channels in Australia, the most notable are ABC, Seven, Nine, Ten and SBS, which is the equivalent of Arte in France. ABC stands for Australian Broadcasting Corporation. ABC offers quality programs and documentaries, while SBS broadcasts many films and documentaries in French, which can be viewed online at www.sbs. com.au/ondemand. NITV (National Indigenous Television) is dedicated to nurturing and promoting Aboriginal language and culture. It complements the services provided by Imparja TV. TV5 monde broadcasts programs from TF1, France 2, France 3 and other French-speaking channels 24 hours a day. CanalSat Australia (Canal +) offers over 40 French-language channels. The MCM channel offers music programs and RFO overseas programs.
Finally, among the many websites dedicated to information, expatriates can access the latest world news and a wealth of French-language information at: www.lepetitjournal.com
