🚨 Emergency Numbers
Emergency Services: 000 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
Non-Emergency Police: 131 444
Poison Information: 13 11 26
Tourist Hotline: 1300 655 077
🏥 Health & Medical
Travel Insurance: Highly recommended
Pharmacies: Chemist Warehouse, Priceline (common chains)
Hospitals: Royal Prince Alfred, St Vincent's
GP Clinics: Bulk billing available for residents
🌊 Beach Safety
Swim Between Flags: Lifeguarded areas only
Rip Currents: Common danger - stay calm, swim parallel
UV Protection: SPF 30+ essential year-round
Bluebottle Jellyfish: Common in summer, painful sting
🏙️ City Safety
Generally Safe: Low crime rate, well-lit streets
Avoid: Kings Cross late night, isolated areas
Pickpockets: Rare but watch belongings in crowds
Drink Spiking: Never leave drinks unattended
💳 Money & Payments
Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
Cards: Widely accepted, contactless common
ATMs: $2-5 fees for foreign cards
Tipping: 10-15% for good service (not mandatory)
📱 Connectivity
Free WiFi: Libraries, cafes, shopping centers
SIM Cards: Telstra, Optus, Vodafone ($20-40)
Data Plans: Prepaid options from $15/month
Coverage: Excellent in city, patchy in remote areas