Money & Currency (AUD)
The currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD, $). Australia is largely cashless — credit cards work almost everywhere, even for a coffee.
Exchange Rate & Withdrawal
- Rate (as of 2026): approx. 1 € ≈ 1.60 AUD
- Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere (even for small amounts from 1 AUD). Amex is somewhat more limited. Contactless payment (Tap & Pay) is standard.
- Cash Withdrawal: ATMs on every corner, in supermarkets and gas stations. Some ATMs charge a 2–3 AUD fee. Commonwealth Bank and Westpac ATMs are the most widespread.
- Cash: Good for markets, some small restaurants, and Outback gas stations, but overall not much needed. Australia is moving towards a cashless society.
- Travel Credit Card: A card without foreign transaction fees (e.g., DKB, N26, Revolut) saves 1.5–2% on every purchase. Be sure to get one before your trip!
Tipping
Tipping is NOT expected in Australia — the minimum wage is one of the highest in the world (23.23 AUD/hour), and service staff earn significantly better than in the USA or Europe. Nevertheless:
- In upscale restaurants: 10% is welcome but not mandatory
- In cafés and pubs: Not necessary
- Taxi drivers: Rounding up to the next dollar is nice
- Tour guides: 5–10 AUD for a full day is appropriate