Information

Entry to Australia

Unless you are an Australian or New Zealand citizen, you will need a visa to enter Australia. All other passport holders must apply for a visa before leaving home. Visit immi.homeaffairs.gov.au for more information.

Booking your travel to Melbourne

Melbourne Airport is serviced by several international airlines. Find out more.

On your arrival at Melbourne Airport

Please note that all food, plant and animal related material (such as feathers, skins or bone) must be declared on arrival and will be checked by officials. If in doubt, declare it. The process is usually very efficient, but failure to declare prohibited goods leads to severe penalties.

Transport from Melbourne Airport

Melbourne’s main airport is located approximately 30 minutes drive (24 km) from Melbourne CBD.

Airport transfers are readily available from the airport and there is a regular bus service straight to the city. If you have any problems you can visit the Information Desk located in both the International and Domestic terminals for help with transfers.

SkyBus runs express bus services every 10 minutes between Melbourne Airport and Melbourne CBD, operating all day, every day. Service desks are located in each terminal. Skybus also provide direct services to St Kilda, Southbank, Docklands, Frankston and Peninsula and Western suburbs of Melbourne. Find out more and book with SkyBus.

Taxis and Rideshare services operate from the airport, Melbourne CBD is approximately a 30 minute trip. 

Visit the Melbourne Airport website for all transport option information.

Accommodation

Accommodation will be available to book via the registration form. If you have any queries or need to change your reservation, please advise The Conference Company rather than the hotel direct: email wcbip2026@theconferencecompany.com. 

Insurance

It is strongly recommended that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover the duration of your visit.

Climate

In early December, Melbourne experiences the beginning of summer, with average temperatures ranging from 14-25°C. The days are generally warm and sunny.

Time

Melbourne time in December is Australian Easter Daylight Time (AEDT) which is +11 hours ahead of GMT.

Currency / Banking

The currency used is the Australian dollar (AUD). Banking hours are usually 0930 -1600, Monday to Friday. Automatic Teller Machines are well spread throughout the Melbourne business district. International credit cards are accepted throughout the country banks, most hotels and city stores.

Goods and Services Tax

Goods and Services in Australia are subject to a 10% tax (GST). This tax is usually included in the price and if not, it is clearly stated. The Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) enables travellers to claim a refund of the goods and services tax (GST) and wine equalisation tax (WET) paid on some goods bought in Australia. Visit the Australian Customs website for details about what you can claim and how.

Electricity

Australia uses a 240-volt 50 cycle system with 3 pin flat plugs.

Dress

Dress for all scientific sessions is smart casual. Dress for the Gala Dinner will be advised once the theme is finalised.

Public Transport in Melbourne

Trains, trams and buses are an easy way to see all of the best attractions, sporting venues and shopping precincts across Melbourne and regional Victoria. 

Tickets myki is your ticket to travel on trains, trams and buses in Melbourne and many parts of regional Victoria. To get started, buy a myki or Mobile myki. 

There is a Free Tram Zone in the city, extending from Queen Victoria Market to Docklands, Spring Street, Flinders Street Station and Federation Square.

Travel on the City Circle Tram is also free. Hop on and off the historic trams as often as you like.

You don’t need a myki if you’re only travelling in the city’s Free Tram Zone or on the City Circle Tram.

For information about public transport, visit Public Transport Victoria.

Parking

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre has a car park located within the Exhibition Centre. Additionally, there are secure car parks located in and around South Wharf including, South Wharf Retail Car Park, Siddeley Street Carpark, Freeway Carpark and Montague Street Carpark

Visit the Centre’s website for more parking information.

Accessibility

The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) have in place features to reduce barriers to persons with disabilities, promoting inclusion and participation for all. Features include: large clear signage throughout the centre; ramp access, wide entries, and automatic access doors; car park with 20 reserved access spaces; lift access to all levels, with double doors and multiple height handrails; seating options throughout foyer and common spaces; clearly marked disabled bathrooms on all levels; parent rooms; hearing loop system, with portable receive devices available; meeting room access via automatic doors, access buttons include symbol, braille and text.

Read more about MCEC’s accessibility on their Plan Your Visit page.

Disclosure for Registration Information

If you do not wish your details to be provided to sponsors or other delegates, please select the appropriate option on the registration form.

Name Badges

Name badges will be given to all delegates on registration. We ask that you wear your badge at all times, including social functions. Entry tickets will be given for all social and optional events.

Special Requirements

Every effort will be made to ensure delegates with special needs are catered for. Should you require any specific assistance or catering please give details required on your registration form.

Visitor Information Centres

For helpful information on Melbourne and assistance, visitor information centres are staffed by friendly and professional people with extensive local knowledge.