Electricity

The cost of electricity in Australia is relatively low compared to world standards. The Australian domestic standard voltage is AC 240/250 volts, frequency of 50 Hertz. UK appliances are safe to use, and so should be the European, but check with the manufacturer or a licensed electrician. Those migrating from USA or Canada will need to have appliances modified by a 240V-110V step down voltage converter. The standard plug is a three-pin (sometimes 2-pin for appliances that don't need to be earthed). Replacement plugs can be purchased from most hardware stores and supermarkets. You can purchase most appliances at relatively moderate prices (except for big brand names). More details at http://www.australianaustralia.com/page/Will_your_gadget_work_in_Australia/120

Front loading machines are more expensive than top loaders. Driers are not essential, however, over the humid months you would probably want it, and they are not expensive. One appliance you will certainly need a lot in Australia is a refrigerator (fridge). Given the warmer weather, you will want to keep everything in the fridge, even foods that in Europe or North America you would keep in your pantry cupboard. The majority of big stores have offers to repay over a period of up to 12 months with no interest. A good time to buy is at the end of the financial year (30 June) and following Christmas, when most retailers have big sales. If you need something to get you to that time, you can rent appliances, and you can also purchase second-hand ones through the Trading Post http://www.tradingpost.com.au newspaper.

When you move into a new home in Australia the electricity supply will probably be turned off by the local electricity company. As soon as you move in contact your local electricity company and ask to be reconnected and have the meter read. Reconnection is usually done within 24 hours.

One of the largest electricity suppliers is Energy Australia http://www.energy.com.au (also supplying gas). Another large supplier of electricity is Integral Energy http://www.integral.com.au