Backpack Victoria

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Australia is a safe destination but you should still take care. Take the same safety precautions as you would in any other country – or at home:

• Swap experience and advice with other travellers
• Avoid badly lit areas at night
• Tell friends and family where you’re going and when you're likely to return
• Keep your valuables in a safe place

Animals
Victoria has few dangerous animals, although there are several venomous snakes, including the tiger snake, copperhead snake and red-bellied black snake. They’re mostly found in bushland, and rarely seen in built-up areas. Potentially dangerous spiders, such as the redback spider and the white-tailed spider, are commonly found roaming in houses, sheds and garages. The danger posed by snakes or spiders is, however, extremely low, but for further information, as well as preventative measures and first-aid techniques, visit the Victorian Poisons Information Centre.

Natural hazards
Watch out for natural hazards like changeable weather conditions in Victoria’s alpine regions or remote national parks. Beaches too have a number of potential hazards, like rips and undercurrents, so always swim between the flags. And if you plan to be out in the sun for a long time, wear a wide-brimmed hat, invest in a good pair of sunglasses and slap on plenty of sunscreen - sunlight in Australia is extremely strong and unprotected skin burns quickly.

Medicare
Medicare, Australia’s public health care system, allows travellers from the UK, New Zealand, Sweden, Finland, Italy, Malta and the Netherlands to receive free or discounted medical treatment, limited to public hospitals and visits to the GP.

Residents of these countries can apply for a Medicare card, which covers consultation fees for doctors, and provides benefits to help pay for tests and examinations. Medicare cards are available from any Medicare centre or office. If you’re staying in Victoria on an extended working holiday visa, we recommend you get one.

Hospitals & health centres
Major Melbourne hospitals include:

• Alfred Hospital
• Royal Melbourne Hospital
• St Vincent's Hospital

For a full range of vaccinations, health checks, medical kits and other services, contact the Travellers' Medical and Vaccination Centre (TMVC).

Accommodation and fire safety
The Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Services encourages people to be prepared for emergencies and to take note of the safety features in your accommodation. Hostels and hotels in Australia are checked for fire safety regularly, but it's always a good idea to:

• Check your hostel for smoke alarms
• Read the emergency procedures in your room
• Find out where your nearest fire exits are
• Double-check that doors and windows are not blocked and allow for quick escape in case of fire.

In an emergency, call 000 for fire services, police or ambulance.