The conference will be held at the 5 star Langham Melbourne located at:
One Southgate Avenue, Southbank,
Melbourne, Victoria 3006, Australia
T (61) (3) 8696 8888
F (61) (3) 9690 5889

Panoramic city views are breathtaking from this ideal location on the famous Southbank Promenade. Overlooking the tranquil Yarra River, Langham Hotel, Melbourne is nestled amongst an abundance of al fresco cafés, restaurants and boutiques. The National Gallery of Victoria, Federation Square, the Arts Centre and Casino are on your doorstep. Melba Brasserie serves the best of Melbourne's world famous cuisine while at the same time offering magical views of the River.

For detailed location map please go to http://melbourne.langhamhotels.com.au/map/index.html. A detailed floorplan for the venue may be found here.

Climate

The temperature in Melbourne in December typically ranges from 14C (57F) minimum to a maximum of around 24C (75F).

Melbourne Airport

The Melbourne Airport is located roughly 25km (or 30 minutes drive) north-west of the city centre and deals with both international and domestic flights. A number of options are available for getting to and from the airport:

The Skybus: Skybus provide bus travel to and from the airport 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is the quickest and cheapest way to reach the city from the airport. Travel time is approximately 20 minutes. Adult one way tickets cost $15 (or $24 return) and family one way tickets cost $30 ($50 return, or cheaper if only one adult is travelling). More information is available at the skybus website.

Taxis: Taxi cabs are available from the ground floor of Melbourne airport. They usually take around 30 minutes to reach the city center and fairs usually range from $35 to $40 (depending on traffic conditions and specific destination). All taxis are non smoking.

Car rental: All major Australian rental car companies have offices at the Airport. It is recommended that advance reservations be made for rental cars at all times. Rental cars can be booked from aboard most inbound flights. For further information see here.

Public Transport Within Melbourne

Melbourne has a coordinated tram, train and bus network that covers most parts of Melbourne. A single ticketting system is used over all forms of public transport. Tickets can be purchased from train stations, on-board trams and buses, or from select retail outlets. The free city circle tram runs in both directions around the city center perimeter. The circuit takes 30 minutes, goes to the door of many City attractions and crosses most other rail and tramlines. A running commentary is provided and attendants on board will answer any questions. For timetables and other information, visit the metlink webiste.

Money

The Australian Dollar ($AUD) is a decimal currency with units in dollars and cents. Australia accepts all major credit cards including Visa, American Express, Mastercard and Diners Club. Travellers cheques are also widely accepted. Major banks are open from 9am to 4.30pm on weekdays, with many flexiteller machines located in the Melbourne CBD.

A 10% Goods and Services (GST) tax is incorporated into the price on all Goods and Services. Tipping is not expected, but for exceptional service 10-15% would be appropriate.

Telephone Information

When calling from overseas the country code for Australia is 61. The area code for Melbourne is 3. When calling overseas the international access code for Australia is 0011. Mobile phones are widely used throughout Australia. Check with your phone company in your home country about international roam facilities in Australia.