MileHacker Logo
Resources & References

Resources & References

Western Australia, Australia

Digital Resources

Recommended Apps for Perth

  • Transperth:

    Official app for real-time public transport tracking and journey planning.

  • Google Maps / Apple Maps:

    Essential for navigation, directions, and finding points of interest.

  • Uber / Ola / Didi:

    Download ride-sharing apps for convenient transport options.

  • Bureau of Meteorology (BOM):

    Official weather app for accurate forecasts and warnings.

  • Zomato / TheFork:

    Discover restaurants, read reviews, and make reservations.

Useful Websites

  • Tourism Western Australia:

    Official state tourism site (WesternAustralia.com) with attraction information.

  • City of Perth:

    Www.perth.wa.gov.au for city events and services.

  • Fremantle Story:

    Www.fremantlestory.com.au for Fremantle attractions and history.

  • Rottnest Island Authority:

    Www.rottnestisland.com for ferry, accommodation, and island details.

  • DFES (Emergency Services WA):

    Www.dfes.wa.gov.au for emergency alerts and bushfire information.

Online Communities & Content

Social Media

Follow official tourism accounts like @westernaustralia for inspiration and updates.

View on Instagram

Podcasts & Videos

Search for "Perth travel podcast" on your platform for local perspectives.

Online Forums

Reddit's r/perth or Facebook groups offer community connections.

Visit r/perth Skillshare for courses

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks & Maps

  • Pick up free city maps from visitor centers in Perth and Fremantle.
  • General Australia guidebooks (e.g., Lonely Planet) feature sections on Perth.
  • These maps highlight attractions and public transport routes.
  • Comprehensive guidebooks offer broader context for your trip.

Local Publications

  • Grab free tourist guides at airports, hotels, and visitor centers.
  • Perth Now and The West Australian are major local news sources.
  • Scoop Magazine offers local lifestyle, dining, and arts coverage.
  • These resources often contain useful maps and discount coupons.

Further Reading & Exploration

History & Culture

  • "A History of Western Australia" by Tom Stannage delves into the state's past.
  • Explore books on Aboriginal culture, especially the Noongar people of Perth.
  • Read local fiction to gain a sense of place and local character.
  • These readings provide context for your visit.

Music & Art

  • Discover Australian music, especially artists from Perth or Western Australia.
  • Visit local art galleries and performance venues during your trip.
  • Experience the creative scene that shapes the city's identity.
  • Explore various genres for a cultural connection.

Language Learning

  • Noongar language resources from universities can be very insightful.
  • This offers a appreciation of the land's traditional custodians.
  • Learn a few basic phrases as a sign of respect.

Emergency & Medical Information

Critical Contacts

Emergency Services

  • 000: Universal emergency number for Police, Fire, or Ambulance.
  • This is a free call from any phone (landline or mobile).
  • Use for life-threatening situations, serious accidents, or crimes in progress.
  • Dial immediately when urgent assistance is needed.

Non-Urgent Police

  • 131 444: Police Assistance Line.
  • Use for non-urgent police matters (e.g., reporting theft after the event).
  • For general police advice or minor incident reports.
  • Do not call 000 for these situations.

Natural Disaster Assistance

  • 132 500: State Emergency Service (SES).
  • Call for floods, storms, or other natural disaster assistance.
  • For issues like a fallen tree or roof damage.
  • The SES helps with immediate safety concerns during disasters.

Hospital Locations

Public Hospitals

  • Royal Perth Hospital: Located in Victoria Square, Perth (CBD).
  • Fiona Stanley Hospital: Large, modern facility in Murdoch (south of Perth).
  • Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital: Another major public hospital in Nedlands.

Non-Emergency Medical Care

  • Numerous private hospitals and GP clinics operate city-wide.
  • For non-emergencies, contact your travel insurance provider.
  • Online search for "GP near me" to locate nearby clinics.

Embassy & Document Assistance

Consulate Information

  • Most foreign embassies are in Canberra.
  • Many countries have Consulates-General or Consulates in Perth.
  • Search "Consulate of [Your Country] Perth" for contact details.

Lost Document Procedures

  • Report lost/stolen documents to the nearest police station immediately.
  • Obtain a police report, then contact your country's consulate for help.
  • They can assist with emergency travel documents.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Bushfires

  1. Monitor the DFES website (www.dfes.wa.gov.au) and local media for warnings.
  2. Follow instructions from authorities: "Watch and Act," "Emergency Warning," "Leave Now."
  3. Have an evacuation plan ready if you are in high-risk zones.
  4. Remain informed, especially during the summer months.
  5. Safety is paramount during bushfire season.

Storms & Flooding

  1. Stay indoors during severe storms for your safety.
  2. Avoid driving, riding, or walking through floodwaters at all costs.
  3. Floodwaters can conceal hazards and are deceptively strong.
  4. Heed advice from the SES (State Emergency Service).
  5. Prepare for power outages during intense weather events.

Medical Information

Travel Insurance

Acquire comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Vaccinations

Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations before your trip.

Prescription Meds

Carry a doctor's letter for any prescription medications you travel with.

Document Security

Keep copies of your passport, visa, and insurance policy details separate from the originals.

Further Reading & Exploration

Dive into Perth

Cultural Immersion

  • Local Authors:

    Read novels or non-fiction by Western Australian writers.

  • Art & Galleries:

    Visit local art spaces like the Art Gallery of Western Australia.

  • Music Scene:

    Explore Perth's live music venues and local bands.

Historical Context

  • Academic Resources:

    University websites sometimes offer papers on local history.

  • Heritage Sites:

    Research places like Fremantle Prison for their historical background.

  • Museum Collections:

    WA Museum Boola Bardip showcases the state's natural and cultural history.

Connect with the Community

Facebook Groups

Join 'Perth Expats' or 'Travel Australia' groups for advice and connections.

Meetup Events

Discover local events and interest groups through Meetup.com.

Online Forums

Engage in forums dedicated to Australian travel for specific queries and tips.

Noongar Language & Culture

  • Explore resources from local cultural organizations on Noongar language.
  • Gaining insights into this language offers deep cultural awareness.
  • Learning a few words shows respect for traditional custodians.

Cultural Sites & Tours

  • Visit sites of cultural significance to the Noongar people.
  • Consider guided Aboriginal cultural tours for deep insights.
  • These tours are often led by traditional owners.
  • Experience the enduring connection between people and country.

Environmental Awareness

Local Flora & Fauna

  • Learn about Western Australia's unique plant species.
  • Discover endemic wildlife beyond the quokka.
  • Visit national parks for immersive nature experiences.
  • Engage in birdwatching or nature photography.

Conservation Efforts

  • Support local conservation organizations and their work.
  • Consider volunteering or donating to environmental causes.
  • Learn about native species protection and restoration projects.
  • Understand local efforts to protect marine environments.

Digital Document Safety

Email important document copies to yourself or store them securely in cloud storage for backup access.

← Previous
Practical Tips & Hacks
← Back to Perth
Next →
Pre-Trip Checklist

Next Up: Pre-Trip Checklist

Continue to Pre-Trip Checklist