Power plugs in Australia

When you travel to Australia, it’s essential that you have the right power plug adapter and potentially a voltage converter depending on your home country. To help ensure that you stay connected during your journey, we offer up-to-date information about all electrical outlets used in Australia—including their standard voltage and frequency. Don’t let yourself be without power when exploring down under!

Power plug types in Australia

Australia uses one plug and socket type – I.

Type I
Plug type I

Other countries that share this type of plug are New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. Some of the main areas for travelers in Australia include Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.   

Voltage and frequency of electricity in Australia

Australia has a standard electricity voltage of 230 volts and a frequency of 50 hertz. You need to be careful when it comes to different electrical voltages and frequencies. If you’re coming from a country that has a lower standard voltage such at 127 Volts you will likely need a voltage converter.

If the frequency of your device is not 50 hertz like in Australia, it’s recommended not to use it without a voltage converter which also changes the frequency (hertz). Some devices will show a range of volts and hertz which means they can more easily be used in different countries without the risk of damage. 

Do I need a power plug adapter for Australia? 

Traveling from the USA to Australia

You need a power plug adapter if your coming from the USA and going to Australia.

  • Electronic appliances in the USA, plug A and B, will not plug into socket I, the Australian socket. 
  • The voltage and frequency in the USA is different to the voltage and frequency in Australia.

Traveling from the UK to Australia

You need a power plug adapter if your coming from the UK and going to Australia.

  • Electronic appliances in the UK, plug D, G, M, will not connect to socket I, the Australian socket. 
  • The voltage and frequency in the UK is the same voltage and frequency in Australia.

If you’re not just traveling to Australia and want a travel adapter that works in any country in the world you can save yourself the hassle of buying many adapters and get a universal travel adapter.

Photos of Australian power plugs and sockets

Australian plug socket
Plug outlet/socket in Australia, Type I

Power plug cabe in Australia
Power plug in Australia, Type I

Electricity in Australia

Australia is renowned for its abundant supply of resources that can be used for generating electricity; however, this has also led to an increased reliance on traditional forms of production over renewables. Electricity in Australia is primarily generated through the combustion of fossil fuels, such as coal and natural gas. Other sources of electricity generation include wind, solar, hydroelectricity and nuclear power.

Though progress is being made towards diversifying their energy sources and reducing emissions from energy production, more needs to be done if Australia is to meet its commitment of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

Solar panels are becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to reduce their electricity bills. The Australian government has introduced a range of initiatives to encourage renewable energy generation, such as feed-in tariffs and other subsidy schemes. In addition, investment in infrastructure is essential for delivering reliable clean energy to more Australians.

Power plug and electricity information has been collected from the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the relevant electrical standards from individual countries.