Power plugs in Australia
Australia uses Type I power outlets, running at 230V / 50Hz.
Type I — slanted 3-pin (top two slanted, bottom vertical). Unique to Oceania + China + Argentina.
What the plugs look like
Type I
Two or three slanted pins (Australia, New Zealand, China, Argentina)
Do you need an adapter? (from your home country)
Look up your home country below. The verdict tells you whether you need a plug adapter, a voltage converter, both, or nothing.
From United States (Type A/B, 120V):
Different plug AND different voltage (120V → 230V). Adapter required. Voltage converter required for hair dryers, curling irons, and old non-dual-voltage devices.
From United Kingdom (Type G, 230V):
Voltage matches but plug shape is different. Bring a simple adapter — no voltage converter needed.
From Germany (Type C/F, 230V):
Voltage matches but plug shape is different. Bring a simple adapter — no voltage converter needed.
From France (Type E, 230V):
Voltage matches but plug shape is different. Bring a simple adapter — no voltage converter needed.
From Japan (Type A/B, 100V):
Different plug AND different voltage (100V → 230V). Adapter required. Voltage converter required for hair dryers, curling irons, and old non-dual-voltage devices.
From Canada (Type A/B, 120V):
Different plug AND different voltage (120V → 230V). Adapter required. Voltage converter required for hair dryers, curling irons, and old non-dual-voltage devices.
Quick check on your device: look for the input rating — usually printed on the power brick. If it says "100-240V" you only need a plug adapter (no converter). If it says "120V" or "230V" only, you need a converter for the other voltage.
What to buy
- Universal travel adapter — covers Types A/B/C/E/F/G/I in one unit ($15-30). Best for one-bag travelers crossing multiple regions. Look for one with built-in USB-C PD for phone fast-charging.
- Single-country adapter — $5-10 if you're only going to Australia and home. Smaller, lighter, less to fuss with.
- Voltage converter (step-down) — only if you're bringing a US-only 120V hair dryer, curling iron, or appliance. Modern laptops, phones, cameras, and shavers don't need one.
- Multi-outlet strip from home — let one adapter charge 5 devices. Saves bringing 5 adapters.