Safety

The safe answer is NO. Australia operates on 220-240 volts. However, you should check your device for allowed voltages -- some devices may be "dual voltage", allowing a wider range from 100-240V.

You can purchase voltage converters and adaptors fairly cheaply from electrical stores such as Radio Shack prior to leaving for Australia.

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Firstly let's set the record straight. Australia is very safe! If you are traveling from many cities in the USA you have more chance of having an accident on the way to the airport than actually getting injured in Australia. However there are a few things worthy of emphasis:

It's really not too bad; we normally fly QANTAS and they are very good! On the vast majority of flights to Australia every seat has its own TV personally controlled by you. One of the best ways to pass time is to watch some current movies, documentaries (normally about Australia) or play video games. The food is surprisingly good on these long flights and the service is exceptional.

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Travel insurance is left to individual discretion, if you do not purchase travel insurance and for some reason need to leave the trip early your unused portion of the trip is non-refundable and you may incur some additional travel costs returning home. Most students do not take out travel insurance policies. Some credit card agencies, homeowner's insurance policies, or other insurance avenues have provisions for traveler's insurance. Before purchasing an additional policy, we advise that you investigate the details of your current coverages.