For internet access there's an Optus or a Three mobile broadband modem (I have both...so whichever one works for you - www.optus.com.au or www.three.com.au). You pre pay and top up with credit to suit. This is currently plugged into the pc in the study nook...but most guests have plugged it into their own laptops - the software downloads automatically. They then have portable internet access and can be online anywhere within Optus' range - most of the urbanised areas in Australia.
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There's a landline plug/jack but you would need to choose a telephone company like Telstra ( http://www.testra.com.au/ )or Optus (http://www.optus.com.au/) to have it connected. Optus currently have a deal called Fusion for $79 a month that includes a landline with all local and national calls, calls to Australian mobiles, cheap overseas calls and 120GB broadband internet access....but it means a contract that I'm reluctant to take on. (It would probably mean charging $425pw rent all year). Vodafone have something similar. This can be a good option if you need lots of fast download and a phone.
The last few tenants have not bothered to connect the landline and just used their mobiles/cellphones. If you don't yet have one in Australia, it's best to shop around as it's quite competitive and deals change all the time. As well as Optus, Telstra, and Vodafone try Three. Let me know if you need a phone/handset as I may have a spare...
Parking:
This place would definitely suit someone without a car....the public transport links are excellent. However, if you do have one....you would need to get a resident's parking permit from the council....but the number of cars far exceed the number of spaces in the street. Without a permit, a lot of the street parking has a limit of 1 or 2hrs. Sell the car!
Still not convinced? Go to http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/ and read up about parking permits. You'd need to register your car at this address and update your driver's license address (http://www.myrta.nsw.gov.au/) AND have a copy of your new lease before you can get the permit, so plan ahead. You cannot risk it for a few days - you WILL be booked and the fine is about $160.
Smoking:
My preference would certainly be for a non smoker, and I would ask that your guests smoke outside.
This place would definitely suit someone without a car....the public transport links are excellent. However, if you do have one....you would need to get a resident's parking permit from the council....but the number of cars far exceed the number of spaces in the street. Without a permit, a lot of the street parking has a limit of 1 or 2hrs. Sell the car!
Still not convinced? Go to http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/ and read up about parking permits. You'd need to register your car at this address and update your driver's license address (http://www.myrta.nsw.gov.au/) AND have a copy of your new lease before you can get the permit, so plan ahead. You cannot risk it for a few days - you WILL be booked and the fine is about $160.
Smoking:
My preference would certainly be for a non smoker, and I would ask that your guests smoke outside.
