ISRII 14th Scientific Meeting – Travel & Visitor Information

Travel & Visitor Information 

The 14th Scientific Meeting of the International Society for Research on Internet Interventions will take place October 19–22, 2026 in Newcastle at Newcastle City Hall.

As an international meeting, we anticipate attendees traveling from across the globe. The following information is intended to help you prepare for your travel to Australia and Newcastle. 

Entry Requirements for Australia 

All international travelers entering Australia must hold a valid passport and appropriate travel authorization before departure.

Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) 
Many passport holders are eligible to apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (Subclass 601), which permits short-term business visitor activities, including attending conferences and scientific meetings. Eligible travelers can typically apply through the Australian ETA mobile application. 

European passport holders may be eligible for an eVisitor (subclass 651). 

Information on visas to Australia can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Processing times can vary significantly depending on country of origin and application volume. ISRII strongly recommends applying as early as possible.

Official Australian Government Resources: 
• Australian Department of Home Affairs – Visitor Visas
• Australian ETA Information

Attendees requiring an invitation letter for visa purposes may contact ISRII at info@isrii.org. 

Traveling from Sydney Airport to Newcastle 

Most international attendees will arrive via Sydney Airport before traveling onward to Newcastle.

Newcastle is located approximately 160 km (100 miles) north of Sydney.

By Train 
A budget friendly option for getting from Sydney Airport to Newcastle CBD (where the conference venue is) is catching the train.

From Sydney Airport, travelers can take the Airport Link train from Sydney Airport to Sydney Central Station (approx. 13 minutes) and connect to the Central Coast & Newcastle Line to Newcastle Interchange (approx. 2.5 hours).

  • Route: Airport → Central Station (T8 train) → Newcastle Interchange (Intercity train)
  • Time: ~3h total
  • Cost: ~AUD $28–40 total
  • Frequency: Every ~30 min from Central

Tickets can be purchased at the airport train station or online.

Useful resources:
• NSW Trip Planner
• Sydney Airport Train Information

By Car or Rideshare
A more convenient option, particularly if you arriving into Sydney airport in the evening or don’t like public transport may be to book a Shuttle or Private Transfer. Of course you can also grab a Taxi or Uber, but from Sydney to Newcastle is likely to cost over AU$500. Shuttles/Private transfers typically cost AU$50-$150 per person and will often drop you right at your hotel. A good option if you are travelling with a group.

  • Time: ~2 to 2.5 hours
  • Cost: typically ~$50–180 per person (depending on how many people you are travelling with and provider)

Options:

By Domestic Flight 
Limited domestic flights may also operate between Sydney and Newcastle Airport.
Approximate flight time: 45 minutes. 

Another option for anyone using ISRII as an excuse to explore more of Australia before coming to Newcastle is to fly directly into Newcastle Airport. Newcastle Airport offers flights from most major Australian cities, as well as international services from Bali, making it possible to connect internationally via Bali and fly directly into Newcastle.

The airport is located approximately 30–40 minutes from Newcastle CBD and the conference venue. Taxis, rideshare services and airport transfer services are readily available from the terminal, making it a straightforward journey into the city.

  • Route: Airport → Taxi/Rideshare → Newcastle CBD / Conference Venue
  • Time: ~30–40 min total
  • Cost: ~AUD $60–90 by taxi or rideshare (depending on destination and traffic)
  • Frequency: Flights available from major Australian cities; direct international flights from Bali operate several times per week.

Lodging Information 

Lodging terminology in Australia can differ from other regions, so it’s worth reviewing options carefully before booking. A “hotel” may refer either to a full-service hotel or a pub (“hotel”) that offers simple guest rooms—often above or adjacent to a bar, sometimes with shared bathrooms and more limited amenities. “Motels” are typically budget-friendly, roadside properties with exterior room access and convenient parking.  

“Serviced apartments” provide hotel-like services with additional space, kitchens, and laundry ideal for longer stays. “Holiday parks” or “holiday stays” can include a mix of cabins, bungalows, caravan (RV) sites, and campsites, ranging from basic to well-equipped. You may also encounter “B&Bs” (bed and breakfasts), which are usually smaller, owner-operated properties offering breakfast and a more personal experience.  

Because terminology and standards can vary, we recommend checking room descriptions, photos, and amenity lists closely to ensure the accommodation aligns with your preferences for comfort, privacy, and services.  

Please see the suggested options below:  

Hotels  

Serviced Apartments  

Please note that rates are indicative and subject to change. Attendees are encouraged to book early to secure availability.  

Parking Information in Newcastle 

Attendees driving locally to the meeting will find several public parking facilities near Newcastle City Hall: Parking in Newcastle - City of Newcastle

Please note:

• ISRII does not have parking, and all attendees are responsible for parking fees
• Parking rates and availability vary by location
• Some facilities may require payment through mobile parking apps
• Street parking restrictions are enforced throughout the CBD
• Early arrival is recommended during business hours 

Things to Do in Newcastle 

Newcastle is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, waterfront dining, historic sites, and relaxed atmosphere.

Popular attractions include:
• Newcastle Memorial Walk
• Newcastle Ocean Baths
• Bogey Hole
• Fort Scratchley
• Newcastle Museum
• Nobbys Headland
• King Edward Park
• Newcastle Civic Park

Newcastle also offers numerous restaurants, cafés, breweries, and waterfront venues throughout the Honeysuckle and Newcastle East districts. 

Weather in Newcastle During October 

October is springtime in Australia and is generally considered one of the most pleasant times of year to visit Newcastle.

Typical weather conditions during October include:
• Daytime temperatures: approximately 20–24°C (68–75°F)
• Evening temperatures: approximately 13–16°C (55–61°F)
• Mild coastal breezes
• Moderate humidity
• Occasional rain showers

Attendees are encouraged to pack:
• Light business attire for daytime conference sessions
• A light jacket or sweater for evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sun protection for outdoor activities 

We look forward to welcoming you to Newcastle for the ISRII 14th Scientific Meeting in October 2026!