Dale Anninos-Carter

Whoever coined the phrase “nothing in life is free” has clearly never set foot in Australia – a country where some of the best experiences come with a $0 price tag. Our Great Southern Land is full of bucket list experiences that won’t hurt or even touch your bank account. Hiking through some of the world’s most beautiful national parks? Free! Spotting fairy penguins on the beach? Free! Sampling your way through a world-class market? You guessed it – free! Our Travel and News Editor, Melissa Woodley – a woman who has backpacked, bused and budget-airlined her way across the planet – knows the art of stretching a dollar without sacrificing the fun. With intel from a crack team of Aussie travel writers, she’s pulled together the definitive list of the best free things to do in Australia. Whether you’re an outdoor person (swims, coastal walks and picnic rugs) or more of an indoor creature (air-con, art galleries and free chocolate samples), consider this your cheat sheet to feeling inexplicably wealthy on a budget of exactly zero. Editors’ favourite free things to do in Australia: 🍫 Best for families: Haigh's Chocolate Factory, SA 🌳 Best outdoor adventure: St Kilda Beach, VIC ☀️ Best for a hot day: Berry Springs Nature Park, NT NSW | VIC | SA | QLD | WA | ACT | TAS | NT 🌊 The best things to do in Australia🎢 The coolest things to do with kids⭐️ The best tourist attractions in Australia

If you’re looking for an excuse to get all dolled up, why not explore Perth’s oh-so-sophisticated high tea scene? We’re talking scones with jam and cream, crisp cucumber sandwiches and dainty decorated cakes – honestly, what more could you want? The British tradition of high tea originated among England’s most affluent during the 1840s. It was during the latter part of the 19th century that the tradition was embraced by both the upper and middle classes. Fast-forward to this day and age, high teas have taken the city by storm and varied experiences await. Sit back and relax within Haven Lounge's sun-filled courtyard for a seasonally-themed affair, journey through regional Western Australia via Cape Arid Rooms' spread, and go for quite literally a high tea on C Restaurant's 33rd-floor dining room. Either way, here are Perth’s best high teas that are sure to make you feel fancy and festive, much like a character from Bridgerton taking tea in the drawing room. 🍽️ The coolest cafés in Perth🍝 Perth's top restaurants right now☕️ Where to find the best coffee in Perth