Melissa Woodley is the Travel & News Editor for Time Out Australia, where she inspires locals and travellers to explore the best of the country, including places to visit, things to do and spots to eat.

Before joining Time Out as the Branded Content writer for Sydney in 2023, she freelanced as a food writer for The Urban ListSBS Food and Broadsheet, among others. She also had a short stint in hospitality PR, has experience in the social media and digital marketing world, and even started a social enterprise at 21.

When Melissa is not playing with words, you’ll find her running laps around Centennial Park, volunteering at the OzHarvest Refettorio, telling you how cute her dog is and eating her way through Sydney. She has a soft spot for pastries and pickles, is passionate about paying it forward, and is likely planning her next holiday right now.

You can reach her at melissa.woodley@timeout.com or connect with her @sporkdiaries on Instagram. 

Melissa Woodley

Melissa Woodley

Travel & News Editor, Time Out Australia

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Articles (232)

Australia’s hottest new hotel openings to get excited about in 2024

Australia’s hottest new hotel openings to get excited about in 2024

More hotels mean more holidays, right? With fancy five-star stays and groovy boutique properties popping up all around town, you’d be silly not to experience them all for yourself. I mean, who wouldn’t want to be the first to sink into a plump king bed or wrap themselves in a fresh white bathrobe at a brand-new hotel? Here’s our round-up of the most sparkly new hotels that have recently opened in Australia, along with the ones to watch out for in the months (and years to come). 🌴 Australia’s most incredible resorts and lodges⛺️ The best free campgrounds in Australia🧖🏾‍♀️ The most luxe day spas in Australia

The 17 best restaurants in Noosa

The 17 best restaurants in Noosa

Noosa has no shortage of excellent eateries that buzz with locals and travellers from dusk until well after dawn. Many of the resort town’s trendiest restaurants line the iconic Hastings Street, with the fanciest spots sitting mere metres from the golden sands of Main Beach.  Waterfront institutions in Noosaville showcase the region’s finest seafood, while Noosa Junction brings a laid-back mix of global flavours – from French crêpes and fluffy bao buns to wood-fired pizzas. Here’s our pick of the best restaurants in Noosa for your eating pleasure. 🌊 Your ultimate guide to Noosa☀️ Here are the 5 best beaches in Noosa🍽️ More great restaurants on the Sunshine Coast

The 15 best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast

The 15 best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast’s ever-expanding dining scene is a double-edged sword: how does one pick between so many fantastic restaurants? Seasonal and locally sourced produce take centre stage across all cuisines, with everything from modern Asian and Middle Eastern to seafood, spaghetti and steak.  Once you’ve ticked off all the hot spots on Hastings Street in Noosa, make your way south to Mooloolaba’s bustling waterfront, the sunny town square of Peregian Beach or the scenic hinterland, where you’ll discover the Sunshine Coast’s greatest gems. Here’s our guide to the best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast. ☀️ The best things to do on the Sunshine Coast🌊 Your ultimate guide to Noosa🍽️ Where to eat in Noosa

The 31 best picnic spots in Sydney

The 31 best picnic spots in Sydney

What could be more romantic than a hamper packed for two and sweeping harbour views? Where else could you organise a long, lazy lunch for a group of friends? Or an impromptu dinner date, alfresco? For all this, and more head to one of Sydney's very best picnic spots. And don't worry, we've done the research on if there’s parking, toilets and barbecues available. All you've got to do is pop the champers, sit back and have a right good picnicking time.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: We also have you covered for where to find Sydney's best parks.  Don't go past Sydney's best National Parks either.   

The best musical and theatre shows to see in Australia in 2024

The best musical and theatre shows to see in Australia in 2024

From musicals based on much-loved and seriously messed up kids’ TV shows to gothic horror reimagined via icons returning to the stage after decades away, this year in theatre is shaping up to be one of the strongest we’ve seen in quite some time.Here are a few shows we know you’ll want to catch before it’s too late to say you were there. 🖼 The best Australian art galleries🔍 Australia's greatest museums 👀 The best art exhibitions to see in Australia this year

The 5 best beaches in Noosa

The 5 best beaches in Noosa

If you’re dreaming of bathwater-warm ocean temps, glittering blue waves and long, tropical days for your next holiday, look no further than Noosa. Just two hours north of Brisbane, this beloved beachside town is an Instagrammer’s paradise, boasting some of Australia’s most stunning stretches of sand and serene waters. Many of Noosa’s beaches are sheltered by the surrounding national park, meaning you can dip in pristine, uncrowded waters while spotting wildlife, like humpback whales and dolphins. As a globally recognised 'World Surfing Reserve', Noosa offers waves for everyone – from beginners to professionals. Find your perfect patch of sand with our guide to Noosa’s best beaches – or why not tick them all off?  🌊 Your ultimate guide to Noosa☀️ The best things to do on the Sunshine Coast🌴 Australia’s best beaches

The 20 best coastal walks in Australia

The 20 best coastal walks in Australia

Nothing beats the refreshing touch of an ocean breeze to cool you off after working up a sweat. Australia's coastline is where the magic happens, with no shortage of incredible hikes to explore beautiful beaches and jaw-dropping cliffs. The best part? When you get a little too hot and bothered, you can take a break at one of the numerous beaches dotted along the shore. Whether you’ve got a couple of days to spare or want to break them down into smaller legs, these are the best coastal walks in Australia.  🌊 The best beaches in Australia🏄 Australia's top surf beaches🌈 All the best places to visit in Australia

The 15 best restaurants to dine at in Canberra

The 15 best restaurants to dine at in Canberra

With its award-winning restaurants and dishes worth trekking interstate for, Canberra has earned its place on Australia’s gourmet map. The star of the show is the region’s local produce – including truffles, smoked meats and wines – which are fired, flamed, fermented and fried into all sorts of culinary creations. Whether you’re dining at the Italian spot in Braddon, swinging by Canberra’s trendiest bar or making friends with Canberra’s newest openings, these are the places you want to be seen in town.  🍹 The best bars and breweries in Canberra☕️ Canberra's coolest cafés🍣 Where to find the best Japanese food in Canberra

The 18 best rooftop bars in Perth

The 18 best rooftop bars in Perth

It really doesn’t get much better than sipping on an Aperol spritz or two while gazing out across the sparkling Swan River at sunset. Or maybe you prefer the vivacious chatter of friends while perched among the bright lights of the city skyline. We’ve put together a list of Perth’s best rooftop bars, so you’ll have no shortage of options for Thursday night drinks. 🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth right now🍷 More great bars for drinks in the city⭐️ Perth's top hotels to rest your head

The 11 best bars in Brisbane

The 11 best bars in Brisbane

Brisbane may be renowned for its sprawling pubs and beer gardens, where you can settle in for a laid-back session and soak up the year-round sunshine – but these days there’s a whole lot more to the river city’s booze scene than meets the eye. Whether you’re looking for the best spot for cleverly crafted cocktails or a dive bar where you can drink with your dog, these are the best bars in Brisbane right now. 🌮 The best places to eat in Brisbane🍷 Australia's greatest bars for a tipple🌳 All the best things to do in Brisbane

The 15 best hotels in Perth

The 15 best hotels in Perth

At the best hotels in Perth, you'll find proof that the West Coast's hotel scene is exploding. More than 25 new or renovated hotels have opened around the city in recent years, with many taking full advantage of the sparkly, new Elizabeth Quay waterfront development.  This pedestrian and arts precinct's design pays homage to Perth's First Nations people, with large public works by Noongar artists like Laurel Nannup, and a curving, flowing sense of space by the Swan River. Combined with never-before-seen luxury and late checkout times, you’re in for an exceptional stay. Here's our pick of the best hotels in Perth. Wondering what to do while you're here? These are the best things to do in Perth.

The 17 best hotels in Adelaide

The 17 best hotels in Adelaide

A trip to Adelaide can mean exploring the wineries of Barossa Valley, learning about science, Renaissance paintings and migration at one of its many museums, or attending the largest arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere – oh, and paying a visit to the beach. But however you decide to spend your time here, make sure you've got somewhere fabulous to stay – as you're going to want to be well-rested for busy days ahead.  What makes a great hotel? In devising our list of the best hotels in Adelaide, we considered a mix of factors; good location? Comfy beds? A sweet as rooftop pool? Within convenient distance to the best things to do? Maybe it's a combo of the three. Luckily Adelaide's got it all. Whether you're a visitor wanting to stay bang in the centre of town or a local in search of a cheeky staycation under an hour from the city, take a peek at our top hotels in Adelaide below, hand-picked by an expert who knows their stuff.  🍽️ The best restaurants in Adelaide 🍺 Our favourite bars and breweries in Adelaide This article was written by one of our Travel & News Editors in Australia, Melissa Woodley. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

Listings and reviews (508)

Carlotta

Carlotta

Chris Lucas, the acclaimed hospitality mastermind behind Chin Chin and Kisumé, has turned his attention to the capital with the launch of Carlotta. Drawing inspiration from the charming trattorias dotting the European coast, this Mediterranean restaurant sets the stage for long, leisurely lunches that effortlessly roll into aperitivo sessions and beyond. Kick off your evening here with a signature Sorrento Fizz at the long marble-topped bar, where you can take in the lively scene of the open kitchen. As food envy kicks in, feast on rosemary and sea salt focaccia, baked to perfection in a custom wood-fired oven from Naples, and complement it with a premium selection of Italian mozzarella and salumi. The pasta is made fresh daily and coated in slow-cooked beef ragu, lobster oil and chilli, and classic tomato sugo. Pair your pasta with showstopping meat and seafood mains, which are cooked over coals and designed for sharing. 

Havenstone

Havenstone

Sydney has a growing list of once-neglected heritage buildings that have been transformed into trendy eateries (Brasserie 1930, Prince of York and the Fenwick, to name a few). Parramatta North's Havenstone is another on this list, set in a lovingly restored sandstone building from 1888. Once upon a time, it was the Female Factory – a place that housed female convicts who arrived in New South Wales in the 1820s and '30s.  Good news: the Australian government is currently seeking to have the Parramatta Female Factory added to the World Heritage List, which would make it only the second standalone site in Sydney – along with the Sydney Opera House – to receive that honour. Not-so-good news: heritage advocates and a federal Labor MP are arguing that plans for apartment blocks up to 22 storeys near the building could put the Heritage status at risk. Regardless, now part of this historic building and its sunny surroundings create a peaceful backdrop for all-day breakfast and lunch. Locals can cosy up inside the light-filled café, which was the Factory’s old hospital boiler room and dining area, refurbished with exposed brick pillars, a sparkling white barista machine, and pots and vases in all shades of cream and green. The kitchen brings a contemporary twist to classic flavours. On weekends, bring your four-legged friends for a leisurely outdoor lunch with family and friends. Havenstone sits in the heart of a big urban renewal project taking place in Parramatta North, which is all

Ovolo Nishi

Ovolo Nishi

You may know the name of this designer hotel chain from its outposts in Melbourne and Sydney, but Ovolo Nishi has swiftly become a firm favourite for both Canberrans and travellers alike. Taking over the bones of the former arty establishment Hotel Hotel in 2018, Ovolo Nishi is a true guest-first hotel. Lap it up in one of Ovolo’s 68 stylish rooms, individually furnished with timber, concrete, eucalypt and salvaged Tasmanian tree ferns. Then, max out on the perks, including complimentary continental breakfast, a 24-hour gym, a fully vegetarian restaurant, and maybe most importantly, a free in-room mini bar for those midnight treats. It’s worth shouting out Ovolo’s world-first Hair Service Menu, which allows guests to order complimentary, personalised TRESemmé haircare straight to their hotel door. You won’t have to settle for the classic one-size-fits-all hotel shampoo and condition, but can pamper your locks with products to suit all hair types – yes, even you, curly girlies. Time Out tip: Ovolo Nishi is home to Canberra’s only cutting-edge vegetarian dining experience, Monster Bar and Kitchen, where locally sourced, sustainable ingredients shine. You can order select snacks and share plates to your room, along with seasonal cocktails for that nightcap.

Alex Hotel

Alex Hotel

Alex sits in the middle of Northbridge’s evolving small bar and slow fashion scene. Eateries and stores stocking designer and local wares are right outside the door, and you can take it all in from the hotel's trendy, street-facing Lobby Bar. It makes sense that Alex has adopted sustainable practices throughout its rooms and dining venues, from its sprawling indoor greenery to its farm-to-table cooking and refillable toilet amenities. Guests are encouraged to make themselves at home in the communal area, which includes complimentary coffee, breakfast or a glass of wine from the bar. Time Out tip: Make use of the cosy love seats in the communal area, perfect for a pre-PICA show nap or meditation.

Crown Towers Perth

Crown Towers Perth

It’s the most expensive hotel ever built in Australia and it shows. Perth's Crown Towers is the place to stay for a true five-star (some even say six-star) hotel experience. Luxurious finishes, attentive staff and fancy décor greet you, as do the seven-metre woven ceilings in the lobby. From Nobu to Rockpool, you'll find plenty of places for a world-class meal, including buffet breakfast at the Epicurean, which is considered the best in Perth. Splash out during your stay by booking a super-luxe massage or facial at the onsite day spa.   Time Out tip: Take a dip in the lagoon-style pool no matter what the weather, it’s heated to 30 degrees all year round.

The Playford Adelaide

The Playford Adelaide

Play and stay to your heart’s content at this boutique, Art Nouveau-inspired hotel in the heart of Adelaide’s arts, cultural and entertainment precinct. The Playford facade is a North Terrace icon, recognisable for its curving balconies, vine-etched facades and a row of burgundy umbrellas that line the street. All rooms and suites were designed to ‘be timeless, featuring plush bathrobes and slippers, luxury Appelles amenities, heated towel rails and a customisable pillow menu at your fingertips. Guest parking and 24-hour access to the health club, including a heated indoor pool, spa, sauna and gym, earn The Playford bonus points, as does its award-winning Luma Restaurant and Bar. Time Out tip: Start your morning with a creamy latte and a pastry from Luma Restaurant and Bar. The pastries are baked fresh daily using local South Australian ingredients and can be delivered straight to your door for the ultimate breakfast in bed.

The Westin Perth

The Westin Perth

Experience the best of the west at one of Perth’s newest five-star hotels. Like any of its sister venues, The Westin nails the balance of sophistication and comfort, with 368 spacious rooms and suites. Natural light sprawls through the floor-to-ceiling windows and shines a spotlight on the 2,000-plus pieces of Australian art that decorate the hotel walls. For the full R&R experience, pamper yourself with a treatment at Bodhi Spa or ask the dedicated ‘Run Concierge’ to show you the best running routes in Perth. There’s only one way to cap off the night, and that’s with a Roman-style feast at Garum by Guy Grossi; the renowned chef’s first restaurant outside of Victoria. Time Out tip: Step out of the city chaos and into elegance with high tea at the Westin’s Haven Lounge. Featuring bespoke cocktails and a seasonally inspired menu, this afternoon tea is all kinds of heavenly.

Local Sauce Tours

Local Sauce Tours

This one is sure to put a pep in your step. Founder of award-winning Local Sauce Tours Justin Steele reckons Aussies are the best in the world at going on tours when we travel – just not when we're in our own country. And he’s out to change that. In 2018, Steele started hosting small-group cultural experiences that brought locals and tourists together to discover the city from new perspectives. Now, Steele’s returned to his hometown to launch two tours showcasing Brisbane’s vibrant nightlife, hidden laneways, public art and untold stories of the city’s past – aka the stuff you won’t find in a guidebook. 

The Aviary Rooftop

The Aviary Rooftop

Spread your wings and soar high above it all at this spacious open-air rooftop bar in Perth’s CBD. Decked out with lush greenery and shady umbrellas, The Aviary is your go-to for bottomless brunch, sunset sessions, date nights and everything in between. You can sip on a fruity cocktail, WA cider, low-alc beer or fancy wine from France while taking in sweeping views of the city skyline. The rooftop buzzes during happy hour from 4.30 to 5.30pm daily, while Sundays go off with epic DJ beats from 4pm, $30 cocktail jugs and $15 pizzas.

Stories Rooftop

Stories Rooftop

Your story is only just getting started on level five of the newly opened Yagan Square hospitality precinct. With panoramic views spanning from Elizabeth Quay to Northbridge, Stories Rooftop bar invites you to drink, dine and dance under the stars until 2am on weekends. With colourful cocktails, bright lights and bangin’ beats, it’s quite hard to resist. Stories’ menu features all your classic hits, including Sparkling Piña Coladas and Spicy Marg, along with cheeky specialty cocktails, like the OnlyPavs with pavlova vodka, passionfruit, vanilla and lemon. The wine and beer list is long and local, with pizzas, burgers and fire-cooked mains dominating the food offering. 

The Standard

The Standard

There’s nothing standard about this three-level, Mediterranean-inspired bar and kitchen that revives Northbridge’s once-lost European charm. Small to medium share plates are designed to keep the good times and conversations flowing, including pickled mussels, duck liver parfait, and mortadella with sweet and sour onions. The drinks list is equal parts fancy and fun, featuring flavours that span from Italian stone fruits and summer citrus, to creamy desserts and subtle Mediterranean spices.     

Mechanics Institute

Mechanics Institute

4 out of 5 stars

Hidden among Northbridge’s heritage rooftops, this tiny but mighty house of fun stands out as a firm favourite. Mechanics Institute is a key voice in Perth’s cocktail conversation, with a quick but quirky board of daily-changing drinks. Past hits have included a PB and Jealous with Sheep Dog whisky, macadamia, raspberry and coffee, and a Starward Colada with tropical notes of pineapple, coconut and lime. With an al fresco roof deck, sing-out-loud soundtracks and the ability to order an XL one-size-defeats-all Flipside Burger at the bar, you’re in for a guaranteed good time. 

News (342)

This underrated Aussie region just ranked among the world’s five must-visit destinations – here’s why we want to visit

This underrated Aussie region just ranked among the world’s five must-visit destinations – here’s why we want to visit

As a travel journalist, I’m often asked where the best place I’ve travelled in Australia is. Rottnest Island, the Gold Coast and Canberra quickly come to mind, but Hobart has my heart. Tasmania’s capital has a lot going for it – this 16-minute city is the world’s most beautiful road trip destination, ranked fifth globally for free tourist activities, and, in my opinion, has the most underrated food scene in Australia. As much as I adore Hobart, it might be time to spread my wings next time I ‘come down for air’ because a surprising region just 2.5 hours away has been named one of the world's best destinations to visit in 2025. Every year, Lonely Planet releases its Best in Travel guide spotlighting 30 must-visit destinations across the globe, divided into the top ten regions, countries and cities. The 15th edition has just dropped, and this time, a surprising Aussie region was the only one to make the cut. Photograph: Krista Eppelstun Tasmania’s second city might not get quite so much love as the island’s capital, but that’s all about to change. For 2025, Lonely Planet has ranked Launceston and the Tamar Valley as the fourth-best region to visit in the world. ‘Launnie’ has plenty to brag about on the nature front. This city of 77,000 is perhaps best known for Cataract Gorge, a serene slice of wilderness located just a 15-minute walk from the CBD, with river trails, an outdoor swimming pool, a gorgeous restaurant and the world’s longest single-span chairlift. *Immediately ad

Australia’s longest river named in National Geographic’s Best of the World 2025 list

Australia’s longest river named in National Geographic’s Best of the World 2025 list

We might be a little biased, but we can’t help feeling proud when Australia pops up in global rankings of the best places on Earth. And while we’re proud, we’re certainly not surprised to see our mighty Murray River land a spot in National Geographic’s latest Best of the World list. The travel publication’s 2025 bucket list features 25 fascinating, under-the-radar spots, all handpicked by Nat Geo’s globe-trotting team of explorers, photographers and editors. Australia’s longest river – and the third-longest navigable river in the world, behind only the Amazon and Nile – winds its way along the New South Wales and Victorian border for some 2,500 kilometres before heading into South Australia. For more than 40,000 years, the Murray River has sustained the land, communities and Traditional Owners along its shores. Now, it’s home to the world’s largest fleet of paddle steamers, offering a chance to step back in time with a scenic river cruise. Photograph: Supplied | Murray River Paddlesteamers In June 2025, travellers can look forward to the debut of Murray River Paddlesteamer’s most luxurious boat yet. Setting off from the Victorian town of Echuca, the PS Australian Star will not only be the largest paddle steamer in the Southern Hemisphere but also the world’s only wood-fired, five-star, accommodated paddle steamer. Those looking to explore Australia’s majestic Murray River in style can enjoy a three to seven-night cruise, featuring riverside barbecues, wine tastings, wildlif

Warrnambool has ranked as the number one hardest-working city in all of Australia

Warrnambool has ranked as the number one hardest-working city in all of Australia

You would think that the seaside lifestyle is all about kicking back, catching waves and knocking off early for a swim. But a new ranking of the hardest-working cities in the country begs to differ, with a regional town on Victoria's southwestern coastline topping the list. It seems like it's actually all about the daily grind over in Warrnambool!  Researchers from global seasonal job platform, Snow Season Central, ranked Australia’s 50 most populated cities from hardest-working to least. They scored all cities on a 100-point scale, where 80 points were dedicated to direct work factors (like average workweek hours, employment rate, and unused vacation time) and the remaining 20 points were dedicated to indirect work factors (like commute time, jobs availability, and amount of free time folks have per day). After crunching the numbers, the seaside city of Warrnambool came out on top as Australia’s hardest-working city. With just 3 per cent of households having no working adults, it boasts the lowest unemployment rate out of any city in the country. On top of this, almost 10 per cent of Warrnambool’s residents juggle multiple jobs, and 64 per cent leave their vacation time untouched. This checks out, given it's the largest town along the Great Ocean Road, where locals often have to work during peak seasons while the rest of the country is in holiday mode. The title of Australia’s second hardest-working city went to Kalgoorlie in Western Australia, the country’s largest outback

Australia has been ranked as the second safest country to travel to in 2025

Australia has been ranked as the second safest country to travel to in 2025

When people think of Australia, they might imagine a land filled with man-eating crocodiles, stinging jellyfish, hairy spiders and venomous snakes. While we do have our fair share of deadly critters, Australia isn’t as wild and wacky as it’s made out to be. We’re not the only ones who think so too, with a recent report naming Australia as the world's second safest country for travellers.  The annual study by travel insurance company Berkshire Hathaway goes far beyond just looking at levels of terrorist activity or disease outbreaks; it also considers how freely people can move about, stay disease-free and be sheltered from severe weather events. To compile the rankings, they combined safety ratings from travellers who had visited each country in the last five years, with data from global safety studies, like the Global Peace Index and the State Department’s travel safety ratings. This isn’t the first time Australia has appeared on the world’s safest travel destinations list, leaping from tenth place in 2024 to second in 2025. While our wacky wildlife and harsh UV rays may have knocked us down a few pegs in safety, our far-flung location and low crime rates helped us climb the ranks. Photograph: Destination NSW Recognising that traveller safety varies across different demographics, Berkshire Hathaway also compiled top ten lists for six subcategories. According to the data, Australia ranked second for transportation safety, third for protection against violent crime, fourth f

How to get tickets to Rüfus Du Sol’s 2025 Melbourne Tour: tickets, prices, and presale

How to get tickets to Rüfus Du Sol’s 2025 Melbourne Tour: tickets, prices, and presale

Grammy Award-winning electronic trio Rüfüs Du Sol has made great strides since forming in Sydney more than 10 years ago. Over the decade, the group has experimented with widely varied sonic textures, amassing a huge global following along the way. From the light and ethereal Atlas (2013), the house-inflected and synth-y Bloom (2016), the darker and more melodic Solace (2018) and the hypnotic and trancey Surrender (2021), it's easy to see how the group's diverse influences have propelled them from Australia to the world stage.  Now, Rüfüs Du Sol is returning Down Under to celebrate the release of its fifth studio album Inhale / Exhale, with several immersive shows planned across Australia in 2025 including a massive Melbourne arena show. Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets. When and where is Rüfus Du Sol playing in Melbourne in 2025? Rüfus Du Sol is sharing the love with five concerts in the group's homeland, including one at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on November 13. Where else is Rüfus Du Sol touring in Australia? Other Australian dates are as follows: Perth’s RAC Arena on November 7 Adelaide Entertainment Centre on November 11 Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on November 20 Brisbane Entertainment Centre on November 25 When do Rüfus Du Sol Melbourne tickets go on sale? The battle for tickets officially begins at 10am local time this Thursday, October 24 via this link. Is there a Rüfus Du Sol presale? Isn't there always? Mastercard cardholders have access to

These 5 NSW spots have ranked among the 10 hardest-working cities in the country

These 5 NSW spots have ranked among the 10 hardest-working cities in the country

Home to some of the country’s main tourist attractions, most beautiful beaches and magnificent natural wonders, NSW is known as a place of leisure. But it turns out, our state is also home to five of the ten most hard-working cities in the country. The surprising news? Despite our excruciating house prices and sky-high cost of living, Sydney isn’t one of them. Researchers from global seasonal job platform, Snow Season Central, have ranked Australia’s 50 most populated cities from hardest-working to least. They scored all cities on a 100-point scale, where 80 points were dedicated to direct work factors (like average weekly work hours, employment rate, and unused vacation time) and the remaining 20 points were dedicated to indirect work factors (like commute time, jobs availability and amount of free time folks have per day). After crunching the numbers, the seaside city of Warrnambool on Victoria’s rugged southwestern coast came out on top as Australia’s hardest-working city – with almost ten per cent of residents juggling multiple jobs, and 64 per cent leaving their annual leave untouched. But though it was a Victorian town that took the top spot, overall, NSW ranked as the country’s hardest-working state, with NSW cities dominating the top ten with five entries. Topping the list of hard-grafting NSW locales is the charming Southern Highlands town of Bowral, with a total score of 76.61, ranking it as the fifth hardest-working city in the country. Next up, Bathurst came in at

Australia’s 10 hardest-working cities have been revealed, and not a single capital city made the cut

Australia’s 10 hardest-working cities have been revealed, and not a single capital city made the cut

Australia’s got a reputation for having some of the hardest workers on the planet. We put in the hours and reap the rewards, with our robust economy and apparently high living standards contributing to us consistently ranking as one of the best countries on Earth. But where exactly will you find the biggest hustlers in Australia? Researchers from global seasonal job platform, Snow Season Central, have ranked Australia’s 50 most populated cities from hardest-working to least. They scored all cities on a 100-point scale, where 80 points were dedicated to direct work factors (like average workweek hours, employment rate, and unused vacation time) and the remaining 20 points were dedicated to indirect work factors (like commute time, jobs availability, and amount of free time folks have per day). After crunching the numbers, the seaside city of Warrnambool on Victoria’s rugged southwestern coast came out on top as Australia’s hardest-working city. With just 3 per cent of households having no working adults, it boasts the lowest unemployment rate out of any city in the country. On top of this, almost 10 per cent of Warrnambool’s residents juggle multiple jobs, and 64 per cent leave their vacation time untouched. This checks out, given it's the largest town along the Great Ocean Road, where locals often have to work during peak seasons while the rest of the country is in holiday mode. Photograph: Visit Victoria | Warrnambool The title of Australia’s second hardest-working city we

Drop everything! You can snag a flight for as little as $26 in this Jetstar flash sale with wildly low prices

Drop everything! You can snag a flight for as little as $26 in this Jetstar flash sale with wildly low prices

Whether we're ready or not, 2025 is just around the corner. And if you're anything like us, you love having a holiday booked in to look forward to. But if you're yet to sort out a getaway for next year, then you're in luck. Jetstar has just dropped a massive domestic sale with 26,000 discounted flights around the country starting from $26. Yep, for about the same price as a parma from the pub, you can jet off on your next holiday.  Those keen to trade that parma for a boarding pass will need to act fast. Jetstar's latest flight sale launched at 9am today (October 21) and only runs for 39 hours, finishing at 11.59pm on Tuesday, October 22. The discounted fares are for travel between late July and early September 2025, giving you the perfect excuse to plan a winter getaway. You’ll also need to be a Club Jetstar member to score these bargain flights, but if you’re a frequent flyer, the perks will pay off big time.  Photograph: Reuben Nutt/Tourism and Events Queensland So, where could your next adventure take you? You can snap up super cheap one-way flights from Melbourne to sun-soaked destinations like the Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay and the Gold Coast, with flights to the Gold Coast starting at $26. Prefer to be in the hustle and bustle? Jetstar is also slinging $26 fares to Brisbane and Sydney, and super reduced flights to other Aussie cities (with flights across the country to Darwin starting at $139). Photograph: Tourism and Events Queensland | 75 Mile Beach Other temptin

JUST IN: Jetstar’s epic two-day sale lets you score flights from Sydney across Australia for less dough than a pizza

JUST IN: Jetstar’s epic two-day sale lets you score flights from Sydney across Australia for less dough than a pizza

Keen to get out of the city? This might be the news you’ve been waiting for. Jetstar has just dropped a massive domestic sale with 26,000 discounted flights around the country starting from $26. Yep, that’s cheaper than a pepperoni pizza or a bowl of vodka pasta these days. Those keen to trade that pizza for a boarding pass will need to act fast. Jetstar's latest flight sale launched at 9am today (October 21) and only runs for 39 hours, finishing at 11.59pm on Tuesday, October 22. The discounted fares are for travel between late July and early September 2025, giving you the perfect excuse to plan a winter getaway. You’ll also need to be a Club Jetstar member to score these bargain flights, but if you’re a frequent flyer, the perks will pay off big time.  Photograph: Supplied | Destination NSWCape Byron Lighthouse So, where could your next adventure take you? You can snap up super cheap one-way flights from Sydney to sun-soaked destinations like the Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay and the Gold Coast, with flights to the Sunny Coast starting at $26. Prefer to be in the hustle and bustle? Jetstar is also slinging $26 fares to Brisbane, and super reduced flights to other Aussie cities (with flights across the country to Darwin starting at $149). Photograph: Tourism and Events Queensland | 75 Mile Beach Winter is the perfect time to escape Australia’s whale-watching capital, with $39 one-way flights from Sydney to Hervey Bay. Other tempting discounted destinations on sale include U

Jetstar’s epic two-day sale lets you fly across Australia for less dough than a pizza

Jetstar’s epic two-day sale lets you fly across Australia for less dough than a pizza

Why settle for a pizza tonight when you could be soaring over Australia for less than 30 bucks? Jetstar has just dropped a massive domestic sale with 26,000 discounted flights around the country starting from $26. Yep, that’s cheaper than a pepperoni pizza or a bowl of vodka pasta these days. Those keen to trade that pizza for a boarding pass will need to act fast. Jetstar's latest flight sale launched at 9am today (October 21) and only runs for 39 hours, finishing at 11.59pm on Tuesday, October 22. The discounted fares are for travel between late July and early September 2025, giving you the perfect excuse to plan a winter getaway. You’ll also need to be a Club Jetstar member to score these bargain flights, but if you’re a frequent flyer, the perks will pay off big time.  Photograph: Tourism and Events Queensland So, where could your next adventure take you? You can snap up super cheap one-way flights for just $26 to sun-soaked destinations like the Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay, Newcastle and the Gold Coast. Prefer to be in the hustle and bustle? Jetstar is also slinging $26 fares to Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Hobart and Launceston. Photograph: Tourism and Events Queensland | Jewels Lynch | Hervey Bay Winter is the perfect time to escape Australia’s whale-watching capital, with $39 one-way flights from Sydney to Hervey Bay, or to fly over the world-famous Heart Reef, with $49 flights from Brisbane to the Whitsunday Coast. Other tempting discounted destinations on sale inc

Australia could witness the return of one of its most iconic species in largest bid to bring an extinct animal back to life

Australia could witness the return of one of its most iconic species in largest bid to bring an extinct animal back to life

Almost 100 years have passed since the thylacine, commonly known as the Tasmanian tiger, was declared extinct. If you do the maths, it means that only a tiny fraction of Australia’s population has ever existed at the same time as the thylacine, the largest marsupial carnivore on Earth. But maybe not for long… The Tasmanian tiger could make a comeback within the next decade, thanks to groundbreaking advancements in what promises to be the largest and most ambitious de-extinction project to date.  In 2022, scientists from the species preservation company Colossal Biosciences launched a major initiative aimed at bringing the thylacine back from the dead. Backed by some of the world’s biggest celebrities like the Hemsworth brothers, Super Bowl champion Tom Brady and superstar Paris Hilton, this marks the first time a project of this scale has ever been undertaken – with the end goal of reintroducing the thylacine back into Tasmania to protect the local ecosystem. Photograph: Supplied | Benn Lamm and Andrew Pask Given their relatively recent extinction, many thylacine specimens are exceptionally well preserved, allowing Colossal and its team of scientists across 17 global labs to develop precise genomic blueprints for the thylacine’s return. Co-founder and CEO of Colossal Ben Lamm estimates their DNA sequence for the thylacine is 99.9 per cent accurate, with much of this groundbreaking research taking place right here in Australia, in partnership with the University of Melbourne

Check out these incredible photos of the year's brightest supermoon taken in Sydney

Check out these incredible photos of the year's brightest supermoon taken in Sydney

Sydney stargazers were in for a real treat last night, as our sky lit up with the brightest supermoon of the whole year. Peaking on the night of Thursday, October 17, the Hunter’s Moon was the third of four supermoons in 2024 – and it sure did put on a show for Sydney after a nice clear day.  If you missed out on seeing the celestial spectacle, you’re in luck. The moon will appear to look full again tonight, on Friday, October 18. (It's not a school night, so you've got no excuse for missing it tonight.) You might also want to mark your calendar for the final supermoon of the year, the Beaver Moon, which will light up Sydney's skies on Friday, November 15.  In the meantime, check out these stunning shots of the Hunter’s Supermoon by Sydney-based Canon photographer, Satoko Clarke – pictures containing two of our favourite sights, the Sydney Opera House and the moon. Photograph: Canon photographer, Satoko Clarke | Shot on Canon EOS 90D Photograph: Canon photographer, Satoko Clarke | Shot on Canon EOS 90D Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, things to do in Sydney, travel inspo, food and more, straight to your inbox.  Speaking of the Opera House – did you know King Charles is making a public appearance there on the forecourt next week? For those who don't care about the Royals (many of us) and would prefer star-gazing at the sky, here's our guide to the best spots for stargazing in and near Sydney.