Can you use US appliances and power strips in Australia?

Yes, many US devices work in Australia with just a plug adapter, since a North American plug won't fit an Australian outlet on its own. Australia uses 230 volts at 50 Hz and Type I outlets with angled flat pins, while the US uses 120 V at 60 Hz. Phone, laptop and camera chargers are usually rated "100-240V", so they only need an adapter. Appliances rated for 120 V only, such as many hair dryers and curling irons, need a step-down voltage converter or should stay at home.

Check your device first

Look at the label on the device or its power brick:

• "Input: 100-240V, 50/60Hz" – dual voltage. Use a Type I plug adapter only.
• "Input: 120V" or "110-125V" – single voltage. Plugging it straight into 230 V can overheat or destroy it. Use a step-down converter rated above the appliance's wattage, or buy a local version.

Adapter vs. converter

• Plug adapter: changes the plug shape. Cheap and small. Does not change voltage.
• Voltage converter or transformer: changes 230 V to 120 V. Heavier and limited in wattage; high-power heating appliances need large converters.
• Frequency: Australia's 50 Hz (vs. 60 Hz in the US) does not matter for chargers, but some motorized devices and clocks may run slightly differently.

What usually works and what does not

• Works with an adapter: iPhone and Android chargers, laptops, tablets, cameras, most electric toothbrush and shaver chargers.
• Needs a converter or a replacement: older or cheap hair dryers, straighteners, kettles and other heating appliances. Many travelers buy a cheap local hair dryer instead.

FAQ

Do the US and Australia use the same plugs?

No. Australia uses Type I plugs with two angled flat pins and often a ground pin; US plugs are Type A and B.

Will my iPhone charger work in Australia?

Yes. Apple chargers are dual voltage, so you only need a Type I adapter.

What happens if I plug a 120V appliance into 230V?

It can overheat, trip a fuse or burn out within seconds, and it can be a fire risk.

Can I use a North American power strip in Australia?

Only if its label says 100-240V. Many US power strips and surge protectors are rated only for 125 V, so plugging one into a 230 V outlet through an adapter can overheat it, even if the devices on it are dual voltage.

Can you change a US appliance to work on 230 V?

Only if it has a built-in voltage switch, usually marked 120/240 or 110/220. Otherwise, use a step-down converter rated above the appliance's wattage, or buy an Australian version.

Do Australian outlets have switches?

Yes, most wall sockets have a switch. Make sure it is turned on, or your device will not charge.