Log in

About Adelaide

 

About Adelaide


Welcome to Adelaide, the capital of South Australia. Adelaide is a highly walkable city known for its festivals, food culture, coastline, and parklands. Set between rolling hills and the sea, it combines cultural vibrancy with a relaxed pace, making it an ideal setting for SMAANZ 2026. Whether you are interested in sport, wine, nature, or the arts, the city offers a distinctive blend of accessibility and character.
The academic program will take place at Flinders University City Campus, located in Festival Plaza in the heart of the Adelaide CBD. Social events and recommended accommodation will be within walking distance of the venue, with convenient access to public transport, including the city tram network, allowing delegates to move easily between conference sessions, dining, and networking opportunities.
For more about Adelaide, visit: www.southaustralia.com 

Adelaide Transport


Adelaide Airport (ADL) is located approximately 7 km west of the city centre.

From Adelaide Airport to the CBD:

  • Taxi or rideshare: The journey takes around 15–20 minutes depending on traffic.
  • Public bus: Adelaide Metro services connect the airport to the city centre in approximately 25–30 minutes.
  • The Flinders City Campus is directly opposite to the Adelaide Railway Station (Central Station).
  • Adelaide’s CBD is compact and walkable. Most hotels, restaurants, and social venues are within a 5–30 minute walk of Flinders City Campus.
  • Trams within the CBD are free; however, if you are travelling to or from Glenelg Beach, remember to tap your card when boarding the tram or bus. You can use a Visa or Mastercard credit card directly on the validator when boarding Adelaide Metro buses and trams (fares are the same as regular MetroCARD fares).

For public transport information: www.adelaidemetro.com.au

Accommodation Options


A range of accommodation options are available within walking distance of Flinders University City Campus (Festival Plaza).


City (CBD) – Walking Distance to Conference Venue

InterContinental Adelaide by IHG – 3–5 minute walk – approx. $380 per night

EOS by SkyCity – 1–2 minute walk – approx. $450 per night

Oval Hotel – 7–10 minute walk – approx. $350 per night

Holiday Inn Express Adelaide City by IHG – 6–8 minute walk – approx. $190 per night

Oaks Adelaide Horizons Suites – 6–8 minute walk – approx. $190 per night

Glenelg Beach – Coastal Stay (25 minutes by tram to CBD)

Stamford Grand Adelaide – approx. $420 per night

Oaks Glenelg Plaza Pier Suites – approx. $400 per night


*Staying in the CBD is recommended for ease of access to conference sessions and evening events. Glenelg offers a relaxed beachside option for delegates extending their stay or seeking coastal accommodation with easy access to the City and Flinders City Campus on tram.

Exploring Adelaide


December marks the beginning of summer in Adelaide, with long daylight hours and warm to hot temperatures. We recommend light clothing, sun protection, and staying hydrated while exploring the city.

Adelaide Oval – A short walk from Festival Plaza. Stadium tours provide insight into one of Australia’s most iconic sporting venues.
River Torrens / Karrawirra Parri – Walking and cycling paths along the river are ideal for a morning stroll or run or a relaxed walk between conference sessions.

Adelaide Botanic Gardens – Located on North Terrace, perfect for a relaxed walk.Glenelg Beach – Accessible via tram from the CBD (approximately 25 minutes). Ideal for an evening swimming (sunset is after 8pm).

North Terrace Cultural Precinct – Includes the Art Gallery of South Australia, South Australian Museum, and State Library, all within walking distance of the conference venue.

Rundle Mall – Adelaide’s central shopping precinct, connecting visitors to retail stores, arcades, cafés, and nearby dining laneways such as Leigh Street and Peel Street.

Adelaide Central Market (Gouger Street) – A vibrant food hub offering multicultural cuisine and fresh local produce.

Adelaide Festival Centre (adjacent to Festival Plaza) - hosts theatre, music, and cultural performances.

Exploring Beyond Adelaide

If you are extending your stay, South Australia offers exceptional regional experiences. You can hire a car or join a guided tour (for example, via Adelaide-based tour operators or platforms such as Get Your Guide):

  • Barossa Valley (1 hour): Internationally renowned wine region.
  • McLaren Vale (45 minutes): Coastal wine region with cellar doors and restaurants.
  • Adelaide Hills (30 minutes): Cool-climate wineries, walking trails, and Mount Lofty Summit views.
  • Kangaroo Island (2.5–3 hours including ferry): Wildlife, dramatic coastlines, and pristine landscapes (accessible by ferry or flight).
  • Flinders Ranges (5–6 hours north) – A dramatic outback landscape of ancient ranges, gorges, and red earth. Ideal for hiking, wildlife experiences, and exploring South Australia’s geological history.

For more information exploring Adelaide and South Australia, visit: www.southaustralia.com 

We look forward to welcoming you to SMAANZ 2026.

Dr Rubi Cury