Hello! It's wonderful to hear that you're planning to visit Melbourne, Bendigo, and Ballarat. Australia is an amazing country with much to offer. Here are some travel tips:

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Melbourne, Bendigo, and Ballarat is during the autumn months (March to May) when temperatures are pleasant and the foliage around the cities becomes a beautiful mix of reds and oranges. Summer, between December and February, is also a good time if you don't mind hot weather.

Route and Accessibility:
Melbourne has an international airport, so it should be easily accessible via flight from most major cities around the world. From Melbourne, Bendigo and Ballarat can be reached through direct railway lines, with just around 2 hours of travel time.

Accommodation and Booking:
A wide range of accommodations are available in these cities, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. It is recommended to book your accommodation well in advance especially if you're travelling during peak season. Websites like Booking.com, Airbnb, and Expedia can be useful for comparing prices and booking.

Clothing and Essentials:
These cities experience warm summers and mild winters. If traveling in summer, pack light clothing, sunblock, a hat and sunglasses. In winter, pack warm clothing including a medium-weight jacket. Don't forget comfortable shoes for sightseeing.

Health and Safety:
Australia is generally safe, but health insurance is advised due to high cost of medical treatment. Standard vaccinations are recommended. Swim only at lifesaver patrolled beaches, follow their advice and be cautious about local wildlife.

Local Etiquette and Respect:
Australians are typically laid back, but they appreciate respect for their local customs. It's common to greet with 'G'day' or 'How're you going?'. Australians also appreciate small talk about sports. Tipping is not a custom in Australia, but it's appreciated for exceptional service.