Holidaying in the U.S.?

I've never travelled anywhere before so I really have no idea how to do any of this and I can't find anything that answers my questions in Layman terms, so I thought I'd ask here.

To get a US Passport, do I get that from the Post Office, or do I have to go to the American Consulate?
How much do they cost?
Do they have to be renewed often?
Do I need an Australian passport to get back into Australia?
Is a temporary visa necessary for a holiday, or is that only for people who want prolonged time over there?

Thanks for any help :-)

In order for you to visit the U.S. you must obtain a passport. You can get a passport from post offices in Australia. Check with your local post office for details. The fees for a passport vary depending on the type you need. From what you have mentioned above, I believe you will need only a standard passport which runs around A$193. I do not know how often yours would have to be renewed, but my passport is good for 10 years.

You will use the same passport to enter the U.S. and Australia. Only one passport is required.

Citizens of Australia are able to visit the U.S. without a visa for a stay up to 90 days. Of course you have the option of obtaining a visa before you leave for your trip. Contact your local consulate and they will be able to help you.

I hope some of this helps! Good luck.

I've added a few websites below to help you along the way.

If you are coming from Australia you get a passport in Australia, or wherever your starting destination (home) might be. You use that passport to get into and out of the states. A temporary visa is not necessary depending on the length of your stay.

U should go to the American embassy at first . May be it costs A lot. No, u don't have to renew it. I don't know the others........

SORRY

If you are a US citizen living in the US you can get a passport by submitting an application through the post office in your city or to the passport center if there is one in your area. If you are a US citizen living in another country, the passsport can be obtained from the US Embassy or Consulate near you. The cost of the passport is $97 for a new passport, $67 for renewal.

If you are a citizen of another country and are travelling to the US, you must obtain a visa prior to travelling. You must also have a passport issued by your country and must be valid for at least 6 months upon arrival.