Bushfires
Australian authorities have advised that there is an increased risk of bushfires for large areas of the country from now and throughout summer 2024/2025 . Be aware of the risks and follow the advice of local states and territories on what you should do to prepare for and how to respond to any emergency.
See our advice on the Safety and security page.
Before you travel
No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
Travel insurance
If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
About FCDO travel advice
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
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This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Australia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Australian High Commission in the UK.
Passport validity requirements
To enter Australia, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.
If you’re travelling through or transiting another country on your way to or from Australia, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries require at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport, even if you’re just in transit and do not pass through immigration.
Dual nationals
If you’re a British-Australian dual national, you must leave and enter Australia on your Australian passport. You could face difficulties and delays if you do not. See Australian government advice for dual nationals.
Visa requirements
You must have a visa to visit Australia.
Applying for a visa
British citizens can usually get the following types of electronic visitor visa:
The Department of Home Affairs has information on all other types of visas.
Vaccine requirements
To enter Australia, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk. See the Australian Department of Health’s information on yellow fever for travellers.
For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Australia guide.
Customs requirements
There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Australia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
Quarantine rules
Australia has strict quarantine rules to keep out pests and diseases that could affect plant, animal or human health.
You must fill in an Incoming Passenger Card and either:
- declare goods considered to be a risk, such as food, animal products and plant material (including wooden articles)
- dispose of goods in bins at the airport or seaport
You must also declare if you have ‘been in contact with farms, farm animals, wilderness areas or freshwater streams/lakes etc in the past 30 days’.
The Australian authorities X-ray luggage. They inspect, treat and, if necessary, confiscate and destroy items of concern. You can get a heavy fine if you break quarantine.
The Department of Agriculture has more information on quarantine rules.
Terrorism
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorism in Australia
Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Australia.
Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. You should be vigilant, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
In April 2024, several people were injured in a terrorist incident at a church in Wakeley, Sydney.
See the Australian government’s national terrorism threat level.
Crime
Protecting your belongings
Take precautions to protect yourself from petty crime, including:
- not leaving your bag or luggage unattended
- keeping luggage out of sight in cars
- keeping valuables and passport in a hotel safe
- leaving copies of important documents with family and friends in the UK
- carrying a photocopy of your passport for ID
- being particularly careful at night in busy tourist areas
Scams
There are many different types of scams targeting people in or travelling to Australia, including dating and romance scams, websites offering fake services or building repair scams. You can check current scams or report your concerns about a scam on the government’s scamwatch website.
Laws and cultural differences
Personal ID
You can reduce the risk of losing your passport by carrying a proof of age card – this could be a driving licence or a student ID. This is accepted ID for many services like opening a bank account or entering licensed premises.
Smoking and e-cigarette laws
Laws on smoking and e-cigarettes (vapes) differ between states. The Australian government is reviewing laws, so the rules may change. You must have a prescription to buy e-cigarettes containing liquid nicotine. There are strict rules on importing vaping goods.
In all states it is illegal to smoke in enclosed public spaces. Get local advice on any restrictions, and see smoking and tobacco laws in Australia.
Alcohol
Some drinks served in bars in Australia can be stronger than those in the UK. Alcohol and drugs can lead to you being less alert, less in control and less aware of your environment.
Illegal drugs and prison sentences
The Australian authorities act against anyone who imports or traffics illegal drugs. Prosecution can lead to a lengthy prison sentence and deportation.
LGBT+ travellers
Same-sex marriages are legally recognised. Australia is generally open-minded about homosexuality, but there are isolated incidents of homophobic crime. Visit Gay Australia is a useful travel planning resource alongside LGBT+ information from the Australian Human Rights Commission.
Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
Mobile phones
The mobile phone network generally works well in cities and large towns, but coverage elsewhere can be very limited or non-existent. If you’re travelling to remote areas, check with your phone provider about coverage. You can use your UK mobile phone in Australia if global roaming has been activated, but making and receiving calls can be expensive. Many visitors prefer to buy an Australian SIM card on arrival.
You can use any Telstra public payphone to make free phone calls to Australian numbers. Free wifi is also available at some payphones around the country.
Working holidays
If you’re in Australia on a working holiday visa, the Fair Work Ombudsman website has information about:
- your rights as an employee in Australia
- how to report any concerns about unfair or unlawful treatment online – you can also call 131 394
Different tax rules and rates apply to residents and non-residents. Working holidaymakers are usually regarded as non-resident for tax purposes. This means they do not qualify for any tax-free personal allowance on earnings. Get guidance from the Australian Taxation Office.
See information for people working in Australia.
Outdoor activities and adventure tourism
Swimming safety
Rip currents are the main hazard for all swimmers and surfers. They can happen at any beach and can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea.
Follow guidance on beach safety in Australia and tips from Surf Life Saving Australia.
British nationals have been injured diving into water that was too shallow. Make sure there is sufficient depth of water before diving, and always follow warning signs.
Diving and snorkelling safety
Snorkelling accidents can happen and have sometimes been fatal.
You are required by law to complete a medical declaration for diving or snorkelling at a resort. For your own health and safety, you must be truthful about any medical conditions you have.
Dangerous wildlife
Australia has many dangerous animal species. There are crocodiles, jellyfish, sharks, venomous insects, spiders and snakes in many parts of the country.
See Beachsafe’s information on dangerous marine creatures.
Walking and hiking
If you’re planning to walk or hike, research the area you’re visiting and prepare for the terrain and weather, including intense heat. It can take hours to get help in an emergency in the bush or national parks. There is advice on bush safety on each state or territory’s government website. See:
Transport risks
Road travel
If you are planning to drive in Australia, see information on driving abroad.
You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Australia if you remain a temporary overseas visitor. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the 1949 version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.
If you plan to stay in Australia and have a permanent visa, you can drive using your UK licence for up to 3 months. To continue driving, you must get an Australian licence within this 3-month period.
Driving laws and regulations differ in each state and territory. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal. The penalties can be severe. You must always wear a seat belt. See the Australian Road Rules.
You must carry your driving licence and passport when driving. Make sure you have sufficient insurance, including if you borrow a car from a friend or relative.
Hire cars
Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP.
If you’re hiring a car immediately on arrival, be cautious about driving. You might be jetlagged and tired from your flight. Take regular rest breaks at the many rest stops on the roads.
Hire car insurance often does not cover driving on unsurfaced roads. Check your policy before you set off.
Road conditions
Australia is known for having large distances between towns and amenities.
To reduce your risk:
- make sure you have enough water before travelling
- tell someone about your plans
- check road conditions before starting
- stay with your vehicle if it breaks down
- check the weather forecast – avoid travelling in extreme heat or severe weather
Sudden storms and strong winds can make driving difficult.
Take particular care when driving on unsurfaced roads, 4-wheel-drive tracks and desert or beach roads. Northern Territory Police have warned tourists to stay off unsurfaced tracks in remote areas of Central Australia, following reports of stranded motorists.
Driving in the outback
Prepare thoroughly if driving in remote outback areas, which can present unexpected hazards. To reduce your risk:
- take a roadworthy vehicle fitted with GPS and 2 spare tyres
- take good maps and extra food, water and fuel
- plan your route carefully and get local advice before you set out
- leave your route details and expected time of return with the local tourist authorities, police, your hotel or hostel, or friends and relatives, and let them know when you’ve arrived safely
Driving on K’gari (Fraser Island)
Following a number of serious accidents, all vehicles on K’gari (Fraser Island) must not drive faster than 80km/h on beaches and 30km/h in towns. Four-wheel-drive vehicles must have no more than 8 occupants, including the driver. You must store all luggage inside the vehicle.
Avoid driving at night and be aware of beach hazards like ditches created by the surf. K’gari is remote and emergency services can take many hours to reach an accident. Carry a well-stocked first-aid kit and personal medication as there is no pharmacy on the island. The Queensland government has more information on keeping safe in K’gari.
Extreme weather and natural disasters
Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
Bushfires
Bushfires can occur in any part of Australia, including areas close to towns and cities.
Be aware of the risk of bushfires, especially at the height of the Australian summer from November to February. Bushfires can start and change direction and become a risk to life very suddenly.
Australia regularly battles devastating bushfires. Previous fires resulted in the loss of lives and property with many residents and visitors advised to evacuate.
Australian authorities have a range of online information and apps to help citizens and visitors keep track of weather and bushfire warnings. You should consider downloading weather and emergency information apps from the Australian or State governments:
If you’re in or near an affected area, follow the advice of local authorities:
Bushfires can cause poor air quality and aggravate respiratory conditions. Smoke can accumulate far from a fire, including in urban areas and major cities. If you’re unable to avoid smoke affected areas, state and territory governments monitor air quality and give advice:
Heatwaves
Extreme heat is a serious risk in Australia. See the Australian Red Cross’s information on heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
Flooding
Heavy rain and tropical cyclones can cause flooding, including flash floods in some areas. You can get flood warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology. Check local media reports.
Significant weather events can happen suddenly. Spillways, flood plains and drains can quickly become submerged.
The local authorities may issue stay-at-home or leave-now orders. Always follow the advice of local authorities.
More information can be found on the relevant state and territory websites:
Earthquakes
While rare in Australia, earthquakes can happen. Follow the advice of the local authorities and emergency services in the event of a natural disaster.
Tropical cyclones
Tropical cyclones affect some parts of Australia, mainly Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australia. The cyclone season normally runs from November to April.
Monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organization and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.
Dust storms
Dust storms happen regularly in Australia, usually only in outback areas. Follow the advice of local authorities.
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Emergency medical number
Dial 000 and ask for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
See what health risks you’ll face in Australia.
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
Healthcare in Australia
While you are in Australia, you can access essential and urgent medical care through the UK-Australia Reciprocal Healthcare Agreement. Find out more about healthcare for UK citizens in Australia.
Essential and urgent hospital treatment is free. There is a charge to visit GPs and receive prescriptions. You can recover some costs through Medicare, Australia’s universal health insurance scheme. You can enrol with Medicare through Services Australia.
If you’re not covered by reciprocal healthcare arrangements between Australia and the UK, costs of treatment can be high.
The standard of healthcare in Australia is very good. UK residents are entitled to limited subsidised health services from Medicare for medically necessary treatment while visiting Australia. These provisions do not apply to non-visitors, for example those studying in Australia. Other exclusions under the reciprocal agreement include pharmaceuticals (unless you’re in hospital), use of ambulance services and medical evacuations, which are very expensive.
See more information on medical services in Australia.
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
Emergency services in Australia
Telephone: 000 (ambulance, fire, police)
Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
Refunds and changes to travel
For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
- where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
- how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim
Support from FCDO
FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
Help abroad
See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
Help in the UK
You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
Find out about call charges
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The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Australia on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
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