The Australian government has issued an advisory urging its citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution” when traveling to Indonesia, highlighting potential security and safety concerns. This level two alert from Australia, which covers issues from damaged passports to behavior guidelines in Bali, reflects Australia’s official stance on the country’s potential risks for tourists.
The advisory, posted on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smart Traveller website on November 8, 2024, warns Australian travelers about Indonesia’s strict entry requirements and the need to fully understand visa and exit protocols before departure.
“We have reviewed our advice for Indonesia and continue to advise caution. Higher levels apply in some regions. Ensure you understand visa conditions and entry and exit requirements before entering Indonesia,” the statement reads.
Among the factors influencing the advisory are Indonesia’s stringent rules on damaged passports, which have led to travelers being refused entry. Additionally, the advisory points out security threats posed by terrorism, protests, demonstrations, ongoing violence in Papua, sudden volcanic eruptions, legal disputes over real estate, and other natural disasters.
Australian tourists heading to Bali are also advised to familiarize themselves with the region’s codes of conduct. Australian authorities note that violating Bali’s cultural norms could lead to legal consequences.
“Offensive behavior that disrespects local culture, religion, places of worship, and traditional ceremonies can lead to criminal charges and/or deportation,” the advisory states.
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The Smart Traveller website has a standardized risk level system for international destinations, with each level indicating the general risk for Australian travelers. The levels are structured as follows:
- Level 1: Exercise normal safety precautions.
- Level 2: Exercise a high degree of caution.
- Level 3: Reconsider your need to travel.
- Level 4: Do not travel.
In Bali, recent statistics show a slight decrease in tourist arrivals, with 593,909 foreign visitors recorded in September 2024—a 3.69 percent drop from the 616,641 arrivals in August. Despite this dip, Australia remains Bali’s largest tourism market, representing 24.94 percent of all international arrivals.
This advisory serves as a reminder for Australian travelers to prepare well and stay vigilant when visiting Indonesia, particularly as stricter regulations and evolving regional concerns demand attention to safety and cultural sensitivity.
