Aussies face new travel warnings before trips abroad

Are you dreaming of a tropical escape somewhere? You’re not alone—over a million Aussies flock to Southeast Asia’s most famous island every year, drawn by its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unbeatable value for money.

But before you dust off your passport and start packing your swimmers, there are some important travel warnings and safety tips you need to know.


The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has recently updated its Smartraveller advice, urging Australians to ‘exercise a high degree of caution’ when travelling to Indonesia, especially Bali.

This isn’t just bureaucratic red tape—there have been a number of serious incidents involving Aussies in recent months, and the government wants us all to stay safe and informed.


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Australians urged to exercise caution in Bali and Indonesia after recent tourist incidents. Credit: Depositphotos


Bali’s beaches are legendary, but they can also be dangerous.

The Smartraveller update highlights that several Australians have drowned at unpatrolled beaches due to rough seas and strong rip currents.

In the past six months alone, three Australians have lost their lives in water-related incidents in Indonesia.


If you’re planning to swim, surf, or snorkel, stick to patrolled beaches where possible, always heed local warnings, and never underestimate the power of the ocean.

And remember, lifeguards aren’t as common in Bali as they are back home.

It’s not just the surf you need to watch out for. There’s been a worrying rise in drink spiking and methanol poisoning, particularly in Bali and nearby Lombok.

Methanol poisoning can occur when locally produced spirits are mixed into drinks—sometimes even in reputable-looking bars. The effects can be severe, even fatal.

To stay safe, watch your food and drinks, avoid taking drinks from strangers, choose sealed containers, and keep an eye on cocktail preparation.

While you might be on the lookout for monkeys at Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest, don’t forget that Indonesia is also home to saltwater crocodiles.


These can be found in rivers and lakes, so always check with locals before swimming in unfamiliar waters.

Bali is a welcoming place, but it’s important to remember you’re a guest in another country with its own customs and laws.

The Smartraveller site offers a handy list of dos and don’ts, such as dressing modestly at temples, avoiding public displays of affection, steering clear of drugs due to strict penalties, and being respectful during religious festivals.

It might sound obvious, but make sure your passport is in good condition—no tears, water damage, or missing pages.

There have been reports of travellers being denied entry for even minor damage. Double-check your visa requirements before you go, as rules can change.


Medical care in Bali can be expensive, and evacuation to Australia is even pricier.

Comprehensive travel insurance is a must—make sure it covers all your planned activities, including water sports and scooter riding (if you’re brave enough to tackle Bali’s traffic!).

Bali is a beautiful destination, but like anywhere, it pays to be prepared. Keep up to date with the latest travel advice on the Smartraveller website, register your travel plans, and let family or friends know your itinerary.


Credit: X

Key Takeaways

  • Australians are being urged to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Bali and Indonesia following recent incidents involving tourists.
  • The government warns of dangers such as rough seas, strong rip currents, and the risk of drowning at unpatrolled beaches, as well as increasing cases of drink spiking and methanol poisoning.
  • Travellers are reminded about the presence of saltwater crocodiles in Indonesian rivers and lakes and are advised to respect local customs and follow local advice.
  • Australians should ensure their passports and visas meet all entry requirements, as people have been denied entry due to passport damage, with over a million Australians visiting Bali each year.
Have you travelled to Bali recently? Do you have any tips or stories to share—good or bad? We’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below. Your advice could help a fellow member have a safer, happier holiday!
 

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I travel to Bali every year. When I was younger I stayed in Kuta, but as it's the party place, I don't recommend it for seniors.
If you're looking for a relaxing cheap holiday I would recommend a place called Bumi Ayu which is located in Sanur.
My friend and I will stay there in August
(a good time to go). The complex has a quieter crowd, many who like us have been going there for years. For $525 between us. for seven days, we have our own bungalow, with its own balcony, room service for meals if required. There is a nice pool and on site restaurant. The price also includes a full American breakfast Really good value for money.
 
Well this article certainly wouldn`t encourage anyone to holiday in Bali, probably scare the life out of anyone who was considering one there. I was lost at crocodiles.
But seriously, I have travelled to Bali, it was not realy my cup of tea, I don`t drink and did not get to go sight seeing. On the hand my children love Bali, they travel there quite a lot, one was going there every 6 months. My son who is due to have his second child in a few weeks is considering a trip with his family and feels safe to do so. He said that he feels safe there and it is a very cheap holiday. So I would say each to their own and also, follow all the rules and don`t go near the crocodiles
 
Well this article certainly wouldn`t encourage anyone to holiday in Bali, probably scare the life out of anyone who was considering one there. I was lost at crocodiles.
But seriously, I have travelled to Bali, it was not realy my cup of tea, I don`t drink and did not get to go sight seeing. On the hand my children love Bali, they travel there quite a lot, one was going there every 6 months. My son who is due to have his second child in a few weeks is considering a trip with his family and feels safe to do so. He said that he feels safe there and it is a very cheap holiday. So I would say each to their own and also, follow all the rules and don`t go near the crocodiles
I agree to "each to the own", but I'd never go to Bali as I've heard too many negative stories and I savour MY LIFE.
 
I agree to "each to the own", but I'd never go to Bali as I've heard too many negative stories and I savour MY LIFE.
That is so funny. Sorry. I've been going to Bali since my 30s. I'm 78 now. I've gone every year. Going again in August
I'm still here alive and kicking. The Balinese people are lovely.
There is nothing more to fear in Bali than there is anywhere else in the world and a lot, lot more to fear elsewhere.
Most of the people who have been injured in Bali have done so through their own stupidity swimming in dangerous places, riding motorcycles while inebriated,etc. You take the precautions you are advised to take and you won't be any worse off than if you holiday in Australia, except your back pocket will be a lot better off.
 
That is so funny. Sorry. I've been going to Bali since my 30s. I'm 78 now. I've gone every year. Going again in August
I'm still here alive and kicking. The Balinese people are lovely.
There is nothing more to fear in Bali than there is anywhere else in the world and a lot, lot more to fear elsewhere.
Most of the people who have been injured in Bali have done so through their own stupidity swimming in dangerous places, riding motorcycles while inebriated,etc. You take the precautions you are advised to take and you won't be any worse off than if you holiday in Australia, except your back pocket will be a lot better off.
I've nothing against the local people as I've also heard they're beautiful people, but one of my granddaughters went just last year who doesn't drink nor smoke, but was unprovoked and attacked and finished up in hospital. What hurt us the most was that if was another tourist, so just to be on the safe side I'll never visit there as I'm now 80 and have travelled extensively overseas. She is also a Police Officer and can hold her own, but the attack came out of the blue and like I've said I've heard of numerous other stories. So, I've only one life and I want to live a bit longer - each to their one . 👍 :giggle:
 
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I've nothing against the local people as I've also heard they're beautiful people, but one of my granddaughters went just last year who doesn't drink nor smoke, but was unprovoked and attacked and finished up in hospital. What hurt us the most was that if was another tourist, so just to be on the safe side I'll never visit there as I'm now 80 and have travelled extensively overseas. She is also a Police Officer and can hold her own, but the attack came out of the blue and like I've said I've heard of numerous other stories. So, I've only one life and I want to live a bit longer - each to their one . 👍 :giggle:
So sorry to hear about your granddaughter. Not surprised though that it was another tourist

Wouldn't be surprised either if it was an Aussie. Unfortunately many Aussies, female as well as male behave atrociously when in Bali. They are an embarrassment to our country and show a complete lack of respect to the Balinese people in whose country they are holidaying.
 
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