The Australian Government has issued a travel advisory for its citizens holidaying in Indonesia, particularly Bali, citing several safety concerns.
The advisory, published on the official Smartraveller website managed by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, urges Australians to remain cautious during their visit.
“Australians have drowned in coastal areas, due to rough seas and strong backwaters on popular tourist beaches including in Bali. Many beaches are unguarded,” the statement reads, as reported by news.com.au.
The advisory particularly highlights risks associated with swimming in unpatrolled coastal areas, visa conditions, and behaviour expectations while in Indonesia.
@9news It’s one of Australia’s favourite holiday hotspots, but travellers to Indonesia have been issued a recent warning by the federal government. #9News ♬ original sound – 9News Australia
Travellers are urged to familiarise themselves with entry and exit requirements, as even minor passport damage, such as water exposure or small tears, can result in denied entry.
Furthermore, tourists are reminded to respect local customs and laws. “Offensive behaviour that disrespects local culture, religion, places of worship, and traditional ceremonies can result in criminal penalties and even deportation,” the advisory warns.
Australians are also cautioned about the risk of methanol poisoning from adulterated alcoholic beverages. “Do not leave food or drinks unattended,” the advisory adds, noting that such cases have previously been reported in Bali and Lombok.
Bali Tourism Authorities Respond: Tourists Are Safe if Rules Are Followed
In response to the advisory, the Bali Provincial Tourism Office has issued a statement reassuring tourists of their safety, provided they follow local rules and regulations.
“If all tourists obey the rules, I am sure they will be safe in Bali,” said Bali Tourism Head I Wayan Sumarajaya, as quoted by Antara.
Sumarajaya acknowledged that Bali, as an international tourist destination, naturally carries risks, especially since it depends heavily on nature-based attractions such as beaches, in addition to cultural tourism. “If something happens to tourists while on holiday in Bali, it will have a very bad impact on the image of Bali tourism,” he added.
To ensure visitor safety, the Bali Provincial Government has implemented industry standards covering both tourism and disaster safety measures.
“The Bali Provincial Government has implemented standardisation of the tourism industry, both in terms of tourism safety standards and disaster safety standards,” said Sumarajaya.
Authorities have also introduced Circular Letter Number 7 of 2025 concerning New Rules of Conduct for Foreign Tourists in Bali.
This regulation has been summarised in a “Do’s and Don’ts” list that outlines permitted and prohibited behaviours.
Despite the advisory, officials reported no significant impact on tourist arrivals, particularly from Australia.
Data shows a continued increase in visits: 1,876,975 tourists from January to May 2023, rising to 2,391,860 in the same period in 2024, and reaching 2,663,734 visits in 2025, with Australian tourists still dominating the figures.
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