Australian Government Issues Travel Advisory for Bali Tourists

The Australian Government has recently taken precautionary measures by issuing a travel advisory for citizens planning to visit Indonesia, with a particular emphasis on Bali, a popular tourist destination for Australians. This advisory, available on the official Smartraveller website, outlines several safety concerns and highlights precautions that travelers should take while enjoying their stay.

Safety Concerns for Tourists

The advisory warns Australians of various risks, particularly the dangers associated with swimming in coastal areas. “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 cautions. This highlights the importance of being vigilant when swimming in unfamiliar locales, especially in areas lacking lifeguard supervision.

In addition to water safety, travelers are encouraged to be aware of visa conditions and cultural expectations. The advisory states that even minor damages to passports—such as water exposure or small tears—can lead to denial of entry into Indonesia. Tourists are also reminded to respect local customs and laws, stressing that inappropriate behavior, particularly actions that may offend local culture or religion, can have serious legal repercussions, including criminal penalties and deportation.

Another significant warning pertains to the risk of methanol poisoning from counterfeit alcoholic beverages. Tourists are strongly advised against leaving food or drinks unattended, as such incidents have been documented in both Bali and Lombok.

Reassurances from Bali Authorities

In response to the Australian Government’s advisory, officials from the Bali Provincial Tourism Office have sought to reassure visitors by emphasizing safety measures. Bali Tourism Head I Wayan Sumarajaya stated, “If all tourists obey the rules, I am sure they will be safe in Bali.” He acknowledged that, while Bali is a favored international tourist destination, it harbors risks inherent to its nature-based attractions, particularly its popular beaches.

To enhance tourist safety, the Bali Provincial Government has implemented new industry standards that encompass both tourism and disaster safety measures. They have introduced Circular Letter Number 7 of 2025, detailing New Rules of Conduct for foreign tourists in Bali, which is further elaborated in a “Do’s and Don’ts” guide outlining acceptable and prohibited behavior.

Despite the issued advisory, local officials report that there has been no significant decline in tourist arrivals, especially from Australia. Statistical data indicates a substantial increase in visitors, with 1,876,975 arrivals recorded from January to May in 2023, escalating to 2,663,734 in the same period of 2025. Australians continue to make up a large portion of Bali’s tourist demographic.

Conclusion

With these developments, it is imperative for travelers heading to Bali to stay informed and exercise caution during their visit. Understanding local customs, adhering to safety regulations, and recognizing potential risks can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in this increasingly popular Indonesian destination.

For further information, travelers are encouraged to consult the latest advisory updates from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.