Australia
Important COVID-19 travel guidance
From 5 November to 2 December 2020, travelling away from home, including internationally, is restricted from England except in limited circumstances such as for work or for education. Different rules apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. You must follow all the rules that apply to you.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides guidance on COVID and non-COVID risks overseas. The FCDO currently advises against all but essential travel to many countries and territories on the basis of COVID risks. You should check the travel advice for your destination.
Travel disruption is possible worldwide. Other countries may bring in new measures with little notice such as border closures, movement restrictions or quarantine rules. Travellers should be prepared to stay overseas longer than planned.
Natural disasters
Bushfires
Be aware of the risk of bushfires, especially at the height of the Australian summer (November to February). Bushfires can start and change direction with little or no notice. If you’re travelling in a high risk bushfire area, follow local authorities’ advice.
Australia has already battled several devastating bushfires across a number of regions during the current summer season. These fires have resulted in the loss of lives and property with many residents advised to evacuate their homes until it is safe to return.
If you’re in or near an affected area, stay safe and follow the advice of local authorities:
- Australian Capital Territory Fire and Rescue
- New South Wales Rural Fire Service and ‘Fires Near Me’ app
- Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service
- Queensland Fire & Emergency Services
- South Australian Country Fire Service
- Tasmania Fire Service
- Victorian Country Fire Authority
- Western Australia Department of Fire and Emergency Services.
In the event of emergency, always dial Triple Zero (000).
A Fire Danger Rating system operates across Australia indicating the possible consequences of a fire, if one were to start. The highest rating of ‘Catastrophic’ has been issued in several locations.
Smoke generated by bush fires can result in poor air quality, which could provoke respiratory conditions. Smoke can often accumulate many kilometres from the fire, including in urban areas and major cities. Most State and Territory governments provide detailed information on the monitoring of air quality and useful advice if you’re unable to avoid being in a smoke affected area:
- Australian Capital Territory
- New South Wales
- Northern Territory
- Queensland
- South Australia
- Tasmania
- Victoria
- Western Australia
Flooding
Heavy rain and tropical cyclones can cause flooding in some areas. Follow local media and check with local State authorities for the latest flooding information: Queensland and New South Wales.
Tropical cyclones
Tropical cyclones occur in 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 Organisation (WMO) and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology website for updates. See our Tropical cyclones page for advice about what to do if you’re caught up in a storm.
Dust storms
Dust storms occur regularly in Australia, usually only in outback areas.