SYDNEY: Australia has broadened its global travel advisory, adding several popular destinations, including the United States, Vietnam, Italy, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Austria, Greece, and Poland to its caution list amid mounting security threats, political unrest, and travel disruptions.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) issued the latest update on Tuesday, warning Australian travelers to exercise a high degree of caution” as global instability intensifies.
The advisory cites terrorism, civil unrest, cyberattacks, severe weather, and airport delays as growing challenges that could significantly affect travel plans.
According to DFAT, the revised advisory follows a surge in regional and global risks” and reflects the government’s commitment to keeping citizens informed as global conditions evolve.
The inclusion of the United States one of Australia’s most visited destinations, highlights the breadth of current travel concerns.
Following the October 1, 2025, US government shutdown, travelers have reported long queues at airports and flight delays caused by reduced staffing at federal agencies.
Beyond logistical challenges, DFAT warns of heightened threats of terrorism and gun violence. The advisory notes that mass-casualty incidents and protests can occur without warning, particularly in major cities.
Australian visitors are urged to avoid demonstrations, monitor local news, and comply with security instructions from authorities.
The US is also battling severe weather hazards, including hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and earthquakes, all of which have the potential to disrupt travel. DFAT advises checking weather alerts and emergency evacuation plans before and during trips.
In Vietnam, torrential rains and flooding continue to wreak havoc across major cities and rural areas. The country’s storm season, expected to last through November, has led to power outages, road closures, and significant infrastructure damage.
The advisory also warns of petty theft and road accidents, particularly in crowded tourist hubs like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Travelers are encouraged to secure their valuables, avoid carrying large sums of money, and exercise caution on motorbikes.
DFAT reminds travelers to obtain the correct visa or eVisa before departure and to ensure passport details match their travel documentation to prevent complications at entry points.
Italy, another favorite among Australian tourists, faces rising safety and logistical challenges ahead of the introduction of the European Entry/Exit System (EES) on October 12, 2025.
Under the new system, all non-EU travelers must register their biometric data at entry points amove expected to cause longer queues at airports and land borders.
The advisory also highlights an uptick in vehicle break-ins, pickpocketing, and ATM fraud, particularly in major cities such as Rome, Milan, and Florence. Travelers are advised to avoid leaving valuables in cars or tour buses and to remain alert in crowded public areas.
There are also growing concerns about sporadic demonstrations and bomb threats targeting political gatherings. Australians are urged to steer clear of protests and to monitor developments closely.
The Netherlands remains on high alert, with the national threat level maintained at substantial. DFAT warns that terrorist attacks could occur at any time, particularly in crowded places such as train stations, airports, and tourist areas.
Like Italy, the Netherlands will implement the EES system this month, which may lead to delays at border control for non-EU nationals.
Travelers are urged to allow extra time for processing and to stay informed about any changes in entry regulations.
Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are also common in Amsterdam’s tourist zones and public transport systems.
Both Austria and Bulgaria are grappling with dual challenges security risks and extreme weather conditions. Austrian authorities recently disrupted several terror plots in Vienna, prompting an elevated security alert.
DFAT advises Australians to be vigilant at public events, markets, and transport hubs.
In Bulgaria, wildfires, heatwaves, and heavy snowfalls have disrupted travel and infrastructure.
The country also experiences periodic street protests that can quickly turn violent. Travelers are urged to avoid large gatherings and check local advisories for road or airport closures.
Greece has endured a summer of record heatwaves and wildfires, forcing evacuations in parts of Athens, Crete, and the islands. The advisory warns that such natural hazards could continue to affect tourist mobility and air quality.
Australians are also cautioned about the growing number of accidents involving quad bikes and motorbikes, which remain popular among visitors but are a frequent source of injuries. DFAT urges travelers to confirm that their insurance policies cover these activities before renting such vehicles.
Like other Schengen nations, Greece will roll out the EES biometric entry system on October 12, which may cause delays at ports and airports during the initial phase.
In Poland, DFAT notes the ongoing conflict in neighboring Ukraine as a cause for concern. Travelers are advised not to cross the border into Ukraine, and to remain alert for military or drone activity that has occasionally disrupted Polish airspace.
Temporary flight delays and airspace closures have already been reported in several regions.
The new EES border protocol is also expected to extend processing times for international arrivals.
Australia’s latest advisory underscores the growing complexity of international travel, even to traditionally safe destinations. DFAT encourages travelers to:
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Register their trips on Smartraveller.gov.au for real-time updates.
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Check flight and visa requirements regularly.
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Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, natural disasters, and civil unrest.
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With rising global instability and new travel systems being introduced, Australians must remain informed, cautious, and flexible,” the advisory emphasizes.
The expanded caution list reflects the changing global travel landscape in 2025 — one marked by overlapping crises, from political unrest to extreme weather — demanding that travelers stay alert and prepared wherever they go.