Australia

• Reviewed: 12 September 2014, 18:20 NZST
• Still current at: 1 December 2015

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New Zealanders in Australia are advised to monitor the media for information about threats to safety and security and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.

There is a global risk of terrorism. New Zealanders travelling and living in Australia are advised to take account of the terror threat level assigned by the Australian authorities when making travel decisions.

On 12 September 2014, the threat level for Australia was raised from Medium to High (level three on a four level scale). This means security authorities regard a terrorist attack is likely. The advice is not based on knowledge of a specific attack plan but rather a body of evidence that points to the increased likelihood of a terrorist attack in Australia.

Australia remains a target for terrorist interest. Internationally trained terrorists and groups and domestic-based extremists are the predominant threat. Terrorist groups in Syria and Iraq continue to plan attacks against the West. Australia has identified concerns related to foreign fighters returning to Australia from conflicts in these countries.

General travel advice

New Zealanders making short term visits to Australia should ensure they take out a comprehensive travel insurance policy. While we have a reciprocal health care agreement with Australia which entitles New Zealand residents to emergency hospital treatment, the agreement does not cover out-of-hospital medical treatment including services like ambulance cover, medical evacuations

and elective treatment including doctors' visits.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Australia are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.