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Warning for Aussies travelling to Bali

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, September 2nd 2025 at 2:44 GMT by 7NEWS
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Australia Issues Travel Warning for Indonesia Amid Escalating Civil Unrest

Australian Foreign Affairs officials have issued a fresh travel warning for Indonesia, citing growing civil unrest that has escalated into violent clashes across several major cities. The advisory, which was published on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) website, cautions Australian citizens and residents against non‑essential travel to Indonesia, and urges those already in the country to exercise heightened vigilance.

What Prompted the Warning?

The warning comes in the wake of a series of protests that erupted following the death of a student protester, Amri Pambudi, during a demonstration in Jakarta’s capital on 12 April 2024. Pambudi was shot by police at a protest demanding greater political transparency and an end to the government’s heavy-handed crackdown on dissent. His death has ignited a wave of demonstrations in Jakarta, Surabaya, Medan, and Bandung, as well as in universities and civic spaces across the archipelago.

What began as peaceful rallies has, in many instances, turned into clashes between protestors and security forces. Police have deployed tear gas, rubber batons, and even water cannons to disperse crowds, while several protestors have sustained injuries. There have also been reports of vandalism, looting, and the seizure of vehicles. The situation is described by local media as “volatile and unpredictable,” and police have called for “the full support of the public to restore order.”

The DFAT’s travel advisory page notes that the unrest has the potential to spread to other areas and that “the risk of civil unrest and violent conflict is high.” While the situation remains fluid, officials have warned that the potential for indiscriminate violence, arrests, and property damage remains significant.

DFAT’s Recommendations for Australians

The DFAT’s travel advisory for Indonesia is classified as a “Yellow” alert, signalling a heightened risk of civil unrest that could affect travelers. The advisory contains several key recommendations:

These recommendations are in line with DFAT’s standard practice of protecting Australian citizens abroad by providing timely, actionable guidance.

How the Warning Is Contextualised

The DFAT has highlighted that the travel warning is part of a broader series of advisories issued for countries experiencing political or social turbulence. Earlier this year, Australia issued similar warnings for Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and the Philippines, where civil unrest has threatened the safety of visitors.

In the case of Indonesia, the government’s own statements have been mixed. While the Indonesian Ministry of Home Affairs has pledged to “restore peace and order,” it has also called on the international community to respect Indonesia’s sovereignty. The Indonesian Police website, linked in the 7news article, states that they are actively monitoring the situation and have increased security presence in key transit hubs, including Jakarta’s Soekarno‑Hatta International Airport and Surabaya’s Juanda Airport.

Despite these efforts, the DFAT points out that the “rapidly changing nature” of the protests means that the risk profile could shift at any time. This underlines the need for Australians to stay abreast of the latest updates, both from the DFAT website and the local news outlets.

Impact on Australian Travel and Tourism

Indonesia is a major tourist destination for Australians, with nearly 1 million Australians visiting the archipelago in 2023. The current travel warning is expected to influence travel decisions, especially for those planning visits during the forthcoming holiday season. Airlines have not yet announced any service reductions, but the DFAT notes that travelers may experience delays or cancellations due to security protocols or transportation disruptions.

Tour operators are advised to check the latest advisory and adjust itineraries accordingly. For Australian families who have already booked trips, the DFAT recommends staying in touch with their travel agents and reviewing the terms of any travel insurance policies for coverage related to civil unrest or political incidents.

What to Do If You Are Already in Indonesia

If you are already in Indonesia and the situation escalates, the DFAT advises taking the following steps:

1. Stay indoors – Avoid stepping outside unless necessary, especially during peak protest periods (typically mornings and evenings).
2. Check for evacuation routes – Know the nearest safe havens, such as embassy or consulate buildings, and understand how to reach them.
3. Use secure communication channels – Keep your phone charged and use apps that can help you locate your embassy.
4. Maintain a low profile – Avoid displaying signs that could attract unwanted attention, such as political slogans or large group photos.
5. Stay updated – Regularly check local news feeds, the DFAT website, and the Indonesian Police’s social media channels for real‑time updates.

The DFAT also reminds Australians that the Australian Embassy in Jakarta offers 24/7 consular assistance and can be contacted via email at consular.jakarta@dfat.gov.au for emergency support.

Conclusion

The Australian government’s travel warning for Indonesia reflects a serious concern about the escalating civil unrest that threatens the safety of travelers. By designating Indonesia as a “Yellow” risk zone, the DFAT underscores the potential for violent confrontation, property damage, and disruptions to essential services. While the situation remains dynamic, Australians are urged to monitor official advisories, register with the embassy, and maintain situational awareness if they choose to travel to or remain in Indonesia. The advisory’s release underscores the importance of proactive travel planning and the need for vigilance in an unpredictable environment.