Australia

Holidays by Destination Australasia Australia Safety 

One of the reasons that Australia appeals is because its civilisation is perched on the edge of the real, wild world, not one made safe like most of Europe. For this reason if no other, Europeans need to be slightly more alert to possible dangers than usual.

Australian beaches can be fun but rips, currents and surf can make them infinitely more dangerous than Mediterranean options for example. Ask for local advice before venturing in. Every year even on busy Bondi up to 200 people are rescued because they can't get back to shore.

Popular beaches are patrolled by volunteer Surf Life Saving Association members, generally October to April, but you must swim between the flags. And if anyone wants to try surfing, do it with a school which can help make sure you do it safely.

In addition both fresh and salt water in northern Australia may not be safe because of variously/seasonally crocodiles, poisonous blue-ringed octopus, and jellyfish. Some lakes are safe, and some sea areas are netted, but children should not be allowed to swim unless expressly permitted by both the authorities and you.

It is also worth explaining to children that apparently innocuous wildlife can be dangerous. You are unlikely to meet one but dingos are not cute wild dogs when seen at close quarters: one killed a 9-year-old on Fraser Island in 2001. Similarly all spiders are best left alone, and once you are out in the bush you should warn children of the existence of tiger snakes, death adders, and bulldog ants. Similarly there are a number of sea creatures on the Barrier Reef which should be avoided.

Bush fires are an issue as well, and walkers should listen for warnings and avoid the bush entirely in hot and dry spells.

Tropical cyclones can occasionally touch land in the north during the wet season. If one is expected you should get plenty of warning, which should be heeded.

On a lesser note, in Queensland at least it is reported that robberies of safe deposit facilities at cheaper hotels are not uncommon, and unattended vehicles can also be targets.