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Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care

COVID-19 and travel

Find out about travel requirements and steps you can take to stay safe.

Domestic travel within Australia

Domestic travel requirements are determined by state and territory governments. Check the websites of local health departments for information about travel to:

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia .

Travelling overseas

The Australian Government does not currently have any COVID-19 requirements in place for travellers entering and departing Australia.

COVID-19 however continues to pose a health risk in Australia and overseas. We strongly encourage wearing masks and being vaccinated while travelling internationally. You should practice good cough and hand hygiene, and physically distance from others where possible.

Some countries, airlines and vessel operators may have COVID-19 travel requirements in place. Check the requirements of any:

• countries you are travelling to, or transiting through
• airlines or vessel operators.
• Smartraveller website
• Australian Government – international travel information .

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is important if you become sick with COVID-19 overseas. Make sure your insurance includes:

• transit destinations
• inclusions for COVID-19
• other add-ons like cruise specific insurance.

Some destinations also require travellers to hold travel insurance as a condition of entry.

Cruise travel

Check with your cruise provider or travel agent for up-to-date travel requirements for your ship and destination/s. You can also contact the relevant state or territory government to find out if any requirements apply for your destination.

Outbreaks onboard a cruise

Cruise ships carry a higher risk for spreading disease compared to other types of travel. COVID-19, influenza, and other infectious diseases spread easily between people living and socialising in close quarters.

If an outbreak of COVID-19 occurs on your cruise, you may need to:

• quarantine on the ship
• disembark and follow the local rules in the state or territory or country you are in.

Before you travel, check the  Smartraveller advice on cruises . Contact your travel agent or cruise operator for specific information on their COVID-19 safety protocols.

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COVID-19 and the border

Updates to Australia's immigration and border arrangements during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.

​​​Latest updates

From 12:01am on Saturday 11 March 2023, people travelling to Australia from China, including Hong Kong and Macau, will not be required to show evidence of a negative pre-departure test for COVID-19. For more information see Entering and leaving Australia .

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Travel advice and subscribing for updates

The Australian Government’s  Smartraveller  website provides a range of information and advice to help you make well-informed travel decisions and stay safe while you’re overseas. 

This includes  travel advice for the United States , and advisories for more than 170 other  destinations  worldwide. 

Smartraveller offers a free service that allows you to  sign up to receive travel advice updates and news via email .

Following Smartraveller on  Twitter ,  Facebook  and Instagram is another easy way to stay up to date while travelling.

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Further steps to support australians to travel abroad.

• Media release

Australians can now prepare for safe overseas travel when borders progressively re-open from 1 November, with the Australian Government reinstating country-specific travel advice levels for 177 destinations.

The updated country-specific travel advice will allow Australians planning to travel overseas to assess risks, understand requirements, and prepare to travel safely. It will also help Australians to access travel insurance more readily.

While fully vaccinated Australians will be able to depart Australia without an exemption from 1 November, all travellers will need to be aware of risks and take care, regardless of where they travel, while COVID-19 remains an ongoing global health risk.

Smartraveller’s ‘Do not travel’ global advisory has been removed. This advisory was put in place for all destinations in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 health risks and significant disruption to global travel.

Under the travel advice framework announced today, no destination will be set lower than level 2 ‘Exercise a high degree of caution’, given the ongoing COVID-19 health risks and the continuing complexities of international travel.

Border settings and quarantine requirements in other countries continue to change. We strongly encourage Australians to closely monitor the Australian Government’s travel advice available on  smartraveller.gov.au .

Australians will also need to consider the requirements of airlines, transit and destination countries, as well as return arrangements to Australia in making decisions on when and where to travel abroad. Many of these requirements are subject to change at short notice given COVID-19 situations.

Fully vaccinated Australians who want to travel overseas can download the International COVID Vaccine Certificate via MyGov to provide internationally recognised proof of their COVID-19 vaccinations. 

We know it has been a difficult 18 months for Australians overseas trying to return, and for Australians with family and friends overseas.

The changes announced today are a vital next step in re-uniting Australian families and safely re-opening Australia to the world.

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Australia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory september 8, 2023, australia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with removal of major event information.

Exercise normal precautions in Australia. 

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Australia.

If you decide to travel to Australia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Australia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, australia map, search for travel advisories, external link.

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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Australian Government Travel Guide

The Australian Government Travel Guide provides an overview of the Arrangements including:

• a summary of the fare conditions that apply to negotiated domestic and international airfares
• value adds for tier 1 international airfares.
• tips on how to make bookings and reduce travel costs

Due to the sensitive content of this document, it is not possible to post to the website. Please contact WoAG Travel if you require a copy of the Guide, noting that is only available to Participating Entities.

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Australia to ease international border restrictions from November

• Medium Text
• Australia to allow citizens to travel abroad from November
• Vaccinated citizens allowed to quarantine at home on return
• Unvaccinated must complete hotel quarantine
• Qantas to resume international flights on Nov. 14
• Plans for entry of foreign visitors still being discussed

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Reporting by Renju Jose and Jamie Freed in Sydney, and Colin Packham in Canberra; editing by Richard Pullin and Jane Wardell

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Labour predicted to rout Sunak's Conservatives as Britain goes to polls

Britain looks set to elect Labour Party leader Keir Starmer as its next prime minister when voters go to the polls on Thursday, sweeping Rishi Sunak's Conservatives out of office after 14 often turbulent years.

U.S. Department of the Treasury

Under secretary nelson to travel to brisbane, australia for the pacific banking forum.

WASHINGTON – From July 8 – 10, Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson will travel to Brisbane, Australia as the U.S. Department of the Treasury co-hosts the Pacific Banking Forum with the Government of Australia. While in Brisbane, he will also participate in a series of bilateral meetings with officials from Pacific nations and other partners in attendance.

The United States and Australia are proud Pacific nations with a shared vision to advance a free and open, connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient Pacific region. During Australia’s State Visit in October 2023, President Joe Biden and Australian Prime Minister Albanese committed to supporting sustainable access to banking services across the Pacific and, in consultation with the countries of the region, jointly launched the Pacific Banking Forum to achieve this objective.

The Pacific Banking Forum will bring together policymakers, regulators, commercial banks, technical experts, and other stakeholders to support the Pacific Island Forum Secretariat’s correspondent banking initiatives. It will address the urgent problem of ‘de-risking’ and the decline of correspondent banking relationships in the Pacific, which affect the ability of local banks to connect with international financial institutions and access cross-border payment services.

According to Treasury’s 2023 National Derisking Strategy , de-risking occurs when financial institutions terminate or restrict business relationships indiscriminately with broad categories of customers rather than analyzing and managing the risk of those customers. De-risking undermines several key U.S. government policy objectives by driving financial activity out of the regulated financial system, hampering remittances, preventing low- and middle-income segments of the population from efficiently accessing the financial system, and preventing the unencumbered transfer of humanitarian aid and disaster relief. The forum will convene government and the private sector in order to advance creative, collective solutions for combatting de-risking in the Pacific.

Last fall, Secretary Yellen met with Pacific Islands leaders during the US-Pacific Islands Forum Summit, where she reaffirmed Treasury’s commitment to work together to mitigate threats to Pacific countries’ macro-financial stability, including through addressing the impacts of a changing climate, promoting fiscal sustainability, and strengthening correspondent banking relationships in the region. The United States and Australia will continue working to support Pacific Island efforts to build health and economic resilience and advancing a positive vision for Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

On  Monday July 8 th at 9:10 AM AEST / July 7 th at 7:10 PM EDT , Secretary Yellen will deliver pre-recorded virtual remarks to the forum.

At  9:15 AM AEST , Under Secretary Nelson will deliver keynote remarks at the Pacific Banking Forum on Treasury’s efforts to address de-risking and promote financial inclusion and connectivity in the Pacific.

Remarks are open to the press; media interested in attending or arranging an interview with Under Secretary Nelson should contact [email protected] .

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Regional Pensioner Travel Card

Regional pensioners often have to rely on their own means of travel to access essential services.

The Regional Pensioner Travel Card provides eligible pensioners with up to $675 a year towards the cost of fuel and/or taxi travel from participating providers, offering more support for the transport needs of pensioners living in regional areas.

The Regional Pensioner Travel Card is funded by the State Government and administered by the Department of Transport.  

Need more information? 

Contact the Regional Pensioner Travel Card information line on  1300 666 609 , or email [email protected] for: 

• Travel Card balance
• Eligibility
• Updating of details e.g. change of address
• Reporting a lost or stolen card
• Participating fuel outlets
• Location of Australia Post outlets for application forms. 

The information line operates between 6:45am and 5.00pm (Monday to Friday) for general information and 24 hours a day for lost or stolen cards.

Who is eligible to apply for a Regional Pensioner Travel Card?

To be eligible for a Regional Pensioner Travel Card, you must be:

• Receiving a  Centrelink  Age Pension, Carer Payment, Disability Support Pension, or a Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) Service Pension, Social Security Age Pension or Income Support Supplement; and
• Living in an eligible regional location.

How to apply for a Regional Pensioner Travel Card (new recipients) 

• Obtain a Regional Pensioner Travel Card application form from participating Australia Post offices.  Contact the information line on  1300 666 609  to find your nearest participating post office. Select 'option 7' to speak to a customer service officer. Alternatively, visit  Australia Post  for your nearest regional location and contact them to check they are participating in the program.
• Present your Centrelink or Department of Veterans' Affairs Pension Card when submitting your application form at the participating post office.
• Your name and addresses (residential and postal) on the application form must match your Centrelink or Department of Veterans' Affairs' record.
• Submit your application form to the post office attendant by 15 May of each year.  Note: For administrative purposes, applications are closed and cannot be accepted or processed between 31 May and 30 June each year.

How long will it take to get my card?

• It should take up to four (4) weeks for your application to be processed and for your Regional Pensioner Travel Card to be posted to you.
• Ensure the details provided in your application match your Centrelink or DVA Pension Card details.
• Information on how to use your Travel Card will be sent with the card.

What do I do when my card expires?

• Your Regional Pensioner Travel Card will be automatically reissued in July every year, and posted to the address provided by you for the Travel Card. 
• Ensure your personal details (name and address) are kept up-to-date and match your Centrelink or DVA Pension Card details.
• Contact  1300 666 609  or email  [email protected]   to update your information.
• Unused balances will be forfeited on 30 June annually.

Why have I not received my automatically issued Travel Card?

• Your personal details may be incorrect. Have you changed your address? Do your details provided for the Travel Card match those provided to Centrelink or DVA?
• Have your eligibility circumstances changed? Please confirm your eligibility by contacting the Regional Pensioner Travel Card information line on 1300 666 609.  

How do I check my Travel Card balance?

• You can check your balance online at https://wacap.com.au
• Record all transactions in the log sheet provided with your card and retain transaction receipts. 

Where is the nearest participating fuel outlet?

Fuel outlets displaying the motorpass logo are participating in the Regional Pensioner Travel Card. Alternatively, download the participating outlets' list and check for the cheapest fuel in your area:

• Participating outlets ​ 
• Cheapest fuel in your area

Which taxi companies are participating?

Taxis displaying the Cabcharge or Live Payment logo are participating in the Travel Card. Ask the taxi company if they accept the Regional Pensioner Travel Card when ordering the taxi. 

Regional Pensioner Travel Card resources

For additional information, please download the: 

• Terms and Conditions  
• Frequently Asked Questions  

Related services and information

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• Annual report 2019: Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development
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Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present.

Vaping laws are changing in Australia. Here's what we know

The Commonwealth government's "world-leading" vape ban is expected to come into effect next week, but sudden changes mean they will be easier to buy in October.

The amendments to a bill before federal parliament have sparked disagreement among health professionals, law experts, elected officials and industry groups.

If the bill clears parliament, Australia will become the first country to ban the sale of vapes outside of pharmacies.

Here's what you need to know about the changes to the vape ban.

Is vaping banned in Australia?

From July 1, vapes containing nicotine can only be legally sold by pharmacies to people who have a prescription from their doctor.

It's part of a suite of measures taken by the Albanese government to limit the availability of vapes, while making them available as aids for people who are trying to quit smoking.

But amendments to the Therapeutic Goods and Other Legislation Amendment (Vaping Reforms) Bill 2024 could make vapes available to many more people just three months later.

Who can buy vapes from October?

From October 1, pharmacies can sell vapes containing nicotine to anyone over 18 years old, eliminating the need for a medical prescription.

The change will occur because vapes containing nicotine will be downgraded from schedule 4 to schedule 3 of the poisons standard.

In many ways, the process of buying a nicotine vape will be similar to that of buying a packet of cigarettes — only from a pharmacy.

Vapes containing nicotine will only be available behind the counter and people will have to present identification to the pharmacist.

The packaging will be plain and their flavours limited to mint, menthol or tobacco.

The government claims the concentration of nicotine in e-cigarettes will be limited.

What if I'm not over 18 years old?

People under the age of 18 will need a medical prescription before they can legally purchase a vape from a pharmacist.

The Australian Medical Association believes only a small percentage of people under the age of 18 will be buying vapes from pharmacies.

Michael Bonning, chair of Public Health, said they could be a potential therapeutic option for young people addicted to nicotine.

"One of the ways we can bring them down off that and slowly withdraw them from their nicotine dependence is using vapes," he said.

How do pharmacists feel about the change?

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia represents 5,800 community pharmacies nationally.

A spokesperson said the change is "a bad decision" and describes the expectation that pharmacists become vape retailers as "insulting".

"Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who dispense medication that provides a proven therapeutic benefit," a spokesperson said.

"No vaping product has been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration based on its safety, efficacy or performance."

Why is the government making the change?

The federal government has been trying to pass its "world leading" vape bill after it was introduced into parliament in March 2024.

Federal Health Minister Mark Butler said the amendment was made to win the support of the Greens in the Senate.

The support could see the bill pass parliament and the ban come into effect next week.

Roger Magnusson, an expert in Health Law and Governance at the University of Sydney Law School, described the amendment as a "bad decision for public health".

"Vapes have been returned to being lifestyle commodities rather than therapeutic products," he said.

"Pharmacies [like] Chemist Warehouse will now become Vape Central."

Will it be illegal to buy a vape?

No. Individuals can legally buy vapes from pharmacies.

They'll need a medical prescription from July 1, but that won't be a requirement from October 1, when vapes containing nicotine are downgraded on the poisons schedule.

Can I get them from anywhere other than pharmacies?

No. If the bill passes parliament, from July 1, it will be unlawful for people or businesses to supply, manufacture, import or sell a vape outside of a pharmacy.

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International Trade in Goods methodology

• International Trade in Goods methodology Reference Period April 2024
• International Trade in Goods methodology Reference Period March 2024
• International Trade in Goods methodology Reference Period February 2024
• View all releases

Explanatory notes

Introduction.

This publication presents preliminary estimates of Australia's international trade in goods on a balance of payments basis (tables 1-8 and 17) and merchandise import and export statistics on an international merchandise trade basis (tables 12-15 and 31-37) and datacubes (tables 18 and 19). 

International merchandise trade statistics on an merchandise trade basis are compiled from customs declarations submitted by exporters and importers or their agents to the Department of Home Affairs (Home Affairs). Adjustments for coverage, timing and valuation are made to international merchandise trade data to convert them to a balance of payments basis. From the September 2023 reference month release, international trade in services data is no longer produced on a monthly basis. A guide for users to compile monthly international trade in services estimates is available, see the attached article, Monthly International Trade in Services compilation guide .

More comprehensive quarterly estimates of Australia’s trade in goods and services, together with comprehensive details of Australia’s balance of payments are included in the quarterly publication, Balance of Payments and International Investment Position, Australia . Detailed monthly statistics on merchandise trade are available in time series spreadsheets on the ABS website or by subscription for tailored services. More information can also be found in the International Trade: Supplementary Information publication which is available on a financial year basis  and calendar year basis .

Concepts, sources and methods

The conceptual framework used in compiling Australia's international merchandise trade statistics can be found in International Merchandise Trade, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods .

The conceptual framework used in compiling Australia's balance of payments statistics is based on the International Monetary Fund's Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, Sixth Edition (BPM6). Descriptions of the underlying concepts and structure of the balance of payments and the sources, methods and terms used in compiling estimates are presented in the publication Balance of Payments and International Investment Position, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods . Information on the key changes introduced with BPM6 can be found in the Information paper: Implementation of new international statistical standards in the ABS National and International Accounts .

To bring international merchandise trade statistics to a balance of payments basis, timing adjustments are made to ensure that the transaction is recorded in the period in which ownership changed, rather than in the period in which the transaction was recorded by Home Affairs or the period in which the goods arrived in/departed from an Australian port. Adjustments are also made to account for the change of ownership of goods not included in merchandise trade statistics. Chapter 6 of the Balance of Payments and International Investment Position, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods, 1998  provides more detail on the relationship between statistics on an international merchandise trade basis and on a balance of payments basis.

International merchandise trade exports data presented for recent months of this publication are based on information initially reported by exporters to Home Affairs. At the time of initial reporting to Home Affairs the final prices may not be known for some commodities. Therefore, the information recorded for recent months for commodities like iron ore and coal can include a variety of prices including previous or current contract prices and the prevailing spot prices. Newly negotiated contract prices may not be fully reflected in the data first reported to Home Affairs, and to compensate for this, the balance of payments series may reflect adjusted price levels.

Classifications

International merchandise trade statistics on an merchandise trade basis are presented using the following commodity classifications:

• the Harmonized System 2022 (available on request)
• the Standard International Trade Classification Revision 4 (SITC Rev. 4)
• the Classification by Broad Economic Categories (BEC)
• the industry classification: Australian and New Zealand Standard Industrial Classification, 2006 (ANZSIC 06) from July 2005.  

Balance of payments 'goods' statistics are presented according to two classifications derived from SITC Rev. 4 and BEC. The classifications are:

• the Balance of Payments Commodities for Exports (BoPCE)
• the Balance of Payments Broad Economic Categories (BoPBEC) for Imports

Accuracy, reliability and revisions

While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of estimates, most series are subject to revision as more complete and accurate information becomes available. Care should be exercised in the use and interpretation of estimates in this publication. The transactions occurring in international trade in goods are of many different kinds, and therefore the compilation of trade estimates entails the use of a very wide range of statistical data of varying degrees of accuracy and timeliness.

The revisions are applied differently for merchandise trade and balance of payments series. Each month, merchandise trade data are revised for the previous six months to incorporate latest available data.

For the balance of payments 'goods' series, in original terms, revisions in the July, October, January or April issues are limited to significant new and revised that have become available since the previous issue. This is to ensure the monthly series align with the comparable series in the most recent issue of the Balance of Payments and International Investment Position, Australia . In the August issue, revisions can be applied to the four previous financial years.

In seasonally adjusted and trend terms, revisions may occur at any time point but tend to focus on the most recent estimates. Please also refer to the seasonal adjustment and trend estimates paragraphs below.

Sign convention

In keeping with BPM6 conventions, balance of payments basis credit entries are shown with an implied positive sign and debit items are shown as negative entries. For statistics on an international merchandise trade basis, both imports and exports are shown without sign. The calculation of percentage changes on balance of payments debit items are made without regard to sign. Percentage change is not applicable if there is a change from surplus to deficit or vice versa.

Seasonally adjusted and trend estimates

The estimates of international trade in goods on a balance of payments basis are seasonally adjusted, however the merchandise exports and imports statistics on an international merchandise trade basis are not. Monthly original estimates are volatile, being subject to calendar-related and large irregular influences. Seasonally adjusted estimates are derived by estimating and removing from the original series systematic calendar related effects, such as seasonal (e.g. Christmas), trading day and moving holiday (e.g. Easter) influences. Seasonal adjustment does not aim to remove the irregular or non-seasonal influences which may be present in any month. These irregular influences may reflect both random economic events and difficulties of statistical recording.

The seasonally adjusted statistics in this publication use the concurrent seasonal adjustment technique and Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) modelling to estimate factors for the current and previous months. Under concurrent seasonal adjustment, the estimates of seasonal factors are updated as new or revised original estimates become available each period. The seasonally adjusted estimates are subject to revisions as the estimates of seasonal factors are improved.

The month-to-month movements of the seasonally adjusted estimates may not be reliable indicators of underlying behaviour because they include irregular or non-seasonal movements. Trend estimates reduce the effect of these movements as they are derived by applying a 13-term Henderson moving average to the seasonally adjusted series. The 13-term Henderson moving average (like all Henderson averages) is symmetric, but as the end of a time series is approached, asymmetric forms of the average are applied. While the asymmetric weights enable trend estimates for recent months to be produced, it does result in revisions to the estimates for the most recent six months as additional observations become available. Revisions to trend estimates can also occur because of revisions to the original data and because of the re-estimation of the seasonal factors. Trend estimates should be used with caution, especially around the time of unusual influences, until these have been appropriately considered.

Information papers and articles on time series methods are available on the ABS website:

• for seasonal adjustment methods, see Time Series Analysis Frequently Asked Questions  
• for ARIMA modelling, see Feature article: Use of ARIMA modelling to reduce revisions in the October 2004 issue of Australian Economic Indicators  
• for trend estimates methods, see Information Paper: A Guide to Interpreting Time Series - Monitoring Trends .  

Economic territory

In accordance with BPM6 definitions, Australia's economic territory, on a balance of payments basis, is the area under the effective control of the Australian government. It includes the land area, airspace, territorial waters, including jurisdiction over fishing rights and rights to fuels and minerals. Australian economic territory also includes territorial enclaves in the rest of the world. These are clearly demarcated areas of land, located in other countries and which are owned or rented by the Australian government for diplomatic, military, scientific or other purposes. Specifically, the economic territory of Australia consists of:

• Geographic Australia which includes Cocos (Keeling) Islands and Christmas Island
• Norfolk Island
• Australian Antarctic Territory
• Heard Island and McDonald Islands
• Territory of Ashmore Reef and Cartier Island
• Coral Sea Islands
• Australia's territorial enclaves overseas  

Because of administrative complexities and measurement difficulties, Norfolk Island transactions with the rest of the world will not always be captured in all relevant balance of payments statistics. Most of the transactions involving Norfolk Island are not material to Australia's trade performance and not capturing these transactions will not distort these statistics. However, any significant transactions will be identified and included in the relevant statistics.

Commodity breakdown of goods

For details of the classifications used to present goods exports (credits) and imports (debits) on a balance of payments basis, see tables 6.6 and 6.7 in commodity classification of chapter 6, respectively, in Balance of Payments and International Investment Position, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods, 1998 .

The international merchandise trade statistics shown in tables 12 and 13 are classified by the Standard International Trade Classification (SITC). Imports and exports of goods at a more detailed level are available from the time series spreadsheets on the ABS website. All data from July 2005 are presented according to SITC Rev. 4 and data prior to July 2005 are presented according to SITC Rev. 3. For details refer to the 'Classifications and Standards Update' in the July 2008 issue of this publication.

Confidentiality of merchandise trade statistics

The release of statistics for certain merchandise trade commodities is restricted to prevent the identification of the activities of an individual business, where this is requested by the business concerned. These restrictions do not affect the total value of exports and imports, but they can affect statistics at the country, state and commodity levels, and other details only available on request such as Australian ports. For information on the confidentiality restrictions applied to the merchandise trade statistics in this publication, refer to Table 92 - Confidential Commodities List in the data downloads. For further information on the confidentiality of international trade in goods statistics refer to International Merchandise Trade, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods . 

Exports data that have the confidentiality restrictions 'No commodity details' or 'No value details' are now aggregated into a single confidential commodity code. For data prior to June 2013, these data are added back into the appropriate state total and country total (i.e. these totals show the correct level of trade). From June 2013 these confidential data are not added back. Instead the confidential data are published as 'No country details' in the country totals and 'State of origin not available' or 'State not available for publication' in the state totals. Therefore, country and state totals from June 2013 may not represent the actual amount of trade in each country/state but only the trade in commodities without a 'No commodity details' or 'No value details' restriction.

Imports data that have the confidentiality restrictions 'No commodity details' or 'No value details' are aggregated into a single confidential commodity code. For data prior to September 2008, these data are added back into the appropriate state total and country total (i.e. these totals show the correct level of trade). From September 2008 these confidential data are not added back. Instead the confidential data are published as 'No country details' in the country totals and 'State of destination not available' or 'State not available for publication' in the state totals. Therefore, country and state totals from September 2008 may not represent the actual amount of trade in each country/state but only the trade in commodities without a 'No commodity details' or 'No value details' restriction.

ABS data available

More detailed balance of payments and international merchandise trade data, including forward seasonal factors are available as time series spreadsheets or data cubes from the ABS website. International merchandise trade data by commodity, country and state that are not on the ABS website may be available on request. Enquiries should be made through the ABS Information and Referral Service on 1300 135 070 or the Information Consultancy link on the ABS website. The ABS Privacy Policy outlines how the ABS will handle any personal information that you provide to us.

Related products and publications

Users may also wish to refer to the following publications which can be downloaded free of charge from the ABS website:

• Balance of Payments and International Investment Position, Australia  - issued quarterly
• International Trade Price Indexes, Australia  - issued quarterly
• Balance of Payments and International Investment Position, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods
• Information Paper: Quality of Australian Balance of Payments Statistics
• International Merchandise Trade, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods
• International Trade in Services; Concepts, Sources and Methods
• A Guide to Australian Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Statistics .  

Current publications and other products released by the ABS are available from the ABS website.

Where figures have been rounded, discrepancies may occur between sums of the component items and totals. Percentage movements are calculated from data at the level of precision presented in this publication (i.e. $m) except for international merchandise trade tables.

Appendix - related articles

Quality declaration - summary, institutional environment.

Statistics on Australia's international trade in goods are produced using a combination of data collected directly by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) under the authority of the Census and Statistics Act 1905. Data such as exports and imports statistics are collected using administrative by-product information collected from the Department of Home Affairs (Home Affairs).

Please refer to ABS Institutional Environment for more information about the institutional environment of the ABS, including legislative obligations, financing and governance arrangements and mechanisms for security of ABS operations.

In the ABS, the monthly International Trade in Goods  presents exports (credits) and imports (debits) statistics on a balance of payments (change of ownership) basis. These statistics are presented in original, seasonally adjusted and trend terms. The monthly publication also incorporates exports and imports on an international merchandise trade basis.

The monthly goods credits and debits series contribute to quarterly statistics on Australia's balance of payments and international investment position. For more details please refer to Balance of Payments and International Investment Position, Australia .

International merchandise trade statistics record goods that add to or subtract from the stock of material resources of Australia by entering (imports) or leaving (exports) the country on a permanent basis. Australia conforms to the United Nations (UN) recommendations for the compilation of international merchandise trade statistics as set out in the UN publication International Merchandise Trade Statistics, Concepts and Definitions, Statistical Papers, Series M, No. 52, Rev. 3, 2010 (IMTS Rev. 3). International merchandise trade statistics are compiled from customs declarations submitted by exporters and importers or their agents to Home Affairs. The international merchandise trade statistics may be adjusted for classification, coverage or timing to convert them to a balance of payments basis.

The Standard International Trade Classification, Revision 4 (SITC Rev. 4) is the main classification used to analyse international merchandise trade statistics. Other classifications used include the Australian Harmonized Export Commodity Classification (AHECC) (exports), the Combined Australian Customs Tariff Nomenclature and Statistical Classification (Customs Tariff) (imports), Broad Economic Categories (BEC) and the Balance of Payments Broad Economic Categories (BoPBEC). For balance of payments data, the SITC Rev. 4, BoPBEC and the Balance of Payments Commodity of Export (BoPCE) classifications are used.

More detail on the underlying concepts and structure of international trade in goods and the sources, methods and terms used in compiling estimates are presented in:

• International Merchandise Trade, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods  for international merchandise trade data
• Balance of Payments and International Investment Position, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods  for balance of payments data.

The monthly International Trade in Goods  publication is released 21 working days after the end of each reference month. In general, source data used in the compilation of international merchandise trade data and balance of payments statistics are timely. Goods data are collected on a monthly basis.

The ABS uses a variety of methods to routinely assess the information from administrative data and surveys. Sound data collection and methodological systems, conformity to international standard frameworks and the use of analytical tools all contribute to high quality outputs. Nevertheless, the data may not be accurate for a number of reasons. Data based on administrative data sources are subject to classification, processing, coverage and timing adjustments and modelling where required. International merchandise trade statistics are primarily compiled from customs documentation submitted by exporters and importers or their agents to the Department of Home Affairs (Home Affairs). Adjustments for coverage, timing and valuation are made to international merchandise trade data to convert them to a balance of payments basis. While the Department of Home Affairs and the ABS apply various quality assurance checks to ensure that merchandise trade statistics are timely and fit for purpose at aggregate levels, most transactions included are ‘as reported to Customs”. Care should be exercised in the use and interpretation of detailed international merchandise trade estimates.

The general policy adopted in relation to revisions is to incorporate more accurate estimates into the data as they become available. To minimise disruption to the historical time series:

• revisions to goods credits and debits affecting periods prior to the previous financial year incorporated in the August issue of International Trade in Goods  
• revisions to international merchandise trade statistics are generally only applied to the six months preceding the current month.  

For further information please refer to International Merchandise Trade, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods  and Balance of Payments and International Investment Position, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods .

Statistics on Australia's international trade in goods and are compiled and presented in accordance with international standards. The main standards include:

• the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, Sixth Edition (BPM6)
• the United Nations (UN) International Merchandise Trade Statistics, Concepts and Definitions, Statistical Papers, Series M, No. 52, Rev. 3, 2010 (IMTS Rev. 3)
• the United Nations (UN) Standard International Trade Classification, Revision 4 (SITC Rev. 4)
• the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS)

Modifications and extensions consider domestic user requirements for additional details and alternative views of the data. Where possible, data are validated against independent sources both within the ABS and externally. For example, the media is monitored for large transactions in activities in exports and imports of goods and changes in commodity prices. The ABS provides aggregated statistics (by partner country where possible) to international organisations including the IMF and the OECD, who reconcile information from all countries.

The ABS makes available historical quarterly time series for its international accounts dating back to 1959. Key monthly time series date back to 1971 for balance of payments data, and 1988 for international merchandise trade data. When changes in source data, methodology or statistical techniques are introduced, historical time series are revised back as far as reasonably possible.

Interpretability

This publication presents data on goods credits and debits, to be used in the current account of the balance of payments. Gross credits and debits series for goods are presented distinct from each other. Time series data, in current prices, are provided in original, seasonally adjusted and trend terms.

International merchandise trade statistics provide detailed commodity statistics according to several classifications. Time series data are presented in original terms only.

For more information on seasonal adjustment and trend estimation, please refer to the Information Paper: A Guide to Interpreting Time Series - Monitoring Trends .

This release also provides advice on any changes which may be occurring. Also, if major changes are anticipated to any of the classifications, information papers associated with the publication are released in advance to advise the change and implementation plans.

The International Merchandise Trade, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods  and Balance of Payments and International Investment Position, Australia: Concepts, Sources and Methods  provide users with detailed information on these accounts. They describe the conceptual framework underlying the statistics, classification of data items, presentations and publications. Information is also presented on data sources, compilation methodologies, data quality, relationships with national accounts and emerging issues.

Accessibility

Data are available to users free of charge from the ABS website. This includes time series and data cubes for major data series. The ABS website contains analysis of the latest data with supporting graphs and charts.

International trade in goods statistics are published monthly. Tables are available in spreadsheet format, many with data series beginning in July 1971. More detailed data are available on request as a 'user pays' service which can be tailored to suit individual requirements. For enquiries about these and related statistics, contact the Customer Assistance Service via the ABS website  Contact Us  page. The ABS Privacy Policy outlines how the ABS will handle any personal information that you provide to us.

There are a range of information papers, notes, publications and feature articles that provide information on a number of data quality issues. These include changes to the classifications, systems, concepts, standards or methodology, major data revisions and changes in data dissemination practices. The purpose of this information is to supplement and update the concepts, sources and methods.

Abbreviations

Countries, economies and regions

Select a country, economy or region to find embassies, country briefs, economic fact sheets, trade agreements, aid programs, information on sanctions and more.

International relations

Global security.

• Australia and sanctions
• Australian Safeguards and Non-proliferation Office (ASNO)
• Counter-terrorism
• Non-proliferation, disarmament and arms control
• Peacekeeping and peacebuilding

Regional architecture

• Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)
• Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
• East Asia Summit (EAS)
• Australia and the Indian Ocean region
• Pacific Islands regional organisations

Global themes

• Child protection
• Climate change
• Cyber affairs and critical technology
• Disability Equity and Rights
• Gender equality
• Human rights
• Indigenous peoples
• People Smuggling, Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery
• Preventing Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment
• Australia’s treaty-making process

International organisations

• The Commonwealth of Nations
• United Nations (UN)
• World Trade Organization

Foreign Arrangements Scheme  

Trade and investment, about free trade agreements (ftas).

• The benefits of FTAs
• How to get free trade agreement tariff cuts
• Look up FTA tariffs and services market access - DFAT FTA Portal
• Discussion paper on potential modernisation – DFAT FTA Portal

About foreign investment

• The benefits of foreign investment
• Investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS)
• Australia's bilateral investment treaties
• Australia's foreign investment policy

For Australian business

• Addressing non-tariff trade barriers

Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai

Stakeholder engagement.

• Ministerial Council on Trade and Investment
• Trade 2040 Taskforce
• First Nations trade

Australia's free trade agreements (FTAs)

• ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand (AANZFTA)
• Chile (ACLFTA)
• China (ChAFTA)
• Hong Kong ( A-HKFTA & IA)
• India (AI-ECTA)
• Indonesia (IA-CEPA)
• Japan (JAEPA)
• Korea (KAFTA)
• Malaysia (MAFTA)
• New Zealand (ANZCERTA)
• Peru (PAFTA)
• Singapore (SAFTA)
• Thailand (TAFTA)
• United Kingdom (A-UKFTA)
• USA (AUSFTA)
• Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)
• European Union (A-EUFTA)
• India (AI-CECA)
• Australia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
• Australia-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)

Trade and investment data, information and publications

• Fact sheets for countries and regions
• Australia's trade balance
• Trade statistics
• Foreign investment statistics
• Trade and investment publications
• Australia's Trade through Time

WTO, G20, OECD, APEC and IPEF and ITAG

Services and digital trade.

• Service trade policy
• Australia-Singapore Digital Economy Agreement
• Digital trade & the digital economy

Development

Australia’s development program, performance assessment.

• Development evaluation
• Budget and statistical information

Who we work with

• Multilateral organisations
• Non-government organisations (NGOs)
• List of Australian accredited non-government organisations (NGOs)

Development topics

• Development issues
• Development sectors

2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

• Sustainable Development Goals

Where we deliver our Development Program

Humanitarian action.

Where and how Australia provides emergency assistance.

People-to-people

Australia awards.

• Australia Awards Scholarships
• Australia Awards Fellowships

New Colombo Plan

• Scholarship program
• Mobility program

Public diplomacy

• Australian Cultural Diplomacy Grants Program
• Australia now
• UK/Australia Season 2021-22

Foundations, councils and institutes

• Australia-ASEAN Council
• Australia-India Council
• Australia-Indonesia Institute
• Australia-Japan Foundation
• Australia-Korea Foundation
• Council for Australian-Arab Relations (CAAR)
• Council on Australia Latin America Relations (COALAR)

International Labour Mobility

• Pacific Labour Mobility Scheme
• Agriculture Visa

Australian Volunteers Program

Supporting organisations in developing countries by matching them with skilled Australians. 

Sports diplomacy

Australia is a successful global leader and innovator in sport.

A global platform for achievement, innovation, collaboration, and cooperation

About Australia

Australia is a stable, democratic and culturally diverse nation with a highly skilled workforce and one of the strongest performing economies in the world.

Australia in Brief publication

This is the 52nd edition of Australia in Brief, revised and updated in February 2021

Travel advice

To help Australians avoid difficulties overseas, we maintain travel advisories for more than 170 destinations.

• Smartraveller – travel advice

International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate

Prove your COVID-19 vaccinations when you travel overseas.

• Services Australia

The Australian Passport Office and its agents are committed to providing a secure, efficient and responsive passport service for Australia.

• Australian Passport Office

24-hour consular emergency helpline

• Within Australia: 1300 555 135
• Outside Australia: +61 2 6261 3305
• Getting help overseas
• Visas for Australians travelling overseas
• Visas to visit Australia

News, speeches and media

Quad senior officials’ meeting, 3 july 2024.

On 3 July, senior officials from Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the US Department of State met by videoconference to review progress on initiatives agreed by Quad leaders at the 2023 Summit in Hiroshima.

At the meeting, officials discussed the significant, tangible contributions the Quad is delivering in the Indo-Pacific in 2024. The Quad is training the region’s infrastructure experts, enhancing health security, providing vital maritime domain awareness training and data, responding to climate change, countering terrorism and building resilience through undersea cable and telecommunications connectivity.

Officials exchanged views on regional and international challenges and reaffirmed the Quad’s support for ASEAN centrality, the Pacific Islands Forum and the Indian Ocean Rim Association.

Officials will continue regular consultation at all levels to further deepen the engagement and habits of cooperation that have been established between Quad foreign ministries and across our respective diplomatic networks.

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Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Tonga.

Tonga (PDF 721.73 KB)

Pacific (PDF 1.27 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 911 or go to a hospital.

Call 911, or go to a local police station.

Advice levels

• Crime in Tonga is at the same level as expected in Australia and includes robbery, assault, theft and break-ins. Keep doors, windows and gates locked and don't go out alone at night.
• Civil unrest is rare, but protests could turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings.
• Work continues to improve communications in the outer islands, including the Vava'u and Ha'apai groups, following the eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano. Monitor the media for the latest developments and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Tongan beaches can have strong rips and debris from recent disasters that can make swimming dangerous. Ask locals about safe swimming areas.
• Between November and April, Tonga is prone to cyclones, but severe storms and flash flooding can happen year-round. Ensure you know your hotel or cruise ship's evacuation plan and locations of shelters in the event of a storm or cyclone.
• Tonga also experiences earthquakes which can cause tsunamis if severe enough. Ask your host or hotel about what to do if there's an earthquake. Know the warning signs for tsunamis and immediately move to designated tsunami evacuation sites. Don't wait for official alerts.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Insect-borne diseases include dengue and chikungunya. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof and use insect repellent when outdoors. Tonga has had outbreaks of Zika virus. If you're pregnant, discuss this with your doctor.
• Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases include tuberculosis, typhoid and filariasis. Only drink boiled or bottled water and avoid raw or undercooked food. Eating reef fish and shellfish can lead to poisoning from naturally occurring toxins. Get urgent medical help if you suspect poisoning.
• Hospital and medical facilities are limited. You may need medical evacuation to Australia or New Zealand for even minor issues. Ensure your travel insurance covers this. Medical evacuation can be expensive and hard to organise.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Sabbath laws limit Sunday activities and most activities are prohibited unless you're at a resort. Activities such as swimming, playing sport, dancing, listening to loud music, and fishing are illegal on Sundays.
• The blood alcohol limit for driving in Tonga is 0.015%. Don't drink and drive.
• Sodomy is a criminal offence, punishable with a prison term.
• Tonga is a conservative country. Dress modestly and avoid public affection to avoid unwanted attention. Take care not to offend.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  High Commission of Tonga  for details about visas, currency and customs rules.
• International flight services are available to Australia, Fiji and New Zealand. Some domestic flight services may be impacted by aircraft availability. Contact your travel provider for more information. 
• You can drive on your Australian driver's licence for up to 12 months after arriving in Tonga. After that, you'll need to get a local licence.
• The local currency is the Tongan Pa'anga. Exchange Australian dollars at local banks. You can access ATMs on the main island of Tongatapu. Be careful not to expose your PIN and monitor your surroundings when using ATMs.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular assistance, contact the  Australian High Commission in Nuku'alofa .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Tonga has similar rates of violent crime to Australia. Petty crime is common. Crime that might affect security could increase at night.

Crimes may include:

• sexual assault
• theft 

Thieves target electronic equipment such as tablets, mobile phones and other portable electronic devices.

To protect yourself from violent crime always lock doors, windows, gates and vehicles. Don't go out alone at night and try to avoid visiting isolated locations alone, including beaches.

You should remain security aware and be vigilant of your surroundings at all times.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Civil unrest is rare in Tonga, but any public protest or event that draws a large group of people can turn violent.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid protests, demonstrations and other large public gatherings
• monitor local media for possible unrest
• don't visit affected areas

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Adventure activities

Swimming safety.

Take care when swimming at beaches, especially those with outlying coral reefs. The Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcanic eruption and tsunami has led to debris in the sand and water. This includes glass, wood, tiles and more. Take extra care when swimming.

Strong rips can occur where there's a break in the reef. This makes it dangerous for swimmers and surfers. People have drowned.

Ask locals about danger spots before swimming.

Tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This applies to:

• dive companies
• adventure tour companies
• fishing charters
• offshore surfing charters

If you plan to do an  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• don't travel on an overloaded vessel
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Home Reef Volcano began erupting on 10 September. The volcano activity poses low risk to residents of Vava’u and Ha’apai Island groups. Mariners are advised to stay at least 5kms from the volcano. 

Parts of Tonga are severely impacted by and recovering from the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcanic eruption and tsunami which flooded parts of Tongatapu and other nearby islands in January 2022. Work continues to improve communications in the outer islands, including the Vava'u and Ha'apai groups. Further explosive eruptions could occur in the area. Monitor media for the latest developments and follow the instructions of local authorities. See the  Government of Tonga website  and  Facebook page  and monitor local media.

Tsunamis can happen in Tonga. A tsunami can arrive within minutes of a nearby tremor or earthquake.

Being close to the Tonga Trench, strong earthquakes in the region could cause a destructive tsunami to hit within 20 minutes.

To receive tsunami alerts, register with the:

• International Tsunami Information Center
• Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination System

If you're near the coast, move to high ground straight away. Do this if local authorities advise so, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens.

Once on high ground, monitor local media and the  Tonga Meteorological Service .

Earthquakes

Tonga experiences earthquakes. 

Get to know the earthquake safety measures for each place you stay and visit. Ask your hotel or host for advice. 

If there's an earthquake:

• consider tsunami risks
• expect aftershocks and travel delays
• reconfirm travel plans with agents and tour operators
• National Earthquake Information Centre of the United States Geological Survey

Severe weather

Tonga can experience  natural disasters  and  severe weather , such as cyclones , earthquakes and tsunamis .

During an emergency, the  Tongan National Emergency Management Office  provides updates on Radio 1 at frequency 1017AM.

If a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with your friends and family

If you're due to arrive after a natural disaster or during cyclone season, ask your tour operator or airline if it affects your travel plans.

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Tropical storms and cyclones

The cyclone season is November to April. However, tropical storms and cyclones can happen throughout the year. This weather can bring on flooding, gale-force winds and disruptions to services.

The direction and strength of cyclones can change suddenly. If there's a cyclone or tropical storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• port access may be affected
• there may not be enough shelter available

If a cyclone or tropical storm is approaching:

• know the evacuation plan for your hotel or cruise ship
• identify your local shelter

Monitor alerts and advice from:

• Tonga Meteorological Service
• Joint Typhoon Warning Centre
• Fiji Meteorological Service
• World Meteorological Organisation

Travel insurance

Tonga requires all non-Tongan passport holders to have comprehensive  travel insurance .

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)
• Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Tonga. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Insect-borne disease outbreaks occur in Tonga, especially during the wet season. Diseases include:

• chikungunya

Mosquitos that carry these diseases are active throughout the day and at night. Mosquito repellent is available at most convenience stores and pharmacies in Tonga.

The Australian Department of Health and Aged Care's bulletin explains how to  minimise the risk of Zika virus . There's no vaccination for it.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care recommends you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• defer non-essential travel to affected areas

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical advice if you develop a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• only drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food

Get medical advice if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Fish poisoning

Eating reef fish can result in  ciguatera poisoning . Ciguatera is a naturally occurring seafood toxin.

Other risks include:

• scombroid (histamine fish poisoning)
• toxins in shellfish

Get urgent medical help if you suspect poisoning.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Hospital and medical facilities are limited, especially in remote island groups.

If you become ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to Australia or New Zealand, even for minor medical issues. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Evacuations on a Sunday are difficult to arrange because the airports don't operate.

There are no decompression chambers in Tonga. People with serious cases of decompression sickness are evacuated to the nearest treatment centre in New Zealand.

Registered dive companies carry basic treatment equipment to meet Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) standards.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Sunday activities

Sabbath laws strictly limit Sunday activities including swimming, playing sport, listening to loud music, exercise and fishing. Most businesses are closed except for some resorts and restaurants.

Driving laws

The blood alcohol limit for driving in Tonga is 0.015%.

There are 2 breath tests for blood alcohol readings. The first is a roadside test to see if you have alcohol in your system.

If you test positive for alcohol, you'll be taken to a police station for a second test. If your reading is between 0.025% and 0.04%, police will give you an on-the-spot fine. If your reading is above 0.04%, police will charge you and you'll have to appear in court.

If police catch you outside business hours, they'll likely hold you in a police cell until they can charge you.

Sodomy is a criminal offence. Punishment is a maximum of 10 years in jail. 

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Tonga recognises dual nationals.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Tonga is a highly religious country (predominantly Christian) as well as an overall conservative country. Take care not to offend.

Dress modestly and avoid public affection to avoid unwanted attention. For example, women can wear bikinis at a resort and males can swim shirtless, but more modest swimwear is recommended at public beaches. Topless bathing is not accepted.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  High Commission of Tonga  for details about visas, currency and customs rules. 

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over. If you arrive in Tonga with less than 6 months remaining on your passport you may end up stranded, receive an on the spot fine and have your passport taken until the fine is paid.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

If you want to stay longer or work, you'll need to apply for a visa.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you’re overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Tongan Pa'anga (TOP).

Change Australian dollars for TOP at local banks. These include ANZ and Bank South Pacific.

Remote island groups have limited banking services.

The main island of Tongatapu has ATMs, but they don't accept all Australian cards. Ask your bank if your card will work in Tonga.

Credit card fraud and card skimming occurs. Don't expose your PIN when using ATMs. Check your bank statements often.

Local travel

Boat travel.

Local boats can be dangerous because they:

• can be overloaded
• are poorly maintained
• lack life-saving equipment

Operators may not provide life jackets on boats, rafts or kayaks.

Some cruise ships stop in Tonga.

• Travelling by boat
• Going on a cruise

Driving permit

You can drive on your Australian driver’s licence for up to 12 months after arriving in Tonga. After that, you'll need to get a local licence. To get a licence, contact the Ministry of Infrastructure.

Road travel

Driving in Tonga can be dangerous, especially at night due to:

• poor street lighting
• low-quality roads
• pedestrians and free-roaming animals on roads

Speeding, alcohol and drug-driving cause many road deaths.

Some road rules differ from those in Australia. Be aware that:

• if you are turning left, you must give way to vehicles that are turning right
• the speed limit in most locations is 50km/h
• the blood alcohol limit for driving is 0.015%
• if you're caught with alcohol on your breath when driving, you'll be taken for further testing
• if you have an accident while not wearing a seatbelt, you may not be covered by travel insurance
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Always wear a helmet. This applies to a motorbike or motor scooter. Hire companies don't always provide helmets.

If you plan to hire a motorcycle, check your travel insurance covers you.

Only use registered taxis and authorised limousines. Arrange these through your hotel.

Public transport

Limited bus services operate on Tongatapu.

Bus services finish at 5pm and don't run on Sundays.

Petty crime happens on buses. Take care of your belongings.

• Transport and getting around safely

Air New Zealand operates daily flights to Tonga. Air Fiji and Qantas operate several flights a week. There are no flights on Sundays.

Domestic aircraft safety and maintenance practices in Tonga may not meet international standards. Some domestic flight services may be disrupted by aircraft availability and other issues. Take this into account when booking your air travel.

Tonga's domestic airline, Lulutai Airline, operates scheduled flights to all island groups.

Limited domestic services can result in:

• overbooking
• overloading
• late changes to scheduling

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Tonga's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• friends and family
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call 911 or go to a local police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Check the  Consular Services Charter  to find out what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Nuku'alofa.

Australian High Commission, Nuku'alofa

Salote Road  Nuku'alofa, Tonga Phone: (+676) 20 400 Fax: (+676) 23 243 Email:  [email protected] Website:  tonga.highcommission.gov.au Facebook:  Australia in Tonga Twitter:  @AustHCTonga

Check the Australian High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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