Britons thinking of visiting Australia have been issued an important safety warning.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) gave an "updated assessment that terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Australia".
Britons were warned: "There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.
"Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Australia. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. You should be vigilant, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
Beautiful, beachy Australia is extremely popular among holidaymakers
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Recent terrorist attacks in Australia include two incidents that occurred in Melbourne. In 2017, a person was shot dead and another taken hostage.
In 2018, a person was killed and several were injured in a terrorist incident.
Holidaymakers were advised to see Australia's national terrorism threat level. Current guidance reads: "Australia’s general terrorism threat level is probable - there is a greater than 50 per cent chance of an onshore attack or attack planning in the next 12 months."
Here, Britons can consult the latest information on the current national terrorism threat level, the Australian security environment, what a terrorist attack may look like and the Australian government's response.
Holidaymakers were advised: "It is important for the public to stay aware and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the National Security Hotline by calling 1800 123 400.
"Life-threatening situations should be reported to the police by calling triple zero (000)."
The FCDO provided information on reducing your risk from terrorism while abroad, including the impact of conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, terrorism and travel advice, terrorist targets, the terrorist threat in Europe, flying and airport security, kidnapping and how to minimise your risk from terrorism.
The UK Counter Terrorism Policing also has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack.
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Terrorist attacks took place in Melbourne, Australia in 2017 and 2018
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Its important guidance reads: "The chances of being caught up in a terrorist incident are low but sadly we have seen atrocities take place in the UK and abroad. It is important everyone stays alert and knows what to do if the worst was to happen."
Britons were advised to take three measures before going a holiday. Holidaymakers were advised to check the latest UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Travel Advice for the country they are visiting, ensure they have adequate travel insurance – checking the small print - and watch the UK Counter Terrorism Policing's holiday safety film.
Travellers were advised: "If you find yourself in an emergency: run, hide and tell. Run to a place of safety. This is better than trying to surrender or negotiate.
"It is better to hide than confront. Barricade yourself in, turn your phone to silent and use only when it is safe to do so.
"Make sure you know the local emergency numbers in the country you are travelling to. For all EU countries call 112."
