As the new year approaches, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has issued a “do not travel” advisory for 23 countries through its Smartraveller service.

Thailand, a favorite destination among Australians, is also under the same stringent warning. Meanwhile, travelers heading to Rwanda and Zambia, amid Mpox outbreaks and proximity to “do not travel” zones, are advised to “exercise normal safety precautions,” the lowest level of alert from Smartraveller. However, certain regions within these countries are subject to stricter advisories.

DFAT formulates its travel advice based on diverse factors, including insights from ASIO and international partners, aiming to objectively evaluate the risks travelers might encounter.

“We routinely reassess our travel advisories, yet not every issue or incident prompts a change,” Smartraveller explains on its platform.

“Our advisories are updated when new or heightened risks to Australians emerge.”