Is Brisbane safe to visit right now? (September 2026)

Travel advisories for Australia

What the advice says

• The US State Department rates Australia "Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions" (dated 2025-05-30); this is a country-level advisory, not one specific to Brisbane.
• UK FCDO guidance notes a high threat of terrorism globally affecting British nationals and states that terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Australia, citing a December 2025 attack in Sydney that killed 15 people and an April 2024 incident at a church in Wakeley, Sydney.
• Travelers are advised to stay vigilant in busy tourist areas, particularly at night, and to take basic precautions against petty crime such as not leaving bags or luggage unattended and keeping valuables and passports in a hotel safe.
• FCDO guidance also flags scams targeting visitors, including dating and romance scams and fake service or repair websites, recommending travelers check current examples through the government's Scamwatch resource.
• Swimming safety is a specific concern nationally: rip currents are described as the main hazard for swimmers and surfers at any beach, and there are additional risks from dangerous wildlife including crocodiles, jellyfish, sharks, and venomous snakes and spiders.
• Solo travelers are advised to carry a photocopy of their passport for identification and to leave copies of important documents with contacts back home.