U.S. citizens in Australia are being urged to stay alert and exercise caution during the holiday season, following a recent terrorist attack at a Jewish community gathering on Sydney’s Bondi Beach on December 14. The U.S. Mission to Australia issued a security alert reminding travelers that large gatherings may be targeted by terrorists or criminals, including lone actors who could strike without warning.
"U.S. citizens should remain vigilant of their surroundings and practice sound personal security and situational awareness. Large gatherings may present a target of opportunity for terrorists and criminals, as we observed in the Sunday, December 14 terrorist attack that targeted the Jewish community gathering at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. Terrorists – including lone actors – may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist or other locations such as markets, transportation hubs, shopping malls, places of worship, and other public areas," the statement said.
The alert noted there are currently no specific threats known to U.S. authorities but advised visitors to busy tourist areas to be especially attentive and follow directions from police and emergency officials. "While the United States is not aware of any specific terrorist threats, visitors to congested and popular tourist areas should pay particular attention to their surroundings and always follow the instructions of police and emergency response officials."
Travelers were encouraged to review official travel information at travel.state.gov and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updated advice.
The Consular Sections at U.S. Mission Australia will keep regular business hours over the holidays except for closures on December 24-26 (Christmas Eve through Boxing Day), January 1 (New Year’s Day), January 19 (Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday), and January 26 (Australia Day).
Actions recommended by the mission include avoiding demonstrations or areas with significant police presence, staying aware of one’s environment, keeping a low profile, remaining alert in places frequented by tourists, and safeguarding passports while traveling.
For local updates, citizens are advised to monitor Australian media outlets such as http://www.abc.net.au/news.
Emergency contact details were provided for consulates in Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth as well as links to https://au.usembassy.gov/ for further information.
The Bureau of Consular Affairs can also be reached at 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 for assistance related to Australia Country Information or STEP enrollment via https://step.state.gov/step/.