Next stop, Africa

Last weekend the 3 rd annual African Festival was held at the Queen Victoria Markets in Melbourne.

The two-day event, sponsored by Smartraveller – the Australian Government’s portal for Australians
planning and travelling overseas – saw around 10,000 people dance, eat and enjoy African culture.

Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Tim Watts, attended the event and remarked on the incredible
sense of culture and community shown at the festival.

"The African Festival was a wonderful celebration of culture and diversity – with people of all
backgrounds joining in the event”, said Assistant Minister Watts.

[The Assistant Minister may wish to include personal reflection on the event here]
“Events like these demonstrate Australia’s diverse heritage, bringing together people from across
the world.

“They’re also excellent avenues for travel inspiration and sparking that wanderlust.

“That’s where Smartraveller comes in. It helps Australians prepare and plan their trip, so they can
make informed choices while overseas.”

Smartraveller provides advice on passports, visas and travel insurance through to detailed travel
advice on over 175 destinations. It also offers essential resources in multiple languages.

Assistant Minister Watts encourages everyone to make Smartraveller.gov.au their first destination
when planning their next adventure and subscribe for updates.

“Smartraveller is an essential part of planning an overseas trip, even if you’ve never travelled before,
or travel regularly its important to stay-up-to date with the latest information”, said Assistant
Minister Watts.

Smartraveller’s top tips before you go overseas:
 Follow the local laws, which may be different to the laws in Australia.
 Respect the cultures and places of significance you visit. This includes wearing appropriate
clothing at places such as temples.
 Be careful how you use social media overseas. In some countries posting revealing photos or
commenting on local or political issues can get you in trouble.
 Keep your bags and belongings close – don’t leave them on the ground or the back of a seat.
This gives thieves a perfect opportunity to steal them.
 If you’re hiring equipment, such as jet skis or a quad bike, check it before you use it and if
something seems off, ask for a replacement.
 Make sure you have the correct license for any equipment you hire.
 If you’re travelling solo, take extra precautions – use official transport and don’t advertise
you’re travelling alone.
 Remember your travel insurance and read the fine print on your policy.
 Leave a copy of your itinerary and travel insurance with loved ones in Australia.

 If you don’t already have a passport allow six weeks to renew or apply.

For more information about Smartraveller and to access their travel advice available in-languages,
please visit https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/communities