Traveling around Australia, it’s important to know the basics of local laws and how they pertain to you as a foreign visitor.

Even as a citizen of another country, you’re subject to the local governments’ laws and the regulations of the country you’re traveling in, so it’s vital that you obey the law and avoid getting in trouble. Not only is this respectful of the laws and customs of that country , but it saves you time, money, and legal issues.

This handy list covers all the basics you should know about local Australian laws for travelers.

Local Laws in Australia Travelers Should Know

When traveling to a foreign country, you don’t need to know all the laws. But you should be reasonably acquainted with local government regulations that impact or affect you as a traveler, like driving laws and illegal substances.

Visiting Australia, here are some essential laws you should have on your radar.

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Visas

Along with a valid passport, federal law requires you to have a visa  in order to enter Australia.

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Customs and Border Patrol

Traveling to Australia to see its unique, endemic wildlife like kangaroos and koalas? The reason Australia has such one-of-a-kind flora and fauna is due to its geographic isolation, allowing species to evolve without outside intervention or interaction for millions of years.

Because of this, Australian border control goes to great lengths to protect the country’s animals and plant life with strict customs and quarantine regulations. Upon arrival, it’s your responsibility to declare all food, plant material, animal products, and other restricted items upon arrival. If you don’t declare these items and they’re discovered, you risk getting a fine.

Before you travel, check the Australian Border Force’s list of items you can and can’t bring into the country.

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Tipping

While not mandatory, tipping at cafes, restaurants, and other service establishments is welcome and appreciated. 10% to 15% is the norm.

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Drinking

Per the Australian government, the legal drinking age is 18, and public drinking is prohibited.

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Smoking

Smoking may be restricted in some public spaces, like restaurants, bars, and parks. Look for signage indicating the local law and refrain from lighting up if you’re unsure. For e-cigarettes, some states have outright bans, while others do not and allow them to be imported for personal use.

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Marijuana

For the most part, recreational marijuana is illegal in Australia. In some states like Victoria, however, it’s available legally for medicinal use, so you can check the local government’s website to confirm. But since the federal government has declared it illegal throughout the country for recreational use, it’s best to steer clear of it during your stay.

Drugs

Don’t import, use, or traffic drugs during your time in Australia, or you’ll risk steep penalties like fines, detainment, or deportation. If you need to bring prescription medicine into Australia during your trip, our Australia Health & Safety page has the requirements.

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Driving

Planning to rent a car to explore Australia? Along with your valid foreign driver’s license, you’ll also need an international driving permit. Cars also drive on the left here. Learn more about the rules of the road for driving in Australia.

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LGBTQ+ Travelers

Home to extremely gay-friendly cities, like Sydney, that have massive LGBTQ+ communities and events, LGBTQ+ travelers can feel safe and secure traveling openly in Australia. Caution is advised in more rural, conservative areas, but major cities are generally very open and welcoming destinations for LGBTQ+ travel.

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Wildlife Protection

Unless you have the proper permits, it’s illegal to harm, collect, or export any native wildlife from Australia. For this reason, you should always be responsible and careful when driving through nature reserves, national parks, and other areas where wildlife congregates. You should also follow local community guidelines and be respectful of the environment.

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Campfires

Wildfires are an increasingly big problem in Australia, leading to bans on campfires in certain areas during fire season. Most national parks don’t allow wood and charcoal fires throughout the year, and all wilderness areas will have rules and regulations for when and how you can have campfires.

When entering national parks, check for any signage about campfires, or ask park rangers and other local authorities for the most up-to-date information and any new local laws that may apply.

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Photography and Indigenous Sites

When traveling on Indigenous land, respect local customs and traditions. Always ask permission or seek the right permits before visiting and/or photographing sacred Indigenous sites around Australia.

What Happens If I Break the Law While in Australia?

Australia does have an extradition treaty with the United States, so individuals can be sent back to Australia to stand trial if necessary.

Australia: Know Before You Go

Doing your research before traveling helps you avoid issues and be prepared in case of an emergency. For more information on other aspects of travel to Australia, including travel restrictions, health and safety, banking, money, and currency, and extending your stay, visit our Australia content hub.

Obtaining the proper visa is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting an Australia visa. Start your visa application process.