Smartraveller has been a vital resource for Australian travellers for over two decades, offering timely advice, safety tips, and destination insights. What began as a simple brochure back in the 1970s has evolved into a comprehensive platform providing essential travel information to millions of Aussies.

Initially launched by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Smartraveller’s first iteration came as a booklet titled “Notice to Australian Travellers,” issued alongside every passport. Over time, the department expanded its efforts to keep Australian travellers safe by publishing a brochure in 1985 called “Everyone’s Guide to Trouble-Free Overseas Travel.”

However, it wasn’t until the mid-1990s that DFAT began issuing travel advisories for countries where serious concerns existed for the safety of Australian citizens. In 1996, with the dawn of the internet, travel advisories were published online. By 2011, Smartraveller had entered the social media era, reaching a wider audience and making crucial travel advice even more accessible.

Today, Smartraveller covers over 175 destinations, guiding passports, visas, insurance, and cultural advice. According to a recent survey conducted with the Insurance Council of Australia, 50% of Australian travellers said they would consult Smartraveller for travel advice.

As Smartraveller celebrates 21 years, it continues to be a trusted source for Australians planning their next overseas adventure. For your next trip, make Smartraveller your first stop, subscribe for updates, and follow them on social media to stay informed and safe.

Written by: Charmaine Lu

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