For Aussies In Thailand

[udon]

I am writing to all registered Australians in Thailand to provide you

with information about important changes to Australiaโ€s passport laws.

There is no requirement for you to visit the Embassy or renew your existing

passport, which remains valid.

The Australian Passports Act 2005, which comes into effect on 1 July,

introduces new measures to protect Australian passport holders.

Identity theft is a growing problem with serious consequences for our security.

It can involve the illegal use of documents โ€“ such as passports โ€“

issued in another person's name.

The new Act combats this problem by introducing tougher penalties for

passport fraud and stricter procedures for dealing with lost or stolen

passports. It requires Australians to report a lost or stolen passport

as soon as possible. It authorises the department to cancel such

passports immediately and permanently and to notify international border control

authorities that they are no longer valid. As an Australian residing

overseas, you can report a lost or stolen passport to your nearest

Australian diplomatic or consular mission or online at the passports

website www.passports.gov.au.

If you recover your passport after reporting it lost or stolen you must

return it the nearest Australian Embassy. Under no circumstances

should you try to use a passport that you have reported as lost or stolen.

This is illegal and heavy penalties apply. Mandatory reporting and immediate

cancellation will help prevent criminals and terrorists using lost or

stolen passports to assume someone elseโ€s identity.

At the same time, the new Act encourages Australians to protect their

passport by introducing a lost or stolen passport fee in addition to

the normal passport application fee. This additional fee must be paid when

applying for a replacement passport. The amount of the additional fee

depends on the number of passports an individual has lost or had stolen

in the previous five years. The fee is $50 for one passport lost or

stolen,

$153 for two and $306 for three or more. The validity of the

replacement passport will also be reduced if three or more have been lost or

stolen.

You can use the passports website to confirm the number of passports

you have lost or had stolen.

An arrangement has been put in place to refund the lost or stolen

passport

fee where passport holders can establish they were not responsible for

the

loss or theft. You can apply for a refund only if the passport was

lost or

stolen in circumstances beyond your control. You cannot apply for a

refund

if insurance covers you against payment of the lost or stolen fee.

New forms will be available for passport services from 1 July 2005. In

most cases, the old forms cannot be used after 31 July 2005. If you

would

like more information on these changes, please visit the passports

website

or contact the Australian Embassy Bangkok Consular Section by email at

[email protected] or phone 66-2-2872680.

Consular Section

Australian Embassy Bangkok

(Sorry abt the format, that's how it arriverd....... udon

[soi lurker]

Thanks for the update.........

[dr_Pat_Pong]

Good man John. Keeping busy in the shed I see

[Jai Dee]

Thanks udon.

[udon]

I'm surprised at the number of Aussies who don't reg with the embassy.

It takes just a few secs by email, no big deal.

You don't have to give an address, just a reliable email addy.

[sakaew]

Thanks Udon..nice to see some kind hearted souls on TV.

I have never thought of registering...but thanks to your info...I'll do it right now

Brian

[Artisi]

I'm surprised at the number of Aussies who don't reg with the embassy.

It takes just  a few secs by email, no big deal.

You don't have to give an address, just a reliable email addy.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I second that, it is a good idea to register as you get all updates on passport details etc. etc.

[udon]

No worries.

BTW, if anyone wants a gmail account (2Gb storage now), I have loads, just send me a test email to visabusatgmaildotcom

subject : gmail a/c

Edited June 24, 2005 by udon

[Khutan]

I'm surprised at the number of Aussies who don't reg with the embassy.

It takes just  a few secs by email, no big deal.

You don't have to give an address, just a reliable email addy.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

That makes the assumption that people want the Australian government to know where they are.

[Jai Dee]

I'm surprised at the number of Aussies who don't reg with the embassy.

It takes just  a few secs by email, no big deal.

You don't have to give an address, just a reliable email addy.

That makes the assumption that people want the Australian government to know where they are.

You wouldn't be hiding from anyone now would you Matt?

[udon]

"You wouldn't be hiding from anyone now would you Matt?"

Never.........

[Khutan]

You wouldn't be hiding from anyone now would you Matt? 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Actually no, I have done my duty for the country, and now I want to lead a private life.

Don't get me started on that place. I have never had any pleasant dealings with them, even going back as far as 1990. I am only judging them on their track record with myself and their attitude to my wife.

Simple things like when I have wanted something simple like a stat-dec witnessed. The debacle to get my wife a visa, to support me when I needed to go back to Australia urgently, and being told in my presence "how do we know you aren't a prostitute". This is after my family was willing to post a bond of up to $100K.

I am yet to be convinced that there is any advantage in registering with the Australian embassy, or telling them any of my business. After all they probably wouldn't believe me anyway.

[samran]

I am yet to be convinced that there is any advantage in registering with the Australian embassy, or telling them any of my business. After all they probably wouldn't believe me anyway.

If they can be arsed, they are usually able to find you anyway, with or without registration. Centralised databases of immigration comings and goings are becoming more common.

I think the real benefit of registrations is in times of real national emergency, they can get in contact with you. I know my family back in OZ got phone calls from the OZ embassy in BKK checking up on me after the Tsunami last year. Having said that, I am living in the UK now and haven't bothered registering with the DFAT.

If I was in Thailand I would though. An egomaniacal Prime Minister; an army with split loyalties between country, their lost political ambitions and their own pockets, an uncertain economic outlook; combined //mod snip unnecessary comment // make me want to be on the first RAAF Hurcles out of Don Muang if //snip//

Edited June 25, 2005 by mattnich

[Jai Dee]

I think the real benefit of registrations is in times of real national emergency, they can get in contact with you. I know my family back in OZ got phone calls from the OZ embassy in BKK checking up on me after the Tsunami last year.

Thats a very good point samran.

We may get the run-around from them from time to time, but it's reassuring to know there's a safety line available if the &lt;deleted&gt; ever hits the fan.

On that very subject, I have played golf a couple of times with a high ranking Thai police officer and his lawyer friend... introduced to me by my Thai planning engineer... they all went to the same school together and have remained friends. I have been presented with their business cards and they occasionally call me to play golf with them. They have made suggestions that I may use their services if I ever need them, for which I have politely acknowledged and thanked them for... but I would only ever do it in a once-off "get out of jail free and do a runner" type of situation... not an offer to be abused at all.

Having said that, I would never knowingly put myself in a position that would jeopardise my situation here in Thailand... laws are laws, and I respect them.

Having the Oz embassy in the background is just another safety line for me, and I'm glad to know that they are there.

Thanks again to udon for the OP.

[LindsayBKK]

I have updated my address 3 times (registered) since moving to Bangkok so I get 3 updated emails everytime How can I just update info without getting another email newsletter?? Or should I just leave it. This is one problem about registering anywhere. I am sure there are lots of Aussie's that don't bother.

[udon]

I have updated my address 3 times (registered) since moving to Bangkok so I get 3 updated emails everytime  How can I just update info without getting another email newsletter?? Or should I just leave it. This is one problem about registering anywhere. I am sure there are lots of Aussie's that don't bother.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

How many times have you rec'd emails from DFAT, BKK in the last 3 years?

[bdenner]

I am writing to all registered Australians in Thailand to provide you

with information about important changes to Australiaโ€s passport laws.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Excuse my ignorance but what are the symbols?

Thanks for the info. I have just sent off an email to the embassy.

[Greer]

I would think the symbols are just the result of incorrect decoding of the data representing an apostrophe.

I'll do this test--- Australia's

If it looks OK when it is posted, it is likely that the original post John cut and pasted had some odd formatting data or might have been in an unsupported font (typeface).

Regarding the issue of registering - obviously it is up to the individual - I have not registered, as Thailand is my home, and if I lived in Australia (even though I am in Sydney at present) I would not be able to register with the local authorities so they could phone home in an emergency, so I guess that's why I don't consider it.

Also, I tend to prefer not providing the government with absolutely every bit of information they want, or that they give us the opportunity to "share"...maybe I have an overdeveloped sense of privacy in this regard.

Identity theft being what it is, the fewer bits of info available for people to steal the less likely that someone can make themselves out to be you...and government databases are accessible by all sorts of undesirables; the Australian Government is an "equal opportunity" employer...

The notification regarding the passport fees is very useful...but brings some bad news...more fees...

oh well...

Edited June 25, 2005 by Greer

[udon]

I am writing to all registered Australians in Thailand to provide you

with information about important changes to Australiaโ€s passport laws.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Excuse my ignorance but what are the symbols?

Thanks for the info. I have just sent off an email to the embassy.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Greer is correct.

I haven't a clue why it arrived in my mailbox like that.

It arrived looking like a dog's dinner, I tried to tidy it up a bit but in the end, couldn't be arsed.

Maybe the original was done on a Thai keyboard......

I just copied it and pasted it.... here.

Good question though

Edited June 25, 2005 by udon

[dr_Pat_Pong]

and the grog.

[TizMe]

make me want to be on the first RAAF Hurcles out of Don Muang if //snip//

When I was in the middle east, it was made quite clear to us Aussies that if we needed to be evacuated for any reason that we could expect to receive a hefty bill from the Govt for their trouble.

[bdenner]

I'm surprised at the number of Aussies who don't reg with the embassy.

It takes just  a few secs by email, no big deal.

You don't have to give an address, just a reliable email addy.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Here is the link to Online Registration

Udon is correct, you only have to give them the info you want them to know.

[thedude]

I'm surprised at the number of Aussies who don't reg with the embassy.

It takes just  a few secs by email, no big deal.

You don't have to give an address, just a reliable email addy.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

the electoral commission back in Oz is aware of my bkk address, is that good enough?

[udon]

Thanks Denner.

The form I filled in was from their BKK site, now, they don't even ask for your PP number.

I reg'd 5 yrs ago.

[udon]

I'm surprised at the number of Aussies who don't reg with the embassy.

It takes just  a few secs by email, no big deal.

You don't have to give an address, just a reliable email addy.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

the electoral commission back in Oz is aware of my bkk address, is that good enough?

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Nope.

[samran]

make me want to be on the first RAAF Hurcles out of Don Muang if //snip//

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

When I was in the middle east, it was made quite clear to us Aussies that if we needed to be evacuated for any reason that we could expect to receive a hefty bill from the Govt for their trouble.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Don't worry Tiz, if the fit hits the shan, I'll stick on a pair of fake big boobs, doe eye blue contact lenses, grow my hair long and call myself 'Shappel'. The government will be paying me for the honour of flying me home

[udon]

DFAT update June 29 2005 for those non-subscribers.

Travel Advice

Thailand

This Advice is current for Wednesday, 29 June 2005.

The Advice was issued on Wednesday, 29 June 2005, 10:27:15, AEST.

This advice has been reviewed and reissued. It contains new information on safety and security. The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Australians in Thailand are advised to exercise extreme caution. We continue to receive reports that terrorist elements in South East Asia are planning attacks against a range of targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

Areas of the west coast of Thailand were hit by a large tsunami on 26 December 2004. Some facilities on Phi Phi Island and Khao Lak coast in Phang Na Province remain disrupted. Travellers should check with accommodation providers in advance that accommodation is operational and well serviced. Other tourist areas in Phuket were not affected or have resumed normal operations. The Gulf of Thailand coast, including Koh Samui and Pattaya, was not affected by the tsunami.

Australians are advised to defer non-essential travel to the provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla, including overland travel to and from the Malaysian border through these provinces. There have been numerous security incidents in these provinces since early 2004, including bombings of public areas and facilities. Further incidents are possible at any time. While so far this violence has been limited to Southern Thailand, the escalation of violence in the South may result in attacks elsewhere in Thailand including Bangkok and other tourist areas.

Safety and Security

Terrorism

Australian travellers should be aware of the threat of terrorism globally and should read this travel advice in conjunction with the General Advice to Australian Travellers.

Australians in Thailand are advised to exercise extreme caution. We continue to receive reports that terrorist elements in South East Asia are planning attacks. These could occur at any time and could be directed against any locations frequented by foreigners such as, but not limited to, embassies, shopping malls, clubs, hotels, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreation events and tourist areas. Infrastructure associated with the Thai Government such as public transport, airports, sea ports and public buildings is also a potential terrorist target. Security at the Australian Embassy in Bangkok remains at a high level as a precautionary measure.

Australians are advised to defer non-essential travel to the provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla, including overland travel to and from the Malaysian border through these provinces. Terrorists have targeted railways in the Thai southern provinces with further attacks possible. Thai separatists have threatened attacks against foreigners and warned foreign tourists not to travel to these areas.

Terrorist threats in southern Thailand exist against the backdrop of ongoing violence. Political tension and violent incidents in southern Thailand have been taking place for many years, however, the frequency and intensity of these incidents has escalated over the past few years. Further incidents could occur at any time. Violent incidents have included civil disturbances, explosions in bars and shopping districts, armed attacks on security forces and civilians and torching of schools. In April 2005 a series of bombs were detonated in Songkhla at the international airport, a hotel and a department store resulting in the deaths and injuries of a number of people. Martial law is in place throughout a number of districts and curfews have been introduced in some areas. While so far this violence has been limited to Southern Thailand, the escalation of violence in the South may result in attacks elsewhere in Thailand, including Bangkok and other tourist areas.

Civil Unrest/Political Tension

Demonstrations occur and there have been occasions where authorities have used force to disperse demonstrators.

There is ongoing conflict and banditry along some sections of the Burma/Thai border. This includes conflict between the Burmese military and armed opposition groups as well as clashes between Thai security forces and armed criminal groups, such as drug traffickers. Up-to-date local advice can be obtained from the local Tourist Police or security officials on the safety of travel to specific areas along the border. Travel in border areas at night and camping in undesignated areas in national parks is particularly dangerous due to the risk of kidnapping.

There have also been occasional reports of banditry and violence along isolated parts of the borders with both Cambodia and Laos. Travellers who have attempted border illegal crossings have been detained and deported from Thailand.

Personal Security

There have been instances of robbery and violence by the drivers of unauthorised taxis. The clearly marked official service counters in the arrival area of Bangkok's Don Muang airport can provide information on transportation to the city and hotels. The airport bus service is also reliable.

There have been a number of instances of sexual assault, food and drink spiking, assault and robbery against foreigners. This risk is particularly acute in popular backpacker destinations, especially around Khao San Road in Bangkok and the night-time entertainment zones of Bangkok and Pattaya, including the monthly Full Moon Parties at Koh Phangan.

Petty crime is common. There have been reports of money and passports being stolen from rooms (particularly in cheaper establishments) and from bags on public transport (including on overnight bus services, notably between Bangkok and Surat Thani). There have also been reports of bags being sliced open by razor blades and valuable contents covertly removed in areas frequented by tourists.

Swimming at beaches in Phuket and other resorts can be dangerous due to strong undertows; drownings are frequent. There have also been fatalities from jellyfish stings on Koh Phangan in Southern Thailand. Local authorities can provide advice on safe areas to swim.

Motor cycle accidents are a very common occurrence, particularly in resort areas such as Phuket, Pattaya and Koh Samui. It is obligatory for riders and passengers to wear helmets even if not provided by motorcycle taxis. Both an international and Australian driver's licence are required to drive or ride legally and validate any applicable insurance, despite advice to the contrary of some car and motorcycle rental companies. Australians intending to hire cars, motorcycles, jet skis or other motorised water sport equipment should seek advice on the insurance status of such activities.

Unsolicited approaches by individuals recommending or offering various goods or services, particularly for assistance with shopping for jewellery and gems have in the past proven to be scams. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) can provide advice on shopping for jewellery and gems. Travellers have lost large sums of money through bogus investment schemes and card game scams. Gambling is illegal in Thailand.

Prior to travel, Australians should ensure they have a variety of financial options available to them including credit cards, travellers' cheques and cash. Australians should consult their automatic teller machine (ATM) card provider for information about overseas services and availability. Not all overseas ATMs accept Australian cards.

Australians should only carry sufficient cash for their daily needs, secure their valuables against theft and avoid displays of wealth at all times. Photocopies of valuables such as passport, tickets, driving licence and travellers' cheques should be kept separately from the originals.

You are required by law to report a lost or stolen passport as soon as possible. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible. As of 1 July 2005, you need to pay an additional fee to have it replaced. In some cases, the Government may restrict the length of validity or type of replacement document. Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place.

Local Conditions

Areas of the west coast of Thailand were hit by a large tsunami on 26 December 2004. Some services and facilities on Phi Phi Island and Khao Lak coast in Phang Na Province remain disrupted. Travellers should check with accommodation providers in advance that accommodation is operational and well serviced. Other tourist areas in Phuket were not affected or have returned to normal operations. The Gulf of Thailand coast, including Koh Samui and Pattaya, was not affected by the tsunami.

Ferry disasters in January and February 2005 which resulted in multiple casualties, including tourists, highlight the lack of uniform safety standards amongst some local operators. Vessel passenger limits may not be observed and sufficient life jackets are not always provided.

Widespread seasonal flooding is common but does not generally affect popular tourist destinations. North Eastern, Northern and Central Thailand can be affected periodically from June to November. Flooding in Southern Thailand can occur during varying local rainy seasons. In the event of a natural disaster, local authorities will provide advice.

Local Law and Customs

Australians are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws. Local laws and legal processes can be very different from those in Australia. A violation of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or unjust by Australian standards.

There are very severe penalties for all drug offences in Thailand, including the death penalty. Even possession of small quantities of 'soft drugs' for recreational purposes attracts lengthy jail sentences, heavy fines and deportation.

Some Australian criminal laws, including - but not limited to - those relating to money laundering, bribery of foreign public officials, terrorism and child sex tourism, have extraterritorial effect. Australians who commit such offences outside of Australia may be prosecuted in Australia for those offences.

Australian authorities are committed to combating sexual exploitation of children by Australians overseas. Australians may be prosecuted at home under Australian child sex tourism laws. These laws provide severe penalties of up to 17 years imprisonment for Australians who engage in sexual activity with children under 16 while outside of Australia.

Entry and Exit Requirements

Visa conditions are subject to change. For up-to-date visa information, Australians should contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Thailand, well in advance of travel.

Visas, entry permits and extensions of stay must be obtained from Thai immigration authorities. A number of agents advertise visa extension services and then provide fraudulent or illegally obtained exit and entry stamps in passports. Australians found to have illegal stamps in their passports risk arrest, and punishment of between one and ten years imprisonment and a large fine - Thai authorities have made clear their intention to vigorously prosecute these criminal offences.

Travellers overstaying their entry permits will not be allowed to leave Thailand until a fine is paid, currently 200 Baht per day. Long term visa overstayers may be arrested, prosecuted in court, imprisoned, deported and placed on an immigration blacklist preventing them from returning to Thailand.

Working without a work permit is illegal. Individuals are responsible for ensuring they hold the correct work permit. In the past, some employers (particularly of securities telemarketers and currency traders) have promised to arrange work permits and their employees have later been jailed, fined and deported from Thailand as legal permits were not obtained from the Labour Ministry. The Australian Embassy cannot provide assistance in obtaining visas or work permits.

An airport terminal fee of 500 Baht is payable in cash before departing Bangkok international airport. Travellers are not permitted to board their flight until this is paid.

Health Issues

In the past year there have been human cases of avian influenza in Thailand. Australians should read this travel advice in conjunction with our travel bulletin on avian influenza.

For information on prevalent diseases and inoculations, travellers should consult their doctor, travel clinic or the World Health Organization (WHO). Further information can be found in our 'Travelling Well' brochure.

Travel and Health Insurance

Travel and health insurance is strongly recommended for all overseas travel. Travellers should check with their insurer to make sure that their policy meets their needs. In particular, travellers should seek advice from their insurer on what type of circumstances and activities are the subject of exclusions in their policy.

Consular Assistance and Registration

Australians may obtain consular assistance from the:

Australian Embassy

37 South Sathorn Road,

Bangkok, THAILAND

Telephone (66 2) 287 2680,

Facsimile (66 2) 287 4534.

All Australians travelling to Thailand, whether for tourism or business or for short or long stays, are encouraged to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Australians can register in person at any Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate or on-line. The registration information provided by you will help us to find you in an emergency - whether it is a natural disaster, civil disturbance or a family emergency.

Australians planning travel and those overseas are encouraged to monitor our travel advice updates, including through use of our free subscription service, at smartraveller.gov.au.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra may be contacted on (02) 6261 3305.

------------

Enjoy the LOS

[Jai Dee]

Enjoy the LOS 

Just because you're stuck in that shed udon doesn't give you the right to try and rain on our parade...

You trying to upset us Aussies in LOS?

[kreon]

DFAT update June 29 2005 for those non-subscribers. 

Travel Advice

Thailand

  This Advice is current for Wednesday, 29 June 2005.

The Advice was issued on Wednesday, 29 June 2005, 10:27:15, AEST.

This advice has been reviewed and reissued. It contains new information on safety and security. The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Australians in Thailand are advised to exercise extreme caution. We continue to receive reports that terrorist elements in South East Asia are planning attacks against a range of targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

Areas of the west coast of Thailand were hit by a large tsunami on 26 December 2004. Some facilities on Phi Phi Island and Khao Lak coast in Phang Na Province remain disrupted. Travellers should check with accommodation providers in advance that accommodation is operational and well serviced. Other tourist areas in Phuket were not affected or have resumed normal operations. The Gulf of Thailand coast, including Koh Samui and Pattaya, was not affected by the tsunami.

Australians are advised to defer non-essential travel to the provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla, including overland travel to and from the Malaysian border through these provinces. There have been numerous security incidents in these provinces since early 2004, including bombings of public areas and facilities. Further incidents are possible at any time. While so far this violence has been limited to Southern Thailand, the escalation of violence in the South may result in attacks elsewhere in Thailand including Bangkok and other tourist areas.

Safety and Security

Terrorism

Australian travellers should be aware of the threat of terrorism globally and should read this travel advice in conjunction with the General Advice to Australian Travellers.

Australians in Thailand are advised to exercise extreme caution. We continue to receive reports that terrorist elements in South East Asia are planning attacks. These could occur at any time and could be directed against any locations frequented by foreigners such as, but not limited to, embassies, shopping malls, clubs, hotels, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreation events and tourist areas. Infrastructure associated with the Thai Government such as public transport, airports, sea ports and public buildings is also a potential terrorist target. Security at the Australian Embassy in Bangkok remains at a high level as a precautionary measure.

Australians are advised to defer non-essential travel to the provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla, including overland travel to and from the Malaysian border through these provinces. Terrorists have targeted railways in the Thai southern provinces with further attacks possible. Thai separatists have threatened attacks against foreigners and warned foreign tourists not to travel to these areas.

Terrorist threats in southern Thailand exist against the backdrop of ongoing violence. Political tension and violent incidents in southern Thailand have been taking place for many years, however, the frequency and intensity of these incidents has escalated over the past few years. Further incidents could occur at any time. Violent incidents have included civil disturbances, explosions in bars and shopping districts, armed attacks on security forces and civilians and torching of schools. In April 2005 a series of bombs were detonated in Songkhla at the international airport, a hotel and a department store resulting in the deaths and injuries of a number of people. Martial law is in place throughout a number of districts and curfews have been introduced in some areas. While so far this violence has been limited to Southern Thailand, the escalation of violence in the South may result in attacks elsewhere in Thailand, including Bangkok and other tourist areas.

Civil Unrest/Political Tension

Demonstrations occur and there have been occasions where authorities have used force to disperse demonstrators.

There is ongoing conflict and banditry along some sections of the Burma/Thai border. This includes conflict between the Burmese military and armed opposition groups as well as clashes between Thai security forces and armed criminal groups, such as drug traffickers. Up-to-date local advice can be obtained from the local Tourist Police or security officials on the safety of travel to specific areas along the border. Travel in border areas at night and camping in undesignated areas in national parks is particularly dangerous due to the risk of kidnapping.

There have also been occasional reports of banditry and violence along isolated parts of the borders with both Cambodia and Laos. Travellers who have attempted border illegal crossings have been detained and deported from Thailand.

Personal Security

There have been instances of robbery and violence by the drivers of unauthorised taxis. The clearly marked official service counters in the arrival area of Bangkok's Don Muang airport can provide information on transportation to the city and hotels. The airport bus service is also reliable.

There have been a number of instances of sexual assault, food and drink spiking, assault and robbery against foreigners. This risk is particularly acute in popular backpacker destinations, especially around Khao San Road in Bangkok and the night-time entertainment zones of Bangkok and Pattaya, including the monthly Full Moon Parties at Koh Phangan.

Petty crime is common. There have been reports of money and passports being stolen from rooms (particularly in cheaper establishments) and from bags on public transport (including on overnight bus services, notably between Bangkok and Surat Thani). There have also been reports of bags being sliced open by razor blades and valuable contents covertly removed in areas frequented by tourists.

Swimming at beaches in Phuket and other resorts can be dangerous due to strong undertows; drownings are frequent. There have also been fatalities from jellyfish stings on Koh Phangan in Southern Thailand. Local authorities can provide advice on safe areas to swim.

Motor cycle accidents are a very common occurrence, particularly in resort areas such as Phuket, Pattaya and Koh Samui. It is obligatory for riders and passengers to wear helmets even if not provided by motorcycle taxis. Both an international and Australian driver's licence are required to drive or ride legally and validate any applicable insurance, despite advice to the contrary of some car and motorcycle rental companies. Australians intending to hire cars, motorcycles, jet skis or other motorised water sport equipment should seek advice on the insurance status of such activities.

Unsolicited approaches by individuals recommending or offering various goods or services, particularly for assistance with shopping for jewellery and gems have in the past proven to be scams. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) can provide advice on shopping for jewellery and gems. Travellers have lost large sums of money through bogus investment schemes and card game scams. Gambling is illegal in Thailand.

Prior to travel, Australians should ensure they have a variety of financial options available to them including credit cards, travellers' cheques and cash. Australians should consult their automatic teller machine (ATM) card provider for information about overseas services and availability. Not all overseas ATMs accept Australian cards.

Australians should only carry sufficient cash for their daily needs, secure their valuables against theft and avoid displays of wealth at all times. Photocopies of valuables such as passport, tickets, driving licence and travellers' cheques should be kept separately from the originals.

You are required by law to report a lost or stolen passport as soon as possible. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible. As of 1 July 2005, you need to pay an additional fee to have it replaced. In some cases, the Government may restrict the length of validity or type of replacement document. Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place.

Local Conditions

Areas of the west coast of Thailand were hit by a large tsunami on 26 December 2004. Some services and facilities on Phi Phi Island and Khao Lak coast in Phang Na Province remain disrupted. Travellers should check with accommodation providers in advance that accommodation is operational and well serviced. Other tourist areas in Phuket were not affected or have returned to normal operations. The Gulf of Thailand coast, including Koh Samui and Pattaya, was not affected by the tsunami.

Ferry disasters in January and February 2005 which resulted in multiple casualties, including tourists, highlight the lack of uniform safety standards amongst some local operators. Vessel passenger limits may not be observed and sufficient life jackets are not always provided.

Widespread seasonal flooding is common but does not generally affect popular tourist destinations. North Eastern, Northern and Central Thailand can be affected periodically from June to November. Flooding in Southern Thailand can occur during varying local rainy seasons. In the event of a natural disaster, local authorities will provide advice.

Local Law and Customs

Australians are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws. Local laws and legal processes can be very different from those in Australia. A violation of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or unjust by Australian standards.

There are very severe penalties for all drug offences in Thailand, including the death penalty. Even possession of small quantities of 'soft drugs' for recreational purposes attracts lengthy jail sentences, heavy fines and deportation.

Some Australian criminal laws, including - but not limited to - those relating to money laundering, bribery of foreign public officials, terrorism and child sex tourism, have extraterritorial effect. Australians who commit such offences outside of Australia may be prosecuted in Australia for those offences.

Australian authorities are committed to combating sexual exploitation of children by Australians overseas. Australians may be prosecuted at home under Australian child sex tourism laws. These laws provide severe penalties of up to 17 years imprisonment for Australians who engage in sexual activity with children under 16 while outside of Australia.

Entry and Exit Requirements

Visa conditions are subject to change. For up-to-date visa information, Australians should contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Thailand, well in advance of travel.

Visas, entry permits and extensions of stay must be obtained from Thai immigration authorities. A number of agents advertise visa extension services and then provide fraudulent or illegally obtained exit and entry stamps in passports. Australians found to have illegal stamps in their passports risk arrest, and punishment of between one and ten years imprisonment and a large fine - Thai authorities have made clear their intention to vigorously prosecute these criminal offences.

Travellers overstaying their entry permits will not be allowed to leave Thailand until a fine is paid, currently 200 Baht per day. Long term visa overstayers may be arrested, prosecuted in court, imprisoned, deported and placed on an immigration blacklist preventing them from returning to Thailand.

Working without a work permit is illegal. Individuals are responsible for ensuring they hold the correct work permit. In the past, some employers (particularly of securities telemarketers and currency traders) have promised to arrange work permits and their employees have later been jailed, fined and deported from Thailand as legal permits were not obtained from the Labour Ministry. The Australian Embassy cannot provide assistance in obtaining visas or work permits.

An airport terminal fee of 500 Baht is payable in cash before departing Bangkok international airport. Travellers are not permitted to board their flight until this is paid.

Health Issues

In the past year there have been human cases of avian influenza in Thailand. Australians should read this travel advice in conjunction with our travel bulletin on avian influenza.

For information on prevalent diseases and inoculations, travellers should consult their doctor, travel clinic or the World Health Organization (WHO). Further information can be found in our 'Travelling Well' brochure.

Travel and Health Insurance

Travel and health insurance is strongly recommended for all overseas travel. Travellers should check with their insurer to make sure that their policy meets their needs. In particular, travellers should seek advice from their insurer on what type of circumstances and activities are the subject of exclusions in their policy.

Consular Assistance and Registration

Australians may obtain consular assistance from the:

Australian Embassy

37 South Sathorn Road,

Bangkok, THAILAND

Telephone (66 2) 287 2680,

Facsimile (66 2) 287 4534.

All Australians travelling to Thailand, whether for tourism or business or for short or long stays, are encouraged to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Australians can register in person at any Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate or on-line. The registration information provided by you will help us to find you in an emergency - whether it is a natural disaster, civil disturbance or a family emergency.

Australians planning travel and those overseas are encouraged to monitor our travel advice updates, including through use of our free subscription service, at smartraveller.gov.au.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra may be contacted on (02) 6261 3305.

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Enjoy the LOS 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

enjoy your life in the shed, but if i could be bothered, i'm sure i can find simlar warnings for australia too

now about registering, its none of any countries business what i do wih my life, and if anybody needs to contact me they can, i make sure of that

btw. registering at the embassy leaves your ip address, you've been warned

[dr_Pat_Pong]

He's a victim of his environment. Poor Udon