Smartraveller issues update for Aussies heading to the UK after terrorism threat level increased
The destination is hugely popular with Aussies and while Smartraveller has stopped short of saying ’don’t go there’ it has some advice for those planning a visit.
Aussies heading to the UK have been warned to exercise a high degree of caution, with a terror attack now deemed highly likely within the next six months.
The UK Government increased its terrorism threat level on April 30 from “substantial” to “severe”, one day after an anti-Semitic stabbing of two men in north London.
It is the highest threat level since 2021 after the Liverpool Women’s Hospital bombing and the killing of MP David Amess.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Smartraveller says it continues to advise Australians travelling to the UK that there is a higher risk to their safety than they are used to at home.
“We’re not saying ‘don’t go’ to this location. But you should do your research and take extra precautions,” Smartraveller advice reads.
“Be alert to the risks and take official warnings seriously. We continue to advise exercise a high degree of caution in the UK due to the threat of terrorism.”
“The overall UK terrorism threat level is currently ‘severe’ (level 4 of 5), meaning an attack is highly likely. Terrorist attacks have occurred in the UK. UK authorities have installed security barriers on London’s major bridges and locations throughout the UK.
“If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities.”
UK officials said the decision to increase the threat level came against a spate of recent attacks in London and mounting security concerns linked to foreign states which they said had helped fuel violence, including against the Jewish community.
The suspect in the attack, a 45-year-old UK citizen who was born in Somalia, had a history of serious violence and mental health issues, police said.
They confirmed he had previously been referred to the counter-radicalisation scheme Prevent in 2020, while local media reported he had served time in prison for an incident in 2008 when he stabbed an officer and a police dog.
Smartraveller also reminded Australian-British or Australian-Irish dual citizens that under new requirements they must enter the UK on their British or Irish passports, or through a certificate of entitlement in another valid passport.
“These dual citizens are unable to obtain an ETA or visa to enter the UK. Dual citizens may not be able to board a flight to the UK without a valid document.”
The UK is one of the most popular destinations for Australian travellers, ranked seventh in 2025. ABS figures show 638,310 Australians headed to the UK in 2025, representing a 12 per cent increase on the previous year.
— with AAP
