18 Things Not To Do in Australia or You Might Get in Trouble

There’s so much to love about Australia— its beaches, the unique wildlife, plenty of natural wonders, and much more.

It’s no surprise that tourists love visiting the continent, but there are some things you should keep in mind before visiting the land down under. Here are 18 things NOT to do in Australia. 

1. Littering

People shouldn’t be littering in general, but in Western Australia, it is a punishable offense under the Litter Act 1979.

The Keep Australia Beautiful Council (KABC), police, and other authorized personnel can take action against people who litter.

Be especially careful while disposing of cigarette butts since they tend to cause bushfires.

2. Petting Dingoes

If it looks cuddly, why can’t you pet it? Well, for one, it might be an apex predator.

The Australian dingo might look similar to a dog in build. Still, some authorities consider it a species of its own, while others opine that it might be a subspecies of the wolf.

While you might not be in immediate danger if you run into them, it always helps to be cautious around them because they can be unpredictable.

While attacks on humans are rare, they occur enough to warrant caution.

3. Not Applying Sunscreen

Australian summers can be harsh, but there’s another detail to consider: Australia faces higher levels of UV radiation due to its proximity to the equator.

So, don’t forget to choose a sunscreen suitable for your skin, and try to find a broad-spectrum one with at least 30 SPF. 

4. Ignoring The Yellow and Red Flags

Do not, at any cost, swim at an unpatrolled beach in Australia. A considerable number of beach drownings happen because people get caught in offshore rip currents.

These currents can be hazardous, and swimming between the yellow and red flags is the best way to have fun while staying safe. 

5. Ignoring Storm Warnings

Regardless of where you are, this is a rule you should follow — don’t ignore disaster warnings.

If you hear storm warnings when you’re in Australia, be careful. As a rule of thumb, don’t try to drive through flooded roads. 

6. Climbing Uluru

For years, thousands of tourists have tried to climb Uluru. However, in 2019, the activity was banned.

Uluru, the giant monolith commonly known as Ayers Rock, is a sacred site for the Anangu people. They have consistently asked people to refrain from climbing the structure. 

7. Befriending Kangaroos

Kangaroos are not out to get you but are unpredictable and incredibly strong. One wrong interaction with them can have disastrous results. 

8. Bringing Food in Baggage Without Due Diligence

Be careful about the food and beverage items you try to bring into Australia on your flight.

Suppose you’re caught traveling with prohibited items or forget to declare some items. In that case, the Australian Border Force will confiscate them, and, in some cases, you might have to pay a hefty fine. 

9. Not Planning Travels

While Australia is picturesque and the perfect destination for a long drive, many underestimate how massive the continent is.

If you are still determining how long your trip will take, make sure your vehicle has enough fuel and you have enough supplies. 

10. Renting or Buying a Car Without Proper Inspection

This is especially important if you venture into the Australian Outback. Do your research and prepare for the trip in that case, and make sure you have enough water.

The phone signal can be spotty; in such a situation, your car breaking down will only worsen things. 

11. Assuming Gas Stations Are Everywhere

While the main cities have ample filling stations, the Outback can also be unforgiving.

The good thing is that signposts often warn travelers if there’s a large expanse with no filling stations. Also, many gas stations in Australia are self-service; don’t just sit there waiting in your car! 

12. Walking on the Right

Unless there’s a signpost specifying otherwise, it’s okay to assume that one should walk on the side of the footpath that’s the same as the side people drive on.

In Australia, people drive on the left. So, pedestrians walk on the left side of the footpath. 

13. Drinking and Driving

This one must be followed worldwide like a few other rules on the list. Australia has strict laws regarding drinking and driving.

The limit for full license holders is .05 BAC (blood alcohol concentration); provisional license holders or inexperienced drivers have a zero limit. 

14. Arriving Without Travel Insurance

Traveling to Australia without travel insurance is allowed, but it’s strongly recommended that you have one.

Medical costs can be high in Australia, so it’s better to have a safety net.

15. Shying Away From Different Cuisines

Trying famous meat pies and the iconic Vegemite might be tempting if you’re in Australia. You should do that but don’t forget to try a variety of cuisines. Several cultures, including Middle Eastern, British, Asian, and European, have influenced Australia’s culinary culture. 

16. Ignoring Warning Signs

While you’re unlikely to run into most wildlife easily, take notice of warnings from locals and signposts when you’re visiting an area.

There are crocodiles, spiders, snakes, sharks, cassowaries (many call it the world’s most dangerous bird), and jellyfish to look out for.

Australia is a great place to visit, but only if you’re willing to listen and be careful. 

17. Ignoring The Jellyfish

Jellyfish can be fascinating and stunning creatures, but they can also be dangerous. Box jellyfish are common in northern Queensland and the coast near Darwin, and their stingers can cause extreme damage.

And if you come across a pretty octopus with blue rings, stay away! They’re one of the most venomous marine animals known to humans. 

18. Jumping the Queue

Australians don’t take kindly to people who skip queues – which is understandable, considering it’s a matter of basic respect.

Even if there isn’t a strictly straight line of people standing while waiting for something, give space to the people who were there before you.