In Reply to: DFAT Warning posted by nafai on Friday, 4. May 2012 at 14:25 Bali Time:
AUSTRALIA’S travel warning for people heading to Bali or most other parts of Indonesia has been downgraded for the first time since terror bombings in 2005.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has this afternoon re-issued advice to travellers, changing it from "reconsider their need to travel'' to "exercise a high degree of caution''.
The advice continues to warn people that a terrorist attack could occur, but says authorities are better placed to prevent one and the capability of extremist groups has been diminished.
"The decision to lower the overall level of advice has been based on a carefully considered assessment of the level of risk to Australian travellers in Indonesia,'' a DFAT spokesman said.
"This assessment draws on a range of factors, including the capacity and intent of terrorists to carry out attacks and the ability and commitment of Indonesian security authorities to address the threat.
"We currently assess changes in these factors warrant a change in overall level.
"The advice continues to warn of the high threat of terrorist attack in Indonesia and that terrorists may carry out attacks at any time.''
Higher warnings remain in place for people going to Central Sulawesi, Maluku, Papua and West Papua.
In October 2005, terrorists detonated bombs in Bali killing 20 people, including four Australians.
It was the second major attack on the island after the 2002 bombings, which killed more than 200 people, including 88 Australians.
The new travel alert is second on a four-scale system.
As well as terror threats, the advice also warns of harsh penalties for carrying or using drugs, and of the risks of health problems or natural disasters.