Some travelers complain that while Australia is so beautiful with heaps of attractions, there’s so many things you can’t do thanks to the abundance of dangerous forms of wildlife. Yes, Australia is still a wild country in many ways. And yes, there are many things that can hurt you if you’re not careful. Here is a list of some of them. You’re unlikely to encounter any of these if you tread the well-trod tourist routes and don’t go bush walking without a guide.
Snakes
Australia is home to many of the most poisonous snakes in the world. While most won’t bother with you, some can be aggressive. A bite from one requires immediate attention and antivenin as soon as possible. Again, it’s best to go bush walking with a guide, who can alert you to dangers.
Crocodiles
In Northern Queensland, many waterways are populated with huge crocodiles that may view you as their next meal. This makes casual river activities far more adventurous. In fact crocs are often spotted from beaches cruising the coast for a nice appetizer. The Aussies spare no expense in warning you almost everywhere crocs are present. They remind you to swim only in designated areas where there are nets to protect swimmers, and not just from crocs…
Jellyfish
There are several species of jellyfish that are highly poisonous that appear near the beaches of Queensland. Fortunately they are seasonal and are rare during the popular “winter” season, appearing mostly during the wet summers down under. Stings from these creatures can kill, so look for warning signs to see if they’re still around.
Sharks
The famous great white shark is ever present all around Australia. Feasting on surfers is a popular activity for them, so always check whether there have been recent sightings before venturing far from shore.
Scorpions, Spiders and other nasties
Yes, there are tiny creatures that can get you too. Even some nasty ants. Have you ever been attacked by grasshoppers? They often jump at you instead of out of your way. Even birds like the Cassowary and crow have been known to attack humans.
Sea Dangers
The sea around Australia is bursting with life, some of it dangerous. Poisonous sea snakes, stonefish and the deadly blue ring octopus are just a few of the creatures that can cause harm if you get too close.
Drunks
Yes, the natives are very friendly but they can be restless and occasionally dangerous. Aussies have been known to down a few, often a few too many, so beware of getting in the way when they’re drunk. Don’t drink & drive or you will be dealt with harshly by the authorities.
Sunburn & Dehydration
Thanks to the ever thinning ozone layer, the sun itself is dangerous downunder. Be sure to wear a hat, cover up and use lots of high UV blocking sunscreen to keep your skin safe. If you venture out in the bush, always carry along more than enough water. Temperatures can often exceed 40 C (100 F) during the day, with little or no shade. Distances between settlements can be huge, so keep you eye on your fuel gauge and fill up frequently when exploring the outback.
Illegal Drugs
Australia is a relatively conservative country, with a conservative government that punishes drug use harshly. Do not attempt to bring illegal drugs with you into Australia, as they are now super attentive to airports with teams of dogs smelling everything.
If you are looking for cannabis, it can be found, especially where young people hangout along beaches. A trip to Nimbin will reward you with excellent smoke. Avoid smoking in public places as this will bring unwanted attention to you. Other drugs can be obtained at the usual sources such as dance clubs in the cities.
Driving
See our article on Driving in Australia for important driving tips.
Thieves and Muggings
Australia is a very safe country, but nevertheless there are always assholes looking to make a quick buck. Tourists are easy picking as they usually carry a lot of valuables with them. To foil these criminals never leave valuables in a parked vehicle. Be careful late at night in certain parts of the cities. If you’ve been drinking, your guard is down and you make a easy target. When alone you have to be more alert in these situations. It’s always best to travel in a group or at least with another person. If your accomodation has a safe, use it to store any valuables you’re not taking with you.
Plants
Yes, believe it or not, there are a good number of plants in Australia that can hurt you. Over millions of years they’ve had to evolve some potent ways to defend themselves. Some plants can tear you up with thorns or serrated leaves, which may be poisonous, and some can even kill you. Stick to the trails and get a guide when possible to avoid these dangers.
Summary
Although there are many things to watch out for in Australia, as long as you heed the warnings and do as the locals do, you’ll unlikely come to any harm. Australia is actually a very safe country, and you will likely feel safer here than back home.