The Department of Home Affairs WA Community Engagement Team has shared an update outlining available support and key information for people impacted by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The update includes travel guidance from Smartraveller, information on consular assistance, visa-related guidance, and links to mental health and wellbeing services.
Travel Advisories (Smartraveller)
Current Smartraveller guidance advises Australians not to travel to a number of destinations in the Middle East, including Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, Palestine, Qatar, Syria, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. Travellers are also advised to reconsider travel plans to Jordan, Oman and Saudi Arabia. Australians who are currently located in affected areas are encouraged to remain in a safe location where possible, follow instructions issued by local authorities, and regularly check Smartraveller for updated travel advice.
Security conditions may also affect the operating hours of Australian embassies and consulates in the region, and staff may be working from alternate locations. Updates will continue to be issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
Consular Emergency Support
Australians requiring urgent assistance can contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre:
- +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas)
- 1300 555 135 (within Australia)
Registration and Departure Updates (DFAT)
Australian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate family members who are currently in Israel, Iran, Qatar or the United Arab Emirates, and who have the right to enter Australia, may register with DFAT to receive important updates.
The Australian Government is coordinating with airlines and travel operators to support departures when airports reopen and commercial flights resume. Any assistance provided will depend on security conditions and operational feasibility.
For the most up-to-date information, individuals should monitor
Visa Information and Applications
Guidance has also been provided regarding visa options for individuals affected by the situation.
- Visa applications should be submitted online through ImmiAccount rather than in person at Australian missions overseas.
- Internet disruptions in certain areas, including Iran, may impact the ability to lodge applications.
- An Australian relative or friend may lodge a visa application on behalf of the applicant, provided they have permission and the required personal details.
- A passport is normally required when applying for a visa. If one is not available, applicants should provide identifying information so that alternative options can be considered.
- All visa applicants must continue to meet standard legal, health, character and security requirements.
Extending a Stay in Australia
Individuals already in Australia who are affected by the crisis and wish to remain longer must apply for another visa before their current visa expires. If a person’s visa includes a ‘No Further Stay’ condition (such as conditions 8503, 8534, 8535 or 8540), they may request a waiver using the No Further Stay waiver request form.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Support Services
A number of organisations provide support for individuals affected by international conflict:
- Witness to War – a multilingual support hotline for people affected by overseas conflicts (1800 845 198, Monday–Friday, 10:00am–7:00pm AEST, except public holidays.)
- Healthdirect – a directory of national mental health helplines (Call -13 11 14, Text- 0477 13 11 14)
- Embrace Multicultural Mental Health – culturally appropriate mental health information and support services
- Ishar Multicultural Women’s Health Services – support services focused on women’s health (Call – 08 9345 5335)
- MensLine Australia – counselling and support services for Australian men anywhere, anytime.
- Emerging Minds – resources to assist families in discussing difficult topics such as war and conflict with children.