Government upgrades travel warning over Indonesian terror threat

Australians have been told to exercise a high degree of caution if they intend travelling to Indonesia, including Bali.

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Prime Minister Tony Abbott (AAP Image/Tom Compagnoni)

Australians travelling to Indonesia have been advised to exercise a high degree of caution following US government warnings about potential terrorist attacks.

The Department of Foreign Affairs says it is receiving information that indicates terrorists may be planning attacks in Indonesia, which could take place at any time.

The US government on Sunday warned of a potential threat against US-associated hotels and banks in Surabaya.

"You should exercise particular caution around locations that have a low level of protective security and avoid places known to be possible terrorist targets," the department says in its latest travel advice.

The advice also notes Indonesian immigration staff may refuse entry to Australians with a criminal record, regardless of how long ago the offence took place.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said Australians should always be cautious travelling overseas, especially as Indonesia has been an area of terrorism activity for some time.

But she said authorities were working closely with their Indonesian counterparts to prevent terrorism.

Asked if she would be happy to visit Bali at this time, foreign minister said she would.

"Australia is monitoring this situation very closely," Ms Bishop told reporters in Perth.

"We treat terrorism and our counter-terrorism activities as our highest national security priority."


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Source: AAP

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