Is Alice Springs dangerous for tourists?

Travellers from several countries have been warned of the risks in visiting Alice Springs after a series of violent incidents.

Source: AAP

The English and German governments are among those asking their citizens to be careful when travelling to Alice Springs and the surrounding region.  

We can read on the English government's website : "There have been some serious sexual assaults against British nationals in Australia. Take care in the town centre of Alice Springs at night. There have been a number of incidents of harassment, robberies and attacks (including sexual assault) on foreign tourists."

A French tourist was stabbed to death last November in the area and two German and Finish tourists were raped in 2012. There are also reports of several robberies involving tourists.

Already in 2012, the German newspaper Der Spiegel, wrote about the risks for backpackers in Australia.

The French travel advice website is not mentioning specific risks in Alice Springs, but reminds travellers to be especially safe in the bush because of extreme temperatures, long distances and insects and animals.

Violent crimes on the decline

Despite a rise in warning from foreign countries, Alice Springs mayor Damien Ryan insists that his city is safe. insiste toutefois que sa ville est sure. Violent crimes have been on the decline in Alice Springs during the last year.