School-leavers planning to party overseas are being warned that if they get into trouble, they can't rely on Australian diplomats to get them out of it.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's advice to schoolies heading for Bali, Thailand or Fiji is similar to those opting for local hot spots like the Gold Coast.
Drink responsibly.
Look after your mates.
Don't break the law.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Don't carry or consume drugs.
Don't go swimming when drunk or stoned.
Take out travel insurance.
But if you do get into strife overseas, Australian diplomats can't get you out of jail, provide an emergency loan or sort out visas.
"Remember that when you leave Australia, you leave behind the support systems, emergency services and medical facilities we all take for granted at home," DFAT says on a new schoolies page on its smartraveller website.
DFAT believes several thousands school leavers could be heading overseas next month.
Bali, Thailand, Fiji and Vanuatu are expected to be the most popular destinations but Cambodia, Laos and Sri Lanka could also prove attractive.
DFAT's new page includes specific information on risks associated with drugs and alcohol, drink spiking, water and road safety, and sexual assault.
"It is important that school leavers planning overseas trips understand that there are limits to the consular assistance that embassies and consulates can provide," DFAT says.
