Australia is sending a clear message to its citizens visiting Bali: respect the local customs and traditions. This call comes as the island, a popular destination for Australian tourists, continues to crack down on unruly behavior among foreign visitors.
Bali has always been a favored spot for Australians seeking an affordable getaway filled with culture and fun. In November 2024 alone, the island welcomed 72,900 foreign tourists, with Australians making up 24% of that number, specifically 118,182 visits, according to The Bali Sun. However, while most Australians are respectful of the island's customs, some tourists have needed reminders about appropriate behavior.
In response to rising incidents of misbehavior, Bali has implemented a series of measures aimed at promoting responsible tourism. This includes a list of dos and don'ts for visitors, a hotline for reporting misbehaving tourists, and a special task force dedicated to monitoring foreign activities. To further support these efforts, a $15 tax has been introduced, which will fund initiatives to combat mass tourism and promote respectful conduct among visitors.
On March 13, 2025, Jo Stevens, the Australian Consulate-General in Bali, met with Tjok Bagus Pemayun, the Head of Bali Tourism Office, to discuss guidelines for international visitors. Stevens emphasized the importance of respecting Bali's unique culture, stating, "This is a very clear and useful guide for visitors to this beautiful island. I encourage all Australians to respect Bali’s unique culture and follow the ‘do’s and don’ts’, for a safe and enjoyable visit." She noted that the majority of Australians enjoy hassle-free vacations in Bali, supporting the local economy and culture.
The guidelines for tourists, first published in 2023, include twelve obligations and eight prohibited behaviors designed to restore "quality and dignity" to Bali's tourism sector. Among the prohibited actions are climbing and touching holy trees, posing naked at cultural or religious sites, and behaving aggressively towards locals or government officials. Stevens pointed tourists to the Smarttraveller website for up-to-date travel advice regarding Indonesia, including Bali.
Bali's authorities have taken additional steps to preserve the island's cultural integrity. In 2024, a one-time entry fee was introduced, payable electronically upon arrival, aimed at raising funds for environmental and cultural preservation. Governor I Wayan Koster has announced new guidelines to help ensure that tourists honor Balinese customs, especially during ceremonies. Tourists are expected to dress appropriately when visiting temples and public spaces, and entry into sacred temple areas is restricted to worshippers wearing traditional Balinese attire. Additionally, menstruating women are prohibited from entering these areas, as menstrual blood is considered "dirty" and can render the temple impure.
Governor Koster stated, "We issued a similar regulation before, but as things change, we need to adapt. This ensures that Bali’s tourism remains respectful, sustainable, and in harmony with our local values." He further emphasized the need for these measures, especially as Bali prepares for Nyepi, the island's sacred day of silence, which falls on March 29, 2025. During this day, tourists must remain indoors for a 24-hour period starting at 6 AM.
To enforce these new rules, Bali is launching a task force that will monitor visitors. Those caught violating the regulations could face fines or even imprisonment. This includes prohibitions against swearing, causing disturbances, and being rude to locals or officials. Furthermore, single-use plastics such as bags, styrofoam, and straws are banned to protect the environment.
The guidelines also include instructions for tourists to use licensed guides and accommodations, follow local traffic laws, and exchange currency only at authorized outlets. Tourists who fail to pay the tourist levy will be denied access to attractions, reinforcing the importance of compliance with local regulations.
As Bali continues to navigate the balance between tourism and cultural preservation, the expectations for visitors are clear. The island's allure remains strong, but with it comes the responsibility to honor the customs and traditions that make Bali a unique destination. The Australian government, through its consulate, is committed to ensuring that its citizens contribute positively to the island's reputation, fostering an environment where both tourists and locals can thrive.
Ultimately, the focus is on creating a respectful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. With the introduction of these guidelines, Bali aims to maintain its charm while safeguarding its cultural heritage, ensuring that it remains a beloved destination for generations to come.
