The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has updated its travel advice for France after the European nation raised its terror alert warning to the highest level.
In an update made yesterday (25 March) on its Smartraveller website, DFAT tells potential travellers to “expect high-level security measures to be in place throughout the country, including at schools, places of worship, shopping centres and landmarks”.
“There’s a risk of terrorist attacks in France. Be cautious around locations known to be targets,” it states.
“Attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur anywhere without warning. There have been several attacks in France in recent years.”
Smartraveller also advises Australian visitors to “be aware of your surroundings, monitor local media, and follow the advice of the local authorities”.
“If you plan to travel to France to commemorate Anzac Day, understand the risks and plan ahead,” it adds.
France’s alert upgrade comes in direct response to a mass shooting at a concert in Moscow that claimed the lives of 139 people – an event Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed on radical Islamists, The Guardian reported.
“Following the attack in Moscow, a Defense and National Security Council was convened this evening at the Elysée by the President of the Republic,” French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal said in a message on X (translated from French).
“Given the Islamic State’s claim of responsibility for the attack and the threats weighing on our country, we have decided to raise the Vigipirate posture to its highest level: attack emergency.”
2024 is a big year for travel to France, with capital Paris set to host the Olympic Games in July and August.
