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Australia to become ASEAN tourism partner: What this means for Aussie travellers

Exploring Southeast Asia may become simpler for Australians, with streamlined visa processes and smoother travel experiences potentially on the horizon, thanks to a new tourism collaboration between Australia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Exploring Southeast Asia may become simpler for Australians, with streamlined visa processes and smoother travel experiences potentially on the horizon, thanks to a new tourism collaboration between Australia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Why did ASEAN choose to partner with Australia?

At this year’s ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025 held in Malaysia, member tourism ministers unanimously agreed to establish the ASEAN-Australia Tourism Ministers’ Meeting. This initiative aims to foster deeper collaboration in the tourism sector between Australia and ASEAN member countries.

“It is timely for ASEAN and Australia to have this tourism collaboration,” Malaysian National News Agency Bernama quoted Datuk Roslan Abdul Rahman, Secretary-General of Malaysia’s Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry.

“Australians frequently visit ASEAN countries, and the region closest to Australia is Southeast Asia.

“We want to further foster the spirit of cooperation, and we want to see what other tourism products we can share with the people of Australia,” he said.

Travellers in ASEAN member Singapore
Editorial credit: TY Lim / Shutterstock.com

While the details of the partnership are still unknown, the overarching objectives of such initiatives typically include enhancing regional connectivity, promoting sustainable tourism, and fostering economic growth through increased travel and cultural exchange.

How the Australia-ASEAN relationship has evolved

The Australian and ASEAN bond goes beyond geographical proximity. Over one million Australians have Southeast Asian heritage, reflecting deep cultural and social ties. This connection extends into diverse areas, including tourism, business and education.

Australia became ASEAN’s first Dialogue Partner in 1974 and was elevated to one of ASEAN’s first Comprehensive Strategic Partners in 2021. Since 2013, Australia has had a resident Ambassador to ASEAN in Jakarta, strengthening its ability to support the association’s priorities and respond to regional needs.

What changes can Australian travellers expect?

For Australian travellers, this partnership could lead to several specific improvements:

  • Smoother travel experiences: Streamlined travel procedures could include faster customs processing and greater alignment on entry requirements, making it simpler for Australians to hop between ASEAN destinations.
  • Expanded travel options: With a focus on promoting regional tourism products and facilitating knowledge sharing, travellers can look forward to a broader range of destinations and experiences within Southeast Asia. 
  • Potential cost benefits: Increased collaboration might also drive down travel costs, as airlines and tour operators take advantage of improved relationships and streamlined regulations. This could translate to more competitive pricing and attractive travel packages for Australian tourists.
  • Simplified visa processes: Enhanced collaboration is expected to address travel barriers, including visa requirements. Currently, Australians enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to most ASEAN countries, including Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Laos, Cambodia, and Brunei. However, for countries like Vietnam and Myanmar, Australians need to secure an e-visa prior to arrival. While this partnership could potentially simplify these processes or expand visa-free access, such changes often require reciprocal arrangements, reflecting mutual agreements between governments. It is important to note that tourism is just one component of these negotiations, and broader diplomatic or policy considerations may influence the pace and extent of such reforms. Travellers should remain mindful of these limitations while looking forward to any potential improvements.

Recent data indicates a significant increase in Australian travel to Southeast Asia, the Australian reported. 

In July 2024, a record 1.15 million Australians returned from overseas trips, with Bali emerging as the top destination, attracting nearly 170,000 visitors.

According to the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, in 2022, Southeast Asia was the most popular region for Australian travellers, accounting for 28% of all overseas trips and contributing approximately A$4.5 billion to Southeast Asian economies.

This upward trend underscores the growing appeal of Southeast Asia among Australian tourists, highlighting the region’s affordability, cultural richness, and proximity.