The advisory urges Australians to avoid protest zones and remain vigilant in numerous areas, including Denpasar in Bali, following a surge of unrest across the country.
The disturbances broke out on Friday in Jakarta and saw protestors torch buildings and vehicles. Seven people are believed to have died in the unrest so far, which was sparked by public outrage over alleged extravagance by the country’s lawmakers.
Trouble has also flared in major cities like Surabaya and Yogyakarta. Parliament buildings and police stations have been targets while more than 1,200 individuals have been detained. Police can be seen on videos posted on social media firing tear gas at demonstrators.
“Large protests with potential to escalate into violence and property damage are occurring across major cities in Indonesia, including Denpasar, Bali, causing disruption and impacting local traffic movements,” says the statement on Smartraveller.
“Avoid protests and demonstrations and monitor local media for the latest updates.”
Some 1.4 million Australians travel to Indonesia every year, with Bali being the most popular destination.
President Prabowo Subianto spoke at a press conference and urged all citizens to “trust the government and remain calm”.
