ANZAC Day terrorist attack warning

The Australian Government has issued a high danger travel warning to Turkey ahead of the services, because of “the high threat of terrorist attack”, advising against travel.

“Terrorists have in the past mounted attacks on significant dates and anniversaries. The tourist season during Turkey’s spring and summer months has also traditionally been marked by increased terrorist attacks,” and statement on the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) website reads.

DFAT warns Australians to avoid any large gatherings, which the upcoming Anzac Day services are one of, and demonstrations as they may turn violent.

“We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to provinces in the southeast of Turkey, including those in the border region between Turkey, Syria, Iraq and Iran, due to the unpredictable security situation. If you do travel to these area, you should exercise extreme caution,” the statement reads.

The government advises those attending the services to pay close attention to your personal security at all times and encourages Australians to prepare for a trip to Turkey in a number of ways.

Travellers should take out travel insurance and register their travel and contact details online on the DFAT smartraveller website: www.smarttraveller.gov.au.

Travellers can also register for travel bulletins and guides by using this website.

This year the government is trailing a new ANZAC Day registrations system, and encourages those observing the services to register with the Department of Veterans Affairs website at www.gallipoliregistration.com to be better prepared to attend and receive regular updates about the services.

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