24 Sep 2003

Australia eases Solomon Islands travel advisory

6:09 pm on 24 September 2003

The Australian government has lifted a warning previously advising against all holiday or non-essential travel to Solomon Islands.

The new advice suggests that Australians travelling to Solomon Islands should exercise caution and be aware of developments that might affect their safety.

Travellers are also advised to maintain a high level of personal security awareness and register their contact details with the Australian High Commission.

Earlier this month, a Solomon Islands tourism operator in the Western Province described the advisory against all travel as unnecessary and damaging.

Dive business owner Danny Kennedy said the bans have ripped the tourism industry apart, caused a drop in visitor numbers and led to lay-offs of staff.