Australians are strongly advised not to travel to Chad because of the volatile security situation and ongoing violent civil unrest and the threat of terrorism. The situation could deteriorate further without warning.

If you are in Chad, you should consider leaving if it is safe to do so. If all commercial air services are suspended, contact the Australian High Commission in Nigeria for advice. The US Government has authorised the departure of non-emergency employees and dependants from Chad, following an attempted rebel advance on the capital, N'Djamena.

The security situation throughout the country, including in the capital N'Djamena, is volatile and could deteriorate further without notice. Violent civil unrest and armed conflict between the army and rebel groups has occurred throughout the country and there could be further serious clashes. In early February 2008, there was heavy fighting involving tank, helicopter and machinegun fire in and around N'Djamena.

Curfews may be imposed in the capital and the provinces. You should check curfew times with authorities and abide by them.

The border between Chad and Sudan has been closed since 13 May 2008. The security situation in the border area remains extremely unstable. On 1 May 2008, a humanitarian aid worker was shot and killed driving in eastern Chad.

The border areas with the Central African Republic (CAR) in the south and the Borkou-Ennedi-Tibesti provinces in the north remain dangerous. The area bordering Libya remains heavily land-mined. The borders with Central African Republic (CAR) and Libya are also subject to closure. Terrorists are active in countries bordering Chad, including Algeria.

All travel outside of N'Djamena requires a travel permit issued by the Ministry of Interior.

You should maintain a high level of security awareness and closely monitor the media and other local information sources for information about possible new safety or security risks. We strongly recommend all Australians in Chad to register their presence online at www.smartraveller.gov.au.

Australia does not have diplomatic representation in Chad. The Australian High Commission in Nigeria provides consular services to Australians in Chad. Australians are strongly advised to register their contact details with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade online registration service or with the Australian High Commission in Nigeria at:

Australian High Commission
48 Aguiyi Ironsi Street
Maitama, Abuja
Nigeria
Telephone: (234 9) 461 2780
Facsimile: (234 9) 461 2782
Email: ahc.abuja@dfat.gov.au
Website: http://www.nigeria.highcommission.gov.au/

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra may be contacted on (02) 6261 3305.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade does not currently issue a travel advice for Chad. This bulletin should be read in conjunction with the General Advice to Australian Travellers.

Foreign Affairs Canada, the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and the US State Department issue travel advice for Chad.