There is an active outbreak of a coronavirus originating in China. The disease caused by the virus has been named COVID-19 by the WHO. There are confirmed cases outside China. Some countries are denying entry to travellers who have visited or transited through China, Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan.

The Pacific cyclone season is usually between October and May. During this period, even small tropical storms can develop into major cyclones. Their direction and strength can change with little warning. Cyclones lead to landslides, mudslides and flash flooding causing extreme damage to infrastructure. This can cut off communications and access to transportation, emergency assistance, medical care, and food and water.

From 1 February 2020, the UK is no longer a member of the EU ('Brexit'). There will be a transition period until 31 December 2020, while the EU and UK negotiate new arrangements. If you are an Australian living or working in, or travelling to, the UK or the EU nothing will change in the transition period during 2020, including visa arrangements. This also applies to Australian-British dual nationals.