We are working closely with the international cruise line industry in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in China. We have provided the following information and advice to Australians on cruises in the Asian region. Australian officials in Tokyo are providing consular assistance to the Australians who were passengers on the Diamond Princess cruise ship.

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.