Is Brisbane safe? What you should know

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, Australia, is a fun city known for its sunny weather, friendly locals, and a mix of urban and outdoor experiences. From strolling along the Brisbane River to exploring South Bank’s cultural precinct, this city offers plenty of attractions for visitors. Although it sometimes gets overshadowed by bigger cities like Sydney and Melbourne, Brisbane offers plenty for travelers to do and a way to enjoy the spectacular Gold Coast along with a more laid-back urban vibe.

But, is Brisbane safe? Fortunately, Brisbane is also one of Australia's safest cities, and given that Australia is one of the safest countries for travelers in the world, that's saying quite a lot. Brisbane has a crime rate of 7850 incidents per 100,000 people, which is very low. It's safer than around 60% of Australian cities, and that's enough to make it one of the safest cities in the world.

Exploring Brisbane city, then, is very safe. The Central Business District where most of the attractions are rivals any other major city in the country when it comes to safety, and while like any city, there are some more dangerous suburbs when compared to others, basic safety measures are enough to get you through here. Notably, Brisbane City Council employs safety officers who patrol the downtown area 24 hours a day, so you don't need to worry about extreme security and safety measures here. Just stay alert like you would in any city, and you'll be just fine.

You can make your trip even safer by leaving your bags behind with a Bounce Brisbane luggage storage location. We partner with local businesses to provide safe and secure storage for any size of bags, and we can look after your stuff for as long as you need. Having your belongings safe with us makes it easier to enjoy this extremely safe city.

Safety tips to keep in mind during your time in Brisbane

Brisbane is generally a very safe city, but nowhere on earth is completely free of crime. Practicing basic security and safety measures can go a long way to making your trip more enjoyable while you explore. That starts from the moment you arrive.

You'll find that public transportation in Brisbane is both efficient and safe. The city council takes passenger safety very seriously, and trains and buses are well-maintained, with call boxes at the stations so you can report non-urgent crime to train station staff. If your personal safety feels threatened, you can also use the emergency system to contact police. In other words, you can feel perfectly safe using public transportation here.

Getting to Brisbane safely

Brisbane is well-connected by air, road, and rail. Here are the safest ways to arrive:

• By air: Brisbane Airport is about 15 kilometers from the city center. The Airtrain is a fast and safe way to reach the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and DiDi are also available.
• By train: Queensland Rail connects Brisbane to other major cities and regional destinations. Trains are reliable and safe.
• By car: If driving, ensure you’re familiar with Australian road rules, including driving on the left side of the road. This can take some getting used to at first, so take it slow and stay aware until you're comfortable with the switch.

Tips to stay safe when you first arrive in Brisbane

• Pickpocketing: While rare, always keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas like Queen Street Mall or during major events. Pickpocketing is not common in Brisbane, but it's still a good practice when traveling anywhere to avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep an eye on your belongings.
• Sun protection: Brisbane’s subtropical climate means lots of sunshine. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself. Truthfully, sunburn is a far bigger threat here than any kind of violent crime.
• Traffic awareness: Look out for cyclists and trams when crossing roads, particularly in the city center. Remember that traffic comes from the right, so be sure to look both ways when you're crossing the road.

Is tap water in Brisbane safe to drink?

Yes, Brisbane's tap water is high-quality and completely safe to drink. Plus, if you carry a reusable bottle, there are free drinking fountains in many of Brisbane's parks.

Safe accommodation options in Brisbane

Brisbane offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Here are some safe and convenient neighborhoods:

• Brisbane CBD (Central Business District): Ideal for first-time visitors, the CBD is close to major attractions and well-lit at night. It's easy to get around and see most of the top attractions in the city, and you can save money on public transport by walking everywhere. However, it often costs more to find accommodation here, so consider your budget when booking.
• South Bank: Known for its cultural sites and riverside views, South Bank is family-friendly and safe. This is one of Brisbane's safest suburbs, and you are very unlikely to run into any problems here.
• Fortitude Valley: A lively area with great nightlife. Exercise caution late at night but it's generally safe.
• Paddington: A quieter, charming neighborhood with boutique shops and cafes. This is a good place to enjoy a more laid-back side of the city if you're looking to relax on your vacation.

Pro tip: Use luggage storage services like Bounce if you need to explore the city before checking in to your accommodation. Our app lets you find your nearest luggage storage location and book the storage you need in advance so that you know your belongings will be safe.

Cultural callouts & things to keep an eye out for

Brisbane’s laid-back culture and friendly locals make it a welcoming city. As in most of Australia, people tend to be approachable, but they don't appreciate people who put on airs or seem aloof. Here are some cultural insights to enhance your visit:

• Etiquette: A simple “G’day” or “How are you?” will be warmly received. Australians value politeness and informality. Notice that it's common in Australia for passengers to ride in the front of the taxi along with the driver. This is a holdover of Australia's egalitarian culture, where one of the worst things you can do is act like you're better than others.
• Dress code: Casual attire is acceptable for most places, but dress smartly if visiting upscale restaurants or bars. Some of the nicer places in Brisbane won't let you in if you show up in a sports jersey or bathing suit, so you may need to change if you spend the day on the beach and want to spend a night on the town. Leaving your things behind with Bounce can make things easier.
• Language: English is the primary language, and Aussie slang is common. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if needed. The locals may have some gentle fun at your expense, but they won't have a problem explaining themselves.
• Scams: Scams are uncommon, but always book tickets and services through official channels. Be wary of any deal that seems too good to be true.

Keeping safe when navigating the city

Brisbane is well-organized and easy to get around, but here are tips for safe navigation:

• Public transport: Brisbane’s buses, ferries, and trains are safe and reliable. Use a Go Card for convenient travel.
• Walking: Stick to well-lit areas at night, especially in quieter suburbs.
• Cycling: Brisbane’s BrisCycle offers bike rentals, but helmets are mandatory by law. Again, remember that traffic comes in the right, which you may not be used to do, so stay alert.
• Driving: Watch for speed limits and stay alert for wildlife on the roads, especially at night in suburban areas.

Nature and Brisbane: Safety tips to keep in mind

Brisbane’s proximity to nature is one of its highlights, but outdoor activities come with their own considerations:

• Beaches: While Brisbane itself isn’t a beach city, nearby spots like the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast are accessible. Swim only in patrolled areas.
• Parks: Brisbane’s parks, like Roma Street Parkland, are safe for daytime visits. Avoid secluded areas after sunset.
• Wildlife: Be mindful of snakes and spiders if venturing into bushland. Use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes. Australians like to play up the danger of the native wildlife, but the country is indeed home to venomous snakes and spiders as well as dangerous wildlife like crocodiles. Pay attention to any warning signs as you explore the backcountry, as they will warn you of the presence of these animals.
• Weather: Brisbane’s summers can bring sudden storms. Check forecasts and carry an umbrella or rain jacket.

Last tips in the case of an emergency

• Emergency numbers: Dial 000 for police, fire, or ambulance services.
• Healthcare: Brisbane has world-class hospitals, including Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. Ensure your travel insurance covers medical care.
• Tourist assistance: Visit the Brisbane Visitor Information Centre in Queen Street Mall for maps, advice, and support.

Brisbane’s sunny atmosphere, friendly locals, and diverse attractions make it a fantastic travel destination. And it's only improved by the unrivaled safety of the city. While no place on earth is completely free of crime, Brisbane comes pretty close, so you don't need to have any fears about exploring. On our solo women's travel safety index, Australia scores 24th overall, which should further ease any concerns you have. So, leave your bags behind with Bounce and you can enjoy everything the city offers without becoming a victim of crime.