Is Brisbane safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide
Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and the third largest city in Australia. Unlike the expensive life in Sydney and Melbourne, living in Brisbane is a little bit easier on the wallet. Apart from that, the city's riverside location and warm weather make it a popular destination for travelers from all around the globe.
With its charming riverside setting, Brisbane attracts over 8 million tourists each year. Whether you're after arts and culture, sandy beaches, sports, or koalas, this city has it all. The high season in Brisbane starts in May and lasts till September when the weather is perfect for festivals and outdoor activities. But in general, it's during the Australian winter that Brisbane sees the most crowds.
Keep your belongings safe by storing them with Bounce luggage storage in Brisbane. This way, you'll feel confident knowing your valuables are secure and you can explore the city with less worry. Read on for more information on how to stay safe in this lovely city.
Is Brisbane safe to visit right now?
Brisbane is a generally safe city with relatively low crime rates. Travel Safe Abroad gives the city a ranking of 90, which means Brisbane is among the safest cities in the world to visit or make your home.
Reports from recent years show an increase in break-ins, property damage, and other low crime rates, but nothing that affects tourists or puts their lives in immediate danger.
Mugging and pickpocketing can occur in major cities including Brisbane. But you can avoid trouble if you remain vigilant when riding on public transport and walking alone at night, especially in suburbs known to be less safe.
There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, which is why you should follow all safety tips coming your way. To keep it even safer, experienced traveler or not, it's a good idea to check your government's official travel guidelines for Brisbane before arrival.
If you follow these Brisbane safety tips, you'll experience nothing but fun in this adventure-filled city.
Top petty crimes and scams in Brisbane affecting tourists
Brisbane is the safest and largest city on Australia's east coast. You can prevent falling victim to pickpockets and scammers by using common sense.
Scams
Some of the most common scams in Brisbane that affect tourists are fake charities, door-to-door scams, online shopping scams and ticket scams. To avoid getting duped, always double check information and purchase tickets and other items from reputable vendors and sites.
Pickpocketing
Pickpocketing is not common but it's possible. Keep your eye on your belongings when in crowded areas, especially when riding on busy public transport. To prevent your passport and other official documents from being stolen, it's best to leave them somewhere safe and carry only a copy.
Is Brisbane safe to travel alone
Queensland's capital is considered safe for solo travelers, men or women, with Australia earning a rating of 24 on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index. Overall, you shouldn't feel unsafe walking and exploring Brisbane City, whether traveling alone, with friends, or with family.
Safest neighborhoods in Brisbane
Most of Brisbane is pretty safe to explore, day or night. This is because, Brisbane, besides its large population is considered a small town, where everyone knows everyone, and residents are very friendly with each other and tourists as well.
Morningside
Are you looking for an area with a sense of calm when you want it, yet activity too? Morningside can provide that. From nearby Roma Street Parkland with its sprawling lawns to cozy cafes for an early morning coffee, this neighborhood oozes charm.
Toowong
Brisbane Botanical Gardens are located on the western outskirts of Toowong. You can also see the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium here.
Redland Bay
Travelers who like to cycle will enjoy Redland Bay for its scenic bike paths. The Redland Bay Waterside Walk is ideal for those who like to explore by foot.
Brisbane's safest suburbs are considered to be on the western side of the city.
Is Brisbane public transportation safe?
Brisbane has an extensive public transportation network of ferries, buses and trains. Overall, it's safe to ride on any of the public transport in Brisbane.
However, as with any busy public transport in any other major city, you should be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
If you need to travel on public transport at night, it's recommended to plan your journey ahead of time, so you don't have to wait a long time at the stops and terminals. If you must travel at night, ensure you're in an area full of people rather than traveling alone. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable at any point during a ride, move near the bus driver or the train guard.
While taxis in Brisbane are generally safe, there are some tips and advice to follow to stay even safer. For instance, you should book taxis in advance rather than hailing them on the street and get the taxi company name when you get inside.
Security and safety measures are everywhere, including security cameras, help phones, and safety officers who patrol 24 hours a day. This way, you can feel safer traveling on public transport in Brisbane at night. It's a safe practice for both Brisbane residents and visitors to the city.
Important emergency numbers in Brisbane
As a tourist in a foreign country, you need to stay informed and be prepared in case of an emergency. Keep this list of important numbers to seek urgent help while in Brisbane.
- Police, fire, and ambulance: 000 (also called Triple Zero)
- Brisbane City Council: 07 3403 8888
- State Emergency Services: 132 500
- Power outages: 13 62 62
- Water outages: 13 23 64
It's also good to know your embassy's number when in Brisbane. In case of passport loss or theft, you must have it reissued urgently.
Brisbane is a safe destination for all tourists
Brisbane is a friendly, vibrant and fun city that you should consider yourself lucky to visit.
If you're not sure where to stay while in Brisbane, check out our guide, Where to Stay in Brisbane: The Ultimate Guide. You can read through our How to Get Around Brisbane guide for more information on public transport and navigating Brisbane.
Last but not least, don't leave home without good travel insurance. This way, you know that in case of unforeseen events, you're covered, medically and financially. Brisbane is a safe city for any tourist, and if you follow these safety tips, you'll have a wonderful time.