Between 7-9 February 2025, the National Multicultural festival brought together over 170 multicultural communities for a vibrant three-day celebration in Canberra. The festival showcased the richness of global cultures with over 300 performances, 264 food and cultural stalls, and a spectacular display of music, dance, and tradition creating one of Australia’s most iconic cultural events.

Sponsored by the Australian Government’s Smartraveller, the festival saw over 400,000 people visit the event. This important multicultural event brings culturally diverse communities together in a safe and fun environment whilst showcasing their cultural heritage.

For those inspired by the festival to book an overseas trip, Smartraveller representatives were on hand to encourage people to make Smartraveller their first destination. Smartraveller includes travel advice on over 175 destinations, passports, visas, travel insurance and more. Smartraveller also offers essential resources in multiple languages.

Sakura, a frequent traveller and festival attendee, shared, “Smartraveller’s updates helped me stay informed during my trip to Japan when a typhoon was approaching. Having real-time advice made all the difference in adjusting my plans safely.”

Oscar, another traveller, said “Smartraveller is my travel, Bible! Irrespective of where we are travelling, I always check the website beforehand to ensure we are choosing the right destination and making the best travel plans. I also subscribe to my chosen destination(s), so I can get updates if anything changes. I love how Smartraveller makes travel planning so much easier”

Amir, who recently travelled for a family reunion, stated, “I always subscribe to Smartraveller before any trip. Knowing I can receive travel advice alerts and find online assistance gives me real peace of mind.”

Smartraveller’s travel tips for your future overseas adventures:

• Research and confirm visa and entry requirements for your destination. Reach out to the relevant embassy or consulate for up-to-date information.
• Learn about recommended vaccinations and health precautions for your destination. Check your medication’s legality and requirements.
• Don’t forget your travel insurance and make sure you read the fine print on your policy.
• Be aware of how dual nationality may affect your travel plans and consular services.
• Respect the laws of the country you’re visiting, as they may differ from those in Australia.
• Be mindful of the culture and places of significance in the regions you explore. This includes wearing appropriate clothing at places such as temples.
• Use social media responsibly, as posting sensitive content or comments on political issues can have consequences in some countries.
• If travelling alone, take extra precautions, such as using official transport and not disclosing that you’re travelling solo.
• Keep your bags and belongings close – don’t leave them on the ground or the back of a seat. This gives thieves a perfect opportunity to steal them.
• Leave a copy of your travel itinerary and insurance details with someone back in Australia.

• If you don’t already have a passport allow at least six weeks to receive it.

For more information about Smartraveller, and to access in-language travel advice, please visit https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/communities or scan the QR code