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United States of America overall

This Advice is current for Sunday, 04 January 2009.

Be alert to own security Exercise caution High degree of caution Reconsider your need to travel Do not travel

This advice has been reviewed and reissued. It contains new information in the Summary and under Safety and Security: Terrorism (update). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

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Summary

* We advise you to exercise caution and monitor developments that might affect your safety in the United States because of the risk of terrorism.

* Pay close attention to your personal security and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks.

* The United States Department of Homeland Security's Advisory System Threat Level is at Orange for all domestic and international flights, indicating a "high" risk of terrorist attack. It is at Yellow or "elevated" for all other sectors, indicating a significant risk of terrorist attack.

* On 26 November 2008, US media reported that security measures have been stepped up in subways and mass-transit stations following unsubstantiated reports that terrorists are planning attacks on New York’s transit system.

* Significant communication, transport and infrastructure damage caused by recent hurricanes in parts of Texas and Louisiana may take some time to restore. For details see the Local Travel Section below.

* Be a smart traveller. Before heading overseas:

o organise comprehensive travel insurance and check what circumstances and activities are not covered by your policy

o register your travel and contact details, so we can contact you in an emergency

o subscribe to this travel advice to receive free email updates each time it's reissued.

Terrorism is a threat throughout the world. You can find more information about this threat in our General Advice to Australian Travellers.

We advise you to exercise caution and monitor developments that might affect your safety in the United States because of the risk of terrorism. Pay close attention to your personal security and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks.