Travellers who anticipate the need for on-going, routine, or other forms of medical treatment in Australia are advised to obtain visas for Australia before leaving the United States. Australian visas are issued in Port Moresby, but in a case involving medical treatment the Australian visa authorities will require a referral from a local doctor, proof of acceptance by an Australian doctor, and proof of the patient's ability to pay for treatment. For information on Australian visa requirements, contact an Australian diplomatic mission. Armed robberies and carjackings are a problem in Port Moresby and other urban areas. Armed robbery is sometimes accompanied by gratuitous violence.
Criminals often target persons who are part of large crowds.
Women should not walk alone in PNG, especially at night. Travellers to PNG should avoid using taxis or buses and should rely instead on a sponsor or on a rented car for transportation. Travel outside of Port Moresby by car at night can be hazardous. Holdups at roadblocks have been known to occur day or night on the Highlands Highway. Reactions to road accidents involving fatalities or serious injuries can be emotional and violent, regardless of legal responsibility.