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Health and safety

Here are some health and safety tips to ensure you have an enjoyable, trouble-free holiday on Western Australia’s Rottnest Island. While Australia is considered to be a very safe country, it is still wise to avoid dangerous situations.

Healthy travelling

Unfortunately, some travellers have their holiday cut short due to illness or accident. If you take prescribed medication, make sure you will have enough for the duration of your trip and bring a script renewal from your doctor.

Always carry adequate supplies of water and a comprehensive first aid kit. Mosquitoes can carry diseases such as encephalitis and Ross River fever. Use appropriate insect repellents and cover arms and legs with loose clothing, particularly at dawn and dusk.

Bushfire safety

The hot and dry conditions in Western Australia mean there is a risk of bushfires on Rottnest Island. The lighting of fires can be extremely dangerous, care should be taken at all times and campfires are prohibited on the Island. Please help us protect our natural environment and follow the fire warnings. Safety information is available from Fire and Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia (FESA).

Sun protection

Travellers should always wear a wide brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, sunglasses and at least an SPF 15+ sunscreen when outdoors. It is also recommended that you drink at least two litres of water each day. Take extra care when outdoors between 10:00am and 3:00pm, when UV radiation is most intense. Seek shade to protect your skin from skin cancer and other sun damage.

Safety at the beach

  • Always swim under supervision, or with a friend.
  • Read and obey the signs.
  • If you are unsure of conditions, don't swim.
  • Don't swim directly after a meal.
  • Don't swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Don't run and dive in the water.
  • Conditions change regularly; check before you enter the water.
  • If you get into trouble in the water, don't panic - signal for help, float and wait for assistance.
  • Float with a rip current or undertow, do not try to swim against it.
Make sure you protect yourself from the sun, wearing a wide brimmed hat.

Wear a wide brimmed hat to protect yourself from the Australian sun.

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Have fun and be safe while visiting Western Australia's Rottnest Island.

Have fun and be safe while visiting Western Australia's Rottnest Island.