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NOTICE TO AUSTRALIAN CITIZENS ABROAD
Purpose of Registration
The Register of Australian Citizens Abroad is maintained at Post for use in relation to consular activities, for example, to facilitate contact in an emergency. The information contained in the Register is protected by the Privacy Act 1988 and can only be divulged under the provision of that Act. Please note, this registration is not connected with your eligibility to vote overseas - you should contact the Electoral Office direct for further information. Please note also that in line with the Privacy Act, the data is not used to co-ordinate social events for expatriates.
Protection of Australian Citizens
When travellers enter a foreign state, they become subject to its laws and are legally accountable for acts they commit on its territory. In the event of Australian citizens finding themselves in difficulties, Consular Officers seek to ensure that Australian citizens receive the benefit of the same laws, administration, protection and means of redress for injuries which the foreign state affords its own subjects. In the event that the law applied in the particular instance, falls below an acceptable international standard of justice, official representation could be made.
Emergency Situations
The Australian Government, through its Consular Officers, endeavours to provide assistance, when it is considered necessary and where it can be arranged, for example, in situations where danger exists due to civil unrest, war, or where citizens are involved in accidents, etc. This does not diminish the obligation of citizens to keep themselves informed on a situation which is likely to effect their safety or to meet costs incurred in rendering assistance.
Registration in Switzerland is voluntary, it is not mandatory to do so. However, if you decide to register, we recommend that you do so online via Internet - the form is available on www.smartraveller.gov.au or, if you don't have Internet facilities, you may request a form from the Consulate.
CHANGE IN YOUR STATUS : To remain registered, and in order for consular officers to provide appropriate assistance to Australian citizens, it is necessary that your contact details are confirmed with the Consulate General every 12 months or when you are departing the country. This may be done either by post, by e.mail / through our website or direct to the electronic data base mentioned above.