Australia’s ‘Do Not Travel’ notice for Burkina Faso was reconfirmed on 26 October 2025, with DFAT citing a volatile security situation and a high threat of terrorism and kidnapping. The West African nation has become one of the most dangerous places for foreign nationals, recording more than 1,700 insurgent-related fatalities in the past year.
Perth-based drilling contractors active in the Houndé gold belt told GMN they have frozen all rotations and moved equipment to Ghanaian staging areas. Some have invoked force-majeure clauses, delaying exploration milestones and triggering penalty discussions with project owners.
The advisory also flags harsh local laws that can be arbitrarily enforced against foreigners. Australian citizens could face severe penalties—including capital punishment—for offences that would be minor at home.
Travel insurers classify the entire country as “black.” Any company that insists on deployment must self-insure and arrange private security convoys, often doubling project budgets.
With neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire tightening its land-border controls, overland evacuation options are limited. DFAT strongly recommends that Australians remaining in Burkina Faso leave immediately if it is safe to do so.
Perth-based drilling contractors active in the Houndé gold belt told GMN they have frozen all rotations and moved equipment to Ghanaian staging areas. Some have invoked force-majeure clauses, delaying exploration milestones and triggering penalty discussions with project owners.
The advisory also flags harsh local laws that can be arbitrarily enforced against foreigners. Australian citizens could face severe penalties—including capital punishment—for offences that would be minor at home.
Travel insurers classify the entire country as “black.” Any company that insists on deployment must self-insure and arrange private security convoys, often doubling project budgets.
With neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire tightening its land-border controls, overland evacuation options are limited. DFAT strongly recommends that Australians remaining in Burkina Faso leave immediately if it is safe to do so.
