The federal government has updated its travel advice for Hong Kong, warning Australians to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting or travelling through the region.
Authorities can request access to personal electronic devices and passwords from anyone in Hong Kong, even if you're only transiting through the airport.
As of last month, it is illegal to refuse to disclose your devices' passwords to the Hong Kong police under the city's broad National Security Law.
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From April 30, it will also be illegal to import alternative smoking products like vapes or possess them in public places, such as the airport.
Hong Kong's security laws can be interpreted broadly and apply to activities outside Hong Kong, including social media posts, the Australian government's Smartraveller website notes in its updated warning.
"The maximum penalty under Hong Kong's national security laws is life imprisonment," the warning reads.
"Citizens of other countries, including Australia, have been arrested, convicted and imprisoned under Hong Kong's security laws."
Authorities in Hong Kong are able to detain a person without charge for up to 16 days and deny them access to a lawyer for up to 48 hours, Smartraveller says.
The warning comes as Australians are flocking to Hong Kong in record numbers.
In 2025 alone, 469,000 Australians travelled to the destination – a massive 27 per cent surge from the previous year, according to the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
The board attributed this surge to several key factors, including the launch of more direct flights, drawcard events and the city's stopover appeal.
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