Australia warns travellers as unrest boils over in Indonesia

The Australian government has warned travellers heading to Indonesia after protests gripped the country.

Six people are reported to have died in the protests, with the largest occurring in the capital city Jakarta, where buildings and cars were set on fire.

The unrest has prompted the federal government to change its advice for travellers going to Indonesia.

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"Large protests with potential to escalate into violence and property damage are occurring across major cities in Indonesia, including Denpasar, Bali, causing disruption and impacting local traffic movements," a statement on Smartraveller said.

"Avoid protests and demonstrations and monitor local media for the latest updates."

Around 1.4 million Aussies travel to Indonesia every year, with Bali being one of the most popular travel destinations.

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The protests began on Monday, and reached a crescendo in Jakarta on Friday as protesters marched on a major police building and pelted rocks at riot police and police vehicles in the streets.

Unrest was also seen in major cities like Surabaya and Yogyakarta, where a 21-year-old university student was reportedly killed.

President Prabowo Subianto spoke at a press conference yesterday, and addressed the unrest that had spread across the country.

"I sincerely ask all citizens to trust the government and remain calm," Subianto said, adding his government is "determined to always fight for the interests of the people and the nation." 

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