🇦🇺 Smartraveller has bumped New Caledonia from “Low” to “High”the diplomatic equivalent of changing your status to It’s Complicated. As of 7 Aug 2025, Aussies are urged to exercise a high degree of caution amid civil unrest and unpredictable protests.
⚠️ On the ground: Security forces everywhere. Demonstrations can flare without warning. Curfews or worse. This isn’t a flicker; it’s flashing red. 📍 Why now? The Kanak & Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS) rejected the Bougival autonomy deal, which offered more self-rule but no independence referendum. Fallout = fresh unrest.
💬 Kanak salute: May your flag fly higher than burning cars. May sovereignty arrive fast and you will be able to host the next Pacific potluck.
