Bali Travel Updates Australians Should Know for 2026

But heading into 2026, getting there (and getting around Indonesia) is becoming even simpler, thanks to new flight routes, airport expansions and evolving entry rules that directly benefit Aussie travellers.

Here’s what’s changing, and why it matters if Bali (or beyond) is on your radar.

Jetstar Expands Bali Access from Australia

Jetstar is making one of the biggest moves in Australia–Bali travel, with a major expansion centred around Melbourne’s Avalon Airport. From March 2026, Jetstar will operate direct flights from Avalon to Denpasar, opening up Bali access not just for Melbourne travellers, but also for those living across Victoria’s west, Geelong and the Surf Coast.

The expansion is part of a significant investment in Avalon Airport, adding tens of thousands of new international seats each year and giving travellers an alternative to Melbourne’s main terminals, often with easier check-ins and less congestion.

Jetstar’s Bali expansion doesn’t stop in Victoria. From mid-2026, the airline will also launch direct flights from the Sunshine Coast to Bali, offering Queensland travellers a long-awaited non-stop option without needing to transit through Brisbane or Sydney. The new route will also provide easy onward connections to Singapore, further opening up Southeast Asia for Australians flying from the Sunshine Coast and surrounding regions.

More Melbourne-Bali Competition with AirAsia

Adding to the momentum, Indonesia AirAsia is launching a daily direct Melbourne–Bali service from March 2026, increasing competition on one of Australia’s busiest international routes. More airlines on the same route typically mean sharper pricing, more seat availability and better flight time options, all good news for travellers.

Darwin to Lombok (and Bali) Just Got Easier

One of the most interesting new developments for northern Australians is TransNusa’s new direct flight from Darwin to Lombok, with onward access to Bali via Indonesia’s domestic network.

This route opens up a completely different gateway into Indonesia, particularly for travellers based in the Northern Territory or those looking to explore beyond Bali’s main hubs. Lombok’s growing popularity, paired with easy connections to Bali, makes this a compelling option for Australians wanting a quieter entry point into the region or a dual-island itinerary.

What’s Changing at the Border

Entry into Bali remains straightforward for Australians, but a few updates are worth keeping in mind:

• Digital Arrival Forms: Travellers are now required to complete Indonesia’s online arrival declaration before landing, helping streamline immigration processing.

• Tourism Levy: The Bali tourism levy (around AUD $15) remains in place and is payable online or on arrival, contributing to cultural and environmental initiatives.

• Visa on Arrival / e-VOA: Australians can continue to use the Visa on Arrival or apply online for an e-VOA for stays of up to 30 days, with the option to extend once.

There has also been discussion around potential future requirements tied to “quality tourism,” such as proof of funds for visitors. While nothing has been formally implemented yet, it’s something travellers should be aware of as Indonesia fine-tunes its tourism strategy.

Taken together, these changes point to one thing: Bali is becoming easier, more flexible and more competitive to reach from Australia. With Jetstar expanding routes, new carriers entering the market, and alternative gateways like Darwin–Lombok emerging, Australians have more choice than ever in how they travel to Indonesia.

Whether you’re planning a quick escape, a longer stay or a more exploratory island-hopping trip, 2026 is shaping up to be a smart year to book, with Bali firmly staying at the centre of Australia’s travel conversation.