Why Now Is a Great Time for Australians to Visit Bali

As of 13 January, the Australian dollar is sitting at around 11,300 Indonesian rupiah, a level that makes everyday holiday spending in Bali feel noticeably lighter.

To put that into context, the AUD hasn’t consistently traded this high against the rupiah in years. The previous peak was back in April 2021, when the dollar reached roughly 11,267 IDR, and before that, a similar high was last seen in 2014. In recent weeks, the exchange rate has remained steady around the 11,200-11,300 mark, offering Australians more value for money.

What does this mean on the ground? Quite simply, Bali feels more affordable. Dining out, private drivers, spa treatments, shopping and even accommodation upgrades stretch further, allowing travellers to add experiences without constantly checking the budget. It’s the kind of value that makes long lunches turn into dinners, and “maybe later” experiences turn into easy yeses.

Beyond the exchange rate, Bali continues to tick all the boxes Australians love. Direct flights from major cities, minimal jet lag, a hospitality scene that understands Aussie travellers, and a food and café culture that rivals home all contribute to its appeal. With the dollar currently performing well, Bali once again stands out as one of the most accessible and best-value international destinations close to home.

A quick tip: many travellers find it’s best to exchange only a small amount of cash before leaving Australia, then use reputable money changers or multi-currency cards once in Bali. This often gets you closer to the real exchange rate and leaves more room in the budget for experiences rather than fees.

With a strong Australian dollar, easy access and Bali’s lifestyle offering as compelling as ever, now is an especially good time to book a trip, and enjoy the island with a little more flexibility, comfort and indulgence.