Consular Services for Australians in the UK

Contacts

If you require Consular assistance while in the UK, you can contact the Australian High Commission in London by

▪ phone (9.00am - 5.00pm, Monday - Friday): 020 7379 4334 (main switchboard) or 020 7887 5776 (a voicemail facility is available on this line after hours)

▪ or email

In case of an after hours emergency the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra can be contacted on 0500 890 165 (free-phone) 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Our Edinburgh Office cannot provide Consular assistance.

The Consular Section can

▪ provide assistance in the case of an accident, serious illness or death, and arrange for next-of-kin to be informed

▪ provide assistance if you are arrested and arrange for your family to be informed if you wish

▪ provide a list of local solicitors

▪ help during emergencies such as civil disturbances and natural disasters

▪ provide the latest travel advice and information about security and health conditions in many parts of the world

▪ provide a range of other information useful to travelling Australians

▪ witness and certify signatures and provide certain other notarial and legal services, for which fees are payable

The Consular Section cannot:

▪ provide visas or work permits for other countries

▪ assist with enquiries about UK visas. These enquiries should be directed to the UK Home Office

▪ get you out of prison

▪ obtain preferential treatment for you in prison (or hospital) or in any dealing you might have with the authorities in the UK

▪ investigate crimes in the UK

▪ arrange travel or accommodation bookings or store your luggage

▪ pay your hotel, medical, or any other bills, or become involved in disputes about these expenses

▪ collect or hold mail on your behalf

▪ provide funds to pay your legal costs or fines, represent you at legal proceedings or give legal advice

▪ pay pensions, although we can assist you to contact government authorities in Australia to help resolve payment difficulties