Heard & McDonald Islands

Use Normal Level of Caution

Heard Island and McDonald Islands (HIMI) are an Australian external territory located in the Indian Ocean, 4000km southwest of Perth, Australia, between Madagascar and Antarctica. The islands were first discovered by the American Captains Heard and McDonald in 1853 and 1854, respectively, and who aptly named the islands after themselves. From 1910 until 1947 the islands were under British Administration. Today, the islands are administered by the Australian Antarctic Division, as part of the Australian Department of the Environment.

Heard Island is largely ice covered, but is home to an active volcano, Big Ben, and Australia’s highest mountain, Mawson Peak.

These uninhabited and remote islands are important areas for scientific research as they are home to many seal and bird species. They are designated as a World Heritage site as well as a nature reserve. As a result, a permit is required to travel to the islands.

There are no diseases to report for these uninhabited islands.Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date.

Currency	AUD: Australian Dollar
Language	English
Capital	None
Recent Alerts	None
Latest Alert	Not Available

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Heard & McDonald Islands. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

None required.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Heard & McDonald Islands.

None required.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Heard & McDonald Islands.

None required.

Safety and Security in Heard & McDonald Islands

Emergency Numbers

112

Personal Safety

Since there is no permanent human habitation, those travelling to the islands must be prepared for the inhospitable environment.

Travel may be disrupted or cancelled due to weather.

There is an active volcano located on Heard Island.

Ensure travel insurance is purchased before departing as medical assistance is limited. In the case of a medical emergency, evacuation will be required.

There are no diseases to report for these uninhabited islands.Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date.

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Updated: August 06, 2018