The meeting took place in the Governor’s Reception Room at Phuket Provincial Hall, where the governor welcomed the ambassador and her team, and highlighted the strong historical ties between the two countries, particularly through tourism.
Governor Nirat noted that Phuket remains one of the most popular destinations for Australian visitors, supported by numerous direct flights, natural attractions and the hospitality of local residents. He said Australian tourists consistently rank among the top nationalities visiting the island each year.
During the discussions, the governor raised concerns about road safety, describing traffic accidents as one of Phuket’s key challenges, said an official report of the meeting.
He stressed the importance of better education and preparation for tourists, especially those planning to ride motorcycles or drive vehicles while in Phuket. Governor Nirat explained that the island’s steep and winding roads, combined with visitors’ unfamiliarity with local driving conditions, increased the risk of accidents.
Ambassador Macdonald said Australia has already introduced measures to better prepare travellers before they leave the country. These include providing safety guidance through official online platforms and promoting travel awareness in educational institutions. She thanked the Thai government and Phuket authorities for their ongoing support and care for Australian nationals visiting the island.
The Australian delegation also raised four key areas of concern: road safety, cannabis use, drug-related issues and mental health. The ambassador expressed appreciation for the work of Region 8 Police, which she said has cooperated closely with Australian agencies to exchange information on transnational crime and enhance the safety of both Thai and foreign nationals.
Governor Nirat reaffirmed Phuket’s commitment to international cooperation, stating that government agencies and private sector partners are working together to ensure Phuket remains a “safe city” for residents and visitors alike.
He said the province remains focused on maintaining high standards of security and care for all international tourists, the report concluded.