When you are out and about it is important to be alert and aware of your personal safety.

If you are going out at night remember:

• Think ahead - consider how you are going to get home - what about pre-booking a taxi or arranging transport with a friend or family member?
• Never hitch-hike.
• Make sure that you stay with your party and that someone knows where you are at all times.
• Make sure you have enough money to get home or to phone.
• Keep away from trouble - if you see any trouble or suspect that it might be about to start - move away from the scene if you can. The best thing you can do is to alert the police and keep away.
• Walk purposely and try to appear confident. Be wary of casual requests from strangers, like someone asking for a cigarette or change - they could have ulterior motives.
• Try not to carry your wallet in your back trouser pocket where it is vulnerable and in clear view.

If you are out and about:

• Be alert to your surroundings and the people around you, especially if you are alone or it is dark
• Whenever possible, travel with a friend or as part of a group
• Stay in well-lit areas as much as possible
• Walk confidently and at a steady pace
• Make eye contact with people when walking - let them know that you have noticed their presence
• Do not respond to conversation from strangers on the street or in a car - continue walking
• Be aware of your surroundings, and avoid using personal stereos or radios - you might not hear trouble approaching
• Always keep your briefcase or bag in view and close to your body
• Be discrete with your cash or mobile phones
• When going to your car or home, have your keys in your hand and easily accessible
• Consider carrying a personal attack alarm
• If you do not have a mobile phone, make sure that you have a phone card or change to make a phone call, but remember - emergency 000 calls are free of charge.

(Source: Australian Federal Police)