1.  Never go bushwalking alone. 

2.  Always dress appropriately. 

    a.  Long pants to protect your legs from thorny bush.
    b.  Long sleeve shirt to protect your arms from bugs.
    c.  Hat or head covering to protect from falling critters and debris. 
    d.  Comfortable shoes with non-skid soles to prevent slipping.

3.  Do not touch anything that you are unsure of. 

There are many poisonous plants out there, and while you may simply develop a rash from touching it, you may also end up far worse.  Many plants leave poisonous residue on your hands that you may not see or even feel.  If you happen to stop in the bush for a quick snack to boost your energy, this residue can be transferred to your food and then into your body’s system through the ingestion of that food.  So do not pick up any strange or interesting fungi or plants.

4.  Take only memories and leave only footprints. 

Have your mate check before you leave the bush to make sure you aren’t carrying any critters on your clothes.  Also, don’t pick the flowers or take home any of plants, because the wildlife depend upon this for food and shelter. Take all your rubbish with you when you leave the bush; the bushland critters have enough trouble cleaning up after themselves.

5.  Visit the local ranger station before you start. 

The local ranger station will be beneficial in alerting you of any known danger in the bush.  The rangers will also be able to provide knowledge regarding the fitness level required on the various bush trails. You don’t want to find yourself out in the bush completely exhausted because the trail you chose was more intense than your physical capability.

6.  Do not venture off the marked trails. 

Many animals like snakes avoid human contact, so you are less likely to come in contact with them on a bush trail.  Furthermore, you are more likely to be able to see a snake on a bush trail than you are should you go trampling about the bush.  There are too many places for a snake or other critter to hide in the undergrowth of the bush; you do not want to just go trampling around in there. Further than the critters that linger in the bush, staying on marked trails will aid to ensure that you do not get lost.

7.  Research the area before you head out.

Either pick up or print out a map of the area before beginning your journey.  Knowing the area and where the key landmarks are will aid in finding emergency assistance should you need it.  Research the native wildlife; even an elementary knowledge will be enough to assist you in identifying the creatures that you see on your journey, and assist in knowing what creatures to avoid

8.  Alert family and friends of your plans to go for a bushwalk.

Make your family and friends aware of your intentions to go for a bushwalk.  Alert them of where you are going and when you plan to return.  Give them clear instructions so that they can call for a search party should you not return home.

9.  Keep your eyes, ears, and wits about you. 

Australia is home to many of the most deadly creatures in the world, namely spiders that can be difficult to see.  You don’t want to accidentally walk into a spider’s web and find yourself the next victim of the spider’s bite. 

10. Know your local emergency services number.

This number is different in many countries.  In the USA this number is 911.  In Australia this number is 000.  You cannot call for help if you don't know the appropriate number to dial.