COVID Travel Updates – October 2021

Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently announced that borders will be opening for Australian citizens and permanent residents within the next few weeks. States and territories are to open borders at different times given their varying vaccination rates but are expected to commence opening their borders in November.

Mr Morrison said the next priority would be bringing in skilled migrants and international students who are double vaccinated. He said international tourists would then be allowed to enter the country some time next year.

Leaving and returning to Australia

Fully vaccinated Australians will soon be eligible for international travel without first seeking an exemption.

Australian citizens or permanent residents aged 12 and over who have received two doses of a recognised vaccine will be able to travel without needing an exemption. This could start sometime in November but there will be more information provided soon.

Children under 12, and those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons, will also be able to travel overseas without an exemption.

Returning to Australia

Australian citizens and permanent residents who are fully vaccinated with an Australian Government recognised vaccine, or under the age of 12, may be eligible for reduced quarantine arrangements when you return to Australia. You will need to demonstrate your vaccination status at check-in when travelling to Australia.

Australian citizens and permanent residents who do not meet the eligibility requirements must continue to follow the current border processes when leaving Australia or coming to Australia.

Quarantine

States and Territories are responsible for determining, and managing, reduced quarantine arrangements for vaccinated Australians and permanent residents. This may involve home quarantine for a reduced period of time. You must check with the State or Territory that you are returning to for their quarantine arrangements.

Further information is unavailable on the Home Affairs COVID website.

New Zealand Travel – Quarantine free

The following information is also available on the Home Affairs COVID website.

•             Travelling from Australia to New Zealand: Travel exemption requirements

•             Transiting through Australia to New Zealand

•             Arriving in Australia

Source: MIA – Travel Updates