Following the Australian international borders closing in March 2020, there has been extensive commentary and speculation as to when the borders will open for Australians, to allow international travel.

Recently, the government has made comments on both a federal and, in some instances, state level, regarding the status of international borders, and when Australians can expect to travel internationally and ultimately, when other visa holders will be able to return to Australia.

Australian International Travel

On 1 October 2021, the Prime Minister announced his support for easing some restrictions on international travel for fully vaccinated Australian citizens and permanent residents. The Prime Minister noted his support for Australian citizens or permanent residents aged 12 and over who are fully vaccinated being able to travel without needing to apply for an exemption. Upon return, these travellers may then be able to undertake reduced quarantine arrangements, which could involve home quarantine, as opposed to the current requirements for hotel quarantine.

Whilst the Prime Minister has voiced his support for these arrangements, it is important to note that no formal changes have been announced nor confirmed to date. Whilst this has been indicated to potentially commence in November, it depends on a number of factors, including (but not limited to):

• the pilot schemes being successful;
• vaccination levels increasing to at least 80% double vaccinated; and
• the position of the relevant state governments.

Until further concrete direction is issued with formal changes to the current restrictions (potentially in November) when the noted markers are met, the restrictions remain the same. As such, whilst there may be changes to the restrictions in November, this has not been confirmed, nor has any formal legislative change been made, and the current travel exemption system will stay in place until then.

International Borders & Travel to NSW

New South Wales premier, Dominic Perrottet, announced on 15 October 2021 that New South Wales will be ending mandatory hotel quarantine for returning travellers from 1 November 2021. As per this announcement, the conditions for this include undertaking a PCR (COVID-19) Test prior to boarding the flight, and showing proof of being fully vaccinated.

Though mandatory quarantine will no longer be applicable, an inbound exemption will still be required for temporary visa holders for now, as has been the case since the international borders first closed back in March last year.

Many states have also kept their borders closed to New South Wales residents and, as such, it will not be possible to circumvent quarantine requirements by travelling through New South Wales, before returning interstate. To date, New South Wales is the only Australian state /territory to make an announcement to this effect, and for the rest of Australia, hotel quarantine requirements will still be in place until announced otherwise.

Assistance from our Migration Lawyers

If you are seeking advice or assistance with international travel, please contact our office on 1300 749 709.