Australia to gradually reopen its borders—start planning
your relocation with us
More than 18 months after the travel ban was imposed in response to the global pandemic, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced on October 1st plans to gradually reopen the country’s international borders for fully vaccinated citizens and permanent residents.
The move is expected to take effect from November once 80% of the population is vaccinated. However, some Australian states such as Western Australia and Queensland aim to reach higher vaccination thresholds before easing travel restrictions. Inbound travel is currently permitted at a very strict quota and for exceptional reasons, leaving thousands stranded overseas for months.
As part of the announcement, vaccinated travellers will be required to quarantine at home for seven days upon return. In contrast, a 14-day quarantine at government-managed facilities applies to unvaccinated or those treated with a vaccine that the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) does not recognise. Moreover, India’s Covishield and China’s Sinovac join the list of government-approved vaccines and Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson and Johnson.
In response to the new measures, Qantas Airways announced the resumption of a limited number of flights starting from mid-November. They will be operating three times a week from Sydney to London and Sydney to Los Angeles. In addition, they stated that flights might increase in frequency and new destinations could be added depending on demand.
What does it mean for you?
Such long-waited measures are very good news for people wanting to return or leave the country. We strongly recommend that you start planning your relocation as soon as possible. Get in touch with your Santa Fe representative for more information or contact us to see how we can assist you.
