Biosecurity Emergency Measures to End April 17
On the advice of Australia’s Chief Medical Officer, The Federal Government announced on Friday 25 March that the Covid-19 emergency measures (the rules that governed exit and entry to Australia) will be allowed to expire on 17 April 2022, as part of the process of returning to pre-pandemic life.
What’s being changed?
The biggest change and one that we’re sure will be welcome to anyone thinking of travelling to or from Australia, is that the pre-flight testing requirement will be scrapped. In practical terms, this means:
No more being scared to leave the house, in case your holiday plans are ruined;
No more additional fees on top of your holiday;
No more requirement to spend holiday time finding an approved doctor or testing facility to ensure you’re able to catch your return flight;
Great news!
Furthermore, as part of the expected changes, Cruise vessels will be available to take you away from what promises to be a wet and chilly winter, to somewhere warm and sandy.
A more niche change, but one that represents the Government loosening the reigns in response to a lowered COVID threat, is the removal of price gouging rules in relation to Rapid Antigen Tests, allowing shop owners to respond to demand in RATs more flexibly.
What isn’t being changed:
Despite the big promises of the headline, some restrictions will remain in place, and it’s important you’re aware of them before booking an impromptu flight.
Masks will still be required on aircrafts; and
You will still be required to show proof of double vaccination with an approved vaccine, or an exemption.
It is also likely for those thinking about taking a cruise, that they will also require proof of double vaccination to alight or depart.
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help You?
If you want to find out more about your visa or need advice on your Australian migration matter, please do not hesitate to contact us. You can book a Migration Planning Session with one of our immigration lawyers to seek professional advice by calling 02-7200 2700 or email us to book in a time at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Korean, Mandarin, Cantonese, Indonesian, Burmese and Malay. If these aren’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances please contact our office.