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Writer's pictureIrish Causin

Australia Is Finally Open for Tourists!

With the gradual reopening of the Australian borders that started from Permanent Residents and International Students, finally, Australia has taken a bold step and started reopening to visitors. Australia is a popular destination and a country that holds many reasons to attract every backpacker, and it’s hardly surprising why temporary residents are thrilled to experience Australian life.


Have you got friends and family you’ve been longing to visit? Or are you simply considering a fun time and adventure in Australia’s “The Bush” and “The Outback” or at any of its natural wonders? Before you even start packing, check out these updates and plan according to the country’s travel requirements.


Restriction-Free Areas

australia open for tourists

If you are thinking of entering the Western part of Australia, note that there are still in-admissable areas of the country. Although Australia has officially accepted tourists, the Western region is expected to be closed until March 3.


Australia’s Entry Requirements


The rules are pretty straightforward, you just need to be fully vaccinated to enter the country. The term “fully vaccinated” currently means being jabbed with two doses, which could soon become three since booster shots are now widely distributed.


According to the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs, qualified tourists need to meet the following prerequisites before they can successfully enter inside the border:


  • Vaccination record

  • Negative RT-PCR test before departure (within 72 hours timeframe)

  • Completed DPD (Digital Passenger Declaration) (within 72 hours timeframe)


In most cases, fully vaccinated visitors who had a negative result from the RAT (Rapid Antigen Test) upon arrival are exempted from the 7-day quarantine. However, the testing and quarantine requirements for arriving travelers can vary depending on your area of destination.



For example, in New South Wales, after entrants have arrived at their hotels, the 7-day quarantine is eliminated as long as they show a negative result from a self-testing kit taken within 24 hours of arrival. On the 6th day, another test will have to be retaken.


Because of these varying policies, it’s highly advisable to refer to the state or territory guidelines to avoid missing out on any important information.


If you’re bringing your kids with you, the same requirements are needed especially if they are more than 4 years old. For kids that are not yet qualified to be vaccinated, they can be accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult, but a 7-day quarantine is most likely required.


Can Australia Admit Unvaccinated Travellers?


If you hold a travel exemption, it’s possible to enter Australia even if you’re not vaccinated. Here are the possible reasons for getting an exemption:


  • Medical grounds

  • Compassionate or compelling reasons

  • Accompanying a minor Australian citizen/PR

  • Government invitation

  • Provision of important work

  • Program attendance from certain students

  • Prospective marriage under subclass 300


Visiting Local Businesses in Australia

australia open for tourists

To be able to shop, enjoy a drink, or dine in any of Australia’s local businesses, make sure to carry your proof of vaccination + test results or medical exemptions.


In Victoria, there are two things that international visitors are required of when entering a business:


  • An Australian International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate.

  • An Australian Traveller Declaration.


Again, requirements differ per state or territory, so stay updated by checking the government website.


For the first time in two years, tourists can once again have the wonderful experiences Australia has to offer. With the post effects brought by the pandemic, particularly in the tourism industry, many are just thrilled to be back with businesses exhilarated in taking the road to full recovery.


Thinking of visiting Australia for its famous spots and adventurous activities? The Fil-Global team can assist you with your application! Don’t hesitate to contact us and we’ll help you reach your ultimate travel destination.


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