As Christmas approaches and we are preparing to travel to visit family and to receive family and friends we may not have seen for the last 2 years, let us continue to be safe.  Despite increasing vaccination numbers, countries around the world continue to experience sudden COVID-19 outbreaks. 

International Travel

COVID-19 has made national and international travel more complex.  From 1st November, Australia’s international borders have been open, with fully vaccinated Australians being able to travel outside of Australia without applying for an exemption.  Be aware the definitions of fully vaccinated vary for each country, by Australian international standards, individuals are fully vaccinated seven days after they have received their second dose of a TGA approved vaccine.

Global COVID-19 Health Advisory

Before planning your trip, check with governing bodies, such as Smart Traveller,  to access the travel advice for your overseas destination.  It is your responsibility to be informed about all the destinations you plan to visit and to take all precautions regarding you and your family’s safety.

We must remember that COVID-19 remains an ongoing global health risk, and that border setting and quarantine requirements can be complex and can change at a moment’s notice.  Each country or territory decides who can enter and leave through its borders.  You may need to show proof of vaccination as a condition of entry.  You may also need to quarantine or provide negative COVID-19 tests. 

Before you go

  • Consider the location that you will be travelling to with the awareness that risk in certain areas of getting infected with COVID-19 is significantly higher than other areas.  Authorities may implement measures to manage COVID-19 outbreaks which may affect your ability to move freely, including in and out of the country. 
  • You should ensure that you have sufficient resources to support yourself overseas for a significant period of time, including resources for medical or health services, in the likely event of flight cancellations and disruptions to your travel plans.
  • Monitor the media and other sources for changes to local travelling conditions, safety, health situation and security concerns
  • Be aware of local differences and, as appropriate, take similar precautions to those you would take in Australia
  • Check entry, testing and vaccination requirements before you travel and check you have appropriate records
  • Research the health services available, services may be strained and may not be the same as you would receive in Australia. 
  • Minimise time spent in airports by scheduling direct flights if possible.  Avoid stopovers in high-risk airports. 

While you’re away

  • Monitor the health risks in your location and keep track of any changes to restrictions.  Follow the advice of local authorities and minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19. 
  • Maintain good hygiene and physical distancing when interacting with other people. 
  • Stay in contact with your airline operator or travel provider for changes and updates. 
  • Continue to wear a mask
  • Avoid crowds and limit social interactions, particularly in indoor settings

Returning to Australia

Check requirements for entry back into Australia, you may still need to get tested for COVID-19 to return to Australia, with provision of evidence of a negative PCR test result.  Restrictions on arrival may vary depending on which state or territory you arrive in.  You may need to quarantine when you arrive, so always check the restrictions that will apply to you on return.

For more information visit: Global COVID-19 Health Advisory