The huge island-continent had imposed some of the strictest entry restrictions in the world.
They had been closed since March 2020. Australia’s borders will reopen on February 21 to tourists fully vaccinated against Covid-19, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced on Monday February 7 after imposing entry restrictions in the territory among the strictest in the world.
“It’s been almost two years since we decided to close Australia’s borders”, explained Scott Morrison at the end of a cabinet meeting on national security. “If you are double vaccinated, we look forward to welcoming you back to Australia”, he added.
For the past two years, Australians have mostly not been allowed to leave their country and only a few visitors have obtained an exemption to enter the territory. These restrictions have separated families, hurt the tourism sector and sparked debates about Australia’s status as an open, modern and outward-looking country.
Border closures have cost 2.27 billion euros each month, according to the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. In recent months, restrictions have been gradually eased for Australians, long-term residents and students. Despite this announcement, restrictions are maintained for travel within Australia.
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