COVID-19 UPDATES FOR AUSTRALIA

VICTORIA: 22.12.20 Update

From 11.59pm 18 December 2020 a permit system will be in place for all NSW residents travelling to Victoria. For more information visit Victorian Border Crossing Permit.

Travel restrrictions NSW

WHAT IS CHANGING?  

• From 11:59pm Sunday 20 December the Victorian Border Crossing Permit is changing to restrict travel from a number of areas in New South Wales.  
• The permit or restrictions on travel that apply to you are determined by where you live, have travelled through or visited in the last 14 days.  
• Northern Beaches – do not travel to Victoria.  
• Greater Sydney or Central Coast, known as “red zone” – Victorians can return to Victoria from this area until 11:59pm on 21 December. People who are not Victorian who have visited this area or live here are no longer able to enter Victoria. If you are returning to Victoria you must get tested within 24 hours of entering Victoria and quarantine at home for 14 days. 
• Regional New South Wales – you can travel with a permit. 
• Victorians who are in, or have been in or travelled through since 11 December 2020,  Greater Sydney (not including those in the Northern Beaches) or the Central Coast, will be given until 11:59pm Monday 21 December to return home to Victoria.  You will require a border permit to enter Victoria and must get tested within 24 hours of returning to Victoria and self-quarantine at home or another suitable premises for 14 days from the last time you were in Greater Sydney or the Central Coast. Random spot-checks will be undertaken. 
• Victorians should not travel to Sydney. Without mandatory face covering rules and stay at home restrictions, the Victorian Government and our health authorities do not have confidence that the situation remains safe. 
• The current outbreak in the Northern Beaches area of New South Wales has, in all likelihood come from New South Wales hotel quarantine. There are currently missing links in the chains of transmission and case numbers continue to grow. 
• The Victorian Government is working with the ACT Government to determine requirements for ACT residents to travel through NSW to enter Victoria.  

Victoria Police will establish checkpoints along the major road routes into Victoria from New South Wales to check those coming into Victoria are carrying the appropriate permit. Border communities will be exempt from obtaining and carrying a permit to support them in going about their daily lives. Instead, they will be able to use their driver licence, or other forms of ID with their address.  The local government areas in the border zone on the Victorian side are: Alpine, Benalla, Bendigo, Buloke, Campaspe, East Gippsland, Gannawarra, Indigo, Loddon, Mildura, Moira, Shepparton, Swan Hill, Towong, Wangaratta, Wodonga and Yarriambiack. 

The NSW local government areas are: Albury City, Balranald, Bega Valley, Berrigan, Broken Hill, Edward River, Federation, Greater Hume, Hay, Lockhart, Murray River, Murrumbidgee, Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys, Wagga Wagga, and Wentworth.  

There are two zones in place a "RED" & "GREEN" zone. Full details are here

From 11.59pm 18 December 2020 a permit system will be in place for all NSW residents travelling to Victoria. For more information visit Victorian Border Crossing Permit.

VICTORIA: 06.12.20 Update

Statement from the Premier

Keynotes from it:

"Our new "COVIDSafe Summer" will be in place until at least the end of January, giving Victorians a bit more certainty about what the next couple of months will look like.

These are the restrictions that will see us through the summer months – and living as normally as we can until we get a greater sense of what the rest of 2021 will look like.

Under the changes, and from tonight at 11:59pm, masks will only be required in a limited number of places: on public transport, in rideshare vehicles and taxis, in some retail settings including indoor shopping centres, supermarkets, department stores and indoor markets.

While masks are no longer mandated in most circumstances, the evidence is clear wearing a face covering makes a real difference in slowing the spread of the virus – so masks continue to be recommended indoors or outdoors when distancing can’t be maintained.

As has been previously announced, Victorians will be able to host up to 30 people in their home. Outdoor gatherings in public places – the beach, the park – can increase to 100.

Density limits in our pubs, restaurants and cafes will shift to 1 person per 2sq metres for both indoors and outdoors with no other cap. The use of electronic record keeping – a QR code – will be mandatory.

And for small operations, there'll be no density limits if the patron number is under 25."

- Premier Daniel Andrews

VICTORIA: 24.11.20 Update

The wearing of a mask has been eased.

Victoria moves to Last Step restrictions from 11:59pm 22 November 2020.

Face masks remain mandatory in some settings, unless you have a lawful reason not to wear one

• face masks are no longer mandatory when you are outdoors, if you can stay 1.5 metres away from people that you don’t live with
• use of face masks outdoors is required if you are unable to stay further than 1.5 metres away from people you don’t live with, such as at public transport stations, outdoor markets, walkways and thoroughfares. Face masks remain mandatory when indoors – for example the supermarket or on public transport.
• you must continue to carry a face mask with you at all times.

You can find more information on the face masks page.

• There are no restrictions on reasons to leave home.  During the Last Step restrictions on gatherings remain in place.
• There will be a phased return to workplaces.
• Contact and non-contact sport and recreation can resume for all ages, with limits applying to numbers of people. 
• Shops, recreational facilities, entertainment, hospitality and cultural venues will be open, although there are still restrictions. These include operating with a COVIDSafe Plan, density limits (the number of people allowed in a venue depends on its size so that people can keep at least 1.5 metres distance apart), record keeping and cleaning.

Full details here

VICTORIA: 09.11.20 Update

The "Ring of Steel" for Melbourne Metro areas has been lifted - Yah!

No restriction for travel, no Km limit, but please be aware that this coming weekend 14 & 15 November will be busy. please remember social distancing & hygiene rules.

Details of lifted restrictions here at the Vic Gov Site - Third Step.

Support your local businesses where you can, they need your help

VICTORIA: 18.10.20 Update

Premiers Statement from 18.10.20

Restrictions to be lifted or eased 

Metropolitan Melbourne is in Second Step restrictions. From 11:59pm 18 October 2020 a number of restrictions are easing. The changes to restrictions include:

• You can NOW TRAVEL UP TO 25 KM FROM YOUR HOME OR PERMITTED WORKPLACE WITHIN METROPOLITAN MELBOURNE. This replaces the 5km rule. Travel to regional Victoria is still only allowed for permitted purposes even if this is within 25 kms. This means you cannot travel into regional Victoria for exercise or recreation.
• You can leave home for any period of time to exercise or see friends and family outdoors. This replaces the two hour limit on these activities. There are no limits on the number of times you can leave home.
• You can meet in a group of up to ten people from a maximum of two households outdoors in a public place to socialise (children under 12 months of age not included in the limit). An outdoor public place means areas accessible to everyone, including local parks and beaches. This replaces the limit of five people from a maximum of two households.
• You can exercise in a group of up to ten people from a maximum of two households outdoors in a public place (personal training is limited to two people plus the trainer). This replaces the limit of five people from a maximum of two households.
• Some outdoor activities can take place in outdoor sport and recreation facilities. Outdoor sport and recreation facilities can open if:
  • they are predominantly used for outdoor sport or physical recreation
  • there is no equipment for hire or sharing
  • indoor facilities such as change rooms are not permitted for use, however toilet facilities are permitted to open
  • a limit of 10 people from 2 household per group or more than 10 if the entire group is from the same household and you must be able to keep 1.5 metres between yourself and others
  • restrictions to no more than 10 people in the facility at once except where a distance of at least 100m between groups can be maintained (e.g. golf courses)
  • examples include some outdoor tennis courts, golf courses, or bowling greens
• More people who work outdoors will be able to return to work. Groups of up to five workers who work outside, including those who do the following types of work can return to on-site work:
  • outdoor non-essential home maintenance and repairs, including painting
  • outdoor pool & spa maintenance/cleaning for private residences and other outdoor cleaning
  • external car washing. This must be contactless and administration offices must remain closed mobile pet grooming at residential properties, contactless with strict controls
  • outdoor professional photography including school photos (for purposes other than currently permitted purposes, e.g. media, real estate), they must have an ABN
  • letterboxing (for purposes other than local elections)
  • Solar power installers
• Hairdressers and barbers will be able to recommence work. This includes operating mobile businesses and at home businesses, if they are registered, have separate entrances, and COVIDSafe practices.
• Allied health providers that are currently listed on the permitted work premised list will be able to return to delivering all routine care
• Hydrotherapy can resume between one health care professional and one client in indoor pools. No group sessions will be permitted and there will maximum of 10 people per pool at one time for hydrotherapy (five health care professionals and five clients).
• The maximum number of people permitted to use outdoor swimming pools for exercise has been increased by the density quotient to a maximum of 30 people. Real estate auctions, both residential and commercial will be permitted outdoors with a limit of 10 people, plus the minimum number of people required to conduct the auction.
• Commercial real estate pre-arranged inspections with 1 agent and 1 prospective purchaser or tenant.

• Additional changes to retail, hospitality & personal services will be made from 1 November, in line with the advice of our public health team.

Regional Victorian remains in Third Step restrictions. From 11:59pm 18 October 2020 some restrictions are easing. The changes to restrictions include:

• You can have up to two people visit you at home each day. Infants under 12 months are not included in this cap, and other dependents can also attend if they cannot be left unattended or cared for in another setting. The two people may be from different households. This replaces the household bubbles.
• Libraries and toy libraries can open for up to 20 people indoors. No more than 10 people can gather in a space (for example for a class). The one person per four square metre rule Signage, cleaning and record-keeping requirements apply.
• Outdoor religious gatherings are allowed for up to 20 people plus one faith leader. This replaces the limit of ten people. This includes ceremonies, with no sharing of food, drink, crockery, utensils, vessels or other equipment by participants.
• The limits of people in restaurants and cafes increases. You can have up to 70 people outdoors and up to 10 people per indoor space with a maximum of 40 people per venue indoors. The two and four square metre rules Indoor spaces must be separated by permanent structures (should reach floor to ceiling or be at least 2.1 metres high) or be a discrete area of the premises. Businesses must continue to ensure people from metropolitan Melbourne do not eat-in.
• Indoor swimming pools can open exclusively for those aged 18 and under. There is a limit of 20 customers in the pool or the one person per four square metre rule (whichever is the smaller number of people). One parent/guardian/carer per child is permitted for supervision purposes and not included in the limit. Swimming classes can resume.
• Indoor pools can open for one-on-one hydrotherapy sessions with a limit of 10 people in the pool at one time.
• Licensed tourism services that use open-air vehicles only are permitted to operate. A vehicle, inclusive of roofed vehicles, is considered an open-air vehicle if at least two sides are open to airflow at all times.

Please note this is a summary. There are still other restrictions which will apply like Reglious Gatherings & Ceremony. Update details at The Victorian State Government site.

(Scroll down on the right-hand side is to links for MEL Metro & MEL Regional).

VICTORIA: 21.09.20 Update

The State of Victoria has announced plans which will extend the stage 4 restrictions with some "reductions" until 28 September 2020, then stage 3 restrictions will apply.

Its a very complicated announcement so please refer to the State of Victoria Government site!

The Victorian Government also released a Roadmap for the progressive lifting of restrictions. Please see this link for details.

Stage 4 restrictions for Melbourne

For Melbourne, new restrictions will take effect from 6 pm today (Sunday 2 August). A curfew will be in place from 8 pm this evening. Curfews will be in operation from 8 pm to 5 am every evening. People are only allowed to leave their house for work and essential health, care or safety reasons.

Outside of these hours, you are only allowed to leave your house for 1 of the following four reasons:

• To purchase food and necessary supplies. This must be done within a 5km radius from where you live. Only 1 person per household can leave for essential goods, and only once per day. For some people, the nearest goods and services will be more than 5km away. In this situation, you may travel beyond 5km to the nearest provider. If you are unable to leave home because it would mean leaving a young child or at-risk person at home unattended, then they may accompany you.
• Exercise once a day for up to 1 hour within a 5km radius of your home. Gathering sizes will be limited to 2. If you are unable to leave home because it would mean leaving a young child or at-risk person at home unattended, then they may accompany you.
• For care and health care including accompanying someone for essential medical care if you are a carer, guardian or necessary support person. The 5km limit does not apply to care or caregiving.
• Work. Study at TAFE and university must be done remotely. The 5km limit does not apply to work.

Unfortunately, this means no recreational activities like diving or fishing.

The fine for not wearing or carrying a face covering will be $200.

The State of Disaster in Victoria has been declared and will be in place until the middle of September 2020. This gives move power to enforcement & monitoring of restrictions.

Travel around Victoria now banned.

Interstate travel is banned into all states with each state around Victoria manning the borders.

Regional Victoria including Mitchell Shire will move to Stage 3 restrictions

This means you must stay home except for the following four reasons:

• For food and essential supplies
• For study or work
• For care and healthcare
• And for exercise or outdoor recreation

When outside your home, you must wear a face covering.

No visitors are allowed at your home, and you are only allowed to gather with one person from outside your household in public.

OFFICIAL VIC GOVERNMENT WEBSITE: VIC Restrictions

NSW: 22.12.20 Update

RESTRICTIONS IN GREATER SYDNEY

Northern Beaches

Public health orders apply to the Northern Beaches Local Government Area in response to an increase in COVID-19 cases up to Wednesday 23 December.

STAYING AT HOME

You must not be away from your place of residence or your temporary accommodation in the Northern Beaches unless you have a reasonable excuse.

A reasonable excuse includes

1. shopping for food or other goods and services
2. medical care or compassionate needs
3. exercise
4. work or education, where you cannot work or learn from home.

WHO IS INCLUDED IN THE STAY AT HOME ORDER

The stay at home order affects people who were residents of the Northern Beaches area at any time between Thursday 10 December 2020 at 12.01am and Saturday 19 December 2020 at 5.02pm.

It applies if you were at a place of residence or temporary accommodation in the Northern Beaches local government area during that time and

• are still in the Northern Beaches area or
• left the Northern Beaches area before 5.02pm on 19 December 2020, and are now staying somewhere else.

OTHER REASONS TO LEAVE YOUR HOME

You may also be away from your residence to:

• access childcare
• provide care or assistance (including personal care) to a vulnerable person or to provide emergency assistance
• attend a wedding, if it is before the end of 20 December 2020
• attend a funeral of no more than 100 people
• move to a new place of residence, or between your different places of residence
• donate blood
• undertake legal obligations
• access social services, employment services, services provided to victims (including as victims of crime), domestic violence services, and mental health services
• avoid injury or illness or to escape a risk of harm
• attend to an emergency or for compassionate reasons, including where two people are in a relationship but do not necessarily live together.

Taking a holiday outside the Northern Beaches is not a reasonable excuse

Find out about the restrictions for the Northern Beaches.

Greater Sydney, Central Coast and Wollongong

Residents across Greater Sydney should limit unnecessary activity with restrictions applying from Sunday 20 December 2020.

Find out about the restrictions for Greater Sydney.

NSW: 11.12.20 Update

NSW - SA Border

Update on entry to NSW from South Australia

Anyone travelling into NSW who has been to South Australia in the last 14 days must complete a NSW entry declaration form before entering NSW.

If you are a NSW resident and you have been in one of the areas of concern, ensure you get tested and self-isolate for 14 days.

Non-NSW residents who have been to any areas of concern at the times specified will be unable to enter NSW unless you are transiting through. 

Find out more about entry from South Australia.

NSW - VICTORIA Border

The NSW-Victoria border re-opened at 12.01am on Monday 23 November 2020.

From this time:

• permits are not required
• there is no requirement to quarantine when you arrive in NSW.

People in hotel quarantine as of 12:01am on Monday 23 November because they have come from Victoria are not required to complete the mandatory hotel quarantine period unless they have tested positive for COVID-19.

Quarantine for international arrivals still applies.

People in 14-day self-isolation as of 12:01 Monday 23 November because they have come from Victoria are not required to complete the 14-day self-isolation unless they have tested positive for COVID-19.

People entering NSW should be aware of current rules and guidelines around reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

NSW - QUEENSLAND Border

The Queensland Government has opened the Queensland-NSW border to all travellers from NSW as of Tuesday 1 December 2020. This includes travellers from Greater Sydney LGA areas.

Read more on the Queensland Government website.

NSW: 21.09.20 Update

NSW - VICTORIA Border

From 12.01am Friday 16 October you can enter NSW from Victoria if you have a permit and you are

• driving from South Australia via the Sturt Highway
• transiting by road, rail or air directly from the Spirit of Tasmania
• transiting only through a Victorian airport without leaving the airport.

The current exemption to enter NSW from South Australia after transiting through Victoria on the Sturt Highway will expire at 12.01am Monday 19 October and you will need to apply for the new permit.

If you are transiting through NSW to another destination you can travel by road provided you have not been in a restricted area (Melbourne) or an area of concern in the last 14 days. You are no longer required to only transit by air. You will still need a permit to enter.

OTHER UPDATES:

The following changes take effect on Friday 16 October.

Outdoor music rehearsals and performances

A music rehearsal or performance of up to 500 people may be held in an outdoor public place. The organiser must complete and register a COVID-19 Safety Plan.

HOSPITALITY VENUES

Hospitality venues are encouraged to use electronic entry recording for recordkeeping.

Venues that use electronic systems for registering contact details may apply the one person per 2 square metre rule for outdoor areas, subject to maximum capacity limits.

All premises must have a COVID-19 Safety Plan.

CORPORATE EVENTS, WEDDINGS, FUNERALS AND RELIGIOUS SERVICES

Significant events held at hospitality venues that use electronic systems for registering contact details may apply the one person per 2 square metre rule for outdoor areas.

All events must have a COVID-19 Safety Plan and provided there is sufficient space at the venue, the maximum capacity for these events is still

• 300 people for corporate events
• 150 people for weddings
• 100 people for funerals and religious services.

TRAVELLERS ARRIVING FROM NEW ZEALAND

From Friday 16 October, you do not need to enter mandatory quarantine when you fly from New Zealand into NSW, if you have not been in a New Zealand COVID-19 hotspot in the past 14 days.

NSW: 21.09.20 Update

As per today border restrictions as still in place for Victoria, with the easing of restrictions for VIC/NSW border citizens from 17 September. ( see NSW Govt website for details)

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NSW has temporarily imposed border restrictions with Victoria. Only persons authorised under the public health order may enter NSW if they have been in Victoria in the last 14 days.

From Friday 7 August, NSW residents returning from Victoria will only be allowed to enter via Sydney Airport or another NSW airport. You must then immediately go into mandatory hotel quarantine for 14 days at your own expense.

Special arrangements are in place for border communities and critical services workers in the border region.

The order applies to all people who have been in Victoria in the past 14 days and wish to travel to or through NSW.

Excluding Victoria, there are no restrictions in place for all other states on crossing the NSW border. However, each state or territory has its own entry requirements and travel restrictions. You must comply with any border rules of the state or territory you are entering or leaving.

NSW Premier recommends wearing a mask while out & about

From 12:01 am Friday, 24 July 2020 the following rules will be in force as NSW enters a state of ‘COVID normal’. This includes new restrictions of numbers at bars. pubs, clubs & restaurants to 10 maximum. No lockdowns as yet but trying to stop the second wave. Full details on the link below

OFFICIAL NSW GOVERNMENT WEBSITE: Border Restrictions Guide, Latest NSW Up-dates

QUEENSLAND: 22.12.20 Update

Important information for Queensland residents

QUEENSLAND: 11.12.20 Update

From 1am AEST on Saturday 12 December, Queensland borders will open to all of South Australia. Full details to be loaded on the Queensland COVID site soon.

WHAT CHANGED FROM 1AM AEST 1 December 2020

• There are no COVID-19 hotspots in New South Wales or Victoria
  • This means you can enter Queensland from 1am AEST Tuesday 1 December, even if you have been in greater Sydney or Victoria in the 14 days prior
  • Anyone in mandatory government arranged quarantine - due to entering from New South Wales or Victoria - will be able to leave quarantine if they have a negative COVID-19 test, declare in writing they have not been in a South Australian hotspot in the last 14 days, and provide their contact details and Queensland address.
• Specific parts of South Australia will continue to be COVID-19 hotspots.
• You will only be required to complete a Queensland Border Declaration Pass if in the last 14 days, you have been in a hotspot or overseas and didn’t fly into Queensland when you arrived in Australia.
• You must fly into Queensland if you are permitted to enter from a hotspot. You will need to be granted an exemption to enter by road from a hotspot unless you are a truck driver, worker related to the transport of freight and logistics or performing selected essential activities.

Full details here

QUEENSLAND: 18.10.20 Update

WHAT CHANGED FROM 1AM THURSDAY 1 OCTOBER 2020

Because of the reduced risk of COVID-19 transmission in northern New South Wales, the following changes have been made regarding the border zone:

• The New South Wales border zone (PDF) has been extended
• The Queensland border zone no longer exists
• Queensland residents can travel anywhere in the New South Wales border zone for any purpose
• New South Wales border zone residents can travel anywhere in Queensland for any purpose.

The direction has also been updated to provide a right of entry to people coming to Queensland to respond to an emergency energy, drinking water, sewerage, liquid fuel, resources or telecommunications event.

WHAT CHANGED FROM 1AM 25 SEPTEMBER 2020

• The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is no longer considered a COVID-19 hotspot.
• Driving from the ACT through NSW to reach Queensland is not permitted as all of NSW is currently considered a COVID-19 hotspot. You must travel by air.
• Air travellers coming from the ACT into Queensland will only have to quarantine if they have:
  • been overseas in the last 14 days
  • been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 in the last 14 days
  • been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days (and you are allowed to enter)
  • COVID-19 or have had COVID-19 in the last 14 days
  • had COVID-19 symptoms in the last 14 days.
• People travelling from the ACT into Queensland must complete a Queensland Border Declaration Pass for presentation at the border.
• You must submit an exemption request if an exceptional reason requires you to travel by car from the ACT to Queensland.

OVERVIEW

To slow the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) the Queensland Government has put in place border restrictions.

The restrictions mean people who have been in a COVID-19 hotspot within the last 14 days will be turned away at our border. This applies to everyone who has been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the past 14 days, except people needed in Queensland for essential activities. Queensland residents who have been in a COVID-19 hotspot can return home but will be required to quarantine in government-provided accommodation at their own expense.

COVID-19 hotspots are updated regularly here. Currently all of Victoria & New South Wales are COVID-19 hotspots.

You must complete a Queensland Border Declaration Pass before you come to Queensland. This will include agreeing to get tested for COVID-19 if you develop any symptoms within 14 days of arriving in Queensland.

You will have to quarantine when you enter if you have

• been overseas in the last 14 days
• been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 in the last 14 days
• been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days (and you are allowed to enter)
• COVID-19 or have had COVID-19 in the last 14 days
• had COVID-19 symptoms in the last 14 days
• are a New South Wales border zone resident who traveled outside the border zone in New South Wales.

You are only allowed to enter Queensland if you have been in a hotspot in the last 14 days, if:

• your usual residence is in Queensland or you are moving to Queensland
• you are a New South Wales border zone resident who has not traveled outside of the border zone in the last 14 days - view the border zone map (PDF)
• you need to comply with an order to attend a Court or Tribunal or to give effect to orders of the Court or Tribunal
• you have to fulfill an arrangement or obligation relating to shared parenting or child contact
• you have to assist with or participate in a State or Commonwealth law enforcement investigation or other action at the request or direction of a State or Commonwealth department or law enforcement agency
• you need to come to Queensland to complete an essential activity
• you arrive into Queensland by air and you transfer directly to another flight to leave Queensland and don’t leave the airport or remain in quarantine until your flight out of Queensland
• you were in a COVID-19 hotspot for the sole purpose of transiting through an airport and didn’t leave the airport
• you are a student at a higher education institution or boarding school and are entering Queensland for study, parents and guardians are allowed to accompany students who are minors
• you are entering to receive essential health care, or to provide support to a person receiving essential health care.

You will have to provide evidence of the above when entering Queensland.

You will be required to complete 14 days mandatory quarantine in government arranged accommodation at your own expense unless exceptional circumstances apply.

You may not have to quarantine if you have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days if you:

• need to come to Queensland to complete an essential activity
• arrive into Queensland by air and you transfer directly to another flight to leave Queensland or quarantine until your flight out of Queensland
• were in a COVID-19 hotspot for the sole purpose of transiting through an airport
• can provide evidence that you completed mandatory hotel quarantine in a COVID-19 hotspot and immediately transited to Queensland
• are a New South Wales border zone resident and have not been in a hotspot in the last 14 days.

If you are exempt from quarantine, you will need to keep and retain records of close contacts whilst you are in Queensland for two weeks after you arrive in Queensland.

Queensland GOVT Update site

QUEENSLAND: 21.09.20 Update

Restrictions still remain in place as below although NSW Border region changed on 5 September.

If ACT remains at Zero Cases then of the 25 September at 01.00am this will change too:

• The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) will no longer be considered a COVID-19 hotspot, if there are no new cases between 18 September and 25 September
• Travellers coming from the ACT into Queensland will not need to quarantine upon their arrival, as long as they have not been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the past 14 days.

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All of Victoria, New South Wales & the Australian Capital Territory are now COVID-19 hotspots.

Travel by air only no road entry allowed.

You can only enter Queensland from a hotspot if you travel by air. You cannot travel by road through a hotspot.

The only people allowed to enter Queensland by road are:

• truck drivers
• workers related to the transport of freight and logistics
• people performing essential activities
• border zone residents.

Everyone must quarantine on arrival in an approved government facility.

Flying out of Melbourne Tullamarine airport

If you have had a layover at Melbourne Tullamarine airport you will be required to quarantine for 14 days in government arranged accommodation at your own expense when you arrive. If you completed your quarantine in Melbourne Tullamarine airport you will be required to complete another 14 days quarantine upon arrival into Queensland.

If you have had a layover at an airport located in other hotspots, you will be able to enter Queensland without quarantining as long as you didn’t leave the airport.

Overview

To slow the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) the Queensland Government is tightening its border restrictions.

Anyone can enter Queensland unless they have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days.

The tightening of restrictions means people who have been in a COVID-19 hotspot within the last 14 days will no longer be able to quarantine in Queensland and will be turned away at our border. This applies to everyone who has been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the past 14 days, except people needed in Queensland for essential activities. Queensland residents who have been in a COVID-19 hotspot can return home but will be required to quarantine in government-provided accommodation at their expense.

COVID-19 hotspots are updated regularly here.

You must complete a Queensland Border Declaration Pass before you come to Queensland. This will include agreeing to get tested for COVID-19 if you develop any symptoms within 14 days of arriving in Queensland.

You will have to quarantine when you enter if you:

• have been overseas in the last 14 days
• you have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 in the last 14 days
• you have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days (and you are allowed to enter)
• you have COVID-19 or have had COVID-19 in the last 14 days
• you have had COVID-19 symptoms in the last 14 days.

You are only allowed to enter Queensland if you have been in a hotspot in the last 14 days, if:

• your usual residence is in Queensland
• you need to comply with an order to attend a Court or Tribunal or to give effect to orders of the Court or Tribunal
• you have to fulfil a legal obligation relating to shared parenting or child access
• you have to assist with or participate in a State or Commonwealth law enforcement investigation or other action at the request or direction of a State or Commonwealth department or law enforcement agency
• you need to come to Queensland to complete an essential activity
• you arrive into Queensland by air and you transfer directly to another flight to leave Queensland and don’t leave the airport or quarantine until your flight out of Queensland
• were in a COVID-19 hotspot for the sole purpose of transiting through an airport and didn’t leave the airport or transiting through the hotspot by road, without leaving a private vehicle or taxi or ride-share, unless for an emergency or as directed by police or transport authority
• you are moving to Queensland to live
• you are a student at a higher education institution or boarding school, along with a parent or guardian accompanying a minor, and are entering Queensland for study
• are avoiding serious injury or escaping an immediate risk of serious harm
  • For example, you are escaping a risk of harm related to sexual or domestic and family violence

You will be required to complete 14 days mandatory quarantine in government arranged accommodation at your own expense unless exceptional circumstances apply.

There are some exceptions to the Quarantine rule, please check the main web page for details.

OFFICIAL QLD GOVERNMENT WEBSITE: For Travel, For COVID-19 hotspots,

SOUTH AUSTRALIA: 22.12.20 Update

Travelling to SA

Cross Border Travel Registration

All travellers coming to South Australia are required to complete a Cross Border Travel Registration.

Cross-Border Travel Registration - SAPOL website

For families, each individual must complete a separate cross-border travel registration form.

Notification

You will be notified by email of your status within 72 hours and given a unique number. You will need to produce this number when crossing the border.

HIGH COMMUNITY-TRANSMISSION ZONES AND PROHIBITED LOCATIONS

Arriving in South Australia before 12:01 am 21 December 2020:

If you travelled to South Australia from Northern Beaches Council (NSW) local government area or the suburbs of Cronulla, Lane Cove, Turramurra, Woolloomooloo, Lavendar Bay or Penrith between 11 December 2020 and 12:01 am 21 December 2020:

• You are required to self-quarantine for 14 days commencing on the last day you were in one of the above locations.
• You must get a COVID-19 test immediately within 24 hours (or as soon as possible), on day 5, and day 12.
• You may self-quarantine at a suitable location where you can be isolated. This requires complete separation from others in the household and if this is not suitable, then alternative accommodation will need to be arranged.
  Note - Excludes people who travelling through and did not get out of the vehicle. Where travelling on public transport must have been wearing a mask.

If you arrived from other locations in New South Wales (not listed above) on or after 17 December 2020:

• You are not required to self-quarantine.
• You must get a COVID-19 test immediately within 24 hours, on day 5, and day 12 (Day 1 is considered 20 December 2020) (unless you have symptoms, in which case you must self-isolate).

Arriving in South Australia on or after 12:01 am 21 December 2020:

Prohibited locations

From 12:01 am 21 December 2020, Northern Beaches Council (NSW) local government area is a prohibited location. People who have been in the Northern Beaches Council local government area since 11 December 2020 will not be permitted entry to South Australia.

High Community-Transmission Zones

If you have visited:

• Greater Sydney Region (as defined by the Greater Sydney Commission Act 2015 NSW - excluding Northern Beaches Council local government area) since 11 December 2020

OR

• Central Coast local government area (NSW) since 20 December 2020
• City of Wollongong local government area (NSW) since 20 December 2020

As of 12:01 am on Monday 21 December 2020:

• You are required to self-quarantine for 14 days commencing on the last day you were in a High Community-Transmission Zone.
• You must get a COVID-19 test immediately within 24 hours, on day 5, and day 12.
• You may self-quarantine at a suitable location where you can be isolated. This requires complete separation from others in the household and if this is not suitable, then alternative accommodation will need to be arranged.

Other locations in New South Wales

If you travelled to South Australia from any other location in New South Wales (other than a prohibited location or High Community-Transmission Zone) on or after 12:01 am Thursday 17 December 2020:

• You must get a COVID-19 test immediately within 24 hours, on day 5, and day 12. You are not required to isolate while awaiting your COVID-19 test results (unless you have symptoms, in which case you must self-isolate) (unless you have symptoms, in which case you must self-isolate).

Exclusions

The following people are excluded from the High Community-Transmission Zone arrival definition:

• A person travelling in transit through Sydney Airport for no longer than 2 hours, and wearing a face mask for the entirety of the time they are in transit.
• An overseas arrival who, having completed 14 days of quarantine, travels directly to Sydney Airport in a vehicle, is physically present at Sydney Airport for no longer than 2 hours, and is wearing a face mask for the entirety of the time they are present at Sydney Airport.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA: 11.12.20 Update

Travel within most of South Australia is unrestricted, although people are advised to avoid unnecessary travel.

Anyone planning travel to SA must complete a Cross Border Travel Registration. 

SA Govt site here

SOUTH AUSTRALIA: 24.11.20 Update

From 12:01 am on 22 November 2020, the Stay at Home Direction is revoked.

Also from 12:01 am on 22 November 2020, the following new Directions are now in effect:

• The Public Activities Direction (No 12)
• The Cross-border Travel Direction (No 19)
• The Residential Aged Care Facilities Direction (No 14)

The following existing Directions remain in effect

• The Parafield Cluster Isolation Direction (No 2) - 20 November
• The Peppers Waymouth Isolation Direction - 17 November

Current restrictions

To see how these directions are applied, visit the following pages:

• Activities and gatherings
• Business restrictions and closures
• Travel restrictions
• Visits to residential care facilities

See Common questions for additional information

Main SA Govt Page

SOUTH AUSTRALIA: 18.10.20 Update

SA GOVT UPDATES

TRAVEL WITHIN SA

Travel within South Australia is unrestricted. People are free to visit regional areas, and travel within South Australia is a great way to support our regional communities and economies.

Border restrictions

VICTORIAN BORDER RESTRICTIONS

Travellers from Victoria, other than approved categories of Essential Travellers, are not permitted to travel to South Australia. Checkpoints or road blocks will be set up at all border crossings between South Australia and Victoria.

Note: A person can enter South Australia in a vehicle from New South Wales via Victoria if the person travels through Victoria without leaving the vehicle and only via the Sturt Highway from Mildura to Yamba or via the Calder Highway and Meridian Road between Abbotsford Bridge and the Sturt Highway and then via the Sturt Highway to Yamba.

LOW COMMUNITY-TRANSMISSION ZONE

SOUTH AUSTRALIA: 21.09.20 Update

Travel & activity in the state of South Australia is possible with social distancing & number restrictions, for South Australians.. (Diving possible still).

Numbers reduced from 100 to 50 & alcohol served while seating only.

A direction is in place regarding traffic entering South Australia.

The State of Victoria

Only essential travellers are able to enter SA from Victoria. South Australians are no longer be able to return to SA from Victoria.

If you are travelling into South Australia, by road or via the Adelaide airport, you need to complete the cross border pre-approval form at least 72 hours prior to your arrival.

Pre-approval will speed up the border crossing process and provide certainty for you about any restrictions that may apply before reaching the border.

From 12.01 am Friday 21 August, cross border community members will not be able to enter South Australia from Victoria unless they can apply under a different category of Essential Traveller.

All other states

Travellers from ACT, NT, QLD, TAS and WA are able to enter South Australia directly without restriction.

Those travelling to South Australia via air from low community transmission zones can now transit through Sydney without the requirement for COVID-19 testing or 14-day self-quarantine upon arrival, providing they do not leave the airport and have been in a low community transmission zone for 14 days. (This will need to be proved on arrival see the SA Govt Website).

Travellers from NSW, other than essential travellers, will be required to:

• self-quarantine for 14 days after entering SA
• submit for COVID-19 testing on:
  • the first day of entry to SA (the day of arrival)
  • the twelfth day of arrival.

For more details please follow below links.

OFFICIAL SA GOVERNMENT WEBSITE: Border Restrictions,   Main Restrictions page

WESTERN AUSTRALIA: 20.12.20 Update

NSW entry to WA border measures strengthened

Travel from New South Wales into WA is now classified as ‘medium risk’. As a result, travel from NSW is no longer be permitted, unless you are an exempt traveller. This also applies to anyone who may have been in NSW since December 11 and hasn’t completed 14 days in a lower risk state or territory.

For more information see New South Wales entry to WA border measures strengthened.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA: 11.12.20 Update

Travel from South Australia into WA is now classified as ‘low risk’. For more information visit the Controlled Interstate Border page.

WA transitioned to a safe and sensible controlled border arrangement on Saturday, 14 November. Interstate travellers are now permitted to enter WA, subject to meeting strict conditions.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA: 19.10.20 Update

The arrival of New Zealanders yesterday has astounded the WA Government as they are not part of the NZ Travel Bubble. All have been placed in 14-day quarantine.

"You cannot enter WA unless you are an exempt traveller. The Quarantine (Closing the Border) Directions, as amended, set out exempt traveller categories. Entry into WA may be subject to terms and conditions, including a requirement to quarantine for 14 days. You may apply for an exemption via G2G PASS.

If coming from overseas, you'll be subject to the Australian Government's mandatory 14 day quarantine period at your own expense in the first Australian port of entry."

WA GOVT Site

WESTERN AUSTRALIA: 21.09.20 Update

The WA Government has declared a State of Emergency for Western Australia.

Travel is now permitted throughout all regions within WA, except for entry into remote Aboriginal communities. Activities are allowed with social distancing & number restrictions.

STRICT BORDER CONTROLS ARE IN PLACE TO LIMIT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19.

You cannot enter WA unless you are an exempt traveller. The Quarantine (Closing the Border) Directions, as amended, set out exempt traveller categories. Entry into Western Australia may be subject to terms and conditions, including a requirement to quarantine for 14 days. You may apply for an exemption via G2G PASS.

OFFICIAL WA GOVERNMENT WEBSITE:  Travel to WA Restrictions, MAIN COVID-19 Page

NORTHERN TERRITORY: 22.12.20 Update

The Northern Territory has updated its "hotspots" for areas considered the Greater Sydney Area. 

Interstate Hotspots - Pre-Travel requirements for travellers

All people travelling to the Northern Territory must complete the border entry form.

If you are intending to travel to the Northern Territory from an identified active coronavirus hotspot you are advised to cancel your plans. Likewise if you are a Territorian intending to travel to an active hotspot you are advised to cancel your plans.

Any exemption granted before the 17 July 2020 are invalid if the person travelling has been in an identified hotspot.

See Google map with current hotspots.

Anyone arriving into the Northern Territory from or through a declared hotspot in the last 14 days must undertake 14 days mandatory supervised quarantine. If travelling to or from an airport within a declared hotspot, point 4 from the ‘Directions for COVID-19 Hotspots’ below provides advice.

This will be at your own cost. The cost per person for supervised quarantine is $2500.

Mandatory supervised quarantine will be at the Howard Springs* quarantine facility or another approved facility elsewhere in the Northern Territory. All quarantine facilities are alcohol-free.

* Yulara or Alice Springs interstate arrivals may be transported to quarantine at Howard Springs in Darwin.

Full NT Govt site details here

NORTHERN TERRITORY: 19.10.20 Update

Remains the same as below. Details & steps in link.

NT Govt Link

NORTHERN TERRITORY: 21.09.20 Update

Travel & activities are possible in the Northern Territory with social distancing & number restrictions. (Diving & tourism activities possible).

Strict border controls apply for all access points to the Northern Territory. 

All arrivals to the Northern Territory (NT) must:

• fill in a Border Entry Form
• complete 14 days of mandatory supervised quarantine at your own expense*, if you have recently been in a declared COVID-19 hot spot.

If travelling to or from an airport within a declared hotpot, point 4 from the ‘Directions for COVID-19 Hotspots’ below provides advice.

This will be at your own cost. The cost per person for supervised quarantine is $2500.

OFFICIAL NT GOVERNMENT WEBSITE: Border restrictions, MAIN COVID-19 Page, Hotspots

TASMANIA: 22.12.20 Update

TASMANIA: 11.12.20 Update

Travellers to Tasmania, including returning residents, need to provide their contact and travel details before entering the state, to help manage the risk of COVID-19 at Tasmania’s borders.

Tasmania’s border entry conditions depend on where each traveller has spent time prior to their day of arrival.

Areas are assessed as either low, medium or high-risk based on Public Health advice.

Register through the Tas e-Travel system if you have only spent time in low-risk areas in the 14 days before arriving in Tasmania.

Full TAS Govt site here

TASMANIA: 26.10.20 Update

TASMANIA: 19.10.20 Update

Border restrictions in Tasmania are based on the locations travellers have spent time in during the 14 days prior to their arrival in Tasmania.

This determines whether travellers will be permitted to enter the State, where they must quarantine and other requirements such as wearing masks and undertaking COVID-19 testing.

TRAVEL UP TO 25 OCTOBER 2020

All travellers to Tasmania are required to provide travel details on arrival. The most effective way of doing this is via the G2G PASS system.

All arrivals who have been overseas, including New Zealand, in the 14 days prior to their arrival in Tasmania will be required to undertake 14 days quarantine in Government-designated accommodation on arrival in Tasmania. Quarantine fees can apply for Government-designated quarantine.

TRAVEL FROM 26 OCTOBER 2020

People travelling from Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory will not be required to quarantine on arrival in Tasmania from October 26 based on current Public Health advice.

A further update will be provided for people travelling from NSW prior to October 26.

Border restrictions will remain in place for people travelling from Victoria and those who have spent time in an Affected Region or Premises until further notice.

People entering the State from identified low-risk jurisdictions will be required to register their travel and contact details via the Tas E-Travel online systems a maximum of 3 days prior to arrival. The registration process will be available via this website from October 23. Travellers who have been in Affected Regions and Premises will still need to apply to enter the State via the G2G PASS system.

Based on current public health advice, people travelling from low-risk jurisdictions from October 26 will be able to continue to transit directly though Victoria (only stopping for fuel) to Melbourne Airport or the Spirit of Tasmania terminal and not be subject to quarantine requirements that apply to that jurisdiction.

Please be aware that the COVID-19 situation in all States and Territories can change at any time requiring restrictions or other measures to be put in place. You should continue to monitor the latest situation at all times prior to your travel.

HEALTH SCREENING AND TEMPERATURE CHECKS

All travellers arriving in Tasmania are asked to answer health symptom questions and have a temperature check as part of COVID-19 screening measures.

Part of the questioning process can be completed online in the one hour before travelling, to ensure a quicker passage through the port of arrival. Travellers will receive a text message prior to departure with a link to the online form.

Travellers who haven’t done the questionnaire when they arrive will receive help to complete it at the port.

Anyone with symptoms will be encouraged to have a COVID-19 test.

Current screening and testing requirements for Essential Travellers remain in place.

UPDATED TAS Govt Site

TASMANIA: 21.09.20 Update

Travel & activities are possible in Tasmania with social distancing & number restrictions. (Diving & tourism activities possible).

A state of emergency has been declared.

The Tasmanian Government has announced its current border restrictions will now remain in place (no set date for opening as yet).

Border restrictions in Tasmania are based on the locations travellers have spent time in during the 14 days prior to their arrival in Tasmania.

This determines whether travellers will be permitted to enter the State, where they must quarantine and other requirements such as wearing masks and undertaking COVID-19 testing.

The following restrictions apply to people entering

Tasmania if they have been in an Affected Region or an Affected Premises that pose an elevated risk of transmission of COVID-19. Read the list of high-risk locations.

• Tasmanian residents, who are not classified as Essential Travellers, must quarantine in government-designated accommodation for 14 days. Read more about Quarantine, including fees payable.
• Non-Tasmanian residents, who are not classified as Essential Travellers, are not permitted to enter Tasmania and will be turned back at their own expense.
• Essential Travellers are not required to quarantine but are required to undertake health screening and a COVID-19 test on arrival, wear a face mask and limit their movement when not in the workplace. Anyone refusing to be tested will go into quarantine at government-designated accommodation for 14 days (and be required to pay the government-designated accommodation fee) or can leave Tasmania at their own expense. See Essential Travellers for more information.

People coming to Tasmania are not considered to have spent time in an Affected Region provided they have:

• transited directly through an airport and did not leave the airport except to board a flight; or
• transited directly through an affected region by vehicle to an airport or seaport without breaking their journey, except to obtain fuel.

The following restrictions apply to travellers from within Australia who have not spent time in an Affected Region (currently Victoria) or Affected Premises in the 14 days prior to arriving in Tasmania. See the above category for restrictions if you have been in these areas.

• Tasmanian residents, who are not classified as Essential Travellers, are required to quarantine for 14 days at their primary residence.
• Non-Tasmanian residents, who are not classified as Essential Travellers, are required to quarantine in government-designated accommodation.
• Essential Travellers are not required to quarantine but must undertake health screening on arrival and comply with the conditions described in Conditions for Essential Travellers. The State Controller may also apply additional conditions. See Essential Travellers for more information.

Read more about Quarantine, including fees payable for government-designated quarantine.

OFFICIAL TAS GOVERNMENT WEBSITE: Border restrictions, MAIN COVID-19 Page, 

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY: 22.12.20 Update

A new public health direction is in place from 11.59pm on Sunday 20 December 2020, legally requiring anyone who has been in a COVID-affected area of Greater Sydney, Central Coast and Wollongong areas notify ACT Health of their intention to travel to the ACT, via our online declaration form. Note: the affected areas have been updated 21 December 2020 as per NSW Health advice.

Anyone who has been in the Northern Beaches LGA from 11 December 2020 are required to quarantine for 14 days from when they left the area and should get tested.

Anyone who has been in the Greater Sydney, Central Coast or Wollongong areas from 21 December 2020 are required to quarantine for 14 days from when they left the area and should get tested. A full list of affected areas is on our NSW travel page.

Canberrans are advised not to travel to Greater Sydney, Central Coast or Wollongong areas until further notice.

Check the latest health and travel advice for more information.

Note: your travel may impact your ability to work in, or access high-risk settings (like aged care or health care facilities). Please visit the Chief Health Officer alerts page for more information.

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY: 19.10.20 Update

If you are a non-ACT resident and you have been in Victoria in the past 14 days, you will need to apply for an exemption to enter the ACT, even if you are currently in NSW or another State or Territory.

If it has been more than 14 days since you have been in Victoria, you will not require an exemption to enter the ACT.

ACT Government breaks travel to & from ACT into state landing pages. If you are traveling use this link

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY: 21.09.20 Update

Travel & activities are possible in the ACT with social distancing & number restrictions. (Diving & activities possible).

Travel for Canberrans to SA is possible without quarantine on arrival if you have been in a low community transmission zone for 14 days or longer.

ACT Government urges Canberrans not to travel to areas where COVID-19 outbreaks are occurring. Currently, this includes:

• all of Victoria
• Greater Sydney
  
• Areas of Queensland

Due to NSW updating their border restrictions for travel from Victoria, entry to the ACT from Victoria is now only possible through Canberra Airport, by air. The NSW Public Health Direction can be viewed at the NSW Department of Health website.

Exception: The NSW Government is allowing ACT residents with an Entry Authorisation Certificate issued by the ACT Chief Health Officer to cross the border at Wodonga at 9am each day from 13 - 17 August inclusive. After 17 August 2020, no other ACT residents will be allowed through the border by road and the ACT Government will not issue any more exemptions to drive to the ACT while the NSW/Vic border remains closed. After 17 August 2020, everyone else who has applied for an exemption will need to reapply and request to travel by air.

ACT residents can return home from Victoria by air but are required to enter quarantine until 14 days after leaving Victoria. ACT residents must notify ACT Health of their intention to return. This notification should be made as early as possible, and at least 72 hours before the intended travel date, wherever possible.

If you return to the ACT from NSW, or current hotspots, you may be required to quarantine for 14 days after you arrive. ( Check the ACT website for specific details).

OFFICIAL ACT GOVERNMENT WEBSITE: Border restrictions, MAIN COVID-19 Page

INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURES: 19.10.20 Update

So far international travel remains closed. New Zealanders are only allowed to fly into NSW. No Australians (yet) are allowed to fly into New Zealand. No word on when this may happen.

INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURES: 21.09.20 Update

There is a ban on Australians travelling overseas.

Smartraveller Travel Advice is Level 4 - Do Not Travel overseas.

Exceptions include:

• for those citizens who usually live overseas
• where travel is essential
• where travel is in the national interest
• on compassionate and humanitarian grounds.

Australian Border Force manages these exemptions.

More travel advice is available on the Australian Department of Health website.

OFFICIAL AUS GOVERNMENT WEBSITE: Smartraveller COVID Updates