For the first time in almost one year, there are no longer restrictions on interstate travel between any Australian states & territories as of this morning.
This has not happened since Tasmania became the first state to close to all non-essential interstate travellers on 20 March 2020 – almost exactly a year ago. On that day, Tasmania caused shockwaves by requiring most people arriving from another state in Australia to self-isolate for 14 days after arrival. Of course, many states soon followed and we’ve since seen state borders open and close like a yo-yo over the past year.
Some states do still require travellers to register their travel plans or apply online for a permit, and you may still be unable to travel interstate if you’ve been in a high-risk public exposure site in the past fortnight, meaning you have a current requirement to self-isolate.
But since 3.01am (AEDT) this morning, when Western Australia removed restrictions on entry from Victoria, there are no longer any states barring entry to travellers from other states and there are no declared COVID-19 hotspot areas in Australia.
The fact that all Australian state borders are now open is fantastic news, and an encouraging sign for the future. It’s a moment worth celebrating – even if it might be a brief one.
Australian travellers and many businesses – not just airlines – rely on state borders remaining open. So does the federal government’s upcoming half-price flights scheme.
Unfortunately, there is still no 100% guarantee that state borders won’t close again if there’s another outbreak somewhere in the country. While some premiers and Chief Health Officers recently said future border closures would be unlikely, others haven’t made any such commitment yet. But with quarantine, border and health care workers now being vaccinated against COVID-19, the risk will continue to reduce over time.
There were two new COVID-19 cases found over the past few days in health & quarantine workers in Brisbane and Sydney, respectively. As of the morning of 15 March, neither of these incidents have caused any state border closures. This could yet change, but hopefully it won’t be necessary.
Domestic travel inspiration
With interstate travel now fully reopened in Australia, now’s a great time to plan your next domestic holiday! Qantas currently has some sensational sale fares to South Australia, and Rex & Virgin both have excellent airfares on routes to Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne & Adelaide. Or if you’re thinking of redeeming points for an Australian holiday, you might also find some inspiration in today’s guide to the top 10 domestic reward flight “sweet spots”.
In the meantime, Australian Frequent Flyer continues to update its guide to Australian state border restrictions. Here, you can check the current requirements for entry into any Australian state or territory, including any border passes you may need to apply for in advance.
Join the discussion on the Australian Frequent Flyer forum: Australian state border restrictions
