The state of New South Wales will relax travel restrictions from 1 June 2020, allowing travel within NSW for any reason – including holidays. The removal of intra-state travel restrictions will make it possible once again to travel to regional NSW destinations, as long as social distancing and hygiene guidelines are followed.
“COVID could not have come at a worse time for regional NSW, with towns already doing it tough due to bushfires and drought and so I encourage everyone to make plans to safely and responsibly visit their favourite regional holiday destination, or discover a new one,” NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro said.
But the NSW government has warned that travel restrictions may need to be reinstated if there are further COVID-19 outbreaks in the future.
The announcement means that the NSW ski season may go ahead after all. But travellers are also advised to contact accommodation and tourism providers before travelling, as some may currently be closed.
“I’m very pleased to share that this means we will have a ski season this year, however holidaymakers should be aware that ski resorts will likely need time to put COVID plans into place and you should make contact before visiting,” Mr Barilaro said.
There are currently far fewer flights than usual running within the state of NSW. But QantasLink, Rex and Jetstar are still running a limited number of flights from Sydney to destinations including Albury, Wagga Wagga, Dubbo, Coffs Harbour, Ballina, Armidale, Tamworth, Cooma and Broken Hill.
You could also consider using NSW TrainLink to travel to regional destinations throughout NSW by rail. If you plan to travel within NSW by train regularly over the coming months, you may wish to purchase a NSW TrainLink Discovery Pass.
Visitors from other Australian states are also welcome to have a holiday in NSW from 1 June, but will need to comply with entry requirements when returning to their home state. This shouldn’t be a problem for residents of ACT or Victoria, but entry restrictions remain in place for Tasmania, Queensland, SA, WA & NT.
Although it is a part of New South Wales, Lord Howe Island remains closed indefinitely. Locals are currently hopeful it will re-open to tourists in time for the peak spring and summer seasons. There are no COVID-19 cases on Lord Howe Island.
Meanwhile, intra-state travel within South Australia is also now possible – but only for those already in the state. Non-essential travellers still need to self-isolate for 14 days after arriving in SA.
Join the discussion on the Australian Frequent Flyer forum: Regional travel within NSW permitted from 1 June
