Australia to reopen to tourism..finally
Australia is to reopen to tourism after almost two years. The change in policy will also allow Australian nationals to travel more freely, which could have a knock-on affect for regional tourism.
To read about the Philippines opening to tourism click here.
What has been announced?
Foreign travellers who have received two COVID-19 vaccine doses will no longer have to undergo quarantine, with acceptable vaccines restricted to those recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Australia recently gained some notoriety after men’s top-ranked tennis star Novak Djokovic was deported from the country for being unvaccinated, as well as allegedly misfiling his visa forms.
There was also news for the anti-vax contingent as well. They will continue to have to quarantine for 14 days on arrival in a government facility should they wish to visit the country.
Prior to the pandemic Australia welcomed almost 10 million visitors, visits that generated over $60 billion during the 2018-2019 period.
According to the statement, “Fifty-six international flights are due to arrive in Australia on Monday, including 27 into Sydney, the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, and other destinations.”
The statement did not clarify if negative PCR tests would be required for visitors. Further clarification is expected in the near future.
What are the wider implications?
These new rules, as well as welcoming guests into the country, will now allow Australians to once again travel freely.
Southeast Asia is particularly popular for Australian tourists and as such is potentially a change that will directly benefit the Cambodian tourist industry.
The change is also indicative of a general course shift across the globe, with many countries, such as Mongolia, the Philippines and Vietnam having recently opened their borders.