COVID-19 and travel
Do not go overseas. A travel ban is in place.
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Travel advice in challenging times
Providing Australians with the latest information and advice to stay safe overseas
Where are you going?
Returning to Australia
7 July 2020: Australian states and territories are working to manage the pressure on quarantine facilities for returning Australian citizens and permanent residents. Measures vary from state to state, but include caps on the number of international passenger arrivals and the requirement to contribute to the cost of quarantine. Your flight into Australia may be affected.
COVID-19: Coming back to Australia
When you arrive in Australia from overseas, you must complete 14 days of mandatory quarantine in designated facilities in the city you arrive in. You won’t be allowed to travel domestically (including to your home) until you’ve completed the 14-day mandatory quarantine. If you’re not an Australia citizen or resident, you cannot enter Australia at this time. Find out more about these entry restrictions from the Department of Home Affairs.
COVID-19: Leaving Australia to go overseas
There’s a ban on overseas travel from Australia. You can’t leave Australia unless you get an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs. Find out more on its Leaving Australia page.
Consular services explained
The Australian Government provides consular services for Australians overseas. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are working hard to provide advice and assistance to Australians in need. In some places our ability to provide consular services may be limited.
News and updates
07 Jul 2020
Australian states and territories are working to manage the pressure on quarantine facilities for returning Australian citizens and permanent residents. Measures vary from state to state, but may include caps on the number of international passenger arrivals and the requirement to contribute to the cost of quarantine. Your flight into Australia may be affected. Contact your airline or travel agent for the latest updates.
28 Apr 2020
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of Australia’s embassies, high commissions and consulates have had to adjust to local regulations on social distancing and self-isolation. Our ability to provide consular services may be limited due to restrictions on our movement.
08 Jan 2020
The Pacific cyclone season is usually between October and May. During this period, even small tropical storms can develop into major cyclones. Their direction and strength can change with little warning. Cyclones lead to landslides, mudslides and flash flooding causing extreme damage to infrastructure. This can cut off communications and access to transportation, emergency assistance, medical care, and food and water.
The new national security legislation for Hong Kong could be interpreted broadly. Under the law, you could be deported or face possible transfer to mainland China for prosecution under mainland law. The full extent of the law and how it will be applied is not yet clear. You may be at increased risk of detention on vaguely defined national security grounds. You could break the law without intending to. If you’re concerned about the new law, reconsider your need to remain in Hong Kong.
Interstate travel
Thinking of travelling interstate? Smartraveller doesn’t provide advice on domestic travel in Australia. Check the state border controls before you leave.
Medical assistance overseas
If you're overseas and need medical care, you may face unexpected challenges. Read our advice on what to do if you get unwell while overseas.
Do you need a visa?
You may need to get a visa to enter a foreign country. For some countries you must apply in advance. In other countries you can apply on arrival.
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