The long-awaited reopening of Australian borders has finally been confirmed, which will allow thousands of people to be reunited with their families down under
According to Prime Minister Scott Morrison, tourists can return to their shores from February 21 after some of the lengthiest Covid lockdowns in the world.
Speaking after the government met on Monday, Morrison said: "It's almost two years since we took the decision to close the borders to Australia.”
Since the beginning of the pandemic, Australians have been banned from leaving the country and only a short list of people have been granted exemptions to enter over that period of time.
As a result of the extremely strict virus measures, some have been left stranded elsewhere in the world, after being denied re-entry due to infection numbers.
The thousands of Irish living in Australia have also been unable to see their families for two years now, while the tourism industry has taken a hefty blow.
In line with the outcry from the tourism industry, Australian officials have opted to allow people to return this month as vaccination rates hit new highs across the globe.
Visa holders will be welcomed back from this date, but it comes with a slight catch - "If you're double vaccinated, we look forward to welcoming you back to Australia.
"The condition is you must be double vaccinated to come to Australia. That's the rule. Everyone is expected to abide by it,” Morrison clarified.
That means any Irish passengers planning a trip, will need to ensure they receive their final dose at least two weeks before departure - negative Covid testing will not be accepted.
New Zealand
Meanwhile, New Zealand has also confirmed its phased reopening plan that will include the return of Irish tourists later this year.
The country’s border has been virtually closed for nearly two years as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic
In the latest travel update, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said that citizens of New Zealand who are in Australia will be permitted to return from February 28.
Citizens residing elsewhere in the world will likely be able to fly back two weeks after this date, she suggested.
Then from March 13, vaccinated backpackers and some skilled workers will be allowed into the country.
On April 12, up to 5,000 international students will be able to enter, however, it will be October or November before a widespread return of vaccinated holidaymakers.
Tourists from Australia and other visa-free countries on the other hand will be able to return by July.
However, everyone arriving in will still have to carry out a self-isolation period of ten days - a condition being contested by many in the tourism sector.
At this point there is no indication that this term will be lifted by the time Irish tourists can return, however an update will likely come before July.
