Travel exemptions: navigating COVID-19 restrictions and what you need to know before you travel
Currently, nationwide travel restrictions remain in place, affecting thousands of people wishing to exit or enter Australia. A request for a 'travel exemption' is the only means by which some individuals and families can cross national borders and exit or re-enter the country. The following groups do not require a travel exemption to enter Australia: -Australian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate family members -New Zealand citizens usually resident in Australia and their immediate family members However, for non-citizens of Australia, including bridging and temporary visa holders on a wide range of visa classes, ongoing travel restrictions mean continued 'lockout' from international travel for a still undefined and uncertain period of time. The impact of these travel delays on individuals, their businesses, their families and on the economy are immeasurable. Applying for a travel exemption in the form prescribed by the Australian Government can be time-consuming and valid reasons for lodging an application are limited. The rates of successful travel exemptions in the various categories provide a snapshot of the current situation. Recent figures published by the Department…
