Further to our email last night, the Department of Home Affairs has clarified some of the information regarding the restrictions in place on the Australian Border.
Travel Restrictions
From 9pm tonight AEDT, the 20th of March, the following restrictions come into force.
Permanent Residents, Citizens and their Immediate Family members
Citizens and Permanent Residents
There are no restrictions on Permanent Residents, Citizens or their immediate family members, and they can continue to enter Australia. They are however subject to a 14 day self-isolation period.
New Zealand Citizens
New Zealand citizens who are ordinarily residents in Australia are not restricted from entering, but they will need to show proof of residency such as a drivers licence or other documents showing an Australian address. They are however subject to a 14 day self-isolation period.
Immediate Family members of citizens or permanent residents
Family members of citizens and permanent residents are not restricted from entering, as long as they hold (or obtain prior to travel) a valid visa for entry. They are however subject to a 14 day self-isolation period.
Immediate family members include spouses, dependants and legal guardians. If you hold a partner or child visa you can enter without further documentation, otherwise you will need to obtain permission from the Department through their website here, before you travel. Unfortunately, Prospective Marriage holders are restricted from entering for the time being.
Temporary Residents and Temporary Visa Holders
Unfortunately, for the time being, temporary visa holders who are currently outside of Australia and are not a family member of a citizen or permanent resident, will not be able to re-enter Australia. Their visas will not be cancelled unless they attempt to enter.
We are awaiting advice from the government as to whether there will be any exemptions, such as for medical personnel or essential workers.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.