Australia tightens restrictions for citizens

Friday, August 6, 2021

Australia is tightening its international border rules without notice. Since March last year, the country has banned its citizens from leaving the country as part of its Covid- 19 strategy.

That restriction has not previously applied to Australians who usually live in other countries. But they will now need to apply for an exemption for outbound travel – in line with rules for other Australians.

Australia’s tough border rules have been controversial. Critics say this change – in effect from 11 August – will further punish families and deter citizens from returning.

The government said the measure aimed to reduce the risk of Covid cases entering the country, as it grapples with its worst outbreaks in a year.

Australia already has a weekly limit on incoming travellers and bans foreigners from entry unless they have an exemption. Its policies are among the strictest globally.

Last month, it halved the number of permitted arrivals due to Delta variant outbreaks. Many Australians have expressed outrage at the latest move, branded by some as barbaric.

Alexandra Phelan, who lives in the US, tweeted she was waking up to news that I’m effectively exiled from my country. While the closed-border policy has been mostly supported in Australia, many have also criticised its impact on citizens.

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