The federal government will stop requiring overseas travellers to provide a negative COVID-19 test before they fly to Australia.
Health Minister Greg Hunt announced that the government would no longer make it a condition of entry to Australia that people had to show they had tested negative for the virus before they travelled here.
“Given that the vaccination requirements remain and the masking requirements, the medical advice is that [the test] would no longer be required,” Mr Hunt said.
“Particularly as there are some challenges in some jurisdictions in having access to those tests or proving those tests.”
Mr Hunt said he spoke to the chief executive officers of both Qantas and Virgin airlines.
“But we also took the medical advice of the Chief Medical Officer,” he said.
“That was the view, that we progressively take away those items which are no longer required.”
Mr Hunt has said he will not extend the orders made under the Biosecurity Act, which allowed the government to make testing a requirement of entry into Australia.
The Health Minister also confirmed other emergency measures, including restrictions on cruise ships and price-gouging rules on rapid antigen tests, would also lapse on April 17.
In an effort to stop as many cases of COVID as possible, the government introduced pre-departure tests at the beginning of last year.
The government originally required someone to provide a negative PCR test result within three days of travelling, but that changed to a RAT late last year.
Other countries, including many in Europe, have also begun to ditch pre-flight tests.
If you are preparing to immigrate, our Migration Consultants can help. They’ve worked with hundreds of clients from many countries and can guide you through the process. Our Consultants know what is required for each type of visa or immigration process so that your chances are much better when they help prepare it all for you! For more information, including how to make an appointment, contact us online or call 03 9092 1688.
Article In Reference of: ABCNEWS
