01 Feb 2021 | 08:01 AM UTC
Australia: Australian Capital Territory bans travelers from Perth, Peel, and South West regions in Western Australia as of Feb. 1 /update 10
Australian Capital Territory bans travelers from Perth, Peel, and South West regions in Western Australia from Feb. 1. Exceptions in place.
Event
The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has classified the Perth, Peel, and South West regions of Western Australia as coronavirus disease (COVID-19) hotspots as of Feb. 1. Most travelers from these locations cannot enter the territory. However, exemptions are possible for residents and essential travel with an online health declaration form. All travelers from Western Australian hotspots and people already in the ACT since Jan. 25 must get tested for COVID-19 upon arrival and self-quarantine through at least 2100 AEDT Feb. 5.
Officials are maintaining some COVID-19 restrictions under Stage 3 of the ACT's recovery roadmap. Public gatherings can occur with up to 500 people, provided venues limit capacity to one person per four square meters (43 square feet) indoors and one person per two square meters (21 square feet) outdoors. Venues must also complete a COVID-19 safe plan and notify health authorities before holding events. Larger events require a government exemption. Indoor cultural attractions, such as galleries and museums, can allow one person per two square meters (21 square feet) per distinct area. Cinemas and stadiums can operate at 65-percent capacity.
Domestic Border Controls
The Australian Capital Territory permits travel from most of Australia. Authorities ended travel restrictions on all local government areas in Greater Sydney as of Jan. 29. However, officials will continue to ban nonresident travelers with a recent travel history to COVID-19 hotspots. ACT residents are exempt from travel bans but must complete an online declaration at least 24 hours before returning and self-quarantine for 14 days.
Quarantine Requirements
All travelers entering Australia must quarantine in government-designated facilities in the city of their arrival for 14 days. Quarantine fees in the ACT are AUD 3,000 (USD 2,295) for the first adult, AUD 1,000 (USD 765) for each additional adult in a group, and AUD 500 (USD 383) for every child over the age of two.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by government health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Plan for transport disruptions and delivery delays. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.
