Sunday’s announcement by Federal Health Minister Mark Bulter that from Wednesday, July 6 visitors to Australia would no longer have to declare their COVID-19 vaccination status will encourage tourism and allow for an easier entry for migrant workers needed to fill more than 423,000 job vacancies in the country.
Mr Butler said the amendments to the Biosecurity Act of 2015 would come into effect from 12.01am tomorrow morning on recommendations of Paul Kelly, the Chief Medical Officer.
The minister said people coming into Australia will still need to wear masks on flights coming into Australia while state regulations on the wearing of masks would also remain.
According to a statement from Department of Health and Aged Care issued online on Sunday, travellers would still be expected to comply “with any remaining COVID-19 requirements of airlines and shipping operators, as well other countries, states and territories.”
The minister said: “The Australian Government makes decisions on COVID related issues after considering the latest medical advice. The Chief Medical Officer has advised it is no longer necessary for travellers to declare their vaccine status as part of our management of COVID.
“Unvaccinated Australians, as well as certain groups of visa holders, have been able to travel to Australia for some time. We will continue to act on the medical advice as needed,” Mr Butler said.
