TORONTO — Australia is moving ahead with plans to reopen to international travellers, after almost two years of pandemic closures.

Fully vaccinated International travellers will be welcome to visit Australia effective Feb. 21, 2022.

Border restrictions were first relaxed in late 2021, for international students and skilled migrants.

Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison today said his senior ministers agreed that the border would reopen to all vaccinated visas holders from Feb. 21. An Australia ETA visa is required for Canadians heading to Australia.

While Australia is reopening, each state has different COVID-19 travel rules. Western Australia, for example, currently will allow only 265 international arrivals a week and requires a 14-day quarantine period.

Australia’s update comes on the heels of last week’s announcement from neighbouring New Zealand, which plans to put its own reopening plan into action. Canadian travellers will be welcome in New Zealand starting in July 2022, however so far with a 10-day self-isolation requirement.

Goway cheered New Zealand’s news, and it’s cheering again today in the wake of Australia’s announcement.

“We are delighted to hear of Australia opening their borders; it has been a long road,” says Goway’s incoming VP of South Pacific, Anthony Saba. 

“We have a variety of specials and unique itineraries using small group and private touring for our Globetrotters who have been waiting to book their dream vacation Downunder.  Clients can now experience the diversity of Australia – cosmopolitan cities, Great Barrier Reef, rainforest, Outback and of course its unique wildlife, and culture,” said Saba.

He added: “We will continue to monitor all entry requirements as we all know they can change and keep our trade partners up to date throughout the booking process. Our Destination specialists are ready and cannot wait to work with our partners. Specials and a variety of itineraries can be found at Goway.com.”