Australians who normally live overseas have been banned from returning to their usual country of residence without the federal government’s permission.
The latest hardening of Australia’s international border removes an automatic exemption that had allowed Australian citizens and permanent residents to travel overseas.
Travel rules were quietly overhauled in parliament late on Thursday, with the changes to come into effect from 11 August under revised emergency health orders.
Until now, Australians who normally resided overseas had been permitted to leave Australia if they could prove they lived abroad.
The government’s explanatory statement tabled in parliament explains a person will now have to demonstrate to the Australian Border Force “a compelling reason for need to leave Australian territory”.
It says the measure is aimed at tightening a loophole to address concerns over some people who had frequently traveled between countries.
The government says the amendment would “reduce pressure on Australia’s quarantine capacity, reduce the risks posed to the Australian population from COVID-19, and assist in returning vulnerable Australians back home”.
Health Minister Greg Hunt tabled the amendment in parliament, but no press release was issued to make the change public.
A spokesperson for Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews told SBS News the rules had been updated to “improve consistency”.
“This does not stop Australians ordinarily resident outside Australia from departing, however these people will now need to apply for an exemption," the spokesperson said.
“These restrictions provide a balanced approach between allowing Australians to travel, if essential, while protecting community health."
Australia has imposed various inbound and outbound travel rules on citizens, temporary visa holders and permanent residents since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
National cabinet recently agreed to halve the cap for returning Australians to around 3,000 per week, making it harder for those stranded abroad to come home.
There are currently more than 35,000 Australians waiting in the queue who have indicated they want to return to Australia.
