The Australian Government has established protocols for the exercise of emergency powers under the Act to ensure that the emergency powers are only used where necessary to protect the health of Australians, based on expert advice and following appropriate consultation.
The Health Minister has determined that an Australian citizen or permanent resident must not travel outside of Australia, unless an exemption is granted to them (set out in sections 6 and 7 of the Determination). The international travel will come into effect at 12pm 25 Mar 2020.
A person who fails to comply with the Determination may commit a criminal offence and be imprisoned for a maximum 5 years, or be fined 300 penalty units ($63,000).
- Exemptions
An exemption to the travel restrictions requirements has been provided to the following persons:
- a person ordinarily resident in a country other than Australia;
- a person who is member of the crew of an aircraft or vessel (other than an outgoing aircraft vessel) or if a worker associated with the safety or maintenance of the aircraft or vessel;
- a person engaged in the day to day conduct of inbound and outbound freight;
- a person whose travel is associated with essential work at an offshore facility;
- a person who is travelling on official government business (including a member of the Australian Defence Force).
- Exemptions—granted by an APS employee in the Australian Border Force
In exceptional circumstances, an APS employee in the Australian Border Force may grant an exemption to an Australian citizen or a permanent residen.
If you'd like to konw more about the travel ban or need help to apply for an exemption, please feel free to contact us.