On 1 August 2021 the Minister for Health and Aged Care amended the Biosecurity Determination 2020 so that Australian citizens and permanent residents who are ordinarily resident in a country other than Australia are no longer automatically exempt from Australia's travel restrictions.
From 11 August 2021, Australians who usually live overseas can still leave Australia by applying for an exemption and demonstrating their links to the country where they usually live.
This brings travel exemption requirements in line with those for other Australians.
This amendment is designed to better assist Australians vulnerable overseas to return home, and prevent frequent travel between Australia and other countries, keeping the system fair for all.
Australians living overseas can apply for an exemption before travelling to Australia, to provide certainty prior to commencing their journey.
Information about applying for an exemption and the supporting evidence required is available at https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/travel-restrictions
