Australia Re-Opens to Tourists After Two Year COVID Closure

Australia has officially reopened its borders to vaccinated tourists for the first time in nearly two years, following the implementation of some of the world's most stringent COVID-19 travel restrictions. This significant reopening comes alongside a A$40 million campaign aimed at attracting tourists back to the country.

At major international airports in Sydney and Melbourne, joyous reunions were witnessed as family and friends embraced after prolonged separations due to travel bans. For many, including Bernie Edmonds who welcomed his granddaughter Charlotte, the emotional moments marked the end of a challenging period.

The closure of Australia's borders, which began in March 2020, meant nearly all international travelers were barred entry, which earned the country the moniker "Fortress Australia." This ban extended not only to foreign visitors but also restricted citizens from leaving the country without exemptions.

Among those thrilled by the reopening was Sydneysider Jody Tuchin, who couldn't hide her excitement in reuniting with her best friend just in time for her wedding. Qantas pilot Paul Grant also expressed joy at welcoming passengers back on board.

The first flight from Los Angeles landed in Sydney at 6:20 am (19:20 GMT), followed by additional arrivals from Tokyo, Vancouver, and Singapore. Qantas Chief Executive Alan Joyce noted the long-awaited return of visitors, while the airline expects to bring over 14,000 passengers into Australia in the coming week.

Tourism Minister Dan Tehan expressed optimism for a robust rebound in tourism, despite acknowledging that attracting tourists from China, previously the largest market for Australia, would be challenging amid ongoing restrictions in Beijing.

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the reopening, only 56 international flights are scheduled to arrive in Australia within 24 hours post-reopening, a stark contrast to pre-pandemic flight volumes. Prime Minister Scott Morrison remains confident that these numbers will eventually increase.

The extended travel bans have cost Australian businesses an estimated A$3.6 billion monthly, with tourism being significantly affected. Tony Walker from Quicksilver Group conveyed his excitement about the reopening, highlighting that international tourists constitute about 70 percent of their business.

Importantly, Australia mandates that all overseas travelers must be fully vaccinated to enter the country. Nonetheless, some travelers, like Robert Landis from the USA, remain undeterred by this requirement, eager to make their visits.

However, challenges persist, as the Australian Tourism Export Council has noted consumer hesitancy regarding travel to Australia, citing concerns about varying state restrictions and potential snap border closures. Additionally, Western Australia is delaying its reopening until March 3.

While the journey back to normalcy begins, it is evident that the path forward for Australia's tourism industry will be gradual as stakeholders navigate the complexities of travel policies and global market changes.