IMPACT – HIGH

Australia has expanded its COVID-19 entry ban to include foreign nationals traveling from South Korea. It has also mandated enhanced screening of travelers coming from Italy.

Key Points:

  • Foreign nationals (excluding permanent residents of Australia) who have been in South Korea on or after March 5 will not be allowed to enter Australia for 14 days from the time they have left or transited through South Korea.
  • Australian citizens and permanent residents will still be able to enter, as will their immediate family members (spouses, legal guardians or dependents only), though they will be required to self-isolate at home for 14 days from the day they left South Korea.
  • Australia will continue to deny entry to anyone who has left or transited through mainland China or Iran within the previous 14 days, with the exception of: Australian citizens and permanent residents, New Zealand citizens residing in Australia, immediate family members of Australian citizens and permanent residents (including spouses, minor dependents and legal guardians) and diplomats. Airline and maritime crews may be eligible for limited exemptions, provided they comply with precautionary measures.
  • Australian citizens and permanent residents are advised not to travel to China, Iran and Daegu in South Korea.

Analysis & Comments: The extension of the previous entry ban to Iran, as well as the new entry ban affecting travel from South Korea, represent Australia’s ongoing efforts to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Employers must be prepared to be flexible with employee schedules and start dates for employees who are affected by travel restrictions and delays. Deloitte will alert clients to additional changes or restrictions as information becomes available.

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