Brimming with bustling cities, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, it’s no wonder why Australia is one of our favorite Muslim-friendly destinations in the world.
However, the pandemic situation left such uncertainty for those who want to travel to Australia. Find out the latest updates on the country'sCovid-19 situation and travel regulations below.
Covid-19 situation
The first case of Covid-19 in Australia was identified on 25 January 2020 in Victoria. Two months later, Australia took a huge step by closing the borders to all non-residents. Returning residents were also required to do mandatory quarantine for 14 days under supervisor.
This border regulation was followed by the social distancing rules and the closure of non-essential services. Even though the number of new cases was starting to fall by the end of April, the second wave of the pandemic stroke during May and June.
As of 5 May 2021, Australia reported 29.865 cases and 910 deaths with 25.486 people recovered from the infection.
Vaccination progress
Australia's first Covid-19 vaccination was done on 21 February 2021 on an 84 year-old resident in Sydney, followed by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly. This was followed by Australian residents who received the Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines.
Currently, Australia is vaccinating the priority workers such as quarantine workers, border workers, and frontline healthcare workers.
From 3 May 2021, people aged 50 years old and over are receiving the AstraZeneca vaccine. This phase also including the vaccination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 16-49 years old.
Can I travel to Australia now?
Australia's borders are currently closed. Recently, the travel bubble between Australia and New Zealand opened on 19 April 2020, but not for long.
The only people who can travel to Australia right now are Australian citizens, permanent residents, immediate family members, and travelers who have been in New Zealand territory for at least 14 days before the date of departure, excluding the Realm Countries of the Cook Islands and Niue.
People who travel to Australia by plane departing on or after 22 January 2021 local time must provide a negative PCR Test at the time of check-in.
Travelers arriving in Australia by air or sea also need to do mandatory quarantine for 14 days, except for those who travel from the green zone and in an exemption category.
Tourist attractions in Australia
Known for its vast landscape, vibrant cities, unique endemic animals, and rich in culinary culture, there is always something for every traveler in Australia. However, here are some of the must-try experience that you can only find in Australia:
- Whale Watching Experience
- Koala sanctuary
- Road trips
- Traditional markets
- Traces of human history
Queensland is one of the best places in Australia for whale-watching. Every year between June and November, the humpback whale makes an appearance at the Moreton Bay (near Brisbane) as they migrate north to warmer waters.
You can find the world’s largest and oldest koala sanctuary in the world in Brisbane. Located about a 30-minutes drive away from the city, Lone Pine is dedicated to the conservation of 130 koalas and other native Australian animals.
Australia has some of the most beautiful road trip routes. The Great Ocean Route is the most popular one, featuring The Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. You can also drive through Western Australia, a 2.400 km road trip with amazing stopovers along the way, such as Lancelin Sand Dunes and Coral Bay. Find more about Australia road trips here!
Queen Victoria Market and Fremantle Market are just two of many traditional markets you can experience in Australia. You can see the activities of the locals and enjoy some halal and Muslim-friendly food at this fair.
You can witness prehistoric and indigenous artefacts all over Australia. One of the most popular ones is the Uluru Rock in Northern Territory. Ayers Rock or Uluru is a sandstone monolith that is believed to have been formed over 500 million years ago. You can find ancient cave paintings on some of the inner surfaces and caves of this gargantuan monument.
Important articles:
- 6 Essential Tips To Plan Your Future Adventure To Australia
- 8 Amazing Australia Experiences You Need On Your 2021 Bucket List (With Halal Food Nearby!)
- Top 10 Attractions You Can’t Miss In Brisbane And Its Surrounds (Near Halal Food!)
- 8 Must-Know Tips For Your Sydney-New South Wales Road Trip
- Visit These 8 Amazing Attractions For The Best Melbourne Vacay Ever (Near Halal Food!)
Reliable sources:
- Australia National Covid-19 Commission Advisory Board
- Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
- Australia Department of Health
- Australia Government Website