Western Australia is finally reopening its borders on February 5th after two years of isolation. On Monday, December 13th, Mark McGowan, The Western Australian Prime Minister, announced the state plans for fully-vaccinated international travellers to enter the lands without quarantine. However, unvaccinated arrivals will still be required to quarantine for 14 days unless they are under 12 or exempt on medical grounds.

To travel to Western Australia, a negative PCR test must be obtained by travellers 72 hours before travelling. Precautionary measures were outlined starting from February 5th; masks will be required on public transport, taxis, at airports, on flights, in aged care facilities and hospitals.

Both interstate and international travellers will need a G2G travel permit and are expected to use the SafeWA app. Over 80% of the Australian population are vaccinated. Therefore, McGowan warned against sudden lockdowns that could occur due to an outbreak after the reopening. 

Leigh Pulford, Casita’s Co-founder, commented on the reopening. “ The re-opening of the international border for inbound students to Perth, Western Australia, is fantastic news for those students who have aspirations to complete a degree from one of our top Perth based Universities, English language schools and pathway providers. Having grown up in Fremantle, completing my degree from Curtin University and working in the international education sphere, I understand first-hand how important the international student cohort is to the success, diversity and internationalisation of all WA Universities. Now, after 2 years, students will once again be able to enjoy everything that Perth has to offer; the moderate weather, the best beaches in the world, the Quokkas on Rottnest, and let's not forget the expanding selection of modern and Gen Z focussed purpose-built student accommodation buildings.”