TRAVEL TALK - ASK THE EXPERTS

NEED ADVICE FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP? ARE YOU AFTER RECOMMENDATIONS, TIPS AND GUIDANCE? THE TRAVEL GEEKS HAVE THE ANSWERS…

- DAVID WHITLEY

Q // Now Australia’s borders have reopened I’m planning a trip later this year. What do I need to know in terms of restrictions, and what makes a good second-timers itinerary?

To enter the country, you need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19, unless you’re under the age of 12 or medically exempt. You’ll also need a visa — subclass e651 for most British tourists — as well as proof of vaccination and a completed Digital Passenger Declaration (DPD). The latter is similar to the Passenger Locator Form for UK arrivals and must be submitted 72 hours before you leave for Australia. covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au

You also need either a negative PCR test conducted within 72 hours of departure or a medically supervised lateral flow test conducted within 24 hours.

Each state then has its own entry requirements, although Tasmania and the Northern Territory don’t require extra tests. In Queensland, Victoria or New South Wales, you need to go straight to your accommodation and not leave until you produce a negative result on either a lateral flow or PCR test. In South Australia, it must be a PCR test. In Western Australia you need a G2G Pass and have to take the test within 12 hours of arrival. It’s seven days of quarantine if the test result is positive. Entry requirements are subject to change, so check the status at australia.gov.au/states.

For second-timers to Australia, the country’s reopening is an opportunity to go beyond the highlights reel and set offon a road trip. The epic drive from Perth to Broome on the west coast is a good option, but a drive along the coast from Melbourne to Sydney gives a fabulous taste of the Australian dream.