Everything you need to know before you travel interstate this summer

Plans for families and friends to reunite for the summer holidays were thrown into turmoil before the new year, as lengthy testing queues and wait times for results left thousands of Australians facing an anxious wait to cross the border.

Most states have since removed the requirement to get a PCR test, but some still require rapid antigen tests - which can be hard to find.

Long lockdowns in NSW and Victoria separated thousands of families this year, causing people to miss weddings, funerals and birthday celebrations.

But with so many restrictions still in place, and every state and territory issuing different rules for crossing the border, how will you know what you need to do before travelling?

To help you navigate the minefield of restrictions, we’ve created a travel planner that displays each state and territory’s rules for entry. Simply select the location you’re travelling from and the place you’re going to.

Note that many states and territories require a permit to enter, and in some cases you’ll require approval in advance. Some jurisdictions also require travellers to be fully vaccinated.

Also, if you’re venturing beyond NSW, Victoria, South Australia or the ACT, you’ll need a COVID test up to three days before travelling.

The travel planner will be updated as often as possible since the rules are constantly changing.

Although for absolute certainty, it's best to rely on the relevant government website of where you're going.

Safe travels.