Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt to end Covid testing for inbound and outbound travellers.
FNQ tourism businesses can look forward to a welcome surge of off shore arrivals as federal Health Minister Greg Hunt moves to end Covid testing for inbound and outbound travellers.
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DAYS after the Prime Minister hinted that pre-departure Covid test for international travellers would soon be a thing of past, the Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt has announced that the testing requirements for inbound and outbound overseas travel will be removed.
The Health Minister also confirmed a raft of changes to how Covid is handled in Australia.
Travellers previously needed to show a negative Covid-19 test in order to board a flight to Australia, even if they were up to date on vaccinations.
However from April 17, that rule will be scrapped.
Mr Hunt confirmed he will not be renewing the Covid biosecurity orders, meaning restrictions on cruise ships and anti-price gouging penalties for rapid antigen test will also end.
FNQ tourism leaders said the easing of pandemic protocols is vital to the region’s survival after an incredibly tough two years due to the impact Covid had on the number of visitors.
Tourism operator Quicksilver Group’s managing director Tony Baker said he would be thrilled to welcome more international visitors.
“Any less restrictions to international travel that can be done safely would be very welcome as it eases the path back to where we need be,” he said.
“Since the government opened international borders, we have started to see small numbers of international tourists in March, although not at the numbers we would normally see.
“International tourism is critical for FNQ tourism and attractions and any less restrictions on people travelling would be welcome.”
A Cairns Airport spokesman said the announcement of the lifting of pre departure testing for international arrivals will take down one of the final barriers for attracting visitors back to our region.
“Not having to plan or budget for pre departure tests mean vaccinated travellers can confidently make their travel plans and not be concerned about any last minute changes,” he said.
Tourism Tropical North Queensland chairman Ken Chapman said Mr Hunt’s announcement “was wonderful news”.
“This is great, it’s another obstacle removed for people wanting to travel to Australia,” Mr Chapman said.
“The psychological barrier they had that they might be stuck somewhere has been removed which is great.”
Health Minister Yvette D’Ath has been approached for comment.
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Originally published as Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt to end Covid testing for inbound and outbound travellers.
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