In our update of 3 February 2020, Ajuria Lawyers advised that the Government had banned the entry of foreign nationals to Australia, if those persons had spent any time in mainland China in the  14 days prior to their intended date of entry to Australia.

Exceptions were made for:

• Australian citizens;
• Australian permanent residents;
• New Zealand citizens resident in Australia;
• Immediate family members of Australian citizens and permanent residents, including spouses and dependants.

This ban has now been extended to at least 29 February and a further announcement will be made based on the evolving situation.

In the meantime, on 22 February,  limited exemptions from travel restrictions were announced for Year 11 and 12 students who remain in China (unless from Wuhan / Hubei province), and the first group of Australian citizens and permanent residents who were evacuated from Wuhan and quarantined on Christmas Island for 14 days, have been able to return home.

DISCLAIMER This information is current as of 26 February 2020 and subject to change. The information contained in this publication is of a general nature only. It should not be used as legal advice. To the extent permissible by law, Ajuria Lawyers and its associated entities shall not be liable for any errors, omissions, defects or misrepresentations in the information or for any loss or damage suffered by persons who use or rely on such information. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.